Councillor Anna Smith, the Labour led City Council’s Executive Councillor for Streets and Open Spaces, is set to join the Labour Party’s Women in Leadership Programme. The programme was launched in October 2016 in honour of the late MP for Batley and Spen, Jo Cox, who was also a graduate of Pembroke College, Cambridge.  The programme is run by the Labour Women’s Network and aims to develop the skills of women in the Labour Party and encourage them to take on senior political roles at both local and national levels.

Councillor Smith said: “Jo Cox was an inspirational MP and passionate about many causes, including the role of women in politics. She was also the first chair of the Labour Women’s Network. It is a real honour to have been selected as one of the first participants in this national leadership programme. Part of the scheme will be the opportunity for working with senior women leaders as mentors, and I hope this will enable me to develop my ability to serve my community and fight for social justice.”

Councillor Lewis Herbert, Leader of the Council, said: “I am delighted that Anna has been chosen to take part in this key leadership programme. Her determination and commitment to her role as a city councillor has shone through since being elected only last year.”