As a Worcester City Councillor, the elected Champion for Personal Safety and Civility in Public Office, and an advocate for ending violence against women and girls, I am deeply disappointed by the comments made by the Assistant Police and Crime Commissioner, Cllr Marc Bayliss during a recent County Council meeting. Referring to the UK’s first female Chancellor of the Exchequer as “Rachel from accounts” is not just dismissive—it is a reflection of the ingrained attitudes that undermine women’s achievements and perpetuate inequality.
What makes this incident even more troubling is the eruption of laughter from some of Cllr Bayliss’s supporters in response to his comment. This collective reaction amplified the disrespect, trivializing a historic achievement and reinforcing harmful stereotypes.
The entire exchange is available to watch on YouTube (HERE at 2:59:20), providing an accurate and undeniable record of what occurred. For such attitudes to be openly displayed in a public meeting and aired on a public forum by those elected to lead is disheartening and falls far short of the standard of respect and civility that we should expect in public office.
This behaviour sends a damaging message to young women aspiring to leadership positions—that no matter how far they climb, they can still be reduced to a stereotype or a dismissive nickname. Words matter, particularly from those in leadership roles. Public figures should lead by example, fostering respect and celebrating progress, not perpetuating outdated attitudes that have no place in modern politics or society.
I urge Cllr Bayliss to reflect on the impact of his words and his supporters’ reaction, and to consider how such behaviour contributes to the broader issue of sexism that many women face every day. A sincere apology would be a good first step toward acknowledging the harm caused and committing to better in the future.
Let’s ensure that politics in Worcester and beyond is a space where everyone—regardless of gender—is respected for their achievements and contributions.
