People should win positions on merit, Johnson says ahead of by-election
The IndependentGet the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Boris Johnson has said that MPs should be selected “on their merits” as he refused to throw his backing behind all-female shortlists. Speaking on Times Radio, the Prime Minister said selection processes would be left to local associations, adding that the Conservatives should be “incredibly proud” of promoting women in politics. “Women are doing absolutely brilliantly in the Conservative Party at the moment and we want to encourage it.” In a nod to Home Secretary Priti Patel and Foreign Secretary Liz Truss, the Prime Minister noted that two of the four “top jobs in Government are currently held by women”. “As for selection procedures, those are a matter for the local association.” At the weekend, party chairman Oliver Dowden said he wanted the Conservatives to ensure more women MPs were elected so that the party in Parliament “reflects the wider country”.
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