PMQs: Poppy Mayhem and Miscounted Questions
With Prime Minister Keir Starmer attending the COP 30 climate summit in Brazil, the November 5th Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) session featured unusual challenges for both parties as deputies took over.
Deputies Step In
- Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy stood in for Labour.
- Shadow Secretary of State for Defence James Cartlidge represented the Conservatives.
Historical Moment at the Dispatch Box
David Lammy made history as the first Black person to answer Prime Minister’s Questions on behalf of the government.
Focus on Asylum Controversy
James Cartlidge concentrated all six of his questions on asylum issues, highlighting the incident surrounding the Epping hotel and the case of Hadush Kebatu.
“Kebatu was a migrant from Ethiopia who arrived in the UK on a small boat in June of this year.”
Following his arrival, Kebatu was housed at the Bell Hotel in Epping.
“In July, Kebatu was arrested and charged with the sexual assault of a teenage girl.”
This arrest led to anti-immigration protests outside the hotel and a legal case where the local council tried to block the hotel’s use for asylum seekers.
In September, Kebatu was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment, but on October 24th he was mistakenly released, causing a police manhunt. He was later re-arrested and deported back to Ethiopia.
Summary
This PMQs session was marked by significant firsts and intense debate over asylum policy, reflecting ongoing tensions in UK immigration matters.
Author’s summary: The November 5th PMQs saw historic representation and sharp focus on asylum controversies, spotlighting immigration tensions in UK politics.