Labour leader Keir Starmer has cancelled a £40 million helicopter contract initiated under Rishi Sunak’s leadership, a decision designed to signal a break from the previous administration’s approach to government spending. Sunak was criticized during his tenure as prime minister for his frequent use of government-funded helicopters and jets for domestic travel, a practice deemed “wasteful” and “out of touch” by his political opponents.

The controversial helicopter service was reportedly used by Sunak more frequently than the UK’s previous three prime ministers, as revealed by a 2023 BBC investigation. His use of RAF jets and helicopters for short domestic flights drew sharp criticism, with accusations that he was “jetting around the country on taxpayers’ money like an A-list celeb” rather than opting for more cost-effective and environmentally friendly modes of transport.

Starmer’s decision to cancel the contract is being presented as a symbolic step towards reforming the government’s fiscal policies and addressing the country’s pressing economic challenges. A Labour source described the VIP helicopter service as a “grossly wasteful” emblem of the Conservatives’ governance, which they claim failed to address the real problems facing the British public. “It tells you everything about the Conservatives’ priorities,” the source stated. “With Labour, we are committed to showing that we are serious about delivering change and fixing the foundations of our economy.”

Sunak had previously defended his use of helicopters and jets, citing the demands on his time and the need for efficiency. In one instance, Sunak used a taxpayer-funded helicopter for a trip to Southampton to promote a healthcare initiative, sparking further backlash. His official spokesperson justified the flight by arguing it was the most effective use of the prime minister’s time.