British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has apologized for leaving D-Day commemorations in Normandy, France, early to do a TV interview. He has also expressed anger over allegations that Conservative politicians bet on the date of the U.K.'s election, vowing to expel anyone who did so.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has apologized for leaving D-Day commemorations in Normandy, France, early to do a TV interview. The decision drew widespread backlash, with many criticizing Sunak for disrespecting the poignant occasion.
In a statement, Sunak said he was "deeply sorry" for his actions. "I understand the importance of D-Day and the sacrifices made by so many," he said. "I should have stayed for the entire ceremony and paid my respects."
Sunak Apologizes for Ditching D-Day Ceremony, Denounces Election Betting Scandal
Sunak's apology comes amid ongoing controversy over his decision to leave Normandy early. Some Conservative MPs have publicly criticized the Prime Minister, calling his actions "unacceptable."
The D-Day commemorations marked the 78th anniversary of the Allied landings in Normandy during World War II. Sunak's decision to leave the ceremony early has raised questions about his priorities and judgment.
Sunak Apologizes for Ditching D-Day Ceremony, Denounces Election Betting Scandal
In a separate development, Sunak has expressed anger over allegations that Conservative politicians bet on the date of the U.K.'s election. He said anyone who used inside information to do so "should face the full force of the law" and be expelled from his party.
The allegations have surfaced as the Conservative Party trails the main opposition Labour Party in the polls. Parliamentary elections are to be held on July 4, 2024, and the claims have raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
Two Conservative candidates, Laura Saunders and Craig Williams, are facing investigations into alleged betting offenses. Saunders is married to the Conservative Party's director of campaigning, while Williams is an aide to Sunak.
Sunak said he was "incredibly angry" to learn of the allegations. "It's right that they are being investigated properly by the relevant law enforcement authorities," he said. "If anyone is found to have broken the rules, not only should they face the full consequences of the law, I will make sure that they are booted out of the Conservative Party."
The scandal has cast a shadow over the Conservative Party as it prepares for the election. Sunak's decision to take a tough stance on the allegations may help to reassure voters that the party is committed to integrity and fairness.
