The Labour Party has announced a new female mentoring programme, which aims to train 600 future women leaders.
The General Secretary, Iain McNicol speaking at the opening address of the Labour Party Conference, announced the Women In Leadership programme in memory of the late MP Jo Cox.
McNicol argued that it was fitting memory to a ‘true champion’ of feminism and women’s rights. Cox died in June this year, after being shot and stabbed in Birstall, West Yorkshire.
According to McNicol, the new scheme will be the largest development programme of its kind.
Speaking at the conference, McNicol said, “Today, following discussions and conversations with Jeremy, I’m pleased to announce the Jo Cox Women in Leadership Programme – a brand new mentoring scheme delivered in partnership with the fantastic Labour Women’s Network.”
“Over the next five years we will train over 600 future women leaders, our biggest ever mentoring and development programme.”
“Jo was a true champion of women in leadership roles and international feminism and this programme will create a generation of women who can continue Jo’s fight in local government, in parliament and crucially in their communities, a fitting tribute to Jo’s life and work.”
The announcement of the Women in Leadership programme comes as Jeremy Corbyn was re-elected as the Labour leader, after months of debate surrounding his leadership.
During his election campaign, Corbyn announced a variety of commitments to women’s equality, including gender audits of Labour policies, a women’s advisory board, strengthening the law on sexual violence and universal childcare.
However, he has also faced criticism for the absence of female Labour mayoral candidates, the demotion of the role of Shadow Minister for Women and Equalities and the online abuse of female Labour MPs and activists.
Speaking of his re-election campaign, Women’s Equality party leader, Sophie Walker said, “Corbyn listened to the many Labour voters joining the Women’s Equality Party during this campaign, offering clear commitments on gender equality.”
“But actions speak louder than words, and under Corbyn’s leadership the Labour Party has failed to produce a single female Mayoral candidate and the Women and Equalities portfolio has been reduced to a joint role.”
“If Corbyn is serious about achieving equality between men and women then he must listen to, and unite, the female talent in his own party.”
