Taxation, NHS, and defence spark heated exchange between leading party figures

In a seven-way TV debate, tensions flared between Angela Rayner and Penny Mordaunt as they sparred over taxes, healthcare, and defence policies.

The clash ignited when Mordaunt reiterated Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s claim that Labour would impose an additional £2,000 tax burden on working families, a figure disputed by Treasury experts. Rayner swiftly labelled the assertion as a “lie,” leading to a heated exchange between the two politicians. Despite attempts by moderator Mishal Husain to intervene, the exchange escalated, prompting BBC debate host Mishal Husain to intervene and halt the confrontation.

The debate also saw Nigel Farage weigh in on the issue of migration, accusing both Conservative and Labour governments of failing to control migration effectively.

However, the spotlight shifted to Prime Minister Sunak’s early departure from D-Day commemorations, with Mordaunt conceding that his decision was “completely wrong.” This admission sparked further controversy, with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage criticizing the move and branding it a “political football.”

Amidst the fiery exchanges, the debate provided insights into key policy positions and revealed the depth of division between leading party figures on critical issues facing the nation.

The Guardian

The BBC general election debate on Friday night saw seven representatives from major UK political parties engaging in heated exchanges, providing a glimpse into the dynamics of the upcoming election. The event coincided with a challenging day for the Tories, as Prime Minister Rishi Sunak faced criticism for leaving a D-day event early to return to the campaign trail, sparking rebukes from his own party members, notably Penny Mordaunt. Mordaunt, representing the Conservatives, condemned Sunak’s departure, labelling it as “completely wrong” and suggesting it had become a campaign liability. The debate witnessed intense clashes between Mordaunt and Labour’s Angela Rayner, both considered potential future leaders of their respective parties. Mordaunt targeted Rayner’s voting history, particularly her stance on Trident nuclear weapons, while Rayner defended her positions and criticized Tory policies, creating a tense atmosphere between the two.

Nigel Farage’s participation in the debate provided contrasting viewpoints, with his remarks on key issues like the NHS and immigration receiving a lukewarm response from the audience. Despite this, Farage was able to articulate his views at length without interruption, using the platform to promote his party, Reform UK. However, it was Stephen Flynn of the Scottish National Party who emerged as the standout performer of the night. Flynn effectively criticized both the Tories and Labour, emphasizing the importance of migration and highlighting SNP successes, which resonated well with the audience.

Moreover, smaller parties such as the Green Party, Plaid Cymru, and the Liberal Democrats capitalized on attacking the traditional two-party system, garnering applause for their criticisms. Overall, the debate showcased the diverse perspectives and strategies of each party as they vied for voter support in the upcoming election.

Sky News

Former Defense Secretary and senior cabinet member Penny Mordaunt criticized Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for his early departure from D-Day commemorations, labelling it as “completely wrong.” Sunak had apologized after leaving an international event on Omaha Beach in France, attended by leaders from the US, France, and Germany, to return to the UK for a TV interview. Mordaunt acknowledged Sunak’s apology but reiterated that his actions were unacceptable, especially to veterans like 98-year-old Ken Hay, who stated that Sunak had “let this country down.” Speaking at a BBC debate, Mordaunt also repeated controversial claims that Labour would increase household taxes by £2,000. Despite this, she praised Sunak’s apology, emphasizing the importance of honoring veterans and expressing her hope that they feel valued. As a former Royal Naval reservist from Portsmouth, Mordaunt’s criticism carries weight, highlighting the significance of Sunak’s actions within the political and military community.

BBC

Conservative cabinet minister Penny Mordaunt condemned Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s early departure from the D-Day commemorations as “completely wrong” during the BBC’s seven-way TV election debate. Sunak had left the event in France, marking the 80th anniversary of the Normandy landings, to return to the UK, sparking criticism from senior political figures and veterans alike. Mordaunt emphasized the significance of Sunak’s apology to veterans and the public, acknowledging that he represented the nation. Despite attempts to downplay the issue, with Mordaunt urging against politicizing the matter, criticism persisted, particularly from Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, who branded Sunak’s decision as evidence of an “unpatriotic” prime minister. While Mordaunt refrained from praising Sunak’s record on defence and veterans, others seized the opportunity to voice their condemnation. SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn and Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper echoed sentiments of putting political career before public service, with Cooper highlighting her grandfather’s involvement in the Normandy landings. Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth and Green Party co-leader Carla Denyer similarly criticized Sunak’s prioritization, emphasizing the importance of honouring veterans’ sacrifices. Amidst the backlash, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer affirmed his commitment to paying respects at the event, contrasting Sunak’s departure with the dedication shown by veterans. Notably, World War Two pilot Jack Hemmings expressed disappointment, stating that Sunak’s decision prioritized electioneering over honouring the fallen