A Day of Tory Absence, Immigration Missteps, and Climate Skepticism in the Commons

The absence of Conservative MPs was a mystery. Were they mistaken about the schedule, or at a cricket match? Perhaps they were still in Paris after Macron's visit.

One would expect Tories to be present for Yvette Cooper's statement on small boats, a key issue for figures like Kemi Badenoch and Chris Philp. Yet, only a few were there, and most left early.

Keir Starmer had announced a returns deal with Macron, appearing overly enthusiastic. He emphasized that 50 returns a week would deter crossings, though he avoided specific numbers.

Four days later, the Home Secretary addressed the Commons, expressing a strong stance. She declared that things were about to change, with new cooperation and a new deal with France.

Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, was present, and on the receiving end of criticism. He sees himself as successful, while others view him as a loser.

Philp observed that the Home Secretary sounded pleased with herself, which was true. Chris continued to explain that the new returns scheme was just a gimmick.

Philp is the embodiment of the Dunning-Kruger effect. He concluded by saying that everyone arriving by irregular routes was a potential rapist. Cooper took the opportunity to give Chris a reality check.

Cooper asked who had been the immigration minister when the number of irregular migrants had increased tenfold. Philp admitted it was him. She then asked who had promised a returns deal with France in 2020.

Philp's humiliation continued as he received criticism from John Glen, one of his own MPs. Glen admitted that his party had failed on immigration.

In contrast, Claire Coutinho, the shadow minister, did not attend Ed Miliband's statement on climate change. Andrew Bowie responded, arguing that there was no point in worrying about the future.