British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband faced sharp criticism from Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch, who accused him of "cosying up" to disgraced comedian Russell Brand in a bid for political power. Badenoch's remarks came during Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday, targeting Miliband's decision to be interviewed by Brand for his online show "The Trews" prior to the 2015 general election.

At the time, Miliband was the leader of the Labour Party and was attempting to gain traction with younger voters. The interview was posted online as Brand sought to influence the election outcome. Badenoch used the exchange to also criticize Miliband's past stance on energy policy, stating, "He called Rosebank 'climate vandalism', but then he also thought cosying up to Russell Brand would make him prime minister." She concluded, "So, I don't think we need to trust his judgment."

Labour MPs reacted with shouts of "shame," which Badenoch turned back on them, asserting, "They're saying 'shame,' they're right - the Foreign Secretary should be ashamed."

Brand, 51, was recently sentenced to 10 and a half years in prison after being convicted of raping one fan and sexually assaulting three other women during his career.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham did not directly address Badenoch's comments about Miliband at PMQs. Instead, he commented on the Rosebank oilfield decision, stating that a "further decision" would be made in due course, alongside efforts to build a renewable energy future.

Downing Street later defended Miliband, echoing previous statements by Education Secretary Lucy Powell. Powell, who served as vice-chairwoman of Labour's 2015 election campaign, suggested the interview occurred in a "different era" when information about public figures was less accessible via social media, a claim that drew ridicule given the context of Miliband seeking to leverage Brand's online following.

A spokesperson for the Prime Minister stated that "it's not always the case that people know everything about people in public life, but what is important is where there is wrongdoing, it is exposed." The spokesperson also praised the "bravery of the victims" and the journalists involved in exposing the allegations. When asked if Burnham had sought an explanation from Miliband regarding his contact with Brand, the spokesman deferred to Powell's earlier remarks.