Jess Phillips Blasts Labour Ministers for Letting Down Voters

In a candid address, Labour Minister Jess Phillips expressed concerns about potential shortcomings within her party's new ministerial team, suggesting that some members may "mess up" and "disappoint" voters in the coming years. Despite this, Phillips emphasized that Labour would adopt a "more honest approach" compared to the previous Conservative government, which she criticized for its perceived dishonesty and lack of accountability. She likened the experience of dealing with the Tories to being "spitting in our face and telling us it is raining," highlighting a sense of betrayal felt by the public. Phillips, who recently returned to the frontbench after resigning to support a ceasefire motion in Gaza, shared her surprise at being invited back into government. During a phone call with Sue Gray, the Prime Minister’s chief of staff, she expressed her astonishment, noting that rebels often find themselves sidelined. However, she interpreted her reinstatement as a sign of Labour's commitment to addressing violence against women, a cause she is passionate about. The minister conveyed optimism about the government's potential to make strides in tackling male violence against women, asserting that there is a growing recognition of this issue as a national priority. She remarked on a cultural shift within the government, suggesting that the focus on violence against women and girls is becoming increasingly prominent in political discourse. Phillips concluded with a hopeful outlook, stating that the public's demand for prioritizing this issue is being acknowledged, and she feels positive about the direction the government is taking in addressing these critical concerns.