Ross Clark Ross Clark

Why does Rishi Sunak sound so desperate?

A year ago Boris Johnson lost his place in his speech to the CBI annual conference. He started blathering on about Peppa Pig World, after having treated young Wilfred to a day out there the day before. It was excruciating, but at least it was fun. It is hard to say the same about Rishi Sunak’s address to the CBI this morning. 

The CBI ought to be a natural habitat for Sunak, yet he didn’t seem entirely comfortable. His voice seemed a tone higher than normal, so his usual enthusiasm sounded something more like a desperate appeal. He wanted us to know that innovation is a good thing which improves productivity and creates wealth. But doesn’t everyone think that (except perhaps the Green party)? One of the examples he gave of how the government helps to employ innovation in public services, however, raised eyebrows.

Comments

Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months

Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.

Already a subscriber? Log in