A mum’s place is at the heart of politics
i AM fuming that MP and mother Stella Creasy has been told she can’t take her baby into the chamber of the House of Commons. i was shocked because surely politicians who are working mothers aren’t anything new? MPs have been taking their babies with them to Westminster since at least 2018, when liberal Democrat Jo Swinson did it. We congratulated New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern when her three-month-old baby accompanied her to the UN General Assembly in New York. She stated she wanted to inspire change and create a path for other women. And yes, it really does inspire us: we watch such coverage and realise it is possible for women, even new mothers, to have important roles in government. So why are we now telling women they can’t? We claim we’re trying to make Westminster more representative for all backgrounds, ages and genders, and yet we’re saying ‘no’ to new mothers. these women are not taking their babies with them for a day out. MPs must be physically present at Westminster to represent their constituents’ views during Commons debates. Regardless of whether breastfeeding or not, babies need close attachment to get the best start in life, and it is an essential component for brain development. this is something we should be welcoming. We should be empowering women and encouraging a strong connection with their babies while they are carrying out important roles for the country. the babies aren’t a distraction because they’re asleep or feeding, so what’s the big deal? let’s just compare this to the behaviour of shouting, jeering and heckling MPs — though some MPs are often sleeping, too! i am a liberal Democrat torridge district councillor and mother to two young children. i am proud to say they accompanied me regularly to council meetings as babies. i am pleased to say this has always been welcomed by the district council staff and my fellow councillors. Women, do not be disheartened: we will not be silenced by outdated, patriarchal rules and opinions. CHERYL COTTLE-HUNKIN,
Okehampton, Devon. iN All the furore about MPs being allowed to take their babies into the House of Commons chamber, has anyone considered the poor infants being subjected to the noisy and toxic atmosphere?
P. JAMES, Marlow, Bucks.