In a bold move, Rachel Reeves, the Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer, has called for the removal of male-centric artwork from the state room in No 11 Downing Street. This decision, announced at an all-female reception earlier this week, aims to showcase and celebrate notable women through art.
Reeves stated, "Every picture in this room is either going to be of a woman or by a woman." She also revealed plans to install a statue of Millicent Fawcett, a prominent suffragist who played a crucial role in the women's rights movement.
This initiative comes on the heels of a similar action by Labour leader Keir Starmer, who removed a portrait of Margaret Thatcher from her former study in No 10 approximately three weeks ago. Starmer's decision sparked controversy, with the Conservative Party accusing him of having "a problem with women."
The state room, which spans the entire width of No 11 and overlooks the shared Downing Street gardens, is primarily used for formal occasions. It boasts two 18th-century marble fireplaces and a pair of antique Chinese lacquered cabinets, considered among the building's finest treasures.
Reeves, who would become Britain's first female Chancellor if Labour wins the next election, has pledged to champion women's interests in government. Her goals include building a more female-friendly economy and addressing the gender pay gap.
Conservative MP Greg Smith responded to the artwork change, stating, "This seems an odd priority, but if she's determined to do it, I expect Margaret Thatcher will feature prominently." However, some Tory sources have dismissed the move as "pathetic gesture politics."
As part of this initiative, Reeves has already removed a Treasury portrait of Nigel Lawson, who served as Chancellor under Margaret Thatcher. She suggested replacing it with images of women in politics who have "hugely inspired" her.
While the decision has sparked debate, it reflects a broader push for increased representation of women in politics and public spaces. The implementation of these changes is expected to take place in the coming week, potentially reshaping the visual landscape of one of the UK's most significant political addresses.
"This is King James behind me, but next week the artwork in this room is going to change."
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the artwork in No 11 Downing Street serves as a symbolic representation of shifting priorities and the ongoing struggle for gender equality in British politics.