DAVID Drew, Member of Parliament for Stroud celebrated 100 years of Women's Suffrage yesterday. 

Speaking yesterday, Mr Drew said: “Today I am celebrating the landmark centenary year of some women being given the right to vote.

"It is such a proud moment for us to celebrate the tremendous courage of those brave women who fought so hard for change and the legacy they have left behind.

"As we celebrate these women, we should also look forward to the possibilities for the next 100 years and make 2018 a year of great achievement for women and girls everywhere.

"That’s why, to mark the 100th anniversary, Labour have launched a year-long campaign that will celebrate the great achievements of the women suffrage movement and look at how we can take the next steps to achieve full equality for women.

"Our challenge now must be to build on past achievements and push for full equality and protection for women: financially, in the workplace, in families and homes and in public spaces.

"Sadly, many policies introduced by this Conservative government are turning back the clock on equality for women. Cuts to public services and social security are landing disproportionately on women.

"Labour in government will strengthen legislation around sex discrimination and introduce policies to tackle the structural and economic barriers that stop women from reaching their full potential.

"I encourage everyone to get involved and celebrate this important date and commit with Labour to taking #TheNextSteps.”