Detail in prime minister's video sparks outrage: 'Error of judgement'

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has apologised for his "brief error in judgment" while filming a social media clip for a government campaign.

In the almost minute-long video, Prime Minister Sunak is seen sitting at the back of a government car without a seatbelt while promoting his 'Levelling Up" campaign — about "investing in local areas to create jobs" and "boost the economy".

As the car travels along, it also passes police on motorbikes.

According to the PM's spokesman on Thursday, he "removed the seatbelt to film a short clip" and "fully accepts this was a mistake and apologises".

The video was posted to his 24 hour Instagram story and can currently still be viewed.

What is the fine for not wearing your seatbelt in Britain?

In Britain, if a person fails to wear a seatbelt in a vehicle, they can get an on-the-spot fine of £100, which is $179.20 AUD, and can increase up to £500 ($896.19 AUD) if the matter is taken to court, the BBC reports.

However according to a government website, there are exemptions such as if a vehicle is being used for police, fire and rescue services, if a driver is reversing, if you're a taxi driver and if you have a medical exemption.

Politicians attack Prime Minister for video

Following the social media video, several politicians and political parties have spoken out about Prime Minister Sunak's behaviour.

"Rishi Sunak doesn't know how to manage a seat belt, his debit card, a train service, the economy, this country," a Labour spokeswoman told the BBC. "This list is growing every day, and it's making for endless painful viewing."

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"It seems like the PM is getting too used to flying around in private jets that he's forgotten to wear a seat belt in a car," Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper also said to the publication.

The video attracted a wave of abuse online from British residents who called for him to be fined.

"Hope the police send him a fine for not wearing a seatbelt. The law applies to everyone in this country," one person said.

"What is it with PMs breaking laws," another asked.

With Reuters

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