UK PM Scraps Controversial Helicopter Contract Worth £40 Million

News Today: UK PM Cancels £40 Million Helicopter Contract

The UK Prime Minister has canceled a controversial government helicopter contract worth £40 million, which was heavily used by Rishi Sunak during his tenure at 10 Downing Street. This decision, made by Downing Street and the Ministry of Defence, signals a shift from the previous administration’s practices, as the Prime Minister is set to argue that it will not be “business as usual” when Parliament reconvenes next week.

Rishi Sunak had faced criticism for his frequent use of RAF jets and helicopters for domestic flights, more than any of his three predecessors, according to a 2023 government report. The Labour Party has repeatedly condemned Sunak’s use of such transportation, calling it a “grossly wasteful” VIP service out of touch with the nation’s real problems. A Labour source emphasized that ending the helicopter service aligns with the new government’s effort to manage public finances better, noting the “£22 billion black hole” the previous government was accused of creating.

Former Defence Secretary Ben Wallace claimed he had already decided against renewing the contract a year ago, a decision that was allegedly reversed under his successor, Grant Shapps, at Sunak’s request. The contract renewal was publicly advertised until recently when it was replaced with a withdrawal notice. In addition, the government has reopened the recruitment process for a new national security adviser, previously appointed General Gwyn Jenkins, whose appointment has now been canceled.