Conservative minister Chris Philp has come under fire after making contentious remarks during a parliamentary debate on domestic abuse. The Tory MP for Croydon South faced backlash after questioning Labour's Dame Diana Johnson about her stance on domestic violence policies, prompting outrage from campaigners and opposition MPs.
Heated Exchange in Parliament
The controversy erupted during a session where Dame Diana Johnson, chair of the Home Affairs Committee, was pressing the government on its approach to tackling domestic abuse. Philp's intervention, which some interpreted as dismissive of the issue, drew immediate criticism from across the political spectrum.
Campaigners React
Domestic abuse charities and women's rights organisations expressed dismay at the minister's comments. Baroness Louise Casey, a prominent voice on social issues, was among those who condemned the remarks, describing them as "deeply troubling" at a time when domestic violence rates remain alarmingly high.
Political Fallout
The incident has reignited debates about the Conservative Party's commitment to addressing violence against women. Shadow ministers accused the government of failing to grasp the severity of the issue, while some Tory backbenchers privately expressed concern about the potential damage to the party's reputation.
Government Response
Downing Street later sought to distance itself from Philp's comments, with a spokesperson reiterating the government's "strong commitment" to tackling domestic abuse. However, opposition leaders argue that actions speak louder than words, pointing to recent funding cuts to women's refuges as evidence of misplaced priorities.
