Tory leadership: Rishi Sunak supporters deny U-turn in row over VAT cut

Key Facts

Foreign Secretary Ms Truss and former chancellor Mr Sunak have set out very different visions of how to solve the cost-of-living crisis prompted by an inflation rate currently at more than 9%.
The VAT announcement marks a tactical shift from Mr Sunak, who is trailing in opinion polls of Conservative members, who start voting next week to decide the next PM.
Mr Sunak, who has accused Ms Truss of making unfunded tax cuts that amount to £55bn, said his own plan would cost £4.3bn but, as it was temporary, it could be delivered within existing borrowing rules.
A Truss campaign source said: "It's good that Rishi has finally woken up and decided to offer something to people struggling with the rising cost of living.