Full-tory audience in studio for live TV leadership debate

THE audience for tonight’s debate between the two Conservative leadership contenders all voted for the party at the last election.

Previous televised debates involving audience participation have faced criticism over audience bias. The BBC said the audience either backed the party for the first time in the 2019 general election or were long-term supporters.

The live hustings between Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss will take place in front of 80 to 100 people at a studio in Stoke-on-trent. The 60-minute show will be presented by Sophie Raworth with analysis from Chris Mason, the BBC’S political editor, and Faisal Islam, the BBC’S economics editor.

Jonathan Munro, interim director of BBC news and current affairs, said: “We’re delighted to be offering the chance to be part of this pivotal moment in politics.” Our Next Prime Minister is at 9pm on BBC One and Radio 5 Live.