Key Highlights
- David Lammy stands in for Keir Starmer during Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs).
- James Cartlidge questions Lammy about the release of Hadush Kebatu, an asylum seeker and sex offender.
- Lammy addresses the issue of other potential mistakes in prisoner releases under Conservative watch.
- The discussion shifts to the Chagos Islands sovereignty deal between UK and Mauritius.
Deputy PM David Lammy Steps In for Starmer at PMQs
At a weekly session of Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) in the House of Commons, Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy took over from Keir Starmer. This marks his first time standing in during these important parliamentary sessions.
Lammy Addresses the Hadush Kebatu Case
James Cartlidge, shadow defence secretary, began by asking Lammy to apologize for the release of asylum seeker and sex offender Hadush Kebatu. Lammy acknowledged the apology, stating, “of course I apologise,” but directed the conversation towards the Conservative Party’s record on prisoner releases.
The Kebatu Case: A Repeated Question
Cartlidge pressed Lammy to confirm if any other asylum seekers had been mistakenly released from prison since Kebatu. Lammy responded, “I spent 14 years in opposition, and I did a hell of a lot better than you have.” He reiterated that a review by Dame Lynne Owens is ongoing and emphasized the Labour government’s improved checks on prisoner release.
Chagos Islands Sovereignty Deal
The discussion then shifted to the UK signing a treaty in May to hand over sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while retaining control of Diego Garcia. A bill is currently passing through Parliament, but it has faced delays due to a Conservative amendment requiring consultation with the affected communities.
Back and Forth at PMQs
Lammy defended his government’s actions during the Chagos Islands debate, stating that under the Conservatives’ watch, “prisons were in a mess” and emphasizing Labour’s efforts to address these issues. The session highlighted the ongoing political tension between the opposition parties as they question each other’s policies and records.
Meanwhile, Kemi Badenoch, Conservative Party leader, criticized Rachel Reeves’ pre-Budget speech for what she termed “one long waffle bomb” and a “laundry list of excuses.” This exchange set the stage for the economic debates that lie ahead in Parliament.
Conclusion
The PMQs session between David Lammy and James Cartlidge underscored the political landscape within the UK government, with both sides using the platform to highlight their respective policies and criticize each other. As the debate on sovereignty of the Chagos Islands continues, it remains a significant issue for the upcoming legislative sessions.
