Mansfield MP calls for 'minister for men' post in Government

Opening a debate in the House of Commons on International Men’s Day (November 19), the Tory MP asked ministers to, asking: “Why have a minister for women but not one for men? Why single out one characteristic for special mention?”

Mr Bradley asked ministers to ‘look again’ at equalities legislation and criticised language such as “male privilege, toxic masculinity and of men as oppressors rather than positive contributors or role models”.

He added: “Men are talked about all too often as a problem which must be rectified.”

Mr Bradley’s suggestion for a new government role stirred up debate on Twitter this evening and saw the MP added to the trending list.

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Rachel Murray tweeted in response: “When the levels of sexual and domestic violence reach the same numbers, when pay is equal, when governments are at 50/50, when your contribution is a given not an after thought, as people who identify as female. Then maybe you might need a minister for men.”

@Jonopo_Smith posted: “Don’t pretend you are caring. Don’t pretend you really care about equality. Your previous words and voting record says you don’t. This is a dog whistle to blokes like you who are hurt because they’re suddenly convinced the world is stacked against them. When it rarely is.”

But Pete Stubbs defended the MP’s stance, tweeting: “It is very depressing to see you being attacked on Twitter for suggesting that we should take the disadvantages that men face seriously. Thank you for speaking up about this issue, Ben. I am sure many others appreciate it also.”

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Following the debate, Mr Bradley said: "International Men's Day is a chance to raise great role models too, and I wanted to pay particular tribute to dads.

"Particularly to good dads, and those trying their best to be good dads in challenging times. Good dads and strong male role models can make all the difference for our kids and our communities.

"We all have men in our lives. Brothers, children, uncles, friends... dads.

"They're important, and we should all want to see the men in our lives lifted up rather than torn down."

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.