PMQs: Poppy mayhem and miscounted questions

PMQs: Poppy Mayhem and Miscounted Questions

With both Keir Starmer and Kemi Badenoch absent, this week’s Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) became a challenging session for both parties.

Deputies Step In

Labour’s Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary, David Lammy, stood in for Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who was attending the COP 30 climate summit in Brazil. On the Conservative side, Shadow Secretary of State for Defence James Cartlidge took Kemi Badenoch’s place.

Historic Moment for Labour

David Lammy made history as the first black person to respond to PMQs on behalf of the government, marking a significant milestone in parliamentary proceedings.

Conservative Focus on Asylum

James Cartlidge directed all six of his questions to asylum-related issues. He highlighted the controversy surrounding the Epping hotel and the release of Hadush Kebatu.

"Cartlidge chose to focus all six of his questions on asylum."

Hadush Kebatu Case

Kebatu, a migrant from Ethiopia, arrived in the UK on a small boat in June 2025.
He was housed at the Bell Hotel in Epping.
In July, Kebatu was arrested and charged with sexually assaulting a teenage girl.
This arrest triggered anti-immigration protests outside the hotel.
The local council attempted to prevent the hotel’s use for asylum seekers.
In September, Kebatu was sentenced to 12 months in prison.
On 24th October, he was mistakenly released, prompting a police manhunt.
Kebatu was later re-arrested and deported to Ethiopia.

"His arrest sparked anti-immigration protests outside the Epping hotel, and a court case in which the council attempted to block the use of the hotel to house asylum seekers."

The incident stirred significant public and political reaction during this week’s PMQs.

Summary: This week's PMQs were marked by historic parliamentary moments and intense focus on asylum issues, highlighted by David Lammy’s pioneering role and controversy over a migrant's release and deportation.

https://politicsuk.com/ — 2025-11-06