British Women Frustrated With Sexist Politics

Although Margaret Thatcher served as the first female Prime Minister of Britain, present day MP conservative women believe they are treated unfairly due to their sex. Of the 26 seats held by retiring Labor men, only one thus far has gone to a woman. In response to the sexist political climate, 14 women have organized a mentoring program to train political candidates to become future parliamentary leaders. Blair’s senior colleagues warn that he cannot afford to lose women’s votes in the upcoming elections. Just 18 percent of British MPs are women, according to Britain’s Equal Opportunities Commission.