Statement on government reshuffle, February 2023

The mini-reshuffle on 6 February 2023 clearly set out the priorities of Rishi Sunak’s government, and we congratulate those who have been given new roles including Kemi Badenoch MP on her new position of Secretary of State for Business and Trade. However, Ms Badenoch retains the role of Minister for Women and Equalities on top of her significant new and high-profile responsibilities. Both briefs are important and timely, but we are concerned that giving one individual responsibility for both will dilute focus and reduce the pace of change which is so desperately needed in both areas. In this context, we are particularly worried about the initial focus needed on several government departments transitioning into new ways of working. Women and girls cannot wait for appropriate focus on them to be resumed.

We call on the government to back up its promises to reduce violence against women and girls and allow them to live safe lives free of abuse with appropriate ministerial oversight, ensuring the issue continues to be represented in the house. A dedicated minister for Women and Equalities is an essential foundation to ensure VAWG remains a government priority and that relationships with the VAWG sector can be retained and developed. At STADA we look forward to working with government and individual politicians to achieve our goals and make women and girls safer and hope to see this area appropriately resourced in the coming weeks.