A mistake not to stay longer' - Sunak apologises for leaving D-Day events early

The prime minister has just posted on X, saying it was "a mistake not to stay in France longer - and I apologise".

He was in Normandy on Thursday, alongside other political leaders, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings.

The prime minister was in Normandy, France yesterday, alongside a number of world and political leaders, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings.

Reports circulated yesterday that he'd left early and it later transpired he'd taken part in an ITV interview (to be aired next week) about the election.

Labour last night accused Sunak of a "dereliction of duty" and the PM's now posted on social media - here's what he said in full:

"The 80th anniversary of D-Day has been a profound moment to honour the brave men and women who put their lives on the line to protect our values, our freedom and our democracy."

"This anniversary should be about those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. The last thing I want is for the commemorations to be overshadowed by politics.

"I care deeply about veterans and have been honoured to represent the UK at a number of events in Portsmouth and France over the past two days and to meet those who fought so bravely."

" After the conclusion of the British event in Normandy, I returned back to the UK. On reflection, it was a mistake not to stay in France longer - and I apologise."

We'll bring you more on this shortly.