The Truss and Sunak campaigns have sparred in recent days over issues including illegal immigration, national security and the economy, both seeking to pitch themselves as the true candidate of the ideological right to win over their party faithful. Tory members will cast their ballots over the coming weeks and the winner is announced on 5 September.last Thursday showing her 24 points ahead of Sunak among grassroots Conservatives.
Though behind in the contest, Sunak could still pull it back, starting with Monday night’s debate. He was deemed a better performer in the TV debates earlier in the race – when other candidates were still in the running – and will also hope to gain momentum at the face-to-face hustings with party members.