West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin is hoping that a new generation of female politicians were inspired by a celebration tea to mark 100 years of women’s suffrage. Young women heard speeches from Harriett and Malvern Hills District Council Chair Andrea Morgan aimed at inspiring young people to consider a future in politics. Students made their own political presentations and heard a talk about the suffragette movement. The EqualiTea, held at Malvern St James, in Great Malvern, was part of a series of events up and down the country to mark 100 years since some women were first given the right to vote. Harriett commented: “Wherever I go, I try to encourage young women to get more involved in politics and this was a great opportunity to inspire them by introducing them to local people who already stand for public office. “It was good to see many young people engaged by current affairs and it is clear to me that issues like the environment, education and health are top of their list too. “It would be great to think that one or more of the young women gathered in the room felt inspired to go on and speak up for their generation by standing for election either locally or nationally.” Photos: Harriett Baldwin MP views the exhibition marking Malvern suffragette Elsie Howey at the EqualiTea at Malvern St James school; and Harriett Baldwin MP (centre) with two Malvern Hills councillors (left) Gill Campbell and (right) Hannah Campbell.