During the 25th June Prime Minister’s Questions, issues discussed included international conflicts like Gaza, with calls for de-escalation and negotiations with Iran, as well as domestic concerns such as law and order, housing shortages, and social support. The session also covered economic policies, government investments, military support, and ongoing efforts to address legacy issues, with debates contrasting government actions against opposition criticisms.
During the Prime Minister’s Questions session on 25th June, the Deputy Prime Minister addressed international issues, notably the ongoing conflict in Gaza, emphasizing work with allies to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East and urging Iran to return to negotiations over nuclear weapons. He expressed concern over the return of hostages and the tragic loss of life, including British-affected families. The government reaffirmed its commitment to armed forces, highlighting recent investments to improve pay, housing, and care, and paid tribute to their bravery.
The debate also covered domestic law and order, with opposition members criticizing the government’s policies on crime, knife crime, antisocial behavior, and violence against women, accusing the opposition of neglecting street safety. The opposition countered by accusing the government of rushed reforms and failing to curb welfare dependency, while the Deputy Prime Minister defended ongoing reforms, promising increased investment into employment support and support for disabled individuals, and affirming that votes on welfare legislation would proceed as scheduled.
Economic and tax policies were a significant topic, with the opposition questioning the government’s promises of no new taxes and highlighting potential future tax rises, including council tax increases. The government countered, criticizing the opposition for past tax hikes and emphasizing efforts to control council tax rates. The Deputy Prime Minister asserted that the government is actively supporting business growth, infrastructure development, and regional investment, contrasting it with Labour’s record and alleged economic mismanagement.
Housing and social support issues were also prominent, with MPs raising concerns about housing shortages, especially in their constituencies, and the danger posed by Houses of Multiple Occupation. The government responded by pointing to recent investments in social and affordable housing and planning reforms. Other topics included support for youth services, early education staffing crises, and safeguarding veterans’ rights, with government officials outlining measures to improve educational support, address staffing shortages, and support military personnel and veterans.
Finally, the session included discussions on international conflicts and military supplies, notably the situation in Gaza and Israel. The Deputy Prime Minister condemned recent Israeli actions, suspended arms trade with Israel, and emphasized that the UK does not directly sell arms that could breach international law. The session concluded with recognition of armed forces’ contributions and commitments to national security, alongside ongoing efforts to fix legacy issues left by previous governments in areas like local government funding and infrastructure development.