Local MP, Graham Stuart, welcomes events to commemorate The Representation of the People Act 1918

Graham Stuart MP is supporting a year-long programme of events organised by the UK Parliament to mark 100 years since the 1918 Representation of the People Act, which gave all men and some women the vote for the first time.

The Vote 100 programme includes a wide range of events and activities commemorating the women and men who fought to achieve electoral equality.

The Representation of the People Act extended the right to vote to all men over 21 and the first women, making this one of the most important centenaries in British democratic history. Schools and community groups in Beverley & Holderness are encouraged to get involved in debating and celebrating this important anniversary in our democracy.

There will also be special events in Parliament over the year, including a major exhibition, Voice and Vote, which will cover the campaign for votes for women and the representation of women in the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

Graham said: “The Representation of the People Act 1918 was a vital step towards the rights women have today, and the centenary of the Act is an important opportunity for us to reflect on how far we have come, thanks to the extreme bravery and sacrifice of the women who fought, and in some cases died, for equality.

“I also welcome the announcement that £5 million was made available in the Budget to help celebrate this milestone and to encourage more women to engage in our democracy.”

Graham is encouraging local groups in Beverley & Holderness to apply to Parliament’s Women’s Vote Centenary Small Grant Scheme at https://www.womensvotecentenaryfund.co.uk/. They have already awarded £60,000 to 35 projects in the first few weeks and are keen to fund more.

For more information about the Vote 100 programme, please go to www.parliament.uk/vote100