Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy took a sharp jab at the Conservative Party regarding the defections to Reform, drawing a comparison to Sol Campbell’s move to Arsenal. Lammy, filling in for Keir Starmer, highlighted the increasing number of Tory members switching sides to Reform, likening it to Campbell’s controversial free transfer in 2001. Nigel Farage set a deadline for potential defectors, stating that after May, they would be denied entry.
During a session of PMQs, Lammy pointed out that 26 Tory MPs have already defected to Reform, emphasizing the approaching deadline of 100 days until the Tory transfer window closes. He humorously remarked, “It’s going to be the longest and most disloyal transfer saga since Sol Campbell left Spurs.” Lammy engaged in a verbal exchange with Andrew Griffith, highlighting Griffith’s involvement in Liz Truss’s unsuccessful mini-Budget.
Addressing Lee Anderson, Lammy responded to a question about pubs, referencing Anderson’s past affiliation with the Labour Party and teasing about his potential role in Reform’s shadow cabinet. Furthermore, Lammy criticized Reform defector Andrew Rosindell for expressing openness to privatizing the NHS, contrasting with Labour’s commitment to safeguarding the healthcare system.
BBC Politics London questioned Rosindell on supporting a private insurance model for NHS funding, to which he expressed no objection, emphasizing the need for an efficient healthcare system. Lammy stressed the importance of maintaining the health of pubs, responding to inquiries about financial support for businesses, and highlighting the government’s initiatives to aid pubs and music venues.
Lammy continued to draw parallels between Tory defectors and Sol Campbell’s transfer to Arsenal, emphasizing the ongoing defections to Reform. He also criticized Griffith for opposing renewable investments, accusing him of hindering job creation and economic opportunities. Additionally, Lammy playfully teased Griffith and discussed the significance of Holocaust Memorial Day, emphasizing the importance of honoring survivors and ensuring their stories are never forgotten.
Acknowledging the historic nature of his role, Lammy expressed pride in being the first Black man to lead Prime Minister’s Questions and praised other trailblazing figures in parliamentary history. Lammy’s temporary replacement of Starmer at PMQs coincided with Starmer’s visit to China, where he aimed to address pressing human rights issues with Chinese President Xi Jinping.