Politics Unpacked

PMQs: Lammy Rattled Over Second Manhunt

Nov 5, 2025
David Lammy, the Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary, makes his debut leading PMQs, navigating a barrage of persistent questioning from Conservative MP James Cartlidge about mistakenly released foreign prisoners. As Cartlidge presses him multiple times, Lammy deftly defends against accusations, pointing fingers at previous administrations. The discussion highlights the political tactics at play and the potential impacts on public perception, as the hosts analyze Lammy's performance and the broader implications for Labour.
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INSIGHT

Tone Matters At Deputy PMQs

  • The Lammy vignettes show deputy PMQs require both humour and gravitas to land politics on sensitive issues.
  • Patrick Maguire warns Lammy must summon gravitas while still using wit to deflect attacks on asylum policy.
ANECDOTE

Cartlidge Demands Apology Over Epping Case

  • James Cartlidge opened PMQs by associating with the Deputy Prime Minister's remarks on the Huntingdon attack.
  • He then directly pressed Lammy to apologise to the family of the Epping assault victim.
INSIGHT

Immigration Errors Undermine 'Get A Grip'

  • The immigration story is politically toxic because it signals state failure to control who is in the country.
  • Maguire and hosts argue Labour's emphasis on 'getting a grip' is undermined by mistakes in the asylum system.
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