Rishi Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer faced off in a tense final TV debate ahead of next week’s elections.
The debate covered various pressing issues, including taxes, an election betting scandal, and the ongoing small boats crisis.
Starmer received applause for criticizing Sunak’s stance on welfare benefits, calling him ‘out of touch.’
In response, the Prime Minister warned voters not to ‘surrender’ Britain’s borders to Labour.
Unrest Outside the Debate
The atmosphere inside the studio was mirrored by the chaos outside, where pro-Palestine protesters gathered, making the debate nearly ‘unwatchable’ according to viewers.
The noise from the protest filtered into the venue, adding to the drama of the evening.
Sunak’s Stand on Immigration
Prime Minister Sunak took a firm stance on immigration, claiming that Labour’s policies would lead to an influx of asylum seekers.
He pointed to the controversial Rwanda plan as a deterrent to illegal immigration, asserting that a Labour victory would embolden people smugglers.
Starmer’s Counterattack
In response, Starmer criticized the effectiveness of Sunak’s policies, highlighting the high number of migrants crossing the Channel.
He argued that Sunak’s measures were costly to taxpayers and ineffective, as thousands have still made the journey since Sunak took office.
Clash Over Economic Policies
Sunak also targeted Labour’s ambitious net zero plans, claiming they would cost ‘hundreds of billions’ and result in higher taxes.
Starmer defended the proposal, emphasizing the need for substantial investment from both the government and global investors to achieve these goals.
Welfare and Benefits Debate
The leaders sparred over welfare reforms when an audience member asked about benefit sanctions.
Starmer’s remarks about Sunak being ‘out of touch’ with the public earned him applause, highlighting a key theme of the evening.
Scandal and Trust Issues
The debate also addressed the election betting scandal, with both leaders questioned on their plans to restore trust in politics.
Sunak expressed anger over the scandal and mentioned suspending two candidates, while Starmer accused him of being slow to act.
Tensions Rise as Election Day Nears
The debate took place amid rising temperatures, both literally and figuratively, with Nottingham experiencing a heatwave.
Politicians like Wes Streeting from Labour and James Cleverly from the Conservatives added to the charged atmosphere with their remarks.
Final Push for Votes
With the elections just days away, both parties ramped up their campaigns.
The Conservatives focused heavily on attacking Labour’s tax policies, while Labour aimed to maintain their substantial lead in the polls.
Sunak’s Last Stand
This debate was seen as a critical opportunity for Sunak to revive his campaign.
Despite the heated exchanges and controversies, the final TV debate provided a platform for both leaders to present their visions for the country’s future.
TDPel Media
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn
