Jo Swinson on the money again...

I have recently been writing quite a lot of blogs about the unrealistic expectations placed on women, and the pressures they have in all areas of life such as in how they look, work and childcare. Therefore, I was pleased to have an e-mail today about a campaign Jo Swinson is heading, called "Real Women".

I have not looked in detail yet, but from what I have seen it looks like a very good policy document indeed. It is exactly what will help the Liberal Democrats stand out to women, a party that does take women's interests seriously. Whilst Harman does, I respect her for that, her leadership ambitions blurs the important points she makes.

There is a comprehensive outline of how the Lib Dems intend to tackle the gender pay gap. Furthermore, the policies outlined to tackle the often-unfair burden of children on women are a particular highlight. Extending paid paternity leave to 19 months, is a vital step in the right direction in terms of tackling the unequal gender division of labour, it is also important in terms of tackling the gender pay gap. The emphasis on better childcare is also welcome, as this is another area that national policy at the moment lets families, especially women, down.

I have blogged about their proposals for advertising before, but the policy document outlines in greater detail the need to promote a natural image of what women look like, instead of bombarding females with plastic false women, who are nowhere near realistic of what should be expected of women. This is an important development for Liberal Democrat policy, and an area I will be keen to keep check of.

I have to say, well done Jo Swinson!