Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has delivered a robust defence of Jess Phillips, confirming the Labour MP retains the Prime Minister's complete confidence in her role leading the government's landmark grooming gangs inquiry.
Speaking to Sky News, Phillipson dismissed mounting Conservative criticism of Phillips' appointment, stating unequivocally that "the prime minister's support for Jess is absolute" and that she possesses "the backing of the entire government" in her new position.
Conservative Opposition Mounts
The controversy emerged after Phillips was named as the chair of the independent inquiry into grooming gangs, prompting immediate backlash from Conservative quarters. Former Home Secretary Suella Braverman led the charge, questioning Phillips' suitability for the role and demanding her removal from the position.
Phillipson countered these attacks head-on, telling broadcasters: "We are not going to take any lectures from the Conservative Party, who had 14 years in government to institute the very inquiry that we are now getting on with."
A History of Advocacy
Jess Phillips brings considerable experience to the role, having previously served as the shadow minister for domestic violence and safeguarding. Her background includes working with Women's Aid before entering Parliament, giving her direct insight into the issues surrounding grooming gangs and child protection.
The inquiry represents one of the Labour government's key commitments to addressing historical failures in protecting vulnerable children from organised abuse networks.
Government Unity Asserted
Phillipson's public statements underscore the government's determination to present a united front. "The idea that there is some sort of split is for the birds," she declared, emphasising that Phillips commands support across ministerial ranks.
The Education Secretary's intervention comes as the government seeks to maintain momentum on its child protection agenda while fending off political attacks from the opposition benches.
