"I want to speak about women as writers of fiction, and, to some extent, of non-fiction, and of the place their work has in the worldwide economy. While I refer to women in the United Kingdom, what I have to say mostly applies to women writers all over the world".

My Lords, it is not unusual for me to speak on female genital mutilation in your Lordships' House, but I believe that putting an end to it is so serious and important a goal that raising the subject frequently is essential.

At the present time, it is impossible to do too much to raise public awareness of cardiovascular disease. Heart disease, stroke and related conditions account for two-thirds of all premature deaths in England...

My Lords, I congratulate my noble friend Lord Dubs on initiating this debate and I declare an interest as vice-president of Shelter.