WORLD ASSOCIATION OF GIRL GUIDES & GIRL SCOUTS 75TH ANNIVERSARY

Early day motion 1836, tabled 29 October 2003 by Baroness Tonge (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 49 members.

That this House congratulates the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts on the organisation's 75th anniversary; notes that since being formed in 1928, the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts has become the largest voluntary organisation for girls and young women, representing over 10 million girls and young women in 144 countries worldwide; acknowledges that this diverse organisation's important work ranges from international campaigning with United Nations agencies and national governments to grass roots level working directly with girls and young women providing dynamic and flexible educational programmes, leadership opportunities and international experience; is deeply concerned that 91 million girls worldwide do not go to primary school and that women are paid 30 to 40 per cent. less than men for the same jobs; notes that 70 per cent. of people living with HIV/AIDS are female, that 50 to 60 million children work in dangerous conditions, and that nine out of 10 people killed in today's conflicts are civilians with most being women and children; and further congratulates the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts on taking positive action to change the lives of all girls and young women wherever they are in the world through new initiatives such as 'Our Rights, Our Responsibilities', thereby empowering girls and young women to develop to their fullest potential as responsible citizens of the world.

Signatures by party: Labour 22, Liberal Democrat 17, Conservative 5, Labour/Co-operative 2, Independent Ulster Unionist 1, Plaid Cymru 1, Scottish National Party 1.