Westminster witnessed extraordinary scenes today as Labour backbenchers openly mocked Rishi Sunak during Prime Minister's Questions, with the Conservative leader's five key pledges becoming the subject of raucous laughter from opposition benches.
Commons in Uproar Over Sunak's Promises
The Prime Minister had barely finished outlining his government's commitments when Labour MPs erupted in sarcastic cheers, turning the usually formal PMQs into something resembling a pantomime. Eyewitnesses described the atmosphere as "electric" with opposition members particularly scornful of Sunak's economic promises.
Five Pledges That Failed to Impress
The controversial commitments included:
- Halving inflation by year's end
- Growing the economy
- Reducing national debt
- Cutting NHS waiting lists
- Stopping small boat crossings
Shadow ministers could be heard shouting "where's the plan?" as government frontbenchers struggled to contain the mounting ridicule. The Speaker was forced to intervene multiple times to restore order.
Starmer's Cutting Response
Labour leader Keir Starmer seized the moment, branding the pledges "reheated soundbites without substance". His withering critique drew loud support from his own MPs while Treasury ministers looked visibly uncomfortable.
Political analysts suggest today's explosive session reflects growing frustration with what opposition parties call "government by slogan". With local elections looming, such public displays of dissent could prove damaging for Sunak's authority.
