PMQs Verdict: Punchy performance from Corbyn on comfortable ground

PMQs are difficult for an Opposition leader at the best of times; before an economic set-piece statement, they must be nigh on impossible. You’re going up against the Prime Minister blind, knowing the person across the despatch box knows every detail of what is about to be announced, and that anything you do will be overshadowed by what follows.

Jeremy Corbyn approached today’s debate with six fairly specific questions: four on climate change and renewables, and two on domestic violence and women’s refuges.

This was probably the correct approach. Tomorrow, the Chamber will be dominated by this week’s biggest story – intervention in Syria and the downing of the Russian jet on the Turkey border – and both subjects Corbyn chose can be tied into topical events: the Paris climate talks and today’s international day to highlight violence against women.

The Labour leader could also needle the Prime Minister on ground where Cameron is less comfortable. While he may have boasted about the Coalition being “the greenest Government ever”, without the Lib Dems behind him his backbenches are dominated by MPs more sympathetic to complaining about “green crap”.

The choice between Old Politics and New Politics is a false one. Corbyn provided a punchier PMQs performance today without it ever slipping into a boorish exchange – Speaker John Bercow was not required to step in with a disappointed “Order!” while the two leaders were up. PMQs does not always need a ‘winner’, but Corbyn looked comfortable at the box today and should feel buoyed for the next time.