Bridget Phillipson and Liz Kendall confronted Kemi Badenoch after the Conservative leader criticized the Education Secretary as a “spiteful class warrior” during a session of PMQs. Badenoch faced backlash for making derogatory remarks about Phillipson, who was raised in a council estate in Washington, North East England.
Phillipson, accompanied by Tech Secretary Liz Kendall, encountered Badenoch in the voting division following PMQs, where Kendall rebuked Badenoch’s behavior. In response, Badenoch reportedly stated to Phillipson, “I will continue to highlight your spiteful nature.” An incensed Badenoch, allegedly shouting as Badenoch walked away, warned, “The public will discover your true character.”
During the parliamentary session, Speaker Lindsay Hoyle reprimanded Badenoch for lacking respect towards fellow members. Badenoch’s spokesperson later affirmed she would not apologize for her language used during the session.
Badenoch referenced a survey by the National Education Union indicating that no teachers believed Phillipson was performing well in her role. Criticizing Phillipson’s policies, Badenoch remarked, “Appointing a vindictive class warrior as Education Secretary was a disaster.”
Keir Starmer defended Phillipson, expressing pride in her role and emphasizing the importance of education for underprivileged children. However, Badenoch’s remarks led to intervention by Speaker Lindsay Hoyle, cautioning against disrespectful language in Parliament.
After PMQs, criticism mounted against Badenoch, with Deputy PM David Lammy remarking on the direction of politics and the Cabinet’s diversity. Labour members and trade minister Chris Bryant also condemned Badenoch’s behavior during the session.
Uma Kumaran, a Labour MP, highlighted the risks faced by elected officials, referencing recent tragic incidents involving MPs. Kumaran criticized Badenoch for contributing to the dehumanization of public servants.
Badenoch faced further criticism from various quarters, including Lib Dem MP Tim Farron, who condemned her for being needlessly disrespectful and verbally abusive. Speaker Lindsay Hoyle also intervened to address the inappropriate conduct during the session.