Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons, opens the 50:50 Parliament and Chamber UK reception in the Speaker’s State Apartments
Hosted by Speaker of the House of Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, the evening brought together current parliamentarians, prospective candidates, local government leaders and campaigners – all committed to ensuring that women are equally represented in UK politics.
“Women make up 51% of the population, but just 40% of elected representatives. Democracy is stronger when it is more diverse and more representative of the people it serves.”
Rt Hon Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP, Speaker, House of Commons
A Powerful Alliance for Change
Partnering with 50:50 Parliament – a cross-party campaign working to inspire women from all backgrounds to stand for election – Chamber UK helped shine a spotlight on the work being done to make politics a more accessible, inclusive, and equitable space. With more female MPs now than ever before (263 at the 2024 General Election), there is cause for celebration – but, as many speakers reminded the room, the journey is far from over.
Sir Lindsay opened the evening with an ardent message of support for women entering politics and spoke passionately about his own efforts to ensure Westminster is a safer, more welcoming place to work. He paid tribute to the women in senior roles within his own team – from his Chief of Staff to the Director of Security – and reaffirmed his belief in selecting “the best people for the job”, while acknowledging the barriers that still need dismantling.
Sir Lindsay told the room “Threats and intimidation have no place in politics… I will do everything I can to protect all candidates, from every political party.”
Spotlight on Safety and Representation
The Speaker highlighted the work of the Speaker’s Conference, which is currently investigating the abuse and intimidation women MPs and candidates often face – particularly online. Sir Lindsay praised 50:50 Parliament’s valuable input into the inquiry, noting that fear of harassment remains a major deterrent for many women considering public office. “Our democracy is only as strong as the candidates we bring forward for the future. There should be no barriers”, Sir Lindsay told attendees.
This year’s International Women’s Day message, #AccelerateAction, served as a rallying cry for those present – reminding attendees that progress must not only be celebrated but driven forward at pace. From policy to practice, every level of government and political infrastructure has a role to play in closing the gender gap in representation.
Celebrating Role Models, Supporting Candidates
Throughout the evening, inspiring stories were shared from women at every stage of their political journey – from newly selected candidates to seasoned MPs. 50:50 Parliament’s “Ask Her to Stand” initiative continues to encourage women to put themselves forward, supported by mentorship, training, and a powerful peer network.
Attendees were encouraged to spread the message far and wide: that women belong in Parliament, in council chambers, and in every room where decisions are made.
“Please count me as an ally to women in this House. And rest assured – wherever and whenever I can, I will continue to drum up support and encourage more women into Parliament.”
Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP, Speaker, House of Commons
Watch, Share, Inspire
Want to be inspired?
The full highlights from this powerful event are now available on Chamber UK’s YouTube channel. Watch the speeches, hear from rising political voices, like and share the message to help encourage more women to stand. The more that watch the video, the more reach we can gain.
PLEASE WATCH, LIKE AND SHARE THE VIDEO: Chamber UK YouTube – IWD 2025 at Speaker’s House
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Let’s keep accelerating action – until Parliament truly reflects the people it serves.
Bayer has provided sponsorship funding, which supported logistics and materials for this event. Chamber maintained complete editorial control for the event and outputs.
Bicycle Therapeutics also provided sponsorship support, ensuring the success of the evening while allowing the organisers full independence over content and discussions.