Former chancellor Rishi Sunak is shortly to move in to 10 Downing Street. But the question is: what will he do now he is in office?
The political landscape has changed dramatically since Sunak campaigned in the leadership election following the resignation of Boris Johnson. He was notably silent on policy over the last few days following the resignation of Liz Truss, and his 84-second victory speech yesterday provided few clues as to how he will tackle the challenges facing the UK.
The Times predicts that Sunak will find it difficult to make cuts, but will still have to plug a £40bn black hole in the nation’s finances. He is likely to target spending on large infrastructure projects, which he only reluctantly supported as chancellor. Taxes could be increased, as he suggested while in Number 11.
He previously pledged to make it harder for developers to build on greenfield sites if they own other land. He is also expected to review plans for investment zones.
Many observers expect Jeremy Hunt to be retained as chancellor. Some say Simon Clarke will be kept on as levelling up secretary, while others are predicting a return for Michael Gove.
