If Rishi Sunak is elected prime minister, the United Kingdom’s attitude toward Taiwan won’t alter.

On Tuesday, August 23, 2022, night, at hustings in Birmingham, former Chancellor Rishi Sunak and U.K. Foreign Secretary Liz Truss continued to spar for control of the nation and the Tory party. The emphasis was on local topics such as rising inflation, taxes, public services, and “woke” culture, although China and international policy also made brief appearances.

Mr. Sunak said he would not alter the United Kingdom’s present Taiwan policy. He believed it to be the best course of action when asked what his reaction would be if China threatened the autonomous island of Taiwan with military force. The U.K. neither recognizes Taiwan nor has formal diplomatic relations with it.

In response to the host, John Pienaar of Times Radio, Mr. Sunak remarked, “The best thing we can do to avert invasion against Taiwan from China is demonstrating to Russia that they will not be successful in Ukraine.” When asked how he would address the country’s “dependence,” he explained his previously stated strategy for ties with China, describing it as the most significant national security challenge the U.K. faces.

He continued, “We need to be strong in defending our beliefs and our interests,” adding that doing so meant helping the Hong Kong population.

When asked if she would press the button even if it meant “global devastation” in a section on her personality, Ms. Truss said that if necessary, as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, she would detonate the country’s nuclear weapons.

“I believe it’s a crucial responsibility of the Prime Minister… She said, “I’m ready to do that,” to cheers and ovation from the audience.