Maria was delighted to be awarded ‘Member of the Year’ jointly with Ruth Davidson at the annual Pink News awards ceremony last Wednesday. 

Pink News is the worlds most-read news service dedicated to LGBT content. Their annual awards ceremony recognises the contributions made by politicians, community activists, media personalities and business leaders in advancing the rights of LGBT people in the UK and overseas. 

Maria was nominated on the grounds of her new role as Chair of the Women and Equalities Select Committee. Under her leadership, the committee’s first inquiry has been into the future of trans legislation and policy. 

Maria said: “I am honoured to have received the Member of the Year award, and will continue to do all that I can for LGBT people. I am pleased to be sharing this award with Ruth Davidson, a woman who has done excellent work as a leader and a role model.”

Guests at the Awards enjoyed speeches from Business Secretary Sajid Javid, Education Secretary and Minister for Women and Equalities Nicky Morgan and Shadow International Development Secretary Diane Abbott.