Prime minister's questions descended into a slanging match between Keir Starmer and Kemi Badenoch on Wednesday, as the usually raucous backbenchers snoozed through the session. The chamber was described as an 'energy-free zone', with MPs on both sides displaying sullen resignation rather than the usual tribal fervour.
Labour MPs are reportedly in despair over budget chaos and No 10's briefings against itself, with many believing the government cannot get the basics right. The May local elections could be the last straw, with some Labour figures already discussing potential replacements for Starmer. On the government frontbench, Wes Streeting was seen gossiping with Rachel Reeves, suggesting internal unease.
Badenoch's position as Tory leader appears slightly more secure than a few months ago, but she remains on the wrong side of basic competence. Even when Starmer has a horror show, she can only occasionally come out ahead. A no-score draw is considered an achievement, and her survival may depend on challengers not wanting to make a move with no chance of glory.
The PMQs session served as a dry run for next week's budget, with Badenoch rehearsing lines on stealth taxes and the government's U-turns. However, her attacks fell flat, with Starmer laughing in relief as she got the budget date wrong. The opposition leader's repeated claims about stealth taxes and the 'golden rule' were met with sniggers and information overload from MPs.
