PMQs: Poppy mayhem and miscounted questions

PMQs: Poppy Mayhem and Miscounted Questions

Parliamentary Proceedings Update

With Prime Minister Keir Starmer attending the COP 30 climate summit in Brazil, the 5th November Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) session was challenging for both parties.

Substitute MPs at the Dispatch Box

Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy stepped in for Labour, while the Conservatives were represented by the lesser-known Shadow Secretary of State for Defence, James Cartlidge.

Historic Moment for Labour

At the dispatch box, Lammy made history as the first black person to answer PMQs on behalf of the government.

Focus on Asylum by Conservative Shadow Secretary

Cartlidge concentrated all six of his questions on asylum issues, highlighting the recent controversy surrounding the Epping hotel and the mishandled release of Hadush Kebatu.

"Kebatu was a migrant from Ethiopia and arrived in the UK on a small boat in June of this year. Following his arrival, Kebatu was accommodated in the Bell Hotel in Epping."

In July, Kebatu was charged with sexually assaulting a teenage girl, which led to anti-immigration protests outside the hotel. The local council also attempted to prevent the hotel’s use for asylum seekers.

In September, Kebatu received a 12-month prison sentence. However, on 24th October, he was mistakenly released, triggering a police manhunt. He was later re-arrested and deported back to Ethiopia.

Summary

This PMQs session was marked by historic representation and intense debates over asylum policies following a high-profile incident involving an asylum seeker in Epping.

Would you like the tone to be more formal or conversational?

https://politicsuk.com/ — 2025-11-06