UK’s Sunak, Starmer focus on migration, taxes in final debate ahead of election

By Mehmet Solmaz

BIRMINGHAM, England (AA) - British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and main opposition Labour Party leader Keir Starmer made their final pitches to voters on Wednesday in the last televised debate ahead of next Thursday’s general election.

The two leaders mainly touched on tax policies and illegal migration.

Both leaders were seen adopting a tough stance on migration, saying the record levels of net migration to Britain since the country’s departure from the European Union are too high.

Sunak said his party has a plan while Labour does not, referring to the controversial plan to send asylum seekers to the East African country of Rwanda.

The Rwanda policy, which is designed to deter people from arriving in the UK on small boats across the English Channel, will go into effect in July, Sunak said.

Asked about his stance on the issue, Starmer said he will abolish the policy and focus on fighting human smugglers.

Taxation has been a hot issue throughout the campaign, with the prime minister repeatedly claiming that Labour secretly plans to raise taxes.

Starmer denied Sunak’s claims, saying his economic policies are well planned and accused the Conservatives of having unfunded financial plans.

Both leaders pledged not to increase personal taxes, while the Conservative manifesto includes an ambition to eliminate national insurance over time.

According to the latest YouGov voting intention poll, Labour is at 37%, followed by the ruling Conservatives at 19%. In third position, support for the anti-migration Reform UK party stands at 18%.