Liberal MP criticises women who breastfeed in Parliament

A Liberal MP says Federal Parliament is a ‘very female unfriendly place’ because it does not allow mothers to be with their children.

Craig Kelly appeared on Sky News on Thursday and commented on the issue of having a quota of female ministers in Parliament and questioned whether it gave ‘better parliamentary representation.’

‘Some of the members breastfeeding in the chamber which I thought was a bit over the top but they were making a statement that we’re trying to encourage women,’ Mr Kelly said.

Mr Kelly said women like Larissa Waters breastfeeding in Parliament was ‘a bit over the top’

The former deputy Greens leader ignited debate in July after breastfeeding her daughter in Federal Parliament (pictured)

Larissa Waters ignited debate in July after addressing the federal parliament while breastfeeding her young child.

The former deputy Greens leader, who quit after issues over dual-citizenship, was praised by many for bringing the issue to the fore.

‘First time I’ve had to move a Senate motion while breastfeeding!’ Mrs Waters tweeted following the stunt.

The mother was praised for paving the way for women to breastfeed in working environments. 

Mr Kelly said female politicians struggled because they ‘want to get home to tuck their kids into bed’

The MP said Parliament was worse for women because motherhood role is a ‘reality of society’

However, Mr Kelly said female politicians struggled more than men because they ‘want to get home to tuck their kids into bed’.  

While acknowledging Parliament has recently become more female friendly, the MP said the role was worse for women than for men because it is a ‘reality of society’.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Mr Kelly for comment.