Deputy Speaker Nus Ghani has been accused of preparing scripted responses to dismissive remarks from Conservative MPs during last week’s Budget debate, raising questions about her conduct in the House of Commons. Ghani, a Conservative MP for Sussex Weald, received recognition for her quick-witted remarks, including telling shadow energy minister Luke Evans to “write yourself a prescription to calm down” amid interruptions during Chancellor John Healey’s speech.

However, allegations emerged that Ghani had rehearsed these put-downs in advance and even hinted to some MPs that they might face reprimands during the session. One senior Conservative MP claimed that Ghani had informed at least one colleague that he was “on my list” for a potential rebuke during the debate. Critics suggested that such actions were intended to bolster her profile and strengthen her prospects of succeeding Sir Lindsay Hoyle as Speaker of the House.

Allies of Ghani dismissed the allegations of pre-scripted remarks as unfounded. Sir Lindsay Hoyle, who has served as Speaker since 2019, is expected to remain in the role for several more years, with some observers suggesting a tenure of up to a decade. Ghani’s supporters indicated that she aspires to succeed Hoyle before the next general election, a period during which sitting Speakers generally face no electoral opposition.

Eyewitnesses from the debate, including Luke Evans, denied prior knowledge of any planned reprimands from Ghani during the proceedings. Ghani herself was unavailable for comment at the time of reporting. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions and strategic maneuvering within the Commons ahead of the anticipated transition in the Speaker’s chair.