In a recent interview with ITV’s Tonight programme, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak attempted to paint a picture of a modest upbringing, claiming his parents sacrificed “lots of things” during his childhood, including satellite TV. Speaking to Paul Brand, Sunak faced questions about his considerable wealth and was asked if there was anything he had ever gone without.
“My family emigrated here with very little. I was raised with the values of hard work,” Sunak said. “I went without lots of things because my parents wanted to put everything into our education.” When pressed for specifics, he cited, “Famously Sky TV! That was something that we never had growing up.”
Sunak’s comments come as he tries to connect with voters ahead of the General Election. However, his example of going without Sky TV has been met with scepticism and criticism, given his current status as one of the wealthiest individuals in British politics. Critics argue that the absence of satellite TV hardly constitutes a significant sacrifice, particularly when contrasted with the struggles faced by many working-class families today.
The timing of Sunak’s interview also raises questions about his priorities. The Prime Minister cut short his attendance at the D-Day commemorations in Normandy, delegating the remainder of his duties to former Prime Minister Lord Cameron, to return to the campaign trail. “Sorry to have kept you. It all just ran over. It was incredible, but it all just ran over, everything,” Sunak explained upon his arrival for the interview, which was scheduled for Thursday afternoon with no alternative slot provided.
Despite his busy campaign schedule, Sunak claimed to have engaged with numerous British veterans in Normandy. “I haven’t seen President Biden’s remarks,” he admitted, “but I spoke to almost everyone that was there, I hope.”
While Sunak’s remarks were likely intended to humanise him and emphasise his family’s dedication to education, they may have the opposite effect. The comparison between the lack of Sky TV and the genuine hardships faced by many families could be perceived as out of touch. As the election approaches, Sunak’s attempts to relate to ordinary voters might be overshadowed by the reality of his privileged background and substantial wealth.
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