In a recent interview, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak confidently asserted that the United Kingdom has become a better place to live in comparison to 2010, despite

acknowledging challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Sunak, ahead of the upcoming general election, emphasized that the country is currently "on the right track," despite criticism from Labour regarding rising prices, NHS waiting lists, and mortgages under Conservative leadership.

Addressing concerns about Brexit, Sunak rejected what he called a "declinist narrative," arguing that the UK has not lost its international standing since leaving the EU. He defended Brexit, highlighting the government's efforts to reduce regulatory burdens for businesses and secure new trade agreements. Sunak expressed optimism about the UK's economic outlook, noting progress in tackling inflation and boosting wages while anticipating a decrease in energy bills.

Labour's election co-ordinator, Pat McFadden, countered Sunak's optimism by pointing out unfunded promises made by the Conservatives that have financially impacted citizens. McFadden emphasized Labour's commitment to financial responsibility, contrasting it with what he described as the Conservatives' "desperate wish-list of unfunded commitments." Meanwhile, the SNP's Stephen Flynn criticized both major parties for what he termed a "conspiracy of silence" regarding future public sector cuts post-election.

Regarding international relations, Sunak highlighted the UK's role in global affairs, including its agreements with the US and Australia and its support for Ukraine. He dismissed assertions from the Climate Change Committee that the UK's leadership on climate change had diminished, arguing that the country had decarbonized faster than others while protecting taxpayers from additional costs associated with climate policies.

During the interview, Sunak also addressed a racial slur directed at him by a Reform UK canvasser, condemning the comments as "vile and racist." He drew a distinction between Reform UK leader Nigel Farage's handling of the incident and his own response to previous racist remarks made by Tory donors. Farage, responding to the controversy, disowned the canvasser and expressed regret over the incident, describing it as an attempt to undermine his party's campaign.

As the UK prepares for the upcoming election, Sunak remains steadfast in his assertion that the country has made significant strides since 2010, despite ongoing challenges and criticisms from political opponents. His defense of the government's policies and outlook underscores the contrasting visions presented by different parties in their bid to win over voters. Photo by Chris McAndrew, Wikimedia commons.