PMQs: Poppy Mayhem and Miscounted Questions
With both Keir Starmer and Kemi Badenoch away, this week’s Prime Minister’s Questions turned into a challenging session for both parties. The event, held on 5 November, saw deputies taking charge and an unusual set of exchanges unfolding in the Commons.
Deputies in the Spotlight
Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy represented the government, while the Conservatives were led by the relatively lesser-known Shadow Defence Secretary James Cartlidge. Lammy made history as the first Black politician to respond to PMQs on behalf of the UK government.
Focus on Asylum Issues
Cartlidge dedicated all six of his questions to asylum policy. He used the Epping hotel case as a key example, highlighting public concerns about the government’s handling of asylum seekers.
The Epping Hotel Case
Hadush Kebatu, an Ethiopian migrant who arrived in the UK by small boat in June, was placed in the Bell Hotel in Epping. In July, he was arrested and charged with sexually assaulting a teenage girl, which prompted anti-immigration protests near the hotel. The local council sought to stop its use for housing asylum seekers.
In September, Kebatu was sentenced to 12 months in prison. However, on 24 October, he was mistakenly released, leading to a police manhunt. He has since been rearrested and deported to Ethiopia.
"Cartlidge chose to focus all six of his questions on asylum."
Political Fallout
The exchanges underscored mounting tensions over immigration and government accountability during a week when top leadership figures were absent. Lammy faced a stern test amid growing scrutiny of administrative missteps and rising public concern.
Author’s summary: A chaotic PMQs exposed deep divisions over asylum policy as deputies Lammy and Cartlidge clashed in a spirited exchange marked by controversy and firsts.