Jess Phillips Ascends to Home Office Role, Exits Electoral Dysfunction Podcast Amid New Safeguarding Focus

Jess Phillips, the newly designated minister at the Home Office, will focus on issues related to safeguarding and violence against women and girls (VAWG). Her commitment to her ministerial duties means she will step down from her role on the Electoral Dysfunction podcast.

Journalism focused

Saturday, July 13, 2024, 1:

Home Office Minister Jess Phillips has disclosed the circumstances surrounding her recent appointment, explaining that her new position prevents her from continuing her appearances on the Electoral Dysfunction podcast.

In a conversation with Sky News' political editor Beth Rigby and Conservative peer Ruth Davidson, it was disclosed that this episode would mark the final appearance of the Labour MP.

Beth referred to the occasion as "bittersweet," noting that although Jess was departing from the podcast, she had secured a position in government.

Stay updated on political news: Live coverage continues

Ruth expressed that she was extremely excited for Jess, but also a bit melancholic for their own group.

Jess expressed mixed emotions, stating: "I'm pleased for myself but it's bittersweet for us together."

"And I believe it's best to hold off on any applause until I've truly accomplished something – though I'm confident that my influence will be evident daily."

The MP for Birmingham Yardley, who secured her parliamentary seat with a reduced majority, stated that her responsibilities will include overseeing safeguarding and addressing violence against women and girls (VAWG).

She stated: "This encompasses human trafficking, sexual exploitation, domestic violence, and sexual violence. It's due to the Labour Party establishing a truly bold objective… to reduce the instances of violence against women and girls by half within ten years."

Discover further: Unveiling Labour's revamped leadership team as shifts in Gaza impact Labour's hold on positions and influence.

For an optimal viewing experience, it is recommended to use the Chrome browser.

Jess detailed that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has been deeply committed to legal reform in this sector for approximately ten years.

"I had met Keir Starmer professionally prior to our simultaneous election in 2015.

"I was employed at Rape Crisis, while he served as the director of public prosecutions. He was implementing significant changes to the policies regarding the management of rape cases."

"He is familiar with this world, deeply invested in it, and ultimately desires its transformation."

Jess elaborated on how she received her latest job offer from Sue Gray, who is the chief of staff for Sir Keir.

Jess explains that she had been coordinating with Ms. Gray's office to schedule a conversation after the election victory, and that she had recently sent a message to a member of Ms. Gray's team.

Stay ahead with the latest Breaking News

Download the Sky News application at no cost

I found myself standing on a street in central London, having just finished lunch.

"The rain was pouring heavily as I stood by, waiting for my Uber."

I found myself glued to my phone, as one often is, compulsively checking it while anticipating the slightest movement of the car. This is particularly the case in central London, where you might spend an hour just to cover 30 yards.

"I was checking my phone when I received a call from Sue Gray."

Jess anticipated that the discussion would focus on arranging a time for a meeting.

She recounted to the podcast, "So I pick up the call and I'm like, 'Oh, hi, how are you?'"

"We exchanged a few words on the topic of the election and other matters, and then she mentioned, 'By the way, Jess, I wanted to ask if you'd be interested in returning to a role in government?'."

Last year, Jess stepped down from her position in the Labour shadow cabinet due to disagreements with her party's position on Gaza.

Stay informed with the most recent updates from the UK and international news by tuning into Sky News.

She continued, "I think I didn't respond with the excitement and joy that was expected, mainly because a) it was completely unexpected.

"Additionally, the thought of having missed my Uber was making me increasingly anxious, and I continued to get more soaked by the minute."

"On the day the election was announced, I was completely drenched, just like Rishi."

Jess admits she was initially taken aback, but then agreed to take on the position.

Associated Subjects

Sky News Bottom Section

Information About Sky News

Services Offered by Sky News

Sky Network Channels

Additional Sky Websites