Fawcett responds to loss of four of the most senior women in British politics

On the same day that two senior female Labour MPs announced their resignation, news has emerged that Britain’s first female home secretary Jacqui Smith will be standing down in Gordon Brown’s cabinet reshuffle.

The news follows announcements from families minister Beverley Hughes and former health secretary Patricia Hewitt that they will be standing down at the next election.

On Wednesday 3rd June, communities secretary Hazel Blears also announced her resignation from cabinet.

Katherine Rake, Director the Fawcett Society, said: “It’s a difficult day to lose four of the most senior women in a political system where women are already underrepresented – particularly just days before the local and European elections take place.

"It’s vital that Gordon Brown recognises that voters will be looking to him to ensure women are represented in the Cabinet reshuffle. The Government must demonstrate a firm commitment to the equalities agenda in this transitional period."