STORY
Jess Phillips has said Labour’s failure to elect a permanent female leader shows the party is “a bit sexist”, in comments made during an appearance at the Hay Festival.
The former safeguarding minister said Labour, like many institutions, was shaped by patriarchal structures. Her comments highlighted the contrast with the Conservatives, who have had three female prime ministers, while Labour has only had women serve as acting leaders.
Phillips resigned from Government earlier this month after saying she had lost confidence in Keir Starmer’s leadership. Her remarks come during renewed speculation about Labour’s internal direction after poor election results and continuing pressure around the Prime Minister’s future.