MPs ask if “Harriet or Mandy” will run the country during summer recess

Harriet Harman told MPs today that Gordon Brown will remain in charge while Parliament is in recess.

Speaking at Business Questions, the Leader of the House of Commons said the arrangements will be the same as last summer.

“The Prime Minister of course remains in charge, but he will be ably supported by a team of Ministers, including my good self.”

Tory MP Philip Hollobone said that after “the most dreadful year yet for this Government, the Prime Minister clearly needs a holiday, and most of the country needs a holiday from him.”

“May we therefore have a Government statement next week about which Minister will take over his responsibilities when he does go on holiday or if he is unfortunately laid low by swine flu?

“Will it be her good self, the First Secretary of State or the Lord High Chancellor?”

His Conservative colleague Peter Bone said:

“I woke up in a terrible sweat after having a nightmare last night—I dreamed that Lord Mandelson had been running the country.

“Can we get it quite clear that when the Prime Minister packs his Speedos, picks up his bucket and spade and goes on holiday, we will know who is running the country? The public have the right to know: is it Harriet or Mandy?”

Ms Harman reiterated that the Prime Minister will be running the country.