Bridget Phillipson has accused Nigel Farage of "endangering women’s health" by refusing to reject Donald Trump’s claims that paracetamol use in pregnancy leads to autism. The education secretary and minister for women disclosed that she relied on the painkiller during her second pregnancy and cautioned that Reform’s association with medical misinformation, including anti-vaccine claims, poses a risk to public well-being.
Phillipson, who is campaigning for Labour’s deputy leadership, stated that the party must take a stronger stance in opposing Reform, arguing that Labour needs to "challenge them more assertively." She criticized Farage’s reluctance to disavow Trump’s remarks, saying, "I couldn’t have managed my second pregnancy without paracetamol. Spreading this kind of fear puts women’s lives at risk—it’s deeply irresponsible."
Reform has faced backlash for promoting a cardiologist who incorrectly linked the Covid vaccine to King Charles’s cancer. Phillipson asserted, "Vaccines have saved countless lives. Reform is willing to embrace fringe positions, and we must confront them more firmly."
She acknowledged Labour’s delayed response to Reform’s contentious statements over the summer but vowed a shift in approach: "We need to be tougher in challenging them. As deputy leader, my priority will be aligning with the public, who overwhelmingly reject prejudice, intolerance, and racism. Reform and the Conservatives are increasingly using divisive rhetoric that demonizes others—a dangerous tactic for elected leaders."
Phillipson also expressed concern over Farage and far-right groups weaponizing women’s safety in anti-immigration rhetoric. Recent protests near asylum accommodations, including one in Epping following a sexual assault case involving an asylum seeker, have highlighted the issue. "Violence against women demands the strongest response," she said, "but exploiting victims’ suffering for political gain is unacceptable."
She further rebuked Farage’s proposal to replace indefinite leave to remain with a high-income visa system, calling it "disgusting" and warning it would "tear families and communities apart."
As education secretary, Phillipson confronts significant challenges in reshaping the education system.
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