Green MP Hannah Spencer Delivers Powerful Maiden Speech in Parliament
Hannah Spencer, the newly elected Green MP for Gorton and Denton, has delivered her maiden speech in the House of Commons, passionately calling for greater tolerance, inclusivity, and representation of people from manual working backgrounds in parliament. The former plumber, who secured a surprising victory in last month's byelection, overturned a substantial Labour majority to claim her seat.
From Plastering Course to Parliament Bench
In a heartfelt address during a debate on International Women's Day, Spencer reflected on her rapid transition from vocational training to parliamentary duties. "Four weeks ago today I was in college, a plumber learning how to plaster," she began. "And today I'm in parliament, as an MP. Being here is the honour of my life. But I don't want this to be unusual or exceptional. I truly believe that anyone doing a job like mine should get a seat on these benches."
Spencer's speech resonated with themes of unity and hope, echoing promises from her byelection victory address. She highlighted how some children had dressed up as "Hannah the plumber" for International Women's Day events at their schools, wearing overalls and mimicking her distinctive hairstyle—a touching testament to her impact as a role model.
A Constituency United in Diversity
The MP dedicated portions of her speech to acknowledging the diverse communities within Gorton and Denton, pledging to stand up for all residents. She listed a series of groups and individuals, emphasizing shared struggles and humanity:
- To the girls who dressed as "Hannah the plumber" on International Women's Day
- To the women who have supported her fight for equality
- To the men on her plastering course who handled her newfound spotlight with grace
- To veterans facing societal neglect upon returning home
- To the white working classes, often overlooked and unappreciated
- To those experiencing homelessness or living in cold, damp, insecure housing
- To trans individuals unfairly blamed for societal issues
- To Muslims facing violent scapegoating
- To disabled people hindered by structural inequalities
- To people of color who must work harder due to systemic barriers
"I don't always get it, I won't say I always understand it," Spencer admitted. "But what I do know is what it feels like to be looked down on. To be let down and left behind. To be less worthy because of something about me."
Tackling Decades of Neglect with Hope
Spencer acknowledged that her constituency has "suffered decades of neglect and broken promises," but paid tribute to her predecessor, Labour's Andrew Gwynne, for his work on health inequalities. She vowed to continue these efforts while championing local positives.
In a speech that referenced historical figures like suffragette Elsie Plant—after whom Spencer named one of her greyhounds—as well as local cafes, pubs, and workers, the MP distilled the lesson of International Women's Day: "our struggles may be different, but our humanity is the same."
She concluded with a rallying cry: "I want to put Gorton and Denton on the map by championing the positives about our community—the spirit, the warmth, the grit, and the way that we help each other out, every single day. Together, we can make hope normal again. And we will look after each other, whoever we are. Because where I'm from, that is just what we do."
Spencer's election marked a significant shift, defeating Reform candidate Matthew Goodwin and pushing Labour to third place in a constituency they previously held with a 13,000 majority. Her speech sets a tone of grassroots advocacy and inclusive politics as she begins her parliamentary journey.
