PM leaving D-Day events early completely wrong, Penny Mordaunt says

The BBC Election Debate saw Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner and Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt join forces (captured in the above image).

Penny Mordaunt expressed her disagreement with the Prime Minister's choice to depart from the D-Day 80 events in order to conduct a TV interview for the General Election campaign, stating that it was entirely inappropriate.

Ms Mordaunt, who also serves as a reservist in the Navy, expressed agreement that it was appropriate for Rishi Sunak to issue an apology not only to veterans, but to the general public as well.

Nevertheless, the ex-official in charge of the Armed Forces strongly emphasized that the matter should not be exploited for political gain.

At the BBC debate on Friday with seven participants, the government official mentioned that Rishi Sunak's actions were improper. However, the official also stated that the Prime Minister made a valid apology for it, expressing regret not just to the veterans but to everyone. The Prime Minister represented the whole country, so the apology was on behalf of all of us.

"I hail from Portsmouth and have held the position of defence secretary. My utmost desire is for every veteran to feel valued and appreciated by the culmination of this week," she expressed.

When Ms Mordaunt was questioned about whether she would have left Normandy early like Mr Sunak did on Thursday, she replied by saying that she did not attend D-Day. She expressed disapproval for what had occurred, stating that it was highly inappropriate. Additionally, she mentioned that the Prime Minister has already issued an apology for the incident.

In my opinion, it is crucial that we pay tribute to the legacy of those who fought for our freedom. In order to do so, we must ensure that we are investing an appropriate amount in defense. Otherwise, we will not be properly honoring their sacrifices.

She expressed her reluctance for the problem to be utilized as a tool for political gain.

Nonetheless, Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, responded by stating that it had already become a subject of political point-scoring.

He stated that the veterans themselves are expressing their disappointment and accusing him of failing the country, hence it is already evident.

The head of the government expressed regret for his choice to depart from France ahead of a significant global observance in honour of the Allied invasion, yet implored individuals to refrain from making it into a political issue.

He acknowledged that, upon further consideration, it would have been better for him to attend the gathering commemorating the Normandy beach landings in 1944. Notable world leaders, including the President of the United States, Joe Biden, were present to honor the brave soldiers who made great sacrifices during that historical event.

Ms. Mordaunt is a well-known public figure who has served as a representative for Portsmouth North since 2010. She is currently seeking re-election, but it is anticipated that she may not be successful and instead lose her seat during the upcoming election.

Stephen Flynn, the SNP Westminster leader, stated that a prime minister who prioritizes his personal political goals over serving the public is not a true prime minister.

A leader who prioritizes their political career over the well-being of Normandy war veterans cannot be considered a true leader.

In other areas, Johnny Mercer, the minister for Veterans, also expressed his comprehension of the furious reaction towards the actions of the Prime Minister.

"I understand why people are upset. He made a mistake. It's a big mistake and he said sorry for it," said Mr. Mercer in an interview with The Sun.

He proposed that Mr Sunak's crew should also be held responsible for their recommendations to him.

"It's clear that an error has been made," he stated.

According to him, during the PM's visits, people give him a lot of suggestions on what actions he should take and avoid.

The head of the Labour Party, Sir Keir Starmer, expressed his belief that Mr. Sunak must take responsibility for his own decisions to leave Normandy prior to the international D-Day event. Despite this, Sir Keir Starmer personally felt that there was nowhere else he would have rather been during this time.

While visiting a residential community in Brent Cross, he mentioned to the press: "Attending this event was my responsibility, and an honor as well."

Sir Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, expressed his disappointment towards Mr Sunak's recent actions which he believes have not presented the office of the Prime Minister in a positive light and have also failed the nation.