Andrew Gimson’s PMQs sketch: The Commons has lost its power to hold the absent Johnson to account

Today’s proceedings were about as watchable as a game of cricket where the batsman does not actually have to face the bowling in person.

Andrew Gimson’s PMQs sketch: Johnson seduces the House, and talks away his mistakes, by promising a rosy future

There were moments when the PM made everyone from the Speaker down laugh, and most of his listeners were grateful for light relief from the crisis.

WATCH: Before Prime Minister’s Questions, Hoyle accuses Ministers of treating the Commons with contempt

“I now look to the Government to rebuild trust with this House,” he says, as he confirms that the Brady amendment won’t be called.

A Conservative leader can afford to take on his left or his right – but not the 1922 Committee’s Executive

The Brady amendment is part of the developing story of a clash between leaders and backbenchers over Party management, culture and MPs’ status.

Andrew Gimson’s Commons sketch: There is a place not just for smiles but for Samuel Smiles in the Chancellor’s vision

Dodds, replying for Labour, claimed Johnson’s motto is “The buck stops anywhere but here”.

Andrew Gimson’s PMQs sketch: Johnson stymies Starmer the Just by accusing him of being negative, disingenuous and soft

The Leader of the Opposition was infuriated by these charges, but had forgotten the imperative need to be brief.

Andrew Gimson’s PMQs sketch: The Prime Minister is forced to fight a defensive battle

Starmer obliged the Prime Minister to take him seriously: something Corbyn never achieved.

Andrew Gimson’s Commons sketch: Starmer has yet to master tabloid politics

The new Leader of the Opposition put Raab on the defensive, but has not yet discovered the transcendent virtue of brevity.

Andrew Gimson’s Commons sketch: A diminution of our body politic at which the hairs on Rees-Mogg’s head protested

The Commons agreed to hold virtual sittings, but admitted that these will greatly impair its ability to hold the Government to account.

WATCH: “The House is meeting today in extraordinary and unprecedented circumstances”. The Speaker’s statement.

Lindsay Hoyle kicks off proceedings today that are novel even in Parliament’s long history.

We need the Commons back urgently – and if that means a Virtual Parliament, then so be it.

The date at which lockdown should end is debatable.  That MPs and peers should be debating it is not.

Robert Halfon: We will need a Remembrance Day to honour our Corona Heroes

Plus: And a Coronavirus Social Justice Minister. Give thanks for Starmer. And: it’s time for a Virtual Parliament.

Andrew Gimson’s PMQs sketch: Johnson bids a solemn farewell to Corbyn, and promises action asap

But there were a couple of moments of levity – though both men agreed that this is no time for it.

Andrew Gimson’s PMQs sketch: Johnson steps forward as the leader of a National Government

To the astonishment of those who see him as an incorrigible buffoon, the Prime Minister looked and sounded unremittingly sombre.

Andrew Gimson’s PMQs sketch: Johnson discovers the merits of brevity, and says nothing against hypocrisy

The PM accused Corbyn of being “negative”.