Labour MP Jess Phillips has sparked debate by claiming that the UK economy has "grown fat" on decades of unpaid labour by women. In a bold statement, she highlighted the systemic undervaluation of domestic and care work, which has traditionally fallen on women.
The Hidden Backbone of the Economy
Phillips argued that women’s unpaid contributions—ranging from childcare to household management—have propped up the economy without recognition or compensation. "We’ve built a society that relies on free labour, and it’s time to reckon with that," she said.
Calls for Policy Overhaul
The MP urged policymakers to address this imbalance through measures like:
- Better pay for care workers
- Affordable childcare
- Tax reforms to support unpaid carers
Her comments come amid growing scrutiny of gender disparities in economic participation.
A Historical Burden
Phillips traced the issue back to post-war Britain, where women’s reabsorption into domestic roles after wartime jobs became entrenched. "This isn’t about blame—it’s about fixing a broken system," she added.
The debate has reignited discussions about valuing care work in GDP calculations and ensuring equitable economic policies for future generations.
