All women in society are unsafe, minister says as Piddington locals raise fears

Bridget Phillipson, the women and equalities minister, has expressed concern that "all of us as women in society are unsafe" following fears raised by female villagers living near a proposed housing site for over 1,000 asylum seekers. The plans to accommodate 1,256 males at a former military site near Piddington sparked outrage and led residents to vote to sever ties with the UK in a symbolic "independence referendum."

A group of 133 women living in the area penned an open letter to all female MPs, expressing their apprehension about feeling unsafe on their streets. When questioned about their safety concerns, Phillipson acknowledged the validity of their fears, stating that women are rightly fearful about the societal attitudes and normalization of violence against women.

She emphasized that the root cause lies in harmful and toxic attitudes, which must be addressed collectively. Phillipson also highlighted the broader issue of harassment, sexual assault, and intimidation faced by women in public spaces, including gigs and schools. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood promised enhanced security measures for the Ministry of Defence Bicester site if the housing project proceeds.

The Liberal Democrat leader, Ed Davey, countered that the majority of migrants entering the UK pose no threat, rejecting calls to align with Reform UK's stance on the Piddington objection.