Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss (Jonathan Hordle/ITV/PA)
(Picture: PA Media)Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak have signed up to a Sky Newsdebate after an earlier televised appearance was cancelled in the wake of fiery clashes between the candidates.
The broadcaster secured an hour-long head to head between the final two vying for the Toryleadership to take place on August 4, and to be hosted by broadcaster Kay Burley.
The pair had earlier declined to take part in a debate Sky scheduled for the wider candidates, forcing the broadcaster to cancel its plans with a day’s notice.
On Wednesday, Mr Sunak tweeted: “Looking forward to it!”
BREAKING: Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss have agreed to take part in a head-to-head debate on Sky News at 8pm on Thursday 4 August, hosted by Kay Burley.
— Sky News (@SkyNews) July 20, 2022
Sky's deputy political editor Sam Coates has the latest 👇https://t.co/pnKlpG4YjJ
📺 Sky 501 and YouTube pic.twitter.com/L8Yw0ttRSj
Head of Sky News John Ryley said: “There has never been a more important time to reinvigorate the trust of voters in the office of the prime minister.
“This live TV debate on Sky News gives the final two candidates a chance to reconnect with millions by debating the major issues facing Britain.
“It presents a unique opportunity to re-engage a disillusioned electorate.”
Earlier this week, Ms Truss and Mr Sunak told Sky they would not be taking part in its scheduled three-way debate.
The move came after earlier TV confrontations concerned Tory MPs who watched the candidates engage in furious exchanges and criticise the Government’s record.
