During a fiery session of Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) on Wednesday, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer aimed a sharp retort at the leader of the Reform UK party, highlighting the ongoing turbulence within the group. This exchange followed a pointed question from Reform UK MP Lee Anderson about the potential impact on global temperatures if the UK were to achieve net zero emissions immediately rather than waiting for the government’s proposed 2050 target.

Anderson, the MP for Ashfield, opened the discussion by asserting that he arrives in Parliament weekly with the intent of asking “sensible questions” and expects “sensible answers.” He expressed frustration at the “glazed expressions and waffle” emitted from the government benches. Representing the views of “all the net zero sceptics,” he queried how much the Earth’s temperature would drop if the UK achieved net zero emissions today.

In response, Sir Keir highlighted the purported opportunities for economic growth and job creation tied to achieving net zero. However, he couldn’t resist delivering a pointed jab at Farage: “But he complains – they’d have better ideas if they stopped fawning over Putin. And I understand the Member for Clacton wants to be prime minister, he can’t even lead a party that fits in the back of a taxi.”

Deputy leader of Reform UK, Richard Tice, rebuffed the Prime Minister’s statement, vociferously calling it “rubbish,” as laughter erupted among the MPs present.

The grim atmosphere in the House of Commons underscored the mounting struggles faced by the Reform UK party, exacerbated by the recent suspension of Great Yarmouth MP Rupert Lowe due to alleged misconduct—allegations he denies. The fallout from this incident has been significant, reducing Reform UK’s representation in the Commons from five MPs to four.

Further complicating matters, Farage has significantly diverted his political focus beyond the UK by engaging in fundraising activities for former US President Donald Trump. Skipping PMQs and local election preparations, he is set to speak at the ‘Disruptors Dinner’ in Tallahassee, Florida, where tickets run from $450 to a staggering $25,000 for exclusive access.

In a promotional statement regarding his upcoming appearance at the dinner, Farage remarked, “I’m so incredibly excited to be joining the Republican Party of Florida for the Disruptors Dinner. President Trump’s decisive win and return to the White House inspires us all to continue the fight for freedom globally.” He also noted that he has a demanding calendar—approximately 30 events throughout the UK ahead of the forthcoming local elections.

The internal disarray within the Reform UK party became glaringly evident as Starmer took the opportunity to highlight the challenges Farage faces in trying to hold together a faction increasingly marginalized in the political arena. The stark contrast between the Prime Minister’s derisive quips and the ongoing difficulties of Farage’s party highlights a troubling reality for the opposition—a party unsteadily navigating its place in an ever-changing political landscape.

Source: Noah Wire Services