英国副首相克莱格2014年国际妇女节致辞

Throughout my life, I’ve been inspired by the courage, success and determination of so many women - friends, family and colleagues.

International Women’s Day is a chance for all of us to shout loudly and together in support of greater equality, wherever it’s needed. And, since 2014, the Coalition has been focused on making Britain a fairer society: where everyone – no matter what their gender, background or circumstances, can succeed.

This includes introducing shared parental leave. So, from April next year, mothers who want to return to work early after having a baby can and their partners will be able to use their remaining leave and pay. We’re improving access to affordable, high-quality childcare to help those families most feeling the squeeze.

And we’re also changing the pension system so that it is fairer for women, and have introduced a tax cut that’s helping put money back in the pockets of millions of women. In addition, we’re working to get more women into the boardroom, and encouraging all those female entrepreneurs with a good idea to start their own companies.

More widely, we are working across the world to ensure more women and girls have greater choice and control over their own lives. We’re helping to get more young girls into school, fighting to banish horrific practices such as female genital mutilation and working to improve women’s access to justice.

I’m determined to keep going further - both in my own party and in government.

That’s my commitment for this International Women’s Day and beyond. Together, we can make a difference – locally, nationally and globally – ensuring everyone has an equal shot at the happy, healthy and successful life that they want.