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Harman tells women MEPs families at root of G20 London summit

Issued by News Distribution Service on Behalf of Government Equalities Office

Harriet Harman, Minister for Women and Equality, will today talk to the women's committee of the Europe Parliament about the impact of the international economic global downturn on women and families.

Ms Harman will say that women are even more worried about the effects of the global downturn than men, with fears about the effect on family life of job insecurity and worry about paying the bills, according to emerging research findings1.

To support women and families during the global economic downturn, and prepare them for the future, the Government is providing new training for women and men who have been out of work for six months; £15million worth of skills development and support for women; help with mortgages; tax cuts and tax credits; and funding 35,000 more apprentices, amongst other things.

Ms Harman will say:

The UK government is listening to and understands the changes that have been taking place in women's lives, in families, and in the workplace because of the current global economic downturn, and because of more women going out to work.

In April the UK will host the London Summit of the G20 - at its roots are not just the crucial issues of banks and the economy, but also the effect on family life. We want women's voices to be heard and between now and April 2nd there will be a global conversation - through the internet as well as meetings like today's - amongst women about the action needed to protect families and build a better and fairer future. We are determined that whatever it takes we will do it.

Women are likely to be affected differently to men in a downturn, because of their role in the family and their different work patterns. Women have more caring responsibilities for children and for older relatives than men; are more likely to work part time; and head up the vast majority (90 per cent) of lone parent households. They are also particularly vulnerable to discrimination around pregnancy and maternity leave.

Ms Harman is in Brussels on 10/11th February 2009 and will address the Standing Committee of the European Parliament on Women's Rights and Gender Equality (FEMM Committee) on the impact of the economic downturn on women and families.

Ms Harman will also confirm that there will be a debate in the House of Commons in March on 'Protecting women and families through the economic downturn' to mark International Woman's Day.

Media enquiries
Please contact the Government Equalities Office press office on 0207 276 0932.