My impression is that most women public service workers have a long fuse. Precisely because they care so deeply about services, more than anyone, they still want to find a sensible and fair negotiated agreement. But their patience has run out.

The backwoodsmen are muttering about making Britain's draconian union laws - already among the toughest in Europe - harsher still. And parts of the media will continue to attack public service pensions, as if school meals staff, refuse collectors and healthcare workers have no right to a decent retirement.

I don't want to run for governor, but I don't think anyone should put public service out of the question because that's not what a good citizen does.

If you don't like public service, don't run for office.

Women are able to fit public service into their lives. Once they find out they like it and can do it, there is plenty of room to grow.

I have a lifelong devotion to public service.