During PMQs on June 4th, the Prime Minister highlighted significant government investments in transport, defense, and sporting events, while addressing domestic issues like healthcare, flood defenses, and crime. The opposition criticized recent policy U-turns and questioned the government’s stance on international conflicts, such as Gaza and Ukraine, with debates often becoming combative.
The Prime Minister began the session with a focus on significant government investments, including a £15.6 billion plan for transport infrastructure across the North and Midlands, aimed at revitalizing the economy and backing national talent and prospects. He also highlighted a strategic defense review that promises unprecedented increases in military spending to strengthen national security, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining a strong defense posture. Additionally, plans to support Britain’s hosting of major sporting events, such as the 2029 World Athletics Championships in London, were discussed as ways to boost national pride and economic growth.
The opposition leader criticized the government over recent U-turns on winter fuel payments and questioned the Prime Minister’s clarity on who would receive the payments. The Conservative side defended past decisions as vital for economic stabilization, contrasting them with Labour’s previous mismanagement that left a budget black hole. The debate also touched on policies related to child benefits and the government’s approach to poverty reduction, with the Prime Minister emphasizing a strategy to cut child poverty while opposition figures accused the government of chaos and uncertainty.
Foreign policy and international conflicts took up a prominent part of the questions, notably Israel’s actions in Gaza. The Prime Minister condemned recent Israeli military operations, reiterated opposition to expansion of violence, and called for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid expansion. The opposition questioned Britain’s stance on recognition of Palestine and its response to the Gaza conflict, with the Prime Minister stressing efforts to escalate sanctions and humanitarian efforts in Gaza. Meanwhile, other questions addressed broader issues like support for Ukraine, trade tariffs, and US-UK relations, including ongoing negotiations with the US over steel tariffs.
Domestic issues such as healthcare, flood defenses, policing, and local economic recovery also featured prominently. The Prime Minister asserted improvements in NHS funding and patient care, contrasting sharply with Labour’s record. He emphasized substantial investments in flood defenses to protect homes and communities, while addressing concerns over rising antisocial behavior and crime, especially around high-profile events like Glastonbury. Local representatives pressed for additional police resources and assistance to combat lawlessness and protect their communities.
Finally, the session saw discussions on justice and legal accountability, with MPs raising concerns about wrongful convictions and the need for fair compensation. The Prime Minister acknowledged the importance of addressing miscarriages of justice and promised to review the compensation process for innocent people exonerated after wrongful imprisonment. Throughout the session, the tone was combative at times, with opposition figures scrutinizing the government’s decisions and the Prime Minister emphasizing achievements and plans for future stability and growth.