PMQs: Poppy mayhem and miscounted questions

With Prime Minister Keir Starmer attending the COP 30 climate summit in Brazil, the 5th November PMQs proved challenging for both sides in Parliament as deputies filled in.

Deputies stepping in

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 lesser-known figure.

Historic moment

David Lammy made history as the first black person to answer Prime Minister’s Questions on behalf of the government.

Focus on asylum by Conservatives

James Cartlidge directed all six of his questions towards asylum issues, highlighting the recent controversy surrounding the Epping hotel and a mishandled release.

The Hadush Kebatu case

Kebatu, an Ethiopian migrant, arrived in the UK by small boat in June 2025.
He stayed at the Bell Hotel in Epping, which became the center of anti-immigration protests following his arrest.
In July, Kebatu was charged with sexually assaulting a teenage girl, prompting legal battles to prevent further asylum seekers from being housed at the hotel.
He was sentenced to 12 months in prison in September but was mistakenly released on 24th October, leading to a police manhunt.
Kebatu has since been re-arrested and deported to Ethiopia.

“Kebatu was a migrant from Ethiopia and arrived in the UK on a small boat in June of this year... On the 24th October he was mistakenly released, sparking a police manhunt.”

Both deputy representatives faced a tough day in the Commons as they navigated high-profile and sensitive topics during PMQs.

Author’s summary: Deputies faced a challenging PMQs amid high-profile asylum controversies, with David Lammy making history and James Cartlidge highlighting the Epping hotel case.

https://politicsuk.com/ — 2025-11-06