Women’s Role In Politics (Press, 4 December 1976)

On 4 December 1976, Mrs Mary Batchelor, Member of Parliament for Avon, urged women to engage in politics not merely as representatives of their gender but as individuals contributing to society. Speaking at a meeting of the Wellington branch of the Women’s Electoral Lobby, she addressed the question of whether women M.P.s have a significant role in New Zealand politics. Mrs Batchelor asserted that while some women excel in political roles, others might not contribute as much, reflecting the diversity of abilities across genders. She emphasised the importance of allowing women to make their own choices, whether that meant prioritising family or pursuing a career, and highlighted that they should be afforded the necessary opportunities to do so. The discussion included input from fellow politicians, such as Miss Marilyn Waring, who reflected on the ongoing challenges women face in various societal domains, noting recent advancements aimed at improving their conditions. Of the National Party’s 39 election policies focused on women's issues, 15 had been put into practice, with others expected to follow suit by early 1977. These policies included significant legislative changes such as the Equal Pay Amendment Bill and the Matrimonial Property Bill, which were aimed at enhancing women's rights. Miss Waring expressed her enthusiasm for women holding positions of power, such as M.P.s, judges, and magistrates, while simultaneously expressing her opposition to proportional representation. She believed it was crucial for women to establish their capabilities based on individual merits rather than quotas. Conversely, Mrs Whetu Tirikatene Sullivan shared her perspective that proportional representation had served the Maori community well and argued it could also be beneficial for women. However, she remarked that achieving proportional representation for women seemed unlikely, signalling the need for alternative approaches to address their concerns within the political sphere. Overall, the meeting underscored the diverse views among women in politics regarding their role and contribution in New Zealand, as they navigated the complexities of gender, societal expectations, and legislative progress.

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