Labour would pardon suffragettes, Corbyn says

February 9, 2018
Issue 
Suffragettes marching for the right of women to vote.

A Labour government would officially apologise and pardon the suffragettes for the miscarriages of justice they suffered in fighting for women’s right to vote in Britain, said Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn.

Morning Star Online said the Labour shadow cabinet agreed to plans for a royal pardon as Britain marked the 100th anniversary of the act that extended the right to vote to property-owning women over 30 years of age. The right was granted to all women over 21 years of age a decade later.

Labour has launched a 12-month campaign to celebrate women’s suffrage and work on plans to end the current “grotesque levels of inequality” in society.

Corbyn said: “As a country, we must recognise and honour the enormous contribution and sacrifice made by women who campaigned for the right to vote.

“Many of those women were treated appallingly by society and the state ... Some were severely mistreated and force-fed in prison post-conviction, so a pardon could mean something to their families.”

Like the article? Subscribe to Green Left now! You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

You need Green Left, and we need you!

Green Left is funded by contributions from readers and supporters. Help us reach our funding target.

Make a One-off Donation or choose from one of our Monthly Donation options.

Become a supporter to get the digital edition for $5 per month or the print edition for $10 per month. One-time payment options are available.

You can also call 1800 634 206 to make a donation or to become a supporter. Thank you.