Rishi Sunak has pledged to continue his efforts until the final day of the election campaign. This comes after a challenging weekend where the Prime Minister faced criticism for missing part of the D-Day commemorations.

Campaigning in East Sussex

On Monday, Sunak hit the campaign trail in East Sussex, expressing confidence in his ability to win back voters. He dismissed the notion that the election result is a foregone conclusion.

First Media Appearance Since Apology

This marked Sunak's first media appearance since he apologized last week for his absence from the Normandy ceremony. Over the weekend, cabinet ministers emphasized that Sunak would remain as leader throughout the campaign.

Responding to Farage's Criticism

Sunak also responded to Nigel Farage's comments, who accused him of lacking patriotism due to his absence. Sunak stated that such insinuations are harmful to both politics and the country.

Determined to Fight Despite Polls

Despite consistently trailing by 20 points in the polls, Sunak remains resolute. "People will say what they want, but I'm fighting hard for every vote. I will continue until the last day of this campaign. I am confident in the actions we're proposing for the British people," he declared.

Rejection of a Predetermined Outcome

Sunak rejected claims that the campaign or election is predetermined. "People have been saying this since I took the job, but I won’t stop fighting for our country's future. I believe in what we are doing," he added.

Engaging with Voters

Sunak spent the morning knocking on doors, asserting that voters recognize the Conservative party's big ideas for the country's future. He emphasized that only the Conservatives have substantial plans for positive change, which became evident in the campaign's first week.

Calls to Unite the Right

Meanwhile, former Home Secretary Suella Braverman suggested the Conservative party should aim to "unite the right" and collaborate with Reform. However, Sunak repeatedly refused to engage with Farage’s party, focusing instead on delivering his agenda for the British people.

Criticism of Farage's Comments

Farage faced backlash for suggesting Sunak was not a patriotic leader due to the D-Day row. Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride called the comments "deeply regrettable" and expressed pride in having a British Asian leader.

Sunak’s Apology and Call for Forgiveness

Sunak reiterated his apology for leaving the commemorations early. "I didn’t intend to cause any upset, and I apologize unreservedly. I hope people can forgive me and recognize my actions as Prime Minister to support our armed forces," he stated.