WOMENS’ LABOUR PAINS

21-04-2009

Kim Brom’s decision to step down from the backbenches on Birmingham City Council – as revealed on The Stirrer Forum yesterday – marks the fifth departure of a female councillor from Labour’s ranks in recent weeks. Some going for a group committed to equality.

Brom, who represents East Handsworth and Lozells, cites increasing pressures on her work-life balance.

In an official statement she said: “After much careful deliberation and consideration, I have resigned from my seat as Councillor for Lozells and East Handsworth due to changes in my family and work circumstances.”

Labour group leader Sir Albert Bore left the door open for her return, saying: “We wish her well and hope to be reunited with her in the future, should she choose to return to the Council.”

There are no suggestions of anything untoward about her departure, but it begs the question of whether there’s something about the tough life of a councillor which works against women.

Alternatively, it could suggest Labour in Birmingham has such a macho culture that makes the female of the species simply feels unwelcome.

Let’s take a look at those who are leaving

Zoe Hopkins (Kingstanding): generally acknowledged to be a smart cookie, and considered to be future Cabinet material. She’s quitting to concentrate on her career. Insiders say she was more at home on committees than with the nitty gritty of ward work.

Barbara Tassa (Stockland Green): Senior councillor, also active in the Royal College of Nursing. Leaving to concentrate on her union activities.

Margaret Byrne (Shard End): Party veteran who has been in poor health for some time.

Gill Beddows (Hodge Hill): Liam Byrne’s constituency secretary. Fast-tracked with Byrne’s encouragement into a winnable seat after years at his predecessor Terry Davies’ side. Little appetite for local infighting.

Kim Brom: Youth was on her side – she’s in her 30s – but although extremely capable, insiders say she never fully took to Council life.

So there we have it – no clear pattern emerges, and while conspiracy theorists would have it that Birmingham Labour is no fit place for a female, it isn’t as simple as that.

There’s no denying, though, that the loss of so many women gives the party an image problem – and a practical difficulty too.

How can it claim to represent 52% of the population, when the male minority makes up the vast majority of its councillors?

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