The Representation on Women in Local Politics

The under-representation of women in local politics has been debated for many years. While there is evidence to suggest that more women are now being elected to local authorities, they continue to face barriers to their entry and to their subsequent progression. Based on 1,014 responses to a national survey of women councillors, this article presents evidence on women's representation and explores the tensions they face in reconciling their public and private worlds. The article further examines women councillors' own perceptions and attitudes to achieving higher office and considers their prospects under the new council constitutions