Rishi Sunak's Struggle as Prime Minister: From Stabilization to Challenges
- IndiaGlitz, [Friday,July 21 2023]
On Friday, Britain's ruling Conservatives kept the seat of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson. However, scandals and high inflation cost them big majorities in two other seats. Rishi Sunak was supposed to be the first prime minister to lose three parliamentary seats on the same day. However, he avoided this humiliation by winning a close race in west London.
Rishi Sunak is increasingly at risk with two heavy defeats in the contest ahead of the likely general election next year. The Labour party enjoys double-digit poll leads and will retake power after winning six by-elections since March last year, including two seats from the Tories. Johnsonâs resignation and a parliamentary committeeâs conclusion about his lies triggered the Uxbridge and South Ruislip by-election. Nigel Adamsâ exit led to the Selby and Ainsty contest, while cocaine use admission prompted the Somerton and Frome vote.
Sunak struggles through high inflation, stabilizing financial markets after Truss's radical cuts in tax, and failed promises that include halving inflation and improving the National Health Service. Slow progress is hampered by interest rates at 15-year high and cost-of-living crisis. Fears of a recession hang as high interest rates constrain spending and the economy faces challenges.Sunakâs turnaround efforts have been hampered by the countryâs ongoing economic difficulties that have badly hit public support.
Sunak privately warned MPs to expect unfavorable outcomes despite projecting a business-as-usual image.Rishi Sunak became UK Prime Minister after Liz Trussâs short tenure but faces declining popularity with a net favorability of -40, per YouGov.