Security Vetting

Lee Anderson Excerpts

Monday 20th April 2026 Commons Chamber

[The Prime Minister]

I was dealing with a very serious issue. I asked my team to establish urgently the facts on Tuesday night. I spoke to the former permanent secretary on Thursday night. As a result of the information I had and the exchanges I had, I made it clear that I no longer had confidence in him.

[Lee Anderson (Ashfield) (Reform)]

The problem the Prime Minister has got is no one believes him. The public do not believe him, the MPs on this side of the House do not believe him and his own gullible Back Benchers do not believe him. So does the Prime Minister agree with me he has been lying?

[Mr Speaker]

Order. I am sorry, but we do not use that word, and I am sure the Member will withdraw it.

[Lee Anderson]

Mr Speaker, I have the greatest respect for you and your office, but I will not withdraw: that man could not lie straight in bed.

[Mr Speaker]

Order. Mr Anderson, you will have to leave.