Keir Starmer is set to engage with Members of Parliament during Prime Minister’s Questions, a week ahead of Rachel Reeves’ crucial Budget announcement.
During the session, PM Starmer exchanged words with Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who questioned the Government’s tax plans for the upcoming Budget. This follows Reeves’ recent decision to scrap a proposed income tax increase that was part of the Budget.
Badenoch criticized the Government for lacking a coherent plan and labeled them the “Government of guesswork.” In response, Starmer vehemently accused the Tories of aiming to revert to “Austerity 2.0,” emphasizing a need for change.
Starmer highlighted that the Budget details will be unveiled next week and criticized the Tories for failing to learn from past errors, suggesting they are inclined to repeat the same unsuccessful strategies.
In a lighter moment, Starmer extended warm wishes to MP Josh Babarinde on his recent engagement, amidst the serious parliamentary discussions.
The session also saw Reform UK MP Lee Anderson accusing the Labour frontbench of employing divisive politics, prompting a lively exchange between the MPs.
Various MPs raised important issues, including concerns about the asylum system, gambling-related suicides, and smartphone bans in schools, with the PM addressing each matter with varying degrees of seriousness and consideration.
The PM congratulated Scotland on their World Cup qualification and acknowledged the recent controversial changes to the asylum system announced by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, which have stirred significant debate and criticism among different groups.
As the PMQs proceeded, the focus shifted between political jabs, serious policy discussions, and personal anecdotes, showcasing the diverse nature of parliamentary debates.
