Rishi Sunak Faces Criticism for 'Cheap Gimmicks' and Lack of Ambition in King's Speech

Rishi Sunak's legislative agenda has been criticized for its lack of ambition and being filled with "cheap gimmicks" that can be easily passed by MPs within a couple of weeks.

In his King's Speech on Tuesday, Sunak announced several moves, including imposing tougher sentences on offenders, permitting new oil and gas drilling, and banning smoking.

The speech presented a total of 21 Bills, but there was little in terms of eye-catching new legislation in crucial areas like the NHS or education.

Additionally, some previously promised laws, such as a ban on conversion therapy and reforms to mental health treatment, were dropped.

Critics argue that with just a year left until the expected general election, the government's lack of ambition for the country is evident.

Chris Bryant, Labour's shadow digital minister, stated, "This isn't a legislative programme for a year. We could get all of this done in a fortnight and then have a general election. This government has run out of steam. It has run out of ideas."

Ed Davey, the leader of the Liberal Democrats, remarked, "All Rishi Sunak had to offer was cheap gimmicks and reheated policies. There was nothing but empty words on the biggest issues facing the country, from the NHS crisis to the sewage scandal. It shows the Conservative government is out of touch, out of ideas, and deserves to be kicked out of office."

Christina McAnea, the general secretary of the Unison union, expressed her dissatisfaction with the announced legislative program, stating that it would make little difference to the country's deep-seated problems caused by years of austerity.

Nicola Ranger, the chief nurse at the Royal College of Nursing, appreciated the phasing out of legal cigarette sales but criticized the agenda for not addressing the nursing workforce crisis.

Stonewall highlighted the failure to deliver a ban on conversion practices after multiple promises, citing it as "an act of frightful negligence" that allows continued abuse against LGBTQ+ people.

Sarah Hughes, the chief executive of the charity Mind, emphasized the need for a Mental Health Bill to address racial injustices and prevent the stripping of dignity, voice, and independence when individuals are sectioned.

Despite these criticisms, the specifics of the King's Speech have faced a mixed response, with supporters highlighting the tougher stance on offenders and the potential benefits of new drilling. The impact of the legislative agenda will become clearer as the bills progress through parliament.