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Claire's House Notes March 09 |
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I never imagined when I became an MP nor when I joined the Government Whips office that I would hold the rather archaic but fascinating position of Vice Chamberlain to Her Majesty’s Household. I was appointed by the Prime Minister last October and it has certainly been an eye opener. The position has changed over the centuries as in the days of Henry VIII it used to be a much more ‘hands on’ role in managing the Royal Household. These days it is a political appointment and one that helps to keep communications open between Parliament and our Head of State. One of my tasks is to write to the Queen every day when Parliament is in session to tell her what we have been doing. Of course, she could read it in the papers but she seems to like a little more of a review of the day’s business and some of the ‘behind the scenes’ comment . One of the other tasks is to occasionally take documents for the Queen to sign and for me to report back to the House of Commons. I had an audience last month and it was a wonderful opportunity to see the Queen in less formal surroundings as she signed the papers with the famous corgis running around our feet. As this was my first time to get the Queen to sign the message in response to the State Opening of Parliament, it was a reminder that she has seen so many Prime Ministers and Vice Chamberlains over the years that she is completely at ease and able to direct us on the process. What an amazing woman! On the theme of amazing women, this month recognises the role of women in so many walks of life as it is International Women’s Day on March 8th. There will be those who ask ‘what about International Men’s Day?’ but of course the existence of a strong women’s movement to promote equality and women’s rights has existed for many years because historically there has been a real need and sadly in some areas there still is. As always I shall be attending the church service held by Watford women to celebrate the role that women play in their families, workplaces and communities. When I look around our various community organisations, there are so many women helping to keep the show on the road, juggling family responsibilities too. I know as a working mother how difficult it can be at times. At my last advice surgery, waiting constituents had a little insight into my own problems as I had to bring the children along to surgery to wait for my husband to collect them as he had been caught in traffic coming from work. This juggling of roles is common place for most working mums and as the recession hits harder more women will take on work to help meet family finances. For many women, myself included, the support of a good husband or partner has been a great help. But of course that is not always possible or for some desirable. So let’s celebrate the role of women in our world and know that greater equality and access to the world of work will benefit not just women but our society as a whole.
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