A FORMER BBC governor and chair of the British Joint Intelligence Committee was the guest at an MP’s latest event in a series designed to inspire women.

Maria Miller MP welcomed Baroness Pauline Neville-Jones to Basingstoke on Thursday last week to speak at the Inspiring Women event was hosted by Jays Close-based company De La Rue.

Attendees included a range of professionals from Basingstoke Businesses, Colleges and Charities.

Baroness Neville-Jones, who also served as minister of state for security and counter-terrorism, spoke about her journey through the Foreign Office, Cabinet Office, government and the world of enterprise, looking at the challenges she faced and the ways in which she overcame them.

The audience then questioned the baroness and a panel of Jo Easton, group director of human resources at De La Rue; Charlie Porter, founder and chief executive officer of charity Muffin’s Dream; and Effie Grant who runs Basingstoke business Blanksons.

Questions covered a wide range of topics including flexible working and maternity leave, and both the challenges and opportunities faced by working women.

Mrs Miller said: “I was delighted to welcome Pauline Neville-Jones to Basingstoke. The audience were very interested to hear of her experiences within the Foreign Office and government.

“The panel also gave their insight from different perspectives and this really helped show how women can encourage others by sharing their own experiences.

“Jo Easton and the De La Rue Team, who hosted the event, ensured that the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming which meant attendees felt able to ask questions and engage with each other.

“I am looking forward to welcoming other guest speakers and am certain that the Inspiring Women Series will encourage women to apply for roles in areas which they have not previously considered.”