Woman's Hour - 21/01/2009

Presented by Jenni Murray. The state of feminism in Britain today. Feminist ideas are on the mainstream political agenda, with all the parties promoting policies on what were once peripheral issues: equal pay, domestic violence and childcare among them. However, with the growth of lap dancing clubs, a rape conviction rate at just over six per cent and official figures showing the pay gap widening for the first time in 30 years, are we in the grip of a backlash? Do those who complain that society has become feminised, with boys sidelined and men feeling they've lost out, have a point? And what should the political priorities be for those seeking to advance the feminist agenda? Jenni talks to Angela McRobbie, Professor of Communications at Goldsmiths, University of London and author of The Aftermath of Feminism; journalist Zoe Williams; broadcaster and journalist Rosie Boycott; the Solicitor General, Vera Baird QC MP; the Shadow Minister for Women, Theresa May MP; and Richard Reeves, Director of the think-tank Demos. Including drama: All Passion Spent.