Devon and Cornwall police boss urges more women to stand for public office

“We must do everything we can to encourage more women into public office.”

That’s the message from Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez, who has just taken a lead role in promoting the cause of Conservative women across the South West.

Alison was elected deputy chairman of the South West Conservative Women’s Organisation (CWO) on International Women’s Day.

The CWO supports women in the Conservative Party in a variety of ways and encourages women to stand for office at all levels.

It is one of the oldest women’s political organisations in the world and celebrates its 100thanniversary this year.

Alison said: “We must do everything we can to encourage more women into public office. It’s our right and privilege to be able to represent our communities.

“So I’m incredibly honoured and proud to be elected as deputy chairman alongside a dynamic and forthright team of women who will take our efforts forward across the South West.

“It is also fantastic to take on this role just as we celebrate 100 years of women in Parliament and the unveiling of a statue in Plymouth to commemorate Lady Nancy Astor, the first female MP.”

Marjorie Baylis, Devon area deputy chairman for the party, is the new chairman of the South West CWO.

She said it was “time to rise again and engage with women”.

“I’m absolutely thrilled and honoured to be elected chairman of the South West CWO on this most auspicious of days, International Women’s Day,” said Marjorie, a former steel trader who has volunteered for the party for around 30 years, including with Conservatives Abroad in Hong Kong.

“I’m looking forward to working across the counties to promote and strengthen the organisation and to reach out to and promote women who want to represent the party at all levels.”

Marjorie is looking to set up new branches across the region, appoint county chairmen and explore ideas to attract more female voters, among other things.

Alison and fellow deputy chairman Zehra Zaidi will play a key role in recruitment and outreach.

Janet Parrott MBE, deputy chairman of South West Conservatives, is the new treasurer while Sonia Russe continues as president.

They were elected at the South West CWO AGM at the Oaktree Arena near Highbridge, Somerset.

Peter Booth, chairman of South West Conservatives, said: “On International Women’s Day, I am pleased to welcome Marjorie Baylis and her new team taking the reins at our South West CWO.

“I will work closely with Marjorie and her team – in particular working to increase female representation in Parliament and on local councils.”

For more information about the South West CWO, e-mailsouthwest.cwo@conservativewomen.org.ukor visit https://conservativewomen.uk