The Speaker’s decision to exclude the amendment sparked uproar among lawmakers, many of whom rose on points of order, accusing the chair of undermining democratic process and parliamentary norms.

“This is a disgrace to this House,” one MP shouted, while others demanded clarification and justification for the ruling.

The blocked amendment reportedly dealt with environmental oversight and local authority powers issues opposition MPs argue are crucial to ensuring accountability in major infrastructure projects.

Footage from the Commons showed MPs visibly agitated, with some refusing to sit down and others walking out in protest. The Speaker stood firm, citing procedural grounds for the decision and warning MPs against further disruption.

This latest controversy adds to growing tensions in Westminster, where recent procedural rulings have triggered accusations of bias and calls for reform of the Speaker’s powers.

Downing Street declined to comment on the Speaker’s ruling, calling it a matter for Parliament. Opposition leaders, however, have vowed to challenge the decision and are considering measures to bring the amendment back in future debates.

Starmer has touted the agreement as a “win-win,” highlighting provisions on fishing, export checks, and a potential youth mobility program as signs of closer cooperation with European neighbors. However, Badenoch and other critics argue that the deal fails to deliver meaningful benefits for the UK and undermines the country’s post-Brexit independence.

Badenoch’s criticism echoes sentiments expressed by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson and other Conservative figures, who have labeled the deal a “surrender” to the EU. Despite the criticism, Starmer noted broad business support for the deal and contrasted his government’s achievements with the Conservative administration’s failure to secure similar trade pacts.

The debate over the trade deal highlights ongoing divisions within British politics regarding the country’s relationship with the EU and the legacy of Brexit. As the government moves forward with the agreement, it remains to be seen how it will impact the UK’s economic and diplomatic standing in the years to come.

During the debate in the House of Commons, Starmer took aim at the Tories’ policies, accusing them of reckless decision-making that had led to soaring living costs and stunted growth. “Under your watch, inflation is rising, wages are stagnating, and families are struggling,” Starmer said, directing his ire at the government. “You are the economic vandals who have robbed this country of its future.”

Starmer’s remarks were a direct response to the government’s economic record, which has been under increasing scrutiny as the U.K. faces a cost-of-living crisis. With rising energy prices, food inflation, and an uncertain economic outlook, the Labour leader argued that the Tories’ approach to economic policy had failed to protect the most vulnerable in society.

Rishi Sunak, who responded to Starmer’s allegations, defended the government’s actions, pointing to recent measures aimed at tackling inflation and supporting businesses. Sunak emphasized that the Conservatives were working to steer the U.K. economy through turbulent times, but acknowledged that challenges remained.

However, Starmer’s harsh words struck a chord with many opposition MPs, who have long criticized the Conservative Party’s economic management since the pandemic and the subsequent economic fallout. The Labour leader’s characterisation of the Tories as “economic vandals” has resonated with growing frustration among voters, especially in the face of mounting living costs.

As the debate continues, both parties are bracing for a tough battle ahead. With the next general election on the horizon, economic policy will undoubtedly remain at the center of political discourse in the coming months, and Starmer’s latest attack has put the Conservative government on the defensive.