Gosport MP Caroline Dinenage celebrated the success of 'Mumpreneurs' during questions to the Department of Women and Equalities this morning.
Getting back into work after having children can be a challenge for many women. However, across the UK, the number of mothers setting up their own businesses from home is on the increase.
Caroline asked:
"Is the Secretary of State aware of the importance of the so-called 'Mumpreneurs' who work from home and contribute approximately £7 billion a year to our economy? Will she join with me in congratulating these inspirational women and pledge to support them?"
Responding on behalf of the Government, the Minister for Women and Equalities, Maria Miller, said:
"I absolutely will join her in congratulating and applauding the work of 'Mumpreneurs'. I know my Honourable Friend is herself a businesswoman, a small businesswoman, and knows a great deal about this sector and I think, Mr Speaker, the figures speak for themselves. In the last quarter, we saw a further 27,000 women taking up entrepreneurial roles in our economy, making 1.2 million in total. I think real progress indeed."
Speaking outside the Chamber, Caroline commented:
"Small businesses and entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of our economy – they have played a very important role in Britain's financial recovery. With 60% of businesses started from home, Britain's Mums are ina great position to play a vital part in this economic regeneration."
Joanna Murchie, a 'Mumpreneur' from Gosport, was recently shortlisted in the final ten for the Best International Business Award for her company CV Essentials at the UK Mumpreneur Awards.