04 October 2023 , 20:24
762
0
End of line for this PM
The failure to build a high-speed train line from London to Manchester stands as a symbol of the nation’s decline.
Rishi Sunak’s decision to pull the plug was not an example of bold decision-making but a damning indictment of this Government’s inability to deliver what the country needs. By way of compensation, the Prime Minister is promising to spend the savings on improving local transport links. But many of these were re-announcements of existing upgrades, which are already long overdue.
And if HS2 was the headline announcement of the PM’s speech, the rest was thin gruel. His plans to reform A-levels will not come into force for more than a decade, while the ban on smoking should have been accompanied by action to reduce childhood obesity and tackle air pollution. There was no mention of housing, nor the climate crisis, two of the most pressing issues the nation faces.
And he had nothing to say on the cost-of-living crisis, crumbling schools or the epidemic of shoplifting. Mr Sunak claimed he would bring about change. The country saw only the latest ringmaster of a circus which needs to leave town.
Funds foul-up
In his conference speech, Rishi Sunak boasted of his response to the pandemic. At the same time, the Covid Inquiry in London was hearing a different story.
Teachers, civil servants and train drivers walk out in biggest strike in decade
It was told how the then-Chancellor refused funds to support the self-employed if they needed to self-isolate, even as experts warned it was essential to stop the spread of the virus. The inquiry also heard how Mr Sunak’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme caused confusion over whether it was safe to socialise.
The Conservatives are finally being held to account for their handling of the pandemic.
Back of the net
The UK and Ireland will host the 2028 Euros, now Turkey has withdrawn its bid. After Wembley heartache for England’s men in 2021, maybe it’s finally coming home?