Sunak strives to be reassuring but is five-point plan all sleight of hand?

Protest by Enough Is Enough campaign group in Manchester, October 2022. Participants called on the government to reduce energy bills and increase salaries to help people deal with inflation. Photograph: Andy Barton/Sopa Images/Rex/Shutterstock

In his first big speech since taking over at No 10, Rishi Sunak promised “no tricks, no ambiguity” as he announced his five promises to reset the government after a difficult year.

The prime minister said he would be focusing on halving inflation, growing the economy, reducing debt, cutting NHS waiting lists, and stopping small-boat crossings to the UK.