Kirstie Allsopp (location location location) has put the cat well and truly amongst the pigeons!
In an interview with the Telegraph, she has a frank discussion talking about the recent loss of her mother, then gives a frank assessment on her views of marriage and the pressure put on women to have a career, as well as settle down.
“I don’t have a girl, but if I did I’d be saying 'Darling, do you know what? Don’t go to university. Start work straight after school, stay at home, save up your deposit – I’ll help you, let’s get you into a flat. And then we can find you a nice boyfriend and you can have a baby by the time you’re 27."
Kirstie Allsopp interview - The Telegraph
As predicted, the news networks are alive with controversy and story stirring. It's interesting though, a lot of the people I know had kids a lot later, into their mid to late 30's and even 40's. We had our kids late, compared to my parents generation.
There's no denying a lot of people are fighting nature, and biologically women are designed to have kids younger, not older. But if there are no major health risks, and you are able to, then why not? Is it better for a woman to build a career first, or start a business, and then take time out to have kids? Or is it just a simple case of having the choice?
Being a bloke, it's subjective and I know we are wired differently, but it must be hard to raise a family, and then start a career/business when you are older, without the previous experience you would have built up in your 20s/30's when you were super keen and enthusiastic?
But fascinating to hear Kirstie talking so candidly, although I do wonder how much more fuss would have been raised if the comments had been made by a male!
Anyone got any thoughts?