Prime Minister Rishi Sunak | Business Upturn

Sunak calls for action on seizing Russian assets

Aishi Saha — Sun, 25 Feb 2024 17:16:31 +0000

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has urged Western nations to take stronger measures in seizing Russian assets that were frozen following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. In an article published in the Sunday Times to commemorate two years since the conflict began, Sunak emphasized the need for increased support for Ukraine, including the provision of long-range weapons, drones, munitions, and other forms of assistance.

Sunak stressed the importance of being more assertive in targeting the Russian war economy and seizing the hundreds of billions of frozen Russian assets. Last month, British Investment Minister Dominic Johnson held discussions with U.S. Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo regarding the potential seizure of these assets, underlining the necessity of conducting such actions in accordance with international law.

Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the European Union, United States, Japan, and Canada collectively froze around $300 billion of Russian central bank assets. The Group of Seven (G7) countries have been exploring the possibility of seizing these assets as a means of holding Russia accountable for the damage caused by its invasion of Ukraine.

Sunak also called upon the United States to continue providing both financial and military support to Ukraine, acknowledging the significant contributions made by the U.S. in bolstering Ukraine’s security and stability. He expressed confidence in the United States’ commitment to sustaining its support for Ukraine in the face of ongoing challenges.

In a separate development, Britain’s defence ministry recently announced a £245 million ($311 million) aid package to fund Ukrainian artillery ammunition, further demonstrating the UK’s commitment to assisting Ukraine in its defence efforts against Russian aggression.

As diplomatic efforts intensify and tensions remain high in the aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Sunak’s call for bolder action underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for coordinated international responses to address the ongoing crisis in Eastern Europe.

Western leaders show solidarity with Ukraine as conflict enters third year

Aishi Saha — Sat, 24 Feb 2024 15:34:11 +0000

Western leaders, including the European Commission’s Ursula von der Leyen and Canada’s Justin Trudeau, made a solidarity visit to Kyiv as Ukraine marked the third year of its conflict with Russia. The delegation, which also comprised Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Belgium Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, arrived in Ukraine via an overnight train from neighbouring Poland. Their visit comes amidst a backdrop of waning Western assistance and territorial gains by Russian forces.

During an event at Kyiv’s Gostomel Airport commemorating the second anniversary of the war, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed resolve, stated how they have been fighting for 730 days of their lives. His sentiment was echoed by Oleksandr Syrskii, the chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, who emphasised the importance of unity in achieving victory.

Meloni, whose country chairs the G7 this year, is set to host a video conference between G7 leaders and Zelenskyy, with discussions likely to revolve around imposing new sanctions on Russia and coordinating joint arms acquisitions for Ukraine.

European Commission President von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU’s unwavering support for Ukraine. Trudeau also underscored the significance of the Ukrainian struggle for democracy.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg expressed confidence in Ukraine’s eventual accession to the alliance, emphasising NATO’s continued commitment to supporting the country.

The United Kingdom announced a new defence package worth $311 million to bolster Ukraine’s artillery ammunition production, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak affirming Britain’s enduring support for Ukraine.

However, Kyiv has faced challenges in recent weeks due to shortages of military supplies, exacerbated by Russia’s capture of the eastern town of Avdiivka. U.S. President Joe Biden attributed delays in military assistance to Ukraine to opposition from Republicans in Congress, stressing the necessity of such aid in repelling Russian aggression.

Despite the challenges, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba expressed confidence in Ukraine’s eventual victory, asserting, “Ukraine will win the war,” and emphasising the importance of international support in achieving this goal.

UK Pledges Further Support for Ukraine

Aishi Saha — Sat, 24 Feb 2024 14:42:28 +0000

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has reaffirmed Britain’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in its struggle against Russia, announcing additional funding for vital artillery ammunition. This declaration of support comes on the heels of the recent delivery of 200 Brimstone anti-tank missiles, bolstering the total number of such missiles dispatched to Kyiv to over 1,300 since the outset of the conflict.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps confirmed the UK’s dedication to supplying thousands of drones to Ukraine as part of an international coalition, with London taking a co-leadership role. Emphasizing the significance of Ukraine’s effective use of artillery in degrading Russia’s forces and thwarting significant breakthroughs, the Ministry of Defence highlighted the pivotal role of this weaponry.

In commemorating what he termed as a “grim anniversary” on Saturday (Feb 24), Sunak shared a video message expressing solidarity with Ukraine. He underscored the triumph of life over death and light over darkness, pledging unwavering support with the resounding Ukrainian slogan “Slava Ukraini” (“Glory to Ukraine”).

Despite undisclosed military casualty figures from Kyiv, U.S. officials estimate significant losses with approximately 70,000 soldiers killed and 120,000 injured. While casualties are also heavy on the Russian side, Moscow appears capable of replenishing its ranks through coercion, financial incentives, and its larger population.

In addition to military support, the UK has committed £8.5 million to the Red Cross and the Ukraine Humanitarian Fund, bolstering emergency responses and humanitarian assistance efforts across Ukraine. Of this amount, £6 million will support the Red Cross Movement’s impartial work, while £2.5 million will contribute to the Ukraine Humanitarian Fund under the UN’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

Earlier in the week, Ukrainian President Zelensky rejected Russia’s claims of seizing Krynky, Ukraine’s bridgehead on the Russian-occupied side of the Dnipro river. This comes amidst ongoing tensions and conflicting reports as Russia claimed new military successes ahead of the second anniversary of its “special military operation.”

As the conflict continues to unfold, Britain’s steadfast support for Ukraine underscores the international community’s commitment to upholding Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of Russian aggression.

Cameron raises Human Rights concerns in talks with Chinese counterpart at Munich Security Conference

Aishi Saha — Sat, 17 Feb 2024 09:26:50 +0000

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron engaged in discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during the Munich Security Conference, conveying the UK’s stance on several critical matters, as per statements from the UK Foreign Office.

Cameron urged China to utilise its influence over Iran to address the actions of Houthi militants in the Red Sea region. Additionally, he reiterated the UK’s deep concerns regarding human rights violations in Xinjiang and Hong Kong, drawing attention to the plight of British parliamentarians sanctioned by China and advocating for the release of media magnate Jimmy Lai.

In response, Wang stressed the significance of bolstering strategic communication between the two nations and assuming constructive roles in advancing security and peace initiatives. He underscored the necessity of expanding areas of mutual interest and effectively managing differences to enhance bilateral relations.

The appointment of Cameron, a former British Prime Minister, as Foreign Secretary under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s administration, sparked apprehension among certain members of the Conservative Party regarding the government’s stance towards China. While Cameron had previously lauded a “golden era” in UK-China relations in 2015, Sunak’s leadership has signalled a departure from this narrative, prioritising the balancing of national security interests with cooperation on trade and climate change.

Despite this shift in rhetoric, Cameron affirmed in December of the previous year that the UK would persist in engaging with China where such engagement aligns with British interests.

The exchange between Cameron and Wang underscores the ongoing diplomatic endeavours aimed at addressing crucial bilateral and global issues, notwithstanding the existing disparities between the two nations. Against a backdrop of persistent geopolitical tensions and heightened scrutiny of human rights violations, dialogue and cooperation remain indispensable for navigating the complexities of international relations.

As the international community grapples with an array of challenges, including geopolitical rivalries and humanitarian crises, concerted efforts towards dialogue and cooperation are imperative for fostering stability and advancing shared interests on the global stage.

EAM S Jaishankar meets UK PM Rishi Sunak, gifts him Cricket bat signed by Virat Kohli

Shreyansh Raghuvanshi — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 19:52:54 +0000

India all decked up with lights and earthen lamps celebrating the festivals of lights’ Diwali which marks the homecoming of Lord Ram after 14 years of exile and commemorates win of good over evil was celebrated with great enthusiasm on November 12. Gracing the occasion, External Affairs Minister of India, Dr. S. Jaishankar visited Downing Street and exchanged wishes on Diwali with United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

EAM Jaishankar also gifted a Cricket bat to UK PM Rishi Sunak, signed by former Indian Cricket Team Captain Virat Kohli.

The External Minister took to X (formerly twitter) sharing his day with the United Kingdom’s Prime Minister Rishi Sunak wrote “Delighted to call on Prime Minister @RishiSunak on #Diwali Day. Conveyed the best wishes of PM @narendramodi India and UK are actively engaged in reframing the relationship for contemporary times.”

Delighted to call on Prime Minister @RishiSunak on #Diwali Day. Conveyed the best wishes of PM @narendramodi.

India and UK are actively engaged in reframing the relationship for contemporary times.

Thank Mr. and Mrs. Sunak for their warm reception and gracious hospitality. pic.twitter.com/p37OLqC40N

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) November 12, 2023

Further thanking for the welcome received by PM and his wife, Jaishankar expressed his gratitude towards them: “Thank Mr. and Mrs. Sunak for their warm reception and gracious hospitality.”

The Minister also visited BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London on Deepavali, “Blessed to visit the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London on Deepavali. Prayed for the peace, harmony and prosperity of our community around the world. Glad to interact with our community. Their contributions are raising our profile around the world,” said Jaishankar.

Blessed to visit the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London on Deepavali.

Prayed for the peace, harmony and prosperity of our community around the world.

Glad to interact with our community. Their contributions are raising our profile around the world.@NeasdenTemple pic.twitter.com/eIbtQ7h0B7

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) November 12, 2023

The official page of UK’s PMO shared pictures of the same on the microblogging app X, “The Prime Minister @RishiSunak welcomed @DrSJaishankar to Downing Street this evening. Together, they expressed their very best wishes as Indian communities around the world begin #Diwali celebrations,” wrote PMO.

UK PM affirms support for Israel’s ‘self-defence’ amidst geo-political conflict

Mahita Jain — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 04:56:57 +0000

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak made a strong statement, saying that the United Kingdom fully supports Israel’s right to defend itself. He mentioned that Israel should follow international laws while doing so. This was said during a press conference in Jerusalem, where they discussed how Israel is dealing with the group Hamas.

Sunak, standing alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasized that the UK fully supports Israel’s pursuit of self-defense measures within the bounds of international law. The statement echoed a commitment to the right of nations to protect their citizens and sovereignty, framing Israel’s actions as a just response to the challenges posed by Hamas. The Prime Minister explained the clear goals for Israel’s defense, like getting back hostages, stopping more attacks, and making the country safer for the long run. By underlining the importance of following international laws, the UK aimed to show support for legal and ethical actions in resolving conflicts.

“Hamas are the new Nazis, they are the new ISIS and we have to fight them together, just as the world, the civilised world united to fight the Nazis. This is not merely our battle, but the battle of the entire civilised world,” Netanyahu said. He did this to make the conflict seem bigger than just a local issue, suggesting it’s a worldwide fight against forces seen as threats to civilized societies. Netanyahu wanted more countries to support Israel by using historical examples where everyone worked together against big threats.

The joint press conference featuring Rishi Sunak and Benjamin Netanyahu provided a platform for the UK to affirm its robust support for Israel’s right to defend itself. The statements made by both leaders underscored the gravity of the situation, framing it not only as a regional conflict but as a broader struggle against perceived existential threats to civilized society. The diplomatic interactions between the UK and Israel showcased a commitment to solidarity, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in navigating complex geopolitical challenges.

Grant Shapps appointed as new defence secretary of UK by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak

Adesh Dixit — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 19:42:47 +0000

Following Ben Wallace’s resignation from his role as defense secretary earlier today, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Thursday named Conservative MP and former energy secretary Grant Shapps as the new secretary.

Since Winston Churchill, Wallace served as the Tories’ defense secretary for the longest.

Shapps’ appointment was made public by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s office about an hour after he was spotted leaving 10 Downing Street, according to AFP.

The office of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak posted on X (previously Twitter) that The Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP @GrantShapps had been appointed Secretary of State for Defence @DefenceHQ.

The Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP @GrantShapps has been appointed Secretary of State for Defence @DefenceHQ pic.twitter.com/ln5Sw6ZRyq

— UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) August 31, 2023

After being appointed to the role, Grant Shapps expressed his excitement about working with the armed forces that defend the country.

“I’m honored to serve as @RishiSunak’s Defense Secretary,” Shapps said on X, “I’d like to acknowledge the tremendous impact Ben Wallace has made to UK defense & international security over the last 4 years.

https://x.com/grantshapps/status/1697168829141401767?s=46&t=rAqux3ilOhqo8EUShnGQQA

“As I begin my work at @DefenceHQ, I am eager to collaborate with the courageous members of our Armed Forces who protect national security. Shapps stated on X, “And continuing the UK’s support for Ukraine in their struggle against Putin’s barbarous invasion.

Shapps previously held the position of transport secretary in the Boris Johnson cabinet before temporarily serving as home minister in last October’s short-lived Liz Truss administration.

The positions of energy secretary and net zero were given to MP Claire Coutinho after Shapps was named defense secretary.

“Claire Coutinho MP @ClaireCoutinho has been appointed Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero @energygovuk,” Rishi Sunak’s office announced on X.

https://x.com/10downingstreet/status/1697178283123622027?s=46&t=rAqux3ilOhqo8EUShnGQQA

Wallace stated in his letter of resignation that he supported the army through good times and bad. The Wannacry ransomware attack, the terrorist assaults of 2017, the Salisbury poisonings, and the wars in Afghanistan, Sudan, and Ukraine were all occurrences he remembered.

Wallace said that he would continue to support Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his administration, according to ANI.

Ben Wallace’s resignation from the Sunak cabinet comes shortly after the second resignation. Nadine Dorries earlier declared that she will be leaving the UK House of Commons “with immediate effect.”

British PM Rishi Sunak pledges to put an end to “political correctness” on the grooming gangs issue

Sakshi Vats — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 16:57:12 +0000

In addition to using ethnicity data to improve police investigations, the Prime Minister is in northern England on Monday to introduce a new set of measures that they claim will safeguard girls and young women from sexual abuse.

The “vast majority” of sexual abuse cases do not include people of ethnic minorities, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer highlighted after Home Secretary Suella Braverman singled out British Pakistani men over worries about grooming gangs.

Her use of language drew criticism from some campaigners, and the NSPCC emphasised that focusing solely on race could lead to the formation of new “blind spots.”

Just over a month out from the May local elections, Mr. Sunak is setting out his party’s plans to be tough on crime while also trying to protect children from abuse.

The Prime Minister is launching a new task force in Leeds and Rochdale, Greater Manchester, where a grooming scandal was exposed in a high-profile case in 2012, and where specialised officers will support local police forces in solving child sexual exploitation cases.

It will be run by the police with assistance from the National Crime Agency, and its members will be police officers with “extensive experience” looking into grooming gangs.

Ministers will claim that this is necessary to make sure that “cultural sensitivities” are not employed to prevent criminals from being caught. The plan will also see ethnicity data used to help the police investigate grooming gangs.

Political correctness, according to Mr. Sunak, has stopped us for far too long from weeding out vile criminals who prey on children and young women.

“We will stop at nothing to stamp out these dangerous gangs,” he promised.

"The data shows that the vast majority of perpetrators in this area are white men under 30.. Why are you focusing on British Pakistani men when the data shows it's not actually how it pans out?"

Rishi Sunak joins Suella Braverman to divide the nation. pic.twitter.com/eEFomB5ko5

— Farrukh (@implausibleblog) April 3, 2023

Sunak reshuffle: PM to reshape Government Departments

News Desk — Tue, 07 Feb 2023 11:30:59 +0000

A new government department dedicated to energy security will be unveiled by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and the duties of three others will change. There will be a change in the order of the ministries, with some new people taking on important positions.

Following the firing of Nadhim Zahawi, Rishi Sunak has been searching for a new party chairman for more than a week. A reliable source told the BBC that they anticipated Greg Hands, the trade minister, to succeed Mr. Zahawi. Later today, Mr. Sunak’s cabinet will convene to talk about the modifications.

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If that were the case, Mr. Sunak would have to hunt for a new trade minister.

As far as we know, the current business secretary Grant Shapps, a former party leader, will not take over as the new party leader. Additionally, it is anticipated that the Department of Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy will be divided. On energy security, a ministry will be established. Last summer, while he was running for office, the prime minister pledged to reinstate a separate Department of Energy.

Given the recent price hikes, it is believed that Mr. Sunak wants to put more emphasis on guaranteeing the UK’s energy future. The Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology will probably be one of the new agencies. At the highest levels of government, it is unclear if the Internet Safety Bill and other online safety-related issues would fall within the purview of the newly created department or continue to be handled by the Department of Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport.

Michelle Donelan, the secretary of culture, is anticipated to go on maternity leave in the spring. The possibility of a reshuffle had been the topic of much discussion in Westminster over the weekend after requests to move appointments sparked some people’s suspicions. Those close to the prime minister have downplayed rumours of a reorganisation. But after predicted changes were published by The Sun and The Times, Downing Street declined to comment. Some in Whitehall were incensed at what they perceived to be the prime minister’s failure to inform his associates and the civil service prior to it being revealed by media. Many government employees are reported to be resting with no idea of which department they will report to in the morning.

“Surely they should tell us first,” you would think. A source from Number 10 frequently declined requests to confirm or refute rumours of a reorganisation of Whitehall by responding, “No comment.”

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak calls for ‘bold and radical’ action to end the UK healthcare crisis amid strikes

Aryan Jakhar — Sun, 08 Jan 2023 04:17:36 +0000

As reported by the news agency AFP, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Saturday urged for “bold and radical” measures to revamp the crisis-hit state healthcare system during emergency talks with health leaders. On Saturday, Sunak, who has been accused of passivity, hosted England’s chief medical officer Chris Witty and NHS England chief executive Amanda Pritchard at Downing Street. The discussion took place ahead of Monday’s scheduled meetings between government officials and union leaders to terminate the strikes.

The NHS state-funded health service is struggling to handle the demand for emergency medical care during a difficult winter with high incidence of coronavirus and flu after years of underfunding. Hospital and ambulance workers have gone on strike for the first time in 100 years, with many members of the public sympathising with their cause.

According to the AFP, nurses are demanding a pay increase to account for inflation exceeding 10%. “During the pandemic, we had to bring daring and radicalism to how we conducted things to get through,” Downing Street cited the prime minister as saying.

“I think we need that same bold and radical approach now.” He added: “Together today, we can figure out the things that will make the biggest difference to the country and everyone’s family, in the short and medium term.”

Sunak outlined five targets for 2023 in a speech last week, including reducing NHS waiting lists. Pat Cullen, the general secretary of the Royal College of Nursing union, told BBC radio that she will attend Monday’s meeting with health minister Steve Barclay.

At the same time, she stated that Sunak should directly engage with nurses in order to avoid more strike action on January 18 and 19. “He needs to come to the table with me and put money on the table, and it has to be for the current year,” she told the BBC.