It has been revealed that Rishi Sunak took personal action to prevent the cancellation of a contract that provided VIP helicopter transportation for himself and other high-ranking government officials.
Earlier this year, Ben Wallace, the previous secretary of defense, terminated a contract worth £40 million for two private helicopters used by politicians and high-ranking defense personnel. The helicopters are operated by RAF members and stationed at the Northolt airbase in west London. The contract was set to expire at the end of September.
Sunak has received consistent backlash for his preference for using flights and helicopters for short distances instead of more affordable and environmentally-friendly modes of transportation.
In May, the Guardian released a report stating that Sunak had taken a costly helicopter trip from London to Southampton, which could have been completed in 75 minutes roundtrip for a mere £30 using public transportation.
One month later, he opted for an RAF helicopter to make the trip from London to Dover in order to give a speech about small boat crossings. This journey can typically be completed in just over an hour by taking a high-speed train.
Critics argued that these two instances revealed the prime minister’s lack of comprehension regarding the state of public transportation in the UK.
Grant Shapps, Wallace’s successor as defence secretary, then acted to stop the contract from being scrapped. At the time no reason was offered for the change.
According to an article in the most recent version of Northolt Approach, a publication for the Royal Air Force, a change was made due to a direct appeal from the leader of the country.
Tom Woods, the commander of the team responsible for operating and maintaining the helicopters, stated that the end of the agreement signifies the conclusion of a time period in which the Royal Air Force, specifically No32 Squadron, utilized the AW109 helicopter for their duties at RAF Northolt starting in 2006.
On September 23, the decision was reversed by the new Secretary of State for Defence, the Rt Hon Grant Shapps, at the request of the prime minister.
Woods stated that there was a lot of bustling work being done to quickly secure all the necessary components to ensure the ongoing operation of A109.
“I am delighted and filled with pride to announce that the efforts of everyone have been successful, allowing our capabilities to smoothly carry on operations from September to October 23 and beyond.”
Labour’s shadow attorney general, Emily Thornberry, has been attempting for several months to determine the date and source of the contract extension.
She stated, “For months, government officials have avoided giving clear responses in parliament regarding the extension of this contract, the process behind that decision, and the expenses involved. The reason for their evasion has become apparent.”
Thornberry has alleged that Sunak has a strong preference for using helicopters and private jets.
Over the weekend, the Sunday Times disclosed that the prime minister intervened to prevent the cancellation of the contract.
A representative from the Ministry of Defence stated that all travel for government officials and high-ranking defence personnel is organized in a cost-efficient manner. The contract was prolonged primarily to support the travel needs for the command roles within the Ministry of Defence.
Overall, domestic flights within the UK make it possible for ministers to travel to various parts of the country within a limited time, especially places that are far from London. This also helps minimize the need for ministers and their staff to stay overnight. Security factors are also considered.
Sloane Helicopters, located in Northamptonshire, has been awarded the extended contract for helicopter services.
The prime minister’s representative has previously justified the use of helicopter flights as the most optimal and effective use of his time.
Source: theguardian.com
