No PMQs Today: 2026 UK Parliamentary Recess Dates Explained
On February 18, 2026, there was no Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) session held in the UK Parliament. This weekly event, typically hosted every Wednesday at noon, was paused due to the parliamentary recess. During this time, Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, took a break from political discourse to partake in Shrove Tuesday celebrations, notably surprising his Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, with pancakes.
Understanding the Recess Period and Upcoming PMQs
The reason for the absence of PMQs on February 18 is attributed to the parliamentary recess, which occurs at specific times throughout the year. PMQs will resume on February 25, 2026, as the sessions do not take place during scheduled breaks in Parliament’s annual calendar.
2026 Parliament Recess Dates
The following are the designated recess periods for 2026 when Parliament will not be in session:
- February: February 12 – February 23
- Easter: March 26 – April 13
- Whitsun: May 21 – June 1
- Summer: July 16 – September 1
- Conference: September 15 – October 12
- Christmas: December 17 – January 4, 2027
Political Commentary During Recess
Despite the break from formal questioning, Sir Keir Starmer expressed his views on social media regarding various issues. He tweeted his support for Christians as Lent begins, encouraging the spirit of sacrifice and renewal.
Furthermore, he highlighted a decrease in inflation, stating it had reached its lowest rate in a year, which was attributed to falling food and petrol prices. Starmer emphasized that addressing the cost of living remains his top priority.
Conversely, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticized the current Labour government, claiming unemployment was at a five-year high. She accused Starmer of being distracted by scandals, asserting that Labour’s policies were detrimental to job growth and economic hope.
The next PMQs is highly anticipated as parliamentary sessions resume, bringing back the opportunity for vigorous debate and discussion.
