PMQs: Poppy Mayhem and Miscounted Questions
Unusual PMQs Amid Leadership Absences
With Prime Minister Keir Starmer attending the COP 30 climate summit in Brazil, the 5th November PMQs presented challenges for both parties as deputies stepped in. Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy represented Labour, while Tory Shadow Secretary of State for Defence James Cartlidge took the Tory side.
Historic Moment at the Dispatch Box
David Lammy became the first Black person to answer Prime Minister’s Questions on behalf of the government, marking a historic milestone.
Tory Focus on Asylum Issues
James Cartlidge concentrated all six of his questions on asylum matters. He highlighted the Epping hotel controversy and the mishandled release of Hadush Kebatu, an Ethiopian migrant.
Hadush Kebatu Case Overview
- Kebatu arrived in the UK on a small boat in June 2025 and was housed at the Bell Hotel in Epping.
- In July, he was arrested for the sexual assault of a teenage girl, triggering anti-immigration protests and a council court effort to stop housing asylum seekers at the hotel.
- He was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment in September but was mistakenly released on 24th October, causing a police manhunt.
- Subsequently, Kebatu was re-arrested and deported to Ethiopia.
"Kebatu’s mistaken release sparked a police manhunt, but he was later re-arrested and deported to Ethiopia."
This week’s PMQs demonstrated the complexities and tensions surrounding asylum policy amidst a rare absence of the usual government leaders.
Author’s summary: The 5th November PMQs were marked by historic representation and intense focus on asylum after a controversial release and re-arrest highlighted immigration issues.