Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner has issued a stern warning to Downing Street over what she describes as "self-harming" anonymous briefings targeting female Cabinet ministers. In a fiery intervention, Rayner demanded an immediate halt to the practice, arguing it undermines trust in politics and disproportionately affects women in government.
The outspoken MP accused No.10 of allowing a toxic culture of behind-the-scenes attacks, particularly against high-profile women ministers. "These anonymous smears are not just cowardly - they're actively damaging our democracy," Rayner stated during a recent political event.
Growing Concerns Over Westminster Culture
Political observers note increasing concerns about the treatment of women in senior government positions, with several high-profile cases of female ministers facing coordinated media attacks traced back to unnamed Downing Street sources. Rayner's intervention comes amid growing frustration across party lines about the normalization of such tactics.
The Deputy Prime Minister didn't mince words, describing the attacks as "political self-harm" that erodes public confidence. "When talented women are driven out of politics because of this playground bullying, we all lose," she added.
Calls for Transparency and Accountability
Rayner's comments have reignited debates about transparency in Westminster, with demands for:
- Stricter rules governing anonymous briefings
- Greater accountability for communications staff
- Protections for ministers facing coordinated attacks
Political analysts suggest this issue may become a flashpoint in the run-up to the next general election, with all parties keen to demonstrate they've moved beyond "toxic Westminster culture."
