The two main contenders to be Britain’s next prime minister, Conservative leader Rishi Sunak and Labour’s Keir Starmer, are set to engage in a televised debate. Sunak aims to improve his party's standing, while Starmer seeks to solidify his position as the frontrunner.
The debate follows Brexit advocate Nigel Farage's announcement that he will run for Parliament with the Reform U.K. party, posing a challenge to Sunak's election prospects. Farage, a prominent figure in the 2016 Brexit decision, is targeting socially conservative older voters that the Conservatives have been courting.
Farage criticized the Conservatives for failing to reduce immigration post-Brexit, which he claims has increased. He hopes to not only win a seat in Clacton-on-Sea but also lead the opposition if Labour comes to power.
Farage's campaign kickoff was marred by an incident where he was splattered with a milkshake by a bystander, highlighting the contentious nature of British politics post-Brexit.
The upcoming debate between Sunak and Starmer on ITV will focus on key issues such as the economy, borders, and security. Sunak is expected to highlight his economic management, with inflation dropping to just over 2% from a peak of over 11% in late 2022. Starmer, on the other hand, emphasizes the need for 'change' to win over voters disillusioned with the current government.
Additional debates featuring multiple party leaders and the two main contenders are scheduled before the election day, adding further dynamism to the electoral race.
