ROSALIND FRANKLIN AND WOMEN IN SCIENCE

Early day motion 838, tabled 4 December 2013 by Valerie Vaz (Labour). Signed by 28 members.

That this House recognises and commends the contribution to science by Rosalind Franklin in molecular biology; notes her outstanding work in the fields of DNA, RNA, viruses, coal and graphite; further notes her work field of X-ray crystallography and the well-known X-ray diffraction image, Picture 51, which led to the discovery of the structure of DNA; believes that as a female scientist, whose contribution to the discovery of the structure of DNA was never fully recognised, she serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting the work of great women in science; and calls on the Government to do more to ensure that young people, particularly young women, are encouraged to pursue careers in science.

Signatures by party: Labour 14, Liberal Democrat 3, Social Democratic and Labour Party 3, DUP 2, Independent 2, Plaid Cymru 2, Conservative 1, Respect 1.