Baroness Randerson outlines vision for equality in speech at University

As part of a series of events throughout March to promote and celebrate equality of opportunity, Baroness Randerson used a speech at the University to outline her vision for delivering equality for women in the economy.

 Marking 45 years since the introduction of the Equal Pay Act, the speech set out a series of proposed measures to increase women's participation in the economy, with a view to putting an extra one million women into work by 2020. 

Welsh Liberal Democrat peer Baroness Randerson told the audience that by liberating the full political, social and economic power of women, the economy - and society as a whole - can benefit, saying: "I believe passionately in the link between a stronger economy and a fairer society. I believe in the fundamental importance of the economic empowerment of women."

During the speech she also called for "social change" and highlighted work to stop violence against women and girls.  The event was hosted by Deputy Vice Chancellor Elizabeth Treasure, who leads the University's measures to ensure equality, including the recent events to mark International Women's Day.  Professor Treasure said: "The University has a strong track record of promoting equality of opportunity for both its students and staff, with Cardiff academic Millicent McKenzie being the UK's first female professor in 1904.

"The University continues to receive recognition for its efforts in promoting career opportunities for women, from initiatives to increase the number of female scientists, to the University's designation as a Bronze Athena SWANN charter holder.   It is in this spirit that we welcome Baroness Randerson to the University, to speak on this important topic."