In response to the Tory leader’s continuous criticism, Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride stated that his boss was “feeling this very deeply” and that he had realized he had erred in leaving the 80th anniversary ceremonies in Normandy early to do a TV interview.
After coming under fire from detractors, veterans, and even members of his own party for skipping the allied landings commemorative ceremony—which was attended by international dignitaries, including US President Joe Biden—Mr. Sunak was forced to apologize.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage was one of many to weigh in on the controversy, telling News that Mr. Sunak was “not a patriotic leader of the Conservative Party” as a result of the fiasco.
Mr. Sunak is campaigning in Yorkshire today without the customary press horde after being accused on Saturday of “dodging” questions from reporters amidst the ongoing D-Day controversy.
“I do know Rishi pretty well, in fact I consider him as something of a friend, and I know he is a deeply patriotic person who cares greatly about this country,” Mr. Stride said in an interview with News’ Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips.
