Full Breakdown
Reform UK MPs Walk Out of Commons Following Heated Exchange with Keir Starmer
3/25/2026, 7:51:40 PM
Tensions Escalate During Prime Minister's Questions
On March 25, 2023, members of Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, staged a walkout from the House of Commons during Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs) after a contentious exchange with Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer. The incident unfolded shortly after Farage questioned Prime Minister Rishi Sunak regarding his "Plan B" for addressing illegal migration, specifically criticizing the government's failure to "smash the gangs" involved in human trafficking.
Farage's inquiry highlighted the ongoing crisis, noting that approximately 70,000 individuals had crossed the English Channel, with 1,000 arriving in just the previous week. He challenged the Prime Minister to admit that the government's approach had been ineffective, asking, "Isn't it now time he told us, as summer approaches, what is Plan B?"
Sir Keir Starmer's Response
Starmer's retort was sharp, branding Farage an "absolute disgrace" and accusing him of lacking judgment. He pointed out that Farage and his party had previously voted against measures that would empower law enforcement with counter-terrorism-style powers to combat illegal migration. Starmer stated, "He wants the grievance, he doesn't want it sorted," further criticizing Farage's record on local governance, particularly a nine percent increase in council tax in Worcestershire under Reform UK's leadership.
Starmer's comments drew jeers from Labour MPs, who mocked the Reform MPs as they exited the chamber, with one remarking, "I can see Reform have walked out, they’ve obviously realised they're absolutely snookered!"
Reform UK's Reaction
Following the walkout, Richard Tice, deputy leader of Reform UK, described Starmer's response as "ridiculous" and characterized the situation as a serious demonstration of public concern regarding the government's strategy on illegal migration. Tice expressed frustration, stating, "We're sick of it. This is becoming a farce," and accused Starmer of attempting to deflect from the issues at hand.
Implications of the Incident
The walkout underscores the escalating tensions between Reform UK and the Labour Party, particularly regarding immigration policy and governance. The incident reflects broader political divisions in the UK, as parties grapple with public sentiment surrounding immigration and national security.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Smash the gangs, that is what the Prime Minister promised us. Trust me, I will stop the boats from coming. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say” — Nigel Farage, Leader of Reform UK
- “ Sir Keir replied: "This is from the man and the party that voted against giving law enforcement counter-terrorism style powers to tackle it.” — Sir Keir Starmer, Leader of the Labour Party
- “We're sick of it. This is becoming a farce.” — Richard Tice, Deputy Leader of Reform UK
The incident at PMQs not only highlights the contentious relationship between the two parties but also raises questions about the effectiveness of current immigration policies and the political strategies employed by both sides.
