Equalities minister accuses opposition of normalising racism and sexism

Bridget Phillipson, the UK equalities minister, has stated that racism and sexism have become normalised in Britain, attributing the shift to online interactions and statements by politicians. Speaking to The Guardian’s Politics Weekly podcast, she expressed concern that attitudes towards violence against women and girls have reached a "ground zero," with previously unacceptable behaviour becoming commonplace.

Phillipson specifically accused senior members of the opposition of making racist remarks in recent years. She cited shadow justice secretary Nick Timothy, who described Muslims praying in Trafalgar Square as an "act of domination," and Reform’s economic spokesperson Robert Jenrick, who faced criticism in October for complaining he "didn’t see another white face" during a visit to Birmingham. Phillipson described Jenrick’s comments as "despicable" and Timothy’s statements as "fundamentally racist," noting that neither party responded to requests for comment.

The minister also highlighted the role of social media in fuelling hatred, describing the platform as a "cesspit" that is drawing young men into violent misogyny. These comments reinforce the government’s determination to implement an under-16 social media ban, a policy promised to be in place by next spring. Phillipson further criticised the police for failing to take violence against women and girls seriously enough, citing "shocking failings" in their response over recent decades.

On the issue of immigration, Phillipson defended the policies of home secretary Shabana Mahmood, arguing that toughening the system and potentially deporting children if families refuse to move is necessary to restore public faith in migration. She stated that having public consent for migration and a fair system is essential, countering internal and external criticism that the government’s approach is veering into xenophobia.

Phillipson also addressed a recent confrontation with opposition leader Kemi Badenoch, who had labelled her a "spiteful class warrior." Speaking in depth about the row for the first time, Phillipson said she responded that people would find out who Badenoch really was. She added that, as someone from an ordinary working-class family in the north-east, she believes some opponents think she should "get back in my box."

Regarding the future of the government, Phillipson denied rumours that Labour is planning to use its recent polling bounce to launch an early election. She asserted that the party will honour its five-year mandate, stating there is no reason to depart from the terms on which it was elected in 2024.