New Face at Prime Minister’s Questions: Alex Burghart Steps In
This week’s Prime Minister’s Questions will feature a prominent new face on the Conservative frontbench – Alex Burghart. As the shadow Northern Ireland Secretary, Burghart will be stepping in for Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch during the weekly question session. With Prime Minister at the G20 Summit in Rio De Janeiro, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner will be answering questions for the government.
Convention and Political Deputising
Convention dictates that when the prime minister is away, the Conservatives must field a deputising figure. Kemi Badenoch had chosen not to appoint a deputy when assembling her frontbench team, leaving it unclear who would stand in for her. This will also mark Badenoch’s third outing at PMQs, making her absence for the week particularly notable.
Notification and Expectations
The Conservatives were formally notified today of the prime minister’s absence, with his expected return to the UK later in the week. Alex Burghart, who also serves as the shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, has been instrumental in preparing Kemi Badenoch for her encounters with Sir Keir. Now, he will have the opportunity to ask the questions himself.
Past Deputising Figures
In the past, when Sir Keir was absent on a Wednesday, Sir Oliver Dowden had asked questions for the Conservatives. This was before Kemi Badenoch replaced Rishi Sunak as the Conservative leader, showcasing the evolving dynamics within the party.
Conclusion
As Alex Burghart steps into the spotlight at Prime Minister’s Questions, it highlights the depth and versatility of the Conservative frontbench team. The absence of the prime minister provides an opportunity for new voices to be heard and for different perspectives to be showcased. This shift in leadership dynamics underscores the ever-changing landscape of British politics.
FAQ
Who is Alex Burghart?
Alex Burghart is the shadow Northern Ireland Secretary and shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, representing the Conservative party in the UK.
Why is Kemi Badenoch absent from Prime Minister’s Questions?
Kemi Badenoch is absent from PMQs due to the prime minister’s attendance at the G20 Summit in Rio De Janeiro, prompting the need for a deputising figure from the Conservative party.