Whew! The deadline has been extended to 30 September for written submissions to the Women and Equalities Select Committee Inquiry into "Women in the House of Commons". So please everyone write! It is possible that we could have even fewer women MPs with the proposed boundary changes. The Inquiry need to hear from lots of people about why we need more women MPs. This is so important, it does not have to be a long letter, just one line explaining why it matters to you. These are the terms of reference: http://www.parliament.uk/business/committees/committees-a-z/commons-select/women-and-equalities-committee/news-parliament-2015/women-in-the-house-of-commons-launch-16-17/ Here is the submission form: http://www.parliament.uk/business/committees/committees-a-z/commons-select/women-and-equalities-committee/inquiries/parliament-2015/women-in-the-house-of-commons-16-17/commons-written-submission-form/ Here is more information about the Inquiry: http://www.parliament.uk/business/committees/committees-a-z/commons-select/women-and-equalities-committee/inquiries/parliament-2015/women-in-the-house-of-commons-16-17/ Although the current Prime Minister is a woman, the fact remains that of our 650 MPs, 458 (70%) are men and only 192 are women. There are still more men in the Commons than there have ever been women MPs. Women make a massive contribution to society with their paid and unpaid work, they merit fair inclusion. It is time to right this historic wrong. “We know that when women are in parliament…it builds more resilient, responsive, better informed institutions.” Prof Ngaire Woods. Diversity leads to better decisions. Parliament should draw upon the widest possible pool of talent and experience, including the 32 million UK women. Representation shapes policy. More women MPs would ensure more informed policy-making on ALL issues and particularly those concerning equal pay, reproductive rights, violence against women and girls, domestic violence, pensions, sexism, discrimination, inclusion, maternity care, family life, and parenting. The first oral evidence session is today at 10.45 in committee room 6 of the House of Commons. Prof Sarah Childs, Prof Rosie Campbell and Lord Hayward are the witnesses. 50:50 Parliament will be there email Frances@5050Parliament.co.uk if you would like to join us. At the weekend we presented at Girl Guiding “Use Your Voice” conference. They loved our campaign and we now have 50 new enthusiastic 50:50 Ambassadors. So please everyone use your voice and write to the Inquiry today! All Best Frances, Hannah, Martha, Jaoanna, Brian and all the #5050Parliament Team