Keir Starmer faced intense questioning during PMQs on Wednesday following the deportation of a sex offender back to Ethiopia after being mistakenly released from prison. Hadush Kebatu triggered a two-day manhunt when he was erroneously released from HMP Chelmsford instead of being transferred to an immigration detention center. He was deported on Tuesday night, with no possibility of returning to the UK.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood acknowledged her department’s failure to effectively handle recent challenges, stating that it is currently inadequate for its purpose. Despite this issue, Kemi Badenoch chose to focus on economic matters during the session.
During the session, Nigel Farage, labeled as “Putin friendly,” was criticized by Keir Starmer, who raised concerns about Reform UK and called for an investigation into Russian interference in British politics. This came after the conviction of Reform’s former Welsh leader for accepting bribes to promote pro-Russia agendas.
In a different matter, Tory MP Sir Edward Leigh highlighted the symbolic gesture of the King praying with the Pope, expressing hope for peace in conflict zones like Gaza and Ukraine through collective efforts.
On a different note, Keir Starmer’s stance on potential tax hikes was revisited during the session. Additionally, various MPs raised issues ranging from workers’ rights, health care meetings, and sports promotions, prompting discussions on these diverse topics.
As the session unfolded, discussions between government and opposition members revolved around defense, taxation, welfare spending, and housing market policies. The PM defended his government’s economic track record while critiquing the opposition’s past performance.
The session also saw debates on national insurance, VAT, and income tax promises made by Labour, with Keir Starmer highlighting positive economic indicators. The ongoing exchange touched on various policy proposals and past actions of both political parties.
In a separate development, Reform UK’s proposals to alter PIP payments faced criticism from Labour, who claimed these plans were already encountering difficulties. The party’s policy head pledged substantial changes to benefit schemes, emphasizing stringent eligibility criteria, including face-to-face assessments.
The deportation of Hadush Kebatu and the subsequent discussions during PMQs highlighted the multifaceted challenges and policy debates shaping the political landscape in the UK.