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Women

My Lords, I begin by thanking my noble friend Lady Gould of Potternewton for once again securing an important debate to celebrate women’s achievements, mark International Women’s Day and point to the challenges that still remain. I am particularly pleased that so many from these Benches participated today. I am also very pleased and proud to be answering a debate that has had such distinguished speakers. I hope that the House will forgive me if I say a personal thank you to my noble friend Lady Lockwood who paved the way for many of us, particularly in terms of the important work that she did at the Equal Opportunities Commission. The Equal Opportunities Commission is well served in this House. The noble Baronesses, Lady Howe, Lady Platt and Lady Prosser, have all been commissioners, deputy chairs or chairs of the Equal Opportunities Commission. The Government’s commitment to securing women’s equality—