"New Year is a time for optimism, but I know there are also many apprehensions. I am working night and day to change that, and quickly."
UK PM Rishi Sunak, in the first major address of his premiership, has set out five "people's priorities" for 2023 to tackle the biggest problems facing Britain. Speaking in Stratford, the Prime Minister has asked the public to judge his premiership on these five promises.
Speaking to a room of journalists which was simultaneously broadcasted on all his social platforms, PM Sunak said he wanted to make "five pledges to deliver peace of mind" and "five foundations on which to build a better future for our children and grandchildren".
"First, we will halve inflation this year to ease the cost of living and give people financial security.
Second, we will grow the economy, creating better-paid jobs and opportunities right across the country.
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Third, we will make sure our national debt is falling so that we can secure the future of public services.
Fourth, NHS waiting lists will fall, and people will get the care they need more quickly.
Fifth, we will pass new laws to stop small boats, making sure that if you come to this country illegally, you are detained and swiftly removed."
In his speech, PM Sunak acknowledges that people don't want politicians who promise the world to them and later fail to deliver.
"The cost of living, too high. Waiting times in the NHS, too long. Illegal migration, far too much.
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"I think people do accept that many of these challenges are, at least in part, the legacy of COVID and impacted by the war in Ukraine. But that's not an excuse. We need to address these problems, not just talk about them," he added.
The Prime Minister has also introduced a major new policy: Making maths education compulsory for all up to age 18. PM Sunak, educated at Winchester College, said this cause is personal to him. "Every opportunity I've had in life began with the education I was so fortunate to receive."
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Setting out realistic expectations in practical terms, as he has always done since the Pandemic, Rishi Sunak concluded: "I will only promise what I can deliver, and I will deliver what I promise."
*Info: Gov UK