She was a fearless woman, and she made a huge contribution and difference to people’s lives
Claire Baker on Jennie Lee
Claire Baker grew up listening to stories of what her gran’s cousin, Jennie Lee, had achieved. Now the Labour MSP is pleased to see a growing recognition of what her inspiring relative accomplished.
Lee, born in Lochgelly, Fife in 1904, was a miner’s daughter and the youngest woman to be elected into Parliament, winning a seat in 1929 aged 24. Women under 30 were unable to vote at the time.
She was later made the first Minister For Arts by Harold Wilson and was instrumental in establishing The Open University. Baker, Scottish Labour culture spokesperson, said: “I was aware of the connection growing up, but she wasn’t as recognised as she is now. She was a fearless woman and the impression I get is she didn’t have much time for barriers getting in her way.
“She had a great self-confidence and determination and that’s how she got to where she did in politics.”
Baker (inset) also describes Lee as a great orator. Her first speech as an MP saw her attack Winston Churchill’s budget plans, and it was so well delivered it received praise from Churchill himself. “She knew how to make an impression, and how to convince and persuade people,” said the MSP.
“She was a force of nature who would drive and get things done. “Harold Wilson asked her to deliver The Open University, and she ensured it was of a high quality and standard. She moved the arts policy into the modern age from the post-war time when it was elitist and London-centred. She made it more outward-looking, relevant and focused on young people.
“She shifted the way resources were spent and recognised the importance of youth arts. I found a quote where she said she was determined that all children should be given the kind of education that was the monopoly of the privileged minority of the past, and talked about the importance of bringing education and arts together.”
Baker questions whether Lee’s marriage to fellow politician Aneurin Bevan, who was heavily involved in bringing in the Welfare State, saw her achievements overshadowed in the past.
She added: “It’s good to see there is an increased recognition of the contribution she made. She believed in class politics and wanted to bring socialism and equality to everyone.
“She is one of the leading figures of the Labour movement and one of the first significant women politicians who made a huge contribution and difference to people’s lives.”
Claire Baker takes part in A Pioneer Of Social Justice: Exploring The Legacy Of Jennie Lee, tomorrow at 7pm, and on Friday there will be a read-through of a new play, Jennie Lee: Tomorrow Is A New Day. See knightstheatre.co.uk