Amazing scenes on the floor of the Commons. Opposition Members characterised the new prime minister in unprecedented terms. Alan Whitehead started it, and his leader Keir followed up telling us that a South Asian prime minister “showed that all races could fulfill their dreams in this country … something that makes us so proud to be British.” Guido’s geiger counter was passed over these remarks and registered no sarcasm, underlying loathing, subcutaneous contempt. Was this sort of language allowed? Was it parliamentary? The Speaker didn’t intervene. If you were waiting for one of those jibes Labour MPs had been making (“our white-adjacent PM”) you’d be disappointed.
Ian Blackford, the Old Testament leader of the Scots Nats showed himself capable of a New Testament approach. The softer, gentler Nationalist noted the “significance and symbolism” of Rishi’s achievement. It was only for a moment – the spirit of Isaiah seized him as he denounced the “sleazy back room deal” that had reinstated Suella Braverman in the Home Office (she had backed Rishi at a crucial moment last Sunday, demolishing the Boris Restoration).
