Jess Phillips on British Politics, Feminism and the urgent need for action
MP & Home Office Parliamentary Under-Secretary and Sunday Times Best Seller captivated the audience with insights from her new book
A Candid Start
Phillips opened by stating, she was speaking not as a Minister of State but “Just Jess”. This set the tone for an honest conversation, focusing on the harsh realities of modern politics rather than the polished tales typically presented.
Words v Actions in Politics
A central theme was the growing trend where speeches overshadow real action. Reflecting on her career, she spoke about how politicians increasingly prioritise catchy headlines over substantive policy work. She argues that this shift had led to a political climate more focused on stirring controversy than on creating policies that benefit people’s lives.
Feminist Foundations
Connecting her feminist roots to her current political philosophy led Phillips to share childhood experiences in the Women’s Liberation Playgroup in South Birmingham. It was as much about empowering women as it was about childcare. This hands-on, action-oriented approach to politics, she highlighted, is what is missing today.
Real-Life Impact
Highlighting the impact of effective policies, Phillips recalled how her son benefited from free childcare, a policy introduced by the last Labour government. She credited grassroots efforts, like those of the women in her childhood, for driving such meaningful change.
Let’s End Performative Politics
Philips criticised the rise of performative politics, where actions are designed for media spectacle rather than solving real problems. She pointed to initiatives such as the Rwanda policy as examples of this troubling trend.
A return to grassroots politics
Jess Phillips’ message was clear: British Politics must return to its roots as a force for real change. Her book, “Let’s be Honest: Truth, Lies and Politics” is a cry for on-the-ground, action-oriented politics.
Want more from Jess Phillips?
Be sure to check out her books here, also available as an audiobook read by Jess and join the conversations on the future of British politics.
Jess Phillips MP and Under Secretary of State for the Home Office
Let’s Be Honest: Truth, Lies and Politics by Jess Phillips ISBN:9781398500938 £20.00
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