Jackart discusses PMQs and Jeremy Corbyn’s desire to change the way it is conducted. While it is true that Corby would have difficulty surviving PMQs as it has been conducted and it is also true that previous incumbents of his post have desired a change, I cannot agree with Jackart about PMQs being a good thing or our democracy.
The argument that putting the PM under pressure being preparation for performance on the world stage simply does not survive scrutiny. Cameron has performed moderately well at PMQs (although, to be fair, his opposite numbers have been pretty useless) but has not performed in any way that can be described as exceptional on the world platform.
No, PMQ’s is, as Corbyn and his supporters claim what it is; a disgrace. I repeat my comment over at Jackart’s:
And, while it pains me to say it, I agree with Corbyn on PMQs. It is a national embarrassment. It is nothing more than adults behaving like children in a playground. The questions and answers usually involve logical fallacies that are more worthy of a student union debating society than adult discussion on matters of national interest. It is childish, uncivilised and a disgrace. So, no, I no longer watch the unedifying performance of grown men and women behaving like a chimpanzees’ tea party. If this is how our elected representatives conduct themselves, no wonder we are going to hell in hand-basket.
I have long since given up insulting my intelligence by observing this dire spectacle. The sight of these buffoons shouting, bawling and barracking like the inhabitants of a kindergarten is more than I can stomach. It is not a bastion of our democracy. There is nothing democratic about asking stupid questions, engaging in logical fallacies – or on the government benches, blatant brown-nosing.
It is vomit-inducing. Time it went, frankly.
It’s a punch and judy show to foster the illusion of democracy for the masses. Broadly speaking they all agree with each other.
Given the way they change their tune when they get elected to the government benches, one is inclined to think so.