British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak delivers his first major domestic policy speech, in London, January 4 2023. Picture: STEFAN ROUSSEAU/WPA POOL/GETTY IMAGES
This was also a reply to those who question whether the 42-year-old former Goldman Sachs analyst and hedge fund partner has what it takes to lead his party to victory in an election expected next year. He listed his five promises: halving inflation, growing the economy, reducing debt, cutting National Health Service waiting lists and stopping small boats that carry illegal migrants across the English Channel from France.
While 2024 should revive economic growth, the office for budget responsibility last month predicted economic output would return to its late-2019 level only by the end of next year. That means five years of lost growth. Sunak’s Downing Street office said his speech set out his priorities for the year ahead and ambition for a better future for Britain. Sunak said his government would plan for the long-term, changing the way the country works. Part of those plans was his commitment to deliver on issues such as low numeracy rates in England.