West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has backed a campaign which is petitioning for more women in Parliament. The 50:50 Petition is calling for a better gender balance in Westminster with the election of more female MPs. There are currently just 147 women elected to seats in the House of Commons out of 650 members. Harriett offered her backing for the 50:50 Petition which calls for a debate on the matter. Harriett said: “There are 32 million women in the UK making up 51 per cent on the population yet that is not reflected in the number of female MPs in the House of Commons. “This Government has made great strides ensuring that women are better represented in work, on Boards and in other public roles. All organisations work better if they benefit from a range of perspectives. “But I share the view that there is still much to do and I would like to see the gender balance re-dressed, sooner rather than later.” “Many women start off their political careers in local politics so if anyone in interested in standing for office at next year’s district council elections, I would love to hear from them.” To sign the petition go to www.5050parliament.co.uk and follow the link. Photo: Harriett Baldwin MP backs the 50:50 Petition Campaign.