Political debate intensifies in UK as general election looms

By Ahmet Gurhan Kartal

LONDON (AA) – British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reiterated his commitment to initiating flights to transport asylum seekers to Rwanda in July, depending on his re-election.

Sunak’s remarks Wednesday came during a special election program on Sky News, where he responded to various questions from the public and the press.

Sunak highlighted that the number of illegal migrants had decreased by 10% over the past year, a statistic he attributed to the government's effective policies over the last 18 months of his tenure.

He emphasized that his administration is moving in the right direction, particularly with the implementation of the Rwanda plan, a controversial policy designed to send asylum seekers to Rwanda while their applications are processed in the UK.

The plan has faced substantial criticism from opposition parties and human rights organizations as they argue that it is inhumane and violates international asylum laws.

However, Sunak remained resolute, saying that high immigration levels put great pressure on public services.

During the televised program, migration and taxes were the primary topics of discussion. As the election date approaches, the debate over migration, taxation and leadership conduct continues to intensify, with Sunak and Labour Party leader and prime minister hopeful Keir Starmer each presenting their visions for the future of the UK.

Sunak pointed out that while migration numbers have increased by 40% this year, his administration made significant progress by reducing the numbers last year.

On taxes, he reassured the public that he would not increase them if re-elected. Instead, he promised to reduce certain taxes.

He also noted that during his 18 months as prime minister, he successfully lowered inflation from 11%.

Starmer also participated in the program, before Sunak as a result of a draw between the two leaders, as the country heads into a general election in less than three weeks.

In contrast, Starmer countered claims from Sunak that the Labour Party would raise taxes by over £2,000 ($2,558), stating that there is nothing in Labour’s manifesto necessitating a tax increase.

Sunak, however, took to social media platform X to criticize Starmer, accusing him of failing to definitively rule out future tax hikes.

In a separate pre-recorded interview with ITV, Sunak was apologetic for his decision to leave France early during the 80th anniversary commemorations of D-Day last week, unlike other European leaders who stayed for the full duration.

He apologized for his early departure, saying it was a mistake and expressing regret.

Britain will go to polls on July 4 to elect a new government for a period of five years.