PMQs: Poppy mayhem and miscounted questions

PMQs: Poppy Mayhem and Miscounted Questions

Background to the Session

With Prime Minister Keir Starmer attending the COP 30 climate summit in Brazil, both sides faced challenges during yesterday’s (5th November) Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs). Deputies stepped in to fill the usual roles, leading to a turbulent session.

Substitute Representatives

Labour was represented by Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy.
The Conservatives were represented by Shadow Secretary of State for Defence James Cartlidge, a relatively less known figure.

Historic Moment and Focus Areas

David Lammy made history as the first black person to answer PMQs on behalf of the government. Meanwhile, James Cartlidge devoted all six of his questions to asylum issues.

Asylum Controversy Highlighted

Cartlidge began by addressing the Epping hotel controversy and the mishandling related to Hadush Kebatu’s release.

"Kebatu was a migrant from Ethiopia and arrived in the UK on a small boat in June of this year."

After arriving, Kebatu was housed at the Bell Hotel in Epping.

Chronology of Events Involving Hadush Kebatu

July: Kebatu was arrested and charged with sexually assaulting a teenage girl.
His arrest triggered anti-immigration protests outside the Epping hotel and prompted a court case, where the council sought to prevent the hotel’s use for asylum seekers.
September: Kebatu was sentenced to 12 months in prison.
24th October: Kebatu was mistakenly released, resulting in a police manhunt.
He has since been re-arrested and deported to Ethiopia.

Summary

This PMQs session was marked by historic representation and intense focus on asylum, exposing mishandling in the management of asylum seekers and political tensions on both sides.

Author’s Summary

David Lammy became the first black MP to answer PMQs for the government amid asylum controversies dominated by James Cartlidge’s focused questioning on a high-profile migrant case.

https://politicsuk.com/ — 2025-11-06