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Angela Rayner.JPG
Reuters
Angela Rayner.JPG
Reuters
World News

Christian in Parliament says misogyny still 'a massive issue' in Westminster following 'sexist' Rayner article

by Sophie Drew

A Christian working in Westminster says sexism in still rampant within Parliament, following outcry over an article written by the Mail on Sunday about Angela Rayner's legs. 

The deputy Labour party leader was accused of attempting to distract the Prime Minister by "crossing and uncrossing her legs." 

Boris Johnson - and MPs from all sides of the political spectrum - have rebuked the claims. 

The Prime Minister called in "sexist tripe", and said - if he finds out who is responsible - the Tory MP behind the comments will feel the "terrors of the Earth."

Despite the staunch backlash, Jenny Symmons from Christians on the Left - who works with trade unions within Westminster - says sexism continues within Parliament.

She said: "Misogyny is definitely still a massive issue. I think some cultures you can't just change overnight.

"...even when it doesn't catch the news stories that's still very much there in the background. It's part of the culture, I think, you know, the people who often end up being MPs might come from certain backgrounds where I think misogyny could be quite rampant, like disrespecting of women.

"There's also an issue with racism in Parliament and classism and various different other forms of prejudice. It just seems to be a place where there is a lot of elitism and a lot of disregard for people of other kinds of backgrounds, unfortunately."

The leader of the House of Commons - Sir Linsey Hoyle - says he will meet with the editor of the Mail on Sunday, to discuss the article. 
 

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