OPINION - The reason I wouldn't stand to be an MP? Because it would make me fear for my life

Last week I was asked why I was not standing in the general election. Without hesitation, I said: “Because I don’t want to die.” When I saw the look on the face of the journalist who had asked me, I knew being so honest about why I was not standing was a shock to him and the three other men in the room. But it shouldn’t be. It is not just difficult, but extremely dangerous being a woman in politics today.