The latest Conservative leadership television debate was pulled tonight (Tuesday) after host Kate McCann fainted. The Talk TV political editor was said to be "fine" by the station, but they did not come back on air to complete the debate.
The clash saw former chancellor Rishi Sunak one again go head-to-head with current foreign secretary Liz Truss. But little over half an hour into the programme, a loud crash was heard off-camera, and Ms Truss was shown looking concerned, saying "oh my god" and then leaving the podium.
The programme immediately went off-air, with a message appearing on the screen, saying: “We are sorry for the disruption to this programme. We are working hard to fix the issue and will return to normal programming soon.”
Journalists at the event were told there had been a medical issue not a security alert, and the debate would go back on air if possible. A Sun spokeswoman said the debate was paused because of a medical issue. “There was a medical issue, we hope to be back on air soon,” she said.
A short time later, TalkTV apologised to viewers. It revealed that Ms McCann was "fine", but the debate was over for the night.
The broadcaster said in a statement: “Kate McCann fainted on air tonight and although she is fine, the medical advice was that we shouldn’t continue with the debate. We apologise to our viewers and listeners.”
PA reports that Ms McCann was meant to appear alongside The Sun’s political editor Harry Cole, but he tested positive for Covid-19 earlier today.
