PEOPLE in Basingstoke have reacted to news Rishi Sunak is the country’s 57th Prime Minister.
The MP for Richmond (Yorks) and former chancellor has risen to the top of British politics and will succeed Liz Truss.
Outgoing PM Ms Truss announced she would step down from the role on October 20 after just 45 days, making her the United Kingdom’s shortest-serving Prime Minister.
Mr Sunak was guaranteed the job when Penny Mordaunt pulled out of the leadership race this afternoon.
READ MORE: Rishi Sunak to become new Prime Minister as he wins latest Tory leadership race
In a speech to the nation, Mr Sunak warned the country faces “profound” economic challenges.
"I pledge that I will service you with integrity and humility," he told the public.
Shoppers in Basingstoke town centre today reacted to the announcement.
Colin, 66, from Basingstoke said he would have preferred Boris Johnson for the role, as he said he thought that he had done a good job all things considered during his role as prime minister.
When asked about a general election, he said he didn’t believe anyone would make a difference to the situation and doesn’t have much faith in politics currently.
One woman said that “whoever is in charge wouldn’t change anything. The Conservatives are out of touch with reality" but added that she wasn’t a fan of Labour leader Keir Starmer either, before saying “its just the best of a bad bunch”.
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Another shopper said he felt that a general election was necessary, as “Clearly the Tories don’t know whether they are coming or going”. He added that he hoped Mr Sunak would last longer than Ms Truss joking that “it shouldn’t too difficult”.
A couple in their 30s said that there should be a general election, stating ’the Conservatives have had enough time and they’ve gradually made things worse. Why not give Labour a go?"
One man said Mr Sunak should be given a chance, adding: “There’s too much infighting in politics and not enough concern for public welfare. I doubt things will change in a hurry but hopefully Rishi does his job. I know it’s a shambles but I don’t know if Labour could do any better to be honest.”
A mother said she was less concerned who was running the country, and more concerned about receiving help with electric, gas and food bills.
She said: “If he can help people with their bills then you could argue that’s a job well done.”
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