Keir Starmer criticized the Conservative party for opposing a crucial Bill aimed at protecting children, calling it a “disgrace.” The Prime Minister, in response to criticism from Kemi Badenoch regarding the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, labeled it as “the worst of socialism.” During a tense exchange in the Commons, Starmer also made a sharp remark towards Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp for heckling him.
Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle intervened when Philp interrupted the PM while discussing the NHS, urging him to maintain decorum on the front bench. The PM retaliated by highlighting Philp’s previous role as Liz Truss’s assistant.
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey raised concerns over Baroness Casey’s ability to chair both the social care commission and an inquiry into grooming gangs simultaneously. Starmer defended Casey’s credentials, citing her past work on exploitation in Rotherham. He emphasized that her role in the grooming gangs inquiry would not hinder her work on the social care commission, slated to commence in April.
Kemi Badenoch alleged that the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill would lead to a reduction in teachers’ salaries. She argued that the legislation was not solely about supporting educational programs, prompting Starmer to highlight the importance of child protection measures included in the Bill. Starmer pointed out the necessity of closing existing gaps in child safety and education, urging support for the Bill.
Markus Campbell-Savours, a Labour MP, emphasized the need for government action to prevent a potential foot-and-mouth outbreak, stressing the impact on the farming sector. The PM assured that measures were in place to safeguard farmers, including restrictions on imports from Germany and close monitoring of the situation.
Starmer took a swipe at Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp for disruptive behavior during PMQs, prompting Speaker Lindsay Hoyle to call for better conduct. Starmer insinuated a connection between Philp’s actions and his previous role with Liz Truss.
The Government announced plans to establish an online train ticket retailer as part of the rail renationalization initiative, aiming to simplify ticketing procedures and enhance passenger experience. The initiative aligns with the broader strategy to prioritize passengers within the rail industry through the state-owned Great British Railways.
The daughter of the late MP Sir David Amess called for a government inquiry into her father’s tragic death, questioning the lack of investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. The daughter highlighted concerns over potential security risks and called for transparency in such cases.
The Government is seeking new powers to disqualify drivers and recover funds from welfare fraudsters, as part of the Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Bill. The initiative aims to combat benefit fraud more effectively by disqualifying non-compliant individuals and recovering funds directly from their accounts.
The tragic murders in Southport raised questions about state failures in preventing the perpetrator, Axel Rudakubana, from committing the heinous crime. Rudakubana’s history of concerning behavior and interactions with authorities raised red flags, prompting calls for a thorough inquiry into the systemic shortcomings.
Government borrowing surged to nearly £18 billion in December, exceeding expectations and marking the highest level in four years. The rise in borrowing prompted discussions on economic management, with the Chancellor defending the government’s fiscal rules during a public event.