Rishi Sunak, the United Kingdom’s first Indian-origin Prime Minister, addressed his first Conservative Party conference as party leader in Manchester, delivering a pivotal speech that emphasized the UK’s non-racist identity and outlined his policy plans for the nation. The speech held significant importance as it came nearly a year after Sunak assumed leadership of the Tory party, with the general election expected next year.
Before beginning his address, Sunak received a warm and personal introduction from his wife, Akshata Murty, who praised his “honesty, integrity, and strength of character.” Sunak then proceeded to lay out his vision and plans, aiming to secure the British public’s mandate in the forthcoming elections.
In a powerful declaration, he stated, “Never let anyone tell you that this is a racist country. It is not.” He shared his personal journey, describing it as a “British story” that reflects how a family can progress from arriving in the UK with little to reaching Downing Street in just three generations.
Sunak highlighted the diversity within his own Cabinet, pointing to Indian-origin Home Secretary Suella Braverman and Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho among his frontline members. He underlined the opportunities that the Conservative Party offers migrant families, including the chance to become Prime Minister, thereby challenging the notion that racial background should determine one’s success in politics.
Reflecting on his initial selection by the local Conservative Association to contest the Richmond constituency in North Yorkshire, a seat he has held since 2015, Sunak addressed the misconceptions and prejudices that had arisen. He recalled how an American magazine had sent a reporter to Yorkshire, questioning whether “a candidate of the wrong race” could affect one of England’s safest seats. However, Sunak emphasized that his constituents were interested in his character rather than his color, and he affirmed his pride in being the first British Asian Prime Minister.
In his speech, Rishi Sunak emphasized the importance of making long-term decisions to transform the UK for a brighter future. He announced the cancellation of the remaining High-Speed 2 (HS2) railway project and redirected £36 billion towards broader transport initiatives. Additionally, he unveiled policy plans, including a proposal to raise the smoking age incrementally, ensuring that future generations grow up smoke-free.
Regarding the education system, Sunak introduced the “Advanced British Standard,” which merges A-Levels and T-Levels into a single qualification for school leavers. This move aims to promote parity between academic and technical education and ensure that all students leave school with literacy and numeracy skills.
Rishi Sunak’s conference speech has been regarded as a defining moment in his term as Prime Minister and has set the tone for his government’s policy agenda in the lead-up to the upcoming general elections. His message of inclusivity and opportunities for all, regardless of background, resonates with the evolving face of British politics and society.
