Tory candidates trade blows on final weekend

Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss clash over tax and spending plans

Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss clashed over their tax and spending plans in a heated debate on Sunday, as the race to become the next Conservative leader entered its final weekend.

Sunak, the former chancellor, said that Truss's plans to cut taxes would "put the country's finances at risk." Truss, the foreign secretary, accused Sunak of being "out of touch" with the needs of ordinary people.

The debate, which was hosted by the BBC, was the last opportunity for the two candidates to make their case to Conservative Party members before they vote for their new leader.

Sunak warns of 'difficult decisions'

Sunak said that the country was facing "difficult decisions" and that he would not "sugarcoat" the challenges ahead.

He said that he would cut taxes "responsibly" and that he would focus on reducing the deficit.

Truss said that she would "cut taxes from day one" and that she would "get the economy growing again."

Truss attacks Sunak's record

Truss attacked Sunak's record as chancellor, saying that he had "failed to deliver" on his promises.

She said that the economy had not grown as much as he had promised and that the cost of living had risen.

Sunak defended his record, saying that he had "protected jobs and businesses" during the pandemic.

Candidates clash over Brexit

The two candidates also clashed over Brexit.

Sunak said that he would "make Brexit work" and that he would "stand up for the Northern Ireland Protocol."

Truss said that she would "scrap the Northern Ireland Protocol" and that she would "take a tough line with the EU."

Vote takes place next week

The vote for the next Conservative leader will take place next week.

The winner will be announced on September 5th.