Watching this particular PMQs session was a challenging experience.
The prime minister’s demeanor remained confident, although his words did not always appear convincing.
However, it was the chancellor seated beside him who drew the most attention.
Rachel Reeves appeared visibly upset.
The reasons behind her emotional display were unclear at the moment, but it was evident and unsettling to witness.
Reeves looks visibly upset as Starmer defends welfare U-turn – politics latest
Her spokesperson chose not to delve into the personal matter.
Even Kemi Badenoch, not known for her agility in PMQs, remarked on Reeves. «She looks absolutely miserable,» Badenoch observed.
Those questioning Badenoch’s ability to kick a person when they are down got their answer today.
The Tory leader inquired if the PM could assure the chancellor’s future, to which he couldn’t. «She has delivered, and we are grateful for it,» Sir Keir expressed, almost hinting at past accomplishments.
Rachel Reeves looked visibly upset behind Keir Starmer at PMQs. Pic PA
Note that Rachel Reeves’s demeanor during a single PMQs session does not provide all the answers we seek.
However, given the government’s recent challenging week, speculation was hard to resist. The prime minister’s spokesperson clarified post-PMQs that the chancellor has not tendered her resignation and will remain in her position.
Nevertheless, Rachel Reeves likely sees a forewarning of tough decisions ahead.
How will she address the estimated £5.5bn gap resulting from the welfare policy reversal in the nation’s finances? Will adjustments be made to her strict fiscal rules? Will additional tax hikes be necessary? What signal does this send to the financial markets?
If a picture speaks volumes, Rachel Reeves’s expression will likely dominate tomorrow’s headlines as a cautionary tale that no policy reversal goes unnoticed.