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Lisa Newberry

Record-breaking diversity in Parliament: Why does it matter?

A parliament that mirrors the society it serves is more likely to understand and address the needs of all its citizens. Diverse perspectives bring varied experiences and insights, which are essential for crafting policies that are inclusive and effective, which is why the figures for this new parliament fill me with hope! The 2024 general election in the UK has not only seen a record number of first-time Members of Parliament (MPs) but has also marked significant strides in diversity within the House of Commons. With 650 MPs elected, over half (335) are newcomers, setting a new standard for parliamentary turnover. This influx of fresh faces is making the House of Commons a better reflection of the nation it serves.


Among the new MPs, there is a notable increase in the representation of women and ethnic minorities. Women now constitute 41% of the House, with 263 female MPs, the highest proportion ever. This is a 10 percentage point increase from the 2015 election, showcasing the success of long-term efforts, particularly by the Labour Party, to recruit female and diverse candidates.


The Commons now has the highest proportion of ethnic minorities, with 14% of MPs (90) from diverse backgrounds – it’s a great increase and now closely reflects the 17% ethnically diverse population in Britain but there is no room for complacency.  


In addition to gender and ethnic diversity, the House of Commons now includes 64 openly LGBTQ+ MPs, the highest number at the start of any parliament. These levels of diversity are the product of sustained efforts over many years to promote the inclusion of minority groups in politics.


The new composition of the House of Commons is not only more diverse but also younger on average, which could have positive implications for policy-making.


Why diversity matters


Diversity in Parliament is more than just a matter of representation. It’s about creating a body that can effectively understand and legislate for a diverse population. When Parliament or any organisation for that matter, includes individuals from different backgrounds, it ensures that a wider range of experiences and viewpoints are considered in the policy-making process. This leads to more comprehensive and effective policies that can address the needs of all citizens, not just a select few.


The presence of more women, ethnic minorities, and LGBTQ+ individuals can lead to better substantive representation of key issues. If an MP has lived experience of a subject or issue, it usually follows they will have a better understanding of it.


The record-breaking diversity in the new UK Parliament is a positive step towards a more representative and effective legislative body. The House of Commons is now better equipped to understand and address the needs of all - diversity in government is about ensuring that the policies developed are inclusive, comprehensive, and capable of creating a more equitable society. The continued efforts to promote diversity in politics are essential for achieving better policy outcomes and a more just and representative democracy.

 



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