The prime minister has scrapped a authorities helicopter contract – considered value £40m.
Rishi Sunak was criticised for his use of helicopters throughout his time in No 10.
The contract was set to be renewed, however is now being scrapped by Downing Street and the Ministry of Defence.
It is designed for example a break with the earlier administration – forward of a speech wherein the prime minister will argue issues won’t be “enterprise as normal” when parliament returns subsequent week.
Rishi Sunak used RAF jets and helicopters for home flights extra incessantly than the UK’s earlier three prime ministers, a BBC investigation present in 2023.
Speaking concerning the cancellation, a Labour supply stated that the “Tories’ VIP helicopter service” was a “grossly wasteful” image of their authorities that was “completely out of contact with the issues going through the remainder of the nation”.
“It’s solely proper that this service is delivered to an finish,” the supply added, claiming that the federal government is “getting a grip of the general public funds.”
They stated: “It tells you every thing that, on high of the £22 billion black gap that the Tories have been blowing within the public funds, Rishi Sunak’s precedence was maintaining his VIP helicopter service.
“The Conservatives left behind an unforgivable inheritance. This is only one step in direction of displaying the British those who, with Labour, they’ve a authorities that may ship on our promise of change, and repair the foundations of our economic system.”
Meanwhile, the federal government has additionally restarted the recruitment course of for a brand new nationwide safety adviser.
Rishi Sunak had appointed General Gwyn Jenkins to take up the position, changing Sir Tim Barrow.
But it’s understood Downing Street has now taken the choice to cancel the appointment and restart the method.
A supply emphasised General Jenkins would nonetheless be capable to apply.