Suffragette leaders Emmeline Pankhurst, Christabel Pankhurst, Mabel Tuke and Emmeline Pethick-Lawrence

The Suffragette leaders Emmeline Pankhurst, Christabel Pankhurst, Mabel Tuke and Emmeline Pethick-Lawrence, 17th June 1911. The image depicts the leaders taking part in the Coronation Procession through central London. Organised by the Women's Social and Political Union this spectacular procession was held a week before the coronation of George V with the intention of enlisting the support of the new King for the proposed Conciliation Bill. This Bill about to be debated in Parliament proposed the parliamentary franchise for women who were responsible for the premises they occupied. Women from around the British Isles and India took part in the procession which culminated in a rally at the Albert Hall. With such a demand for entry, the Empress Rooms in Kensington had been hired to cope with the overflow. Unfortunately despite their efforts George V made it clear he did not support the Suffragette campaign and opposed the Conciliation Bill.