A SOUTHAMPTON MP has congratulated “fellow Saints supporter”, Rishi Sunak, on becoming Prime Minister as he quizzed him for the first time.
Dr Alan Whitehead became the first MP to put a question to the new Prime Minister during Prime Minister’s Questions today.
The Labour MP who represents Southampton Test told the Commons Mr Sunak’s South-Asian heritage will be a “cause of great pride” among his constituents.
Mr Whitehead said: “I’d like to congratulate the Prime Minister on his new post and indeed as being the first Prime Minister of a South Asian heritage.
“I also have some pride in welcoming a fellow Saints Southampton supporter into Number 10.”
READ MORE: In pictures: Rishi Sunak visits Hindu Temple in Southampton
The comment was met with laughter around the room as the Prime Minister responded: “Mr Speaker, I thank the honourable gentleman for his kind words and look forward to seeing him at St Mary’s – although, I know my friend the Leader of the House may have something to say about our love of Saints.”
Leader of the House and Portsmouth North MP, Penny Mordaunt, proceeded to shake her head at the quip.
Mr Whitehead continued: “During his Prime Ministerial campaigns, the last Prime Ministerial campaign he ran, he pledged to prohibit any development of onshore wind which is now the cheapest form of power available to us in the country.
“Now he is Prime Minister, will he change his mind on that point?”
But the Prime Minister vowed “stick by what was said” in the party manifesto adding: “The important thing is, though, to focus on our long-term energy security that means more renewables, more off-shore wind and indeed more nuclear.”
READ MORE: Rishi Sunak profile: Everything to know about new Prime Minister
Delivering his first question to the new Prime Minister, Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer, said the first British-Asian Prime Minister is a “significant moment in our national story” but swifly went on to question his decision to re-appoint Fareham MP, Suella Braverman, as Home Secretary.
Ms Braverman stood down from the post just last week following a data breach over emails she sent from a private email address to an unauthorised person.
Mr Sunak replied: “The Home Secretary made an error of judgement but she recognised that, she raised the matter and she accepted her mistake.
“That’s why I was delighted to welcome back into a united cabinet which brings experience and stability to the heart of Government.”
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