A Conservative MP has been criticized for saying she would not vote for Kemi Badenock as party leader because she was “preoccupied with her children”.
Sir Christopher Jope tell ITV As opposition leader, “you can’t spend all your time with your family.”
He said he would vote for Badenock’s rival in the Conservative leadership race, Robert Jenrick, and considered Jenrick’s three children “older”.
Responding to his comments, Conservative MP Victoria Atkins said: “This is the 2020s, not the 1950s – all working mums and dads are juggling family, career and everyday life. “
She added: “One of our final two impressive candidates also happens to be a mother, reflecting modern Conservatives and modern life. A big shout out to all working mums.”
A source within the Jenrick campaign said their candidate disagreed with Sir Christopher’s comments, adding: “He has three young daughters who he has raised on his own.”
Badenock’s campaign did not comment on the remarks.
Sir Christopher told ITV’s Meridian’s The Last Word program that Jenrick “brings a lot more energy and commitment to the campaign, and being the leader of the opposition is a very difficult job.
“And, as much as I like Kemi, I think she’s understandably focused on her kids.
“But I think Robert’s children are older, and I think it’s important that the people leading the opposition have a lot of time and energy.
“Through conversations with colleagues, I learned that Kemi spends a lot of time with her family, and I don’t resent that at all.
“But the consequence of that is you can’t spend all your time with your family and be the leader of the opposition at the same time.
“You could say Margaret Thatcher’s family suffered because of her commitment and dedication to leading our country.”
Labor MP Helena Dollimore, who attended the same programme, said: “Many women will be shocked by these comments.
“I don’t think there should be any barriers to women participating in public life.”
Conservative members are currently selecting their desired leader, with the results due to be announced on November 2.
Badenoch and Jenrick were the final two candidates after James Cleverly was eliminated in a vote of Conservative MPs earlier this month.
