Theresa May has said a Parliament where women are a “rare sight” is one working with a hand tied behind its back as she hosted female politicians from around the world.
The Prime Minister’s remarks came as she held a reception ahead of the Women MPs of the World Conference, which involves 120 women from 86 countries visiting the House of Commons.
Mrs May, Britain’s second female Prime Minister, welcomed the increase of women in parliaments and legislative assemblies across the globe as she hosted the event at Downing Street on Wednesday.
She said: "We have lived very different lives, hold different political beliefs, but each of us have answered the unique calling that is public service. And we all have the privilege of serving our communities and our countries in our national legislatures.
"Here in the UK, women have been allowed to do that for 100 years - later this month will see the centenary of the law being changed to allow women to stand for Parliament. A year from now we will also mark the 100th anniversary of Nancy Astor becoming the first woman to take her seat in the House of Commons."
More women in elected office means a greater focus on gender-based violence, on girls’ education, on childcare and on women’s health, the Prime Minster added.
"But the benefits are also felt more widely. After all, if half the population is systematically excluded from politics then you're also excluding half the talent,” she said.
"A parliament where women are a rare sight is a parliament working with one hand tied behind its back; a more representative parliament leads to better decision making, better politics and ultimately a better government."
International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt, who is also minister for women and equalities, will address the conference later.
