Conservative Leader David Cameron conceded this week he had broken his promise to end “Punch and Judy” politics in the House of Commons.
“I will absolutely hold up my hands and say this is a promise I have not been able to deliver,” he told BBC Radio’s Today Programme on Tuesday.
As if to prove his point, a day later Cameron accused Gordon Brown at Prime Minister’s Questions of political calculation over the 10p tax abolition and the proposed extension of pre-trial terrorism suspect detention to 42 days.
A day before local elections in England and Wales, Cameron said: “With 10p it was about trying to pose as a tax cutter. This time (on 42 days) its about trying to pose as being tough on terror.”
To uproar Cameron added: “He is putting political calculation and self interest ahead of the right decisions on the national interest.”
Brown retorted: “This is the man who wants to be both tough on crime and hug a hoodie at the same time.
“This is the man where political calculation meant he cycled to work but at the same time he had the chauffeur-driven car coming behind.
“This is the man who is a shallow salesman and never addresses the substance of the issue.”
The exchange of personal comments was too much for Liberal Democrat MP Julia Goldsworthy who told BBC television afterwards that the language used was “more suited to the playground.”
“This is the one opportunity a week to hold the prime minister to account, and I think a lot of the rowdiness is a sad reflection on the behaviour in the House of Commons.”
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2 comments so far
Hmmm. Just because you want to be tough on crime, it does not mean you cannot address the root of criminality itself - a lack of love and understanding for these young perpetrators. I have an idea. Every hoody you see on a street corner or shopping centre - hug the bastard.
- Posted by Tom MorganIt is not true to say that PMQs are an opportunity to hold the PM to account. I have yet to hear Brown give a straight answer to any question other than one fed to him by a Labour stooge and in almost every case the questioner makes no attempt to demand a proper answer.
I think the whole thing is a bit of a charade put on for the people who bankroll the theatre and, as in the real entertainment business, the actors don’t actually hit each other too hard.
Cameron has an open goal available to him practically every week and should be able to wipe the floor with Brown, but wastes his time (and ours) trading cheap insults.
- Posted by Mike T