Last month, Chamber UK and 50:50 Parliament hosted a ‘Get Britain Growing’ event, welcoming newly elected MPs and highlighting the critical issue of gender representation and female empowerment in politics. With the most gender-balanced parliament in British history and the UK’s first female chancellor, attendees explored new opportunities for inclusive economic growth.
This event was kindly supported by Lloyds Banking Group, a leading financial services organisation, to support the essential discussion on gender representation, reflecting their commitment to fostering inclusivity, such as their impactful work on the gender pension gap, and driving economic growth in the UK.
This article details a speech made by Labour Member of Parliament for Morecambe and Lunesdale, Lizzi Collinge. Collinge speaks about the challenges and triumphs of female empowerment in politics, the importance of solidarity among women, and the ongoing journey towards a more inclusive and equitable political system in the UK.
A New Voice in Parliament
Lizzi Collinge, the newly elected MP for Morecambe and Lunesdale, began her speech at the ‘Get Britain Growing’ event with an honest admission of feeling underprepared, a sentiment she noted was familiar in her recent experience as an MP. However, she quickly connected this to a broader, more profound experience—standing alongside 188 other Labour women MPs on the steps of Westminster Hall. Collinge described it as possibly the best feeling of her life, marking a significant milestone in her journey as a female politician.
Collinge discussed the challenges of being a new MP, particularly the overwhelming nature of Parliament. She likened the experience to her time as a county councillor, suggesting that, at its core, Parliament is “just a big council with more silly outfits.” Yet, beyond this light-hearted comparison, she delved into the deeper issue of imposter syndrome—a feeling many women can relate to.
She shared an empowering perspective offered by a friend: “You are an imposter. And you should be proud of being an imposter because these systems have been made… to keep people like you out.” Collinge embraced this notion, viewing it as a badge of honour rather than a hindrance. This mindset, she suggested, is crucial for navigating and ultimately transforming the structures designed to exclude women from power.
The Power of Women Supporting Women
Central to Collinge’s speech was the theme of female solidarity. She spoke of the overwhelming support she received from women within and beyond her party, which has been instrumental in her political journey. She highlighted the opportunities presented by the influx of new MPs to instigate cultural change within Parliament—an opportunity she and her fellow female Labour MPs are eager to seize.
Collinge credited her success to the encouragement and persistence of other women, particularly noting the vital role of Kat Smith MP and Councillor Dr Erica Lewis. Their insistence that she stand for election, despite her initial reservations, was a turning point. This support system exemplifies the importance of campaigns like 50:50 Parliament, which actively encourage women to run for office, breaking down the barriers to gender parity in political representation.
Redefining Power in Politics and Female Empowerment
Collinge’s message extended beyond her personal experience to a broader call for redefining power within the political system. She pointed out that the rituals and rules often seen as intrinsic to Parliament were, in fact, constructs designed to maintain the status quo—one that has historically excluded women. By embracing their roles as “imposters,” women can challenge these outdated norms and redefine what it means to wield power in Parliament.
Final Thought
Lizzi Collinge’s speech at the ‘Get Britain Growing’ event was a powerful reflection on the challenges and opportunities facing women in Parliament today. Her journey from a county Councillor to a Member of Parliament is a testament to the impact of female solidarity and the importance of challenging systems designed to exclude. As the UK continues to strive for inclusive economic growth, the voices and experiences of women like Collinge will be essential in shaping a more equitable future.
Collinge’s message is clear: women belong in all spaces of power, and their presence is not just beneficial but necessary for creating a truly representative and inclusive political landscape. The future of British politics, as she envisions it, is one where female empowerment is not just an aspiration but a reality—where women are not only included but are also leading the way in shaping the UK’s future.
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