Mims Davies MP issuing her impassioned rallying call encouraging women to stand at our International Women’s Day Reception.
On a night filled with celebration, solidarity and action, Chamber UK and 50:50 Parliament hosted political leaders from across the spectrum to mark International Women’s Day 2025. Taking the podium with humour, warmth and conviction, Shadow Cabinet Minister for Women and Shadow Secretary of State for Wales, Mims Davies spoke passionately about why now is the time for women to step forward and lead.
Davies opened with “It’s such an honour to be here tonight”.
Celebrating her daughter’s birthday – which happens to fall on International Women’s Day – Davies shared personal reflections alongside a powerful political message: representation matters, and the Conservative Party must rise to meet the challenge of achieving a truly 50:50 Parliament.
Spotlight on Progress and Party Pride
Davies highlighted the legacy of trailblazing Conservative women, from Margaret Thatcher to Nus Ghani and Caroline Nokes. She emphasised the role of organisations like Women2Win and the Conservative Women’s Organisation in helping women find their way into politics – through mentorship, training, and much-needed encouragement.
“This is a really good job for a woman… And we don’t just need bloody difficult women – we also need to remember that it’s not too bloody difficult, all right?”
Mims Davies MP
Her message was clear: women are ready. The structures are improving. And it’s time to accelerate the pace of change.
Celebrating Resilience and Calling for Unity
Davies spoke candidly about the realities of life as a woman MP – and the importance of cross-party support in sustaining that journey.
“Once you become a woman parliamentarian, you really find out who your friends are. And they’re often from across the House”, Davies explained.
As Shadow Minister for Women, she acknowledged the progress the Conservatives have made in getting more women into work – but noted that the next challenge is to get more women into Parliament.
Explaining the Conservatives record in government, Davies told the crowd, “We’ve helped 2.44 million more women into employment – but we don’t yet have quite enough on our side of the House to help hit that 50:50 target. So, it’s up to you. Ladies, come and give me a hand!”
Supporting Candidates and Standing Up for Women
From baby loss to women’s health, from domestic violence to safety on our streets, Davies reaffirmed her commitment to policies that put women’s voices and needs front and centre.
She praised the growing momentum behind the Women’s Health Strategy and the importance of safeguarding women-only spaces and sex-specific language in healthcare. Her call was direct and inclusive – inviting women from all parties and communities to take part in shaping what comes next.
“We want it. We need it. We’re asking for it, let’s deliver it”, said Davies.
Watch, Share, Inspire
Inspired by Mims Davies MP’s energetic call to action?
Watch her full speech from the Speaker’s State Apartments and discover why stepping into politics isn’t just possible – it’s essential.
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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.