Nigel Farage faced criticism for a recent attention-seeking move during Prime Minister’s Questions. Instead of sitting among fellow MPs in the House of Commons chamber, Farage opted to sit in the spectators’ gallery, alongside Brexit supporter Arron Banks, complaining about not being given a chance to speak during the session.
Farage labeled himself a mere spectator, seemingly disregarding the random selection process for MPs to ask questions during PMQs. His stunt was met with derision from MPs who highlighted his frequent absences from parliamentary sessions, particularly his recent trip to the US, implying that representing his constituents was not a priority for him.
Following his absence at a PMQs session after the summer break, Keir Starmer launched a scathing attack on Farage for his disparaging remarks about Britain while overseas. Farage defended his actions, stating that he is often targeted during PMQs without the opportunity to respond, hence his decision to observe from the public gallery.
Trade minister Sir Chris Bryant criticized Farage for being quick to criticize others but avoiding accountability for his own policies. A Labour source accused Farage and his Reform MPs of attending Parliament primarily for social media exposure, suggesting that Farage should reflect on the potential harm his policies could cause to the country during his self-imposed absence.
Another Labour MP commented on Farage’s lack of understanding of PMQs procedures, noting his irregular attendance and questioning why he did not participate like other backbenchers. A Liberal Democrat spokeswoman remarked on Farage’s tendency to look down on others, highlighting a pattern of behavior.
Farage’s frustration at not being able to speak during PMQs was evident in his recent remarks, expressing disillusionment with the session. The process for selecting MPs to ask questions during PMQs involves a randomized ballot to determine the order of questioning.
In addition to the randomized selection, the Leader of the Opposition typically asks six questions, and the leader of the third-largest party usually poses two questions during PMQs.