“FAIRY TALE”
Friday’s first TV debate saw arguments over economic policy, with Sunak saying that Truss’ proposed plans to axe increases in payroll tax and corporation tax at a cost of more than £30 billion (US$36 billion) a year, were “a fairy tale”.
She retorted that her rival’s tax increases, proposed while Sunak was still in charge at the Treasury, undermined business investment at a time when the economy was struggling.
There were also sharp clashes over transgender issues and Johnson’s honesty.
“I’ve got enormous respect and admiration for all of my colleagues who are standing to be leader. And it’s right that we have passionate debate about these issues,” said Sunak, whose decision to quit the Treasury last week helped trigger a cascade of ministerial resignations that brought down Johnson.
The snap poll after the debate showed viewers thought Tugendhat, who is unlikely to make the run-off, was viewed as the best performer, followed by Sunak, with Truss trailing in last place.
“Tom has only just started introducing himself to the country. Three days ago, he was basically unknown,” a spokesperson for Tugendhat’s campaign said. “People see him and they like him.”
Meanwhile Mordaunt, who like Tugendhat is a less well-known figure among the public at large, has attracted hostile attacks from rival camps over her experience and ability.
She says the “black ops” briefings are because the others know she is the most popular figure with party members.
However, initially it is their parliamentary colleagues they need to win over, and so their performances at the TV debates may prove particularly significant.
Conservative lawmakers will hold another vote on Monday when the candidate with the fewest votes will be eliminated, and the final two will be chosen by Jul 21.
Party members will then vote for the winner who will be announced on Sep 5.
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