Rachel Reeves has just made history as the UK’s first female chancellor of the exchequer, marking a significant shift in economic and financial policy-making at the highest level.
The chancellor position has been around for 800 years and has always been occupied by men until now.
Other crucial roles in economic policy-making that women have not yet taken up include the governor of the Bank of England and the first permanent secretary to the Treasury.
Reeves, as the UK’s first female chancellor of the exchequer, is poised to bring a fresh perspective to Labour’s primary goal of economic growth.
She is expected to show a deeper understanding of women’s crucial role in the workforce and their impact on achieving this growth.
Being the first woman in Number 11, she has the platform to shape policies that support women’s full integration into the workforce while managing family and caring responsibilities.
Reeves emphasizes the responsibility that comes with her position, aiming to inspire women to pursue their ambitions without limits.
She is dedicated to advancing women’s progress, narrowing the gender pay gap currently at 14.3%, and advocating for flexible working arrangements to become standard practice.
Reeves shared during the campaign how influential Labour women like Barbara Castle, Harriet Harman, and Ellen Wilkinson motivated her to advocate for equal pay and rights for women and other vulnerable groups.
Her book “The Women Who Made Modern Economics,” released in 2023 while she was Labour’s shadow chancellor, intertwines the stories of female economists with her own experiences and Britain’s political history.
In her book, Reeves highlights the persistent gender inequality in economic roles, stressing the need for political and economic representation shifts.
Supporting women to contribute more effectively to the economy boosts household incomes and enhances overall economic resilience.
Addressing the challenges women encounter in the workforce, such as discrimination and unequal opportunities, can lead to a more inclusive labour market.
When women have access to quality education and training opportunities, it helps build a skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of a modern economy.
Reeves envisions a thriving economy where women are empowered, their contributions are valued, and their rights are safeguarded.
Olekanma Favour is a resourceful, self-motivated, and result-driven writer with a passion for crafting compelling narratives and insightful content. She loves tackling complex topics and weaving engaging stories.
When she’s not writing, Olekanma enjoys immersing herself in a good book, exploring new cuisines, and discovering new cultures.