On 8th May 2024, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak clashed with Labour leader Keir Starmer at Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) following recent local election defeats suffered by Labour. Sunak seized the opportunity to question Labour’s ability to secure a majority in future general elections, although his assertions were contested by the opposition.

In the same session, discussions were scheduled on several urgent issues including early prisoner releases, relations with Russia, and the operation of airport e-gates. The atmosphere was indicative of the Conservative Party’s sentiment following the elections.

Simultaneously, controversy arose over comments made by London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who equated the actions of Hamas with those of the Israeli army, drawing criticism from Conservative MPs. Elsewhere, debates unfolded about the extension of an early prisoner release scheme in England and Wales, highlighted by Shadow Cabinet Office Minister, Jonathan Ashworth.

John Swinney was confirmed as Scotland’s new First Minister, while former Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick advocated for stricter immigration controls, including a proposal to split the Home Office to form a separate entity focused exclusively on immigration issues. Jenrick also suggested implementing caps and adjusting salary thresholds on certain visas.

These discussions are set against a backdrop of strategic shifts by political figures in response to shifting public and party sentiments as the general election approaches. These include the UK government’s incremented efforts to manage immigration and the reduction of visa applications, reflecting a more rigorous policy on migration.