Major Controversies Surrounding Rishi Sunak: A Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Rishi Sunak.

Rishi Sunak is a British politician who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and Leader of the Conservative Party from 2022 to 2024. After losing the 2024 general election to Keir Starmer, he briefly served as Leader of the Opposition. Prior to becoming Prime Minister, he was Chancellor of the Exchequer from 2020 to 2022 under Boris Johnson. He has been a Member of Parliament (MP) for Richmond and Northallerton, formerly Richmond (Yorks), since 2015.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

November 2020: Undeclared Financial Interests

In November 2020, The Guardian reported that Rishi Sunak had not declared a significant amount of his wife and family's financial interests, including a combined £1.7 billion shareholding in Infosys. An investigation concluded that he had not broken any rules.

2020: Eat Out to Help Out Scheme and COVID-19 Infections

In 2020, Rishi Sunak introduced the "Eat Out to Help Out" scheme with mixed reception; some considered it a success for the hospitality industry, while others linked it to a rise in COVID-19 infections. Medical advisors claimed to have not been informed of the scheme until it was announced, while Rishi Sunak claims otherwise.

October 2021: Made third and final budget statement

In October 2021, Rishi Sunak made his third and final budget statement, which included substantial spending promises related to science and education. Many of the announcements to be made in the budget were previewed before budget day, drawing criticism and anger from the House of Commons.

2021: Sunak's Green Card Status

In 2021, it was revealed that Rishi Sunak had held United States' permanent resident (green card) status until 2021, including for 18 months after he was made chancellor, requiring filing annual US tax returns. An investigation found that he had not broken any ministerial rules.

April 2022: Fixed Penalty Notice for Partygate

In April 2022, Rishi Sunak was issued a fixed penalty notice for attending a birthday gathering for Boris Johnson on 19 June 2020, in violation of COVID-19 regulations. He apologised for the hurt caused and paid the fine.

July 2022: Resignation Amid Scandal

In July 2022, Rishi Sunak resigned as Chancellor of the Exchequer amidst a scandal involving sexual harassment allegations against Chris Pincher and Johnson's handling of the situation. His resignation was followed by numerous other ministers, contributing to a government crisis.

2022: Murty's Non-Domiciled Status

In early 2022, it was reported that Akshata Murty had non-domiciled status, allowing her to avoid paying UK tax on income earned abroad. She later stated she would pay UK taxes on her global income. An inquiry was set up to identify the source of the leak.

January 2023: Fixed Penalty Notice for Seat Belt Violation

In January 2023, Rishi Sunak was issued a fixed penalty notice by Lancashire Constabulary for failing to wear a seat belt in a moving vehicle. Sunak apologised for the incident and said he made a "brief error of judgment".

November 2023: Supreme Court Ruling on Rwanda Plan and Subsequent Actions

In November 2023, the Supreme Court upheld the ruling against the Rwanda asylum plan. In response, Sunak sent Cleverly to negotiate a treaty with Rwanda and introduced the Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill to Parliament. This led to the resignation of the minister for immigration, Robert Jenrick.

June 2024: Conservative Manifesto Release and Campaigning

In June 2024, Sunak sought to rebuild the Conservative's reputation by campaigning on stabilising the economy, the Rwanda asylum plan, strengthening the State Pension, and introducing National Service. The Conservative manifesto, "Clear Plan. Bold Action. Secure Future.", was released on June 11. Sunak was criticised for leaving D-Day commemoration events early to do an interview with ITV, which he later apologized for.