Huge Increase In Number Of Women Candidates (Press, 26 November 1975)

In the lead-up to the General Election on 29 November 1975, a significant increase in the number of women candidates is noteworthy, with 47 women standing for election, more than double the 21 candidates from the previous election in 1972. The Values Party has the largest representation, fielding 23 women, supported by a strong emphasis on women’s issues. The Social Credit Political League has increased its female candidates from seven to 13, while the Labour Party maintains its six candidates and the National Party has five, up from four in 1972. The boost in candidates can be attributed to the heightened political awareness spurred by International Women’s Year and the ongoing growth of the women's movement, which has advocated for increased female participation in government for over a decade. Current Labour Party women MPs have consistently highlighted the necessity for more women in Parliament, indicating a changing political landscape. Candidates range in experience and background, with many being married, having careers, or part-time jobs alongside running for office. Among them are university graduates, teachers, nurses, welfare workers, and business professionals, many of whom are active in community service and local governance. The youngest candidate is 21-year-old Judy Charlton, while 59-year-old Pat Hamid is the oldest, reflecting a diverse age range. Labour’s standing women candidates include sitting MPs like T. W. M. Tirikatene-Sullivan, the lone female Cabinet Minister in Government, alongside Mary Batchelor and Dorothy Jelicich, who have previously served on women’s rights committees. The Labour Party saw a significant increase in candidates, with 21 women seeking selection compared to 12 in 1972, resulting in six successful nominations. National Party candidates include two women from Christchurch, Prudence Rothenberg and Colleen Dewe, along with Marilyn Waring, Lois Morris, and Juliann Cameron, demonstrating the party's commitment to increasing female representation. Social Credit's thirteen candidates include various South Island representatives, while the Values Party features a diverse array of professionals and community figures stepping forward. The election outcomes will be closely watched to assess how these newly nominated women fare and whether they can increase the representation of women in New Zealand's Parliament. With this election exhibiting a clear trend towards greater inclusion and the empowerment of women, expectations will be set high for the future composition of government.

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