A heated exchange erupted in the House of Commons as Labour MP Lucy Powell condemned Conservative Jesse Norman for his dismissive reference to Manchester as the city of 'Oasis'. The clash occurred during a debate on education policies, where Powell accused Norman of belittling Manchester's contributions.
Powell, representing Manchester Central, took offence to Norman's remark, which she interpreted as a trivialisation of the city's cultural and educational achievements. 'Manchester is far more than just Oasis,' Powell asserted, emphasising the city's rich history in innovation and academia.
The Conservative MP for Hereford and South Herefordshire, Jesse Norman, had made the comment while discussing educational reforms. Powell seized the opportunity to highlight what she sees as a pattern of Conservative disregard for northern cities. 'This is exactly the kind of condescending attitude that fuels regional inequalities,' she said.
The debate quickly escalated, with Powell accusing the government of neglecting Manchester's schools and failing to address funding disparities. Norman defended his remarks, insisting they were taken out of context and meant as a light-hearted nod to the city's musical heritage.
Political analysts suggest the spat reflects broader tensions between Labour and the Conservatives over regional development and education funding. With Manchester often at the centre of such debates, this latest clash underscores the city's symbolic importance in UK politics.
