Former Labour MP appointed to chair women’s rights group

A former Labour MP has been appointed to chair women’s rights group the Fawcett Society.

Fiona Mactaggart (pictured), who spent 20 years in Parliament before standing down at the 2017 general election, takes over from Belinda Phipps.

Sam Smethers, Fawcett Society chief executive, said: “Fiona Mactaggart is a committed feminist and someone who has always fought for women’s rights.

“It is an honour to have her as our chair and we are really looking forward to working with her to strengthen Fawcett’s voice and impact in the years ahead.

“We couldn’t wish for a stronger voice for women and champion of equality.”

Fiona Mactaggart said: “I am proud to take on this role in the centenary year of the first success in the campaign for women’s votes, launched by Millicent Fawcett.”

_{Copyright (c) Press Association Ltd. 2018, All Rights Reserved. Picture (c) John Stillwell / PA Wire.}