BASW UK calls for avoidance of austerity measures as Rishi Sunak becomes next Prime Minister

Former Chancellor Rishi Sunak has become the next Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, following the departure of Boris Johnson and Penny Mordaunt from the contest. Liz Truss resigned last week from the role.

Rishi Sunak received support from more than 50% of the Parliamentary Conservative Party, and as there are no other contenders to reach 100 nominations from MPs, Rishi automatically becomes the Leader of the Conservative Party and Prime Minister.

Speaking in response to the announcement that Rishi Sunak will be the next Prime Minister, BASW UK Chief Executive Dr Ruth Allen said:“

"Rishi Sunak now has to deliver the better public services that people in the UK both want and need. The ethical responsibility of any government must be social cohesion, equality, and a strong economy. “

"There is desperation that spans generations and communities as a result of the cost-of-living crisis, years of falling real time pay, and the lowest level of benefits in four decades. Public organisations are also expected to deliver the impossible. All of this must be addressed in order for the country and the people in it to live happy and healthy lives.

"We believe an election would be more democratic, but whoever holds the role of Prime Minister must grapple with the social damage as well as the economic damage that we are living through.”

BASW UK will continue to campaign for the cost-of-living crisis to be resolved, for the day-to-day needs of individuals and families to be met, and for everyone to have the means to live a fulfilled and safe life.  We will also write to the new Ministers with responsibilities of social work when they have been confirmed.