A Powerful Alliance for Change
“Let’s have more women than there are seats! Now that would be a photo worth taking.”
Rt Hon Lucy Powell MP, Leader of the House of Commons
Chamber UK and 50:50 Parliament welcomed leaders, role models and future candidates at the Speaker’s State Apartments for International Women’s Day 2025. The theme, #AccelerateAction, came to life through the engaging words of Lucy Powell MP, Leader of the House of Commons.
Reflecting on her unexpected titles – from “Leader” in Parliament to “President” in royal circles – Powell brought the room to life with her characteristic wit and honesty.
Spotlight on Representation and Reform
Powell used her role as Leader of the House to shine a light on the progress already made – including organising a historic photograph in the Chamber with all 263 current female MPs. A visual celebration of how close we are to equal representation, the image also served as a prompt for what is next.
As Leader of the Commons, Powell wears a “twin hat” – balancing the interests of the Government with those of the House. She spoke about the unique opportunity that gives her to work cross-party and push for meaningful change in how Parliament functions.
Celebrating Cultural Change and Calling for Confidence
Powell’s passion for modernising Parliament was clear. Through the Modernisation Committee, she is actively reviewing how to improve culture, behaviour and working practices – to help make politics more inclusive, effective, and supportive of diversity.
“This place was built, procedurally, in a very different era – when it was mostly filled with men who were lawyers, doing their day job in the morning, and heading to their working men’s club in the afternoon. Well – those days are long gone.”
She acknowledged the very real concerns women have about whether they can make a difference – and offered a resounding answer.
“The answer is – yes. You have to feel that, by coming to the Commons, you can make a real impact for your constituents.”
Supporting Candidates and Demystifying the Commons
Throughout her speech, Powell encouraged women to feel confident in their ability to lead – whether they know what every role in politics entails.
“As Caroline and others have said: aim for it. Don’t be put off. Yes, men constantly question themselves. But we need to have more confidence in our own abilities. You can do this.”
She broke down the complexities of her own role with a smile – and reminded everyone that they too can step into leadership and drive forward a better, more modern Parliament.
Watch, Share, Inspire
Ready to feel inspired?
Watch Lucy Powell MP’s candid and energising speech – and hear how Parliament is being transformed from the inside by women who are not waiting for permission to lead.
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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.