Woman's Hour - 31/10/2008

Presented by Sheila McClennon. Ewa Strusinska joins Sheila to discuss why there are still so few opportunities for women conductors. Discussion on whether poor parenting is a class issue, what we actually mean by poor parenting, and what role the government is playing in blaming many of society's ills on parents. A look at whether there is a gender imbalance in the world of mathematics and debate as to what can be done to improve the achievements of women in mathematics. Libby Cross meets Penny Feiwel to share her memories as a British volunteer who fought for Spain against General Franco's fascist-backed rebels. Sheila is joined by Deborah McIlveen of Women's Aid to discuss why a recent Government report concedes that new domestic violence laws have failed to lead to an increase in convictions. Including drama: How Shall I Tell The Dog? (1/5).