Timing of Decisions and Political Strategy

Today, we look at Rishi Sunak confirming that no deportation flights to Rwanda will set off before the general election. Plus Nigel Farage says he will not run to be a MP.

It had been thought that the government would try to get the first flight off the ground to Rwanda before the election on 4th of July. Sunak has now said they will go ahead “If i’m re-elected”. Labour has pledged to scrap the plan if it wins power.

And, Nigel Farage has announced he will not stand in the general election. In a statement on X, Farage said he would still “do my bit to help” Reform UK.

To reflect on the opening day of the campaign, Adam and Chris are joined by political editor for Newsnight Nick Watt and BBC chief economics correspondent Dharshini David.

Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Gemma Roper. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The editor is Sam Bonham.