Key facts
- Equalities minister Bridget Phillipson stated that racism and sexism have become normalised in Britain.
- She warned that young men are being influenced by violent misogyny through social media.
- Phillipson criticized specific politicians for making racist statements and the police for their response to violence against women.
- She defended the government's immigration policies, emphasizing the need for public consent.
- Phillipson noted a positive mood and sense of energy within her party following recent political developments.
Equities minister Bridget Phillipson has stated that racism and sexism have become normalised in Britain, expressing concern that young men are being drawn into violent misogyny by social media. She criticized politicians for making statements that would have been unacceptable in the past and accused the police of not taking violence against women and girls seriously enough.
Phillipson specifically pointed to comments made by shadow justice secretary Nick Timothy and Reform’s economic spokesperson Robert Jenrick as examples of racist remarks. She defended the government's immigration policies, stating that public consent for migration and a fair system are essential. She also addressed a past public exchange with opposition leader Kemi Badenoch, referencing her own working-class background.
Despite expressing sadness at leaving her previous education brief, Phillipson noted a renewed sense of energy and hope within her party under leader Andy Burnham. She denied any plans for an early election, emphasizing the current five-year mandate.