Key points
Jeremy Corbyn used all six questions to press the prime minister on air pollution, citing the fact that 500,000 people die as a result of the failure to meet targets. Corbyn said David Cameron once boasted about leading the greenest government ever: “No husky was safe from his cuddles. Why is the government failing people who work in the green energy industry?”
Cameron said the government had a good record on green energy. He listed some achievements in the area. On renewable electricity, the government is on track to get 30% of renewables by 2020, he said.
Snap verdict
Corbyn’s best PMQs yet? He was indignant, punchy and focused, and also, at least once, genuinely funny. Cameron did not seem to be expecting this line of attack, and Corbyn had him under pressure relentlessly in all six questions. A piece needs to be written about how he was transformed. And of course it was sartorial too. The beige suit seems to have gone, and Corbyn actually looked smart. Cameron’s mum would approve. Cameron himself will be less pleased about it all.
Best lines
Corbyn took a sombre approach in challenging Cameron on the government’s “failure” to deal with air pollution.
The sad truth is that half a million people will die because of this country’s failure to comply with the international law on air pollution.
Cameron countered that it was a Tory government that first regulated to improve air quality.
Corbyn came back:
We all welcome the Clean Air Act of 1956 but things have moved on a bit since then.
Update we asked one of our fashion writers to consider his new look. Priya Elan gives his fashion verdict:
The Italians call it the “spezzato” the mis matched, bricolaged outfit. It’s a tailored, thought out look that’s been worn by male icons from Andre 3000 to David Beckham. And now Corbyn. Pairing black trousers with a deep sea blue jacket (cut just with a light, easy to wear touch) and a red almost maroon toned tie he looks, perhaps for the first time since he came to power in September 2015, like the take charge leader of our hopes and dreams. He’s gone from geography teacher chic to The Headmaster with one salient style flourish.
- For more on PMQs and the day’s politics, read our politics live blog with Andrew Sparrow.
