David Lammy embarrassingly had to be handed a poppy halfway through PMQs today after apparently forgetting to wear one.
Filling in for Keir Starmer in the Commons, the Justice Secretary started the session by making a sombre Remembrance tribute.
But it was quickly noted that he was not sporting the traditional symbol, despite the overwhelming majority of MPs doing so.
After a few minutes, he was handed a pin lapel by Cabinet colleague Bridget Phillipson to cover his blushes.
Answering a question from Tory Bob Blackman, Mr Lammy suggested the blunder was because he had bought a new suit.
‘I bought a new suit this morning because my Godmother said she would be watching… I am very grateful to the honourable member for Sunderland South for ensuring that despite wearing a new suit I have managed to put my poppy on.’
Opening the PMQs exchanges at lunchtime, Mr Lammy said: ‘This weekend is Remembrance Sunday. We will never forget those who fought to defend our freedom.
It’s been one of the greates honours of my career to meet our troops around the world, whether in Cyprus the Gulf or Australia.’
