Rishi Sunak: 'Very funny' Queen Elizabeth II gave me confidence ahead of first budget

Rishi Sunak said the late queen had an «amazing historical perspective» on the ups and downs of the British economy. Photo: Dan Kitwood/Getty Images

Rishi Sunak has told how a “very funny” audience with Queen Elizabeth II gave him confidence ahead of his first Budget as Chancellor.

The Prime Minister said he would never will forget his first private meeting with Queen Elizabeth II. the late monarch shortly after taking up his post at the Treasury.

He added that her «amazing historical insight» into the ups and downs of the British economy had helped put his mind at ease at work, and called for a «more permanent» way to mark her 70 years of service.

'Incredible contribution'

The late Queen died on September 8 last year and the Prime Minister said: «I've had time to think even more.» about the simply incredible contributions she has made to our country over such a long period of time.

“The first time I really sat down with her was before I presented my first budget, which I didn't actually This was important because I quickly became chancellor.

“I will never forget this moment. One of the highlights I had in government was the time I spent with her and just talking about the economy and the country.

“She just had an amazing historical perspective, she saw I don't know how much dozens of chancellors over the years and all the ups and downs of the British economy. She had a great perspective on it which really gave me confidence. She was also very funny about things.»

Mr Sunak said his first visit to Balmoral last weekend made him «reflective» about the late Queen's service.

< p> He added: “Obviously, we need to think more constantly about how to properly recognize and celebrate all that she did for our country.”