Facebook/NDP NDP leadership hopeful Charlie Angus shrugs after an answer from rival Jagmeet Singh at a debate in Montreal on Aug. 27, 2017.

NDP leadership hopeful Jagmeet Singh had a succinct answer when a rival pressed him at a debate in Montreal Sunday to clarify future plans should he lose the race.

"With respect, I will not lose," Singh told rival Charlie Angus, sparking laughter from the crowd.

Angus told Singh he liked the energy the Ontario MPP has brought to the campaign and would like to see him as part of the NDP caucus in Parliament.

"But you are also very popular in the legislature in Toronto," Angus said in French. "So, if you lose the race, are you ready to present yourself at the federal election or will you go back to Toronto?"

Elections coming in 2018 and 2019

Singh's response that he has no other plan but to win did not sit well with Angus, who noted that Ontario's next provincial election is set for 2018, while the federal election will be held in 2019.

"The question, Mr. Singh, is simple," Angus said, sparking some more chuckles. "You are a provincial politician and there will be two elections, 2018 and 2019. Are you ready to present yourself for the Ontario election or federal if you lose this race now?"

"With great respect, when I win, I will present myself at the federal election," Singh responded in French.

"If you lose?" Angus tried one last time.

"I will not lose," Singh said again, spurring Angus to shrug to the crowd.

Angus' exchange with Singh can be seen at around 1:07:40 below: