Rishi Sunak & Keir Starmer face off in first UK General Election debate

In the first live TV debate of the 2024 general election, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour party leader Sir Keir Starmer locked horns over key issues, delivering a fiery exchange that left viewers on the edge of their seats. As the debate concluded, the question on everyone's mind was: who emerged victorious? 
 
The stage was set at the ITV studios as Sunak and Starmer prepared to engage in a political showdown, covering topics such as the economy, immigration, and the NHS. With a YouGov poll indicating a potential Labour landslide, Sunak had his work cut out for him. The pressure was on for the Conservative leader to challenge Starmer's dominance, while the Labour leader aimed to solidify his lead and promote his message of change. 

Throughout the debate, Sunak sought to undermine Starmer's credibility by highlighting his past as a barrister, including his defence of Islamist group Hizb ut-Tahrir and work on European human rights cases. Starmer, however, remained composed and focused on the Conservative Party's track record, arguing that 14 years of Tory rule had resulted in chaos and a desperate need for change. 
 
As the debate unfolded, both leaders showcased their unique styles. Sunak adopted a more aggressive approach, relentlessly challenging Starmer on his policies and record. Starmer, on the other hand, maintained a calm demeanor, emphasizing his vision for the future and the importance of addressing the concerns of the British people. 
 
One of the most heated moments of the night occurred when the two leaders discussed the economy. Sunak accused Starmer of planning to raise taxes by £2,000 per household, a claim that the Labour leader vehemently denied. Starmer fired back, stating that the Conservatives had presided over a period of economic stagnation and that Labour's plans would provide the necessary stimulus for growth and prosperity.

Immigration was another contentious topic, with Sunak and Starmer clashing over the best approach to managing the UK's borders. Sunak argued that the Conservatives had taken a firm stance on illegal immigration, while Starmer criticized the government's handling of the issue, stating that a more compassionate and effective approach was needed. 
 
When it came to the NHS, both leaders pledged their commitment to improving the healthcare system. Sunak highlighted the Conservatives' investment in the NHS, while Starmer emphasized Labour's plans to tackle waiting times and boost funding for mental health services. 
 
As the debate drew to a close, both leaders delivered impassioned closing statements, urging viewers to support their respective parties in the upcoming election. With the polls indicating a significant lead for Labour, Sunak had a steep hill to climb. However, the Prime Minister's combative performance may have resonated with some voters, potentially narrowing the gap between the two parties. 

In the end, only time will tell if this debate has the power to shift the polical landscape and influence the outcome of the general election. One thing is certain, though: the clash between Sunak and Starmer has undoubtedly added an extra layer of intrigue to an already captivating campaign. 

The bookies have Labour winning the most seats at next month's general election at 1/50. The Tories are next up at 16/1, showing the sizeable gap between the two parties heading into the public vote.

As for the outcome of the election, Ladbrokes has a Labour majority as the most likely conclusion with odds of 1/14. No overall majority is up next at 10/1, with a Conservative majority being quite the long shot at 33/1.

It's not only election year in the UK but the US too, and despite his guilty verdict last week, Donald Trump is still the favourite with the bookies to become President of the US for the second time.

There are plenty more Political betting markets available!

All odds and markets are correct as of the date of publication.