A general election will be taking place on 4 July, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced.
Speaking outside of 10 Downing Street, Sunak said it was “the moment for Britain to choose its future”.
The Prime Minister has taken a huge gamble given Labour’s 20-point opinion poll lead.
But he has hedged his bets on improved inflation figures and a recovering economy.
A July election is early than many in Westminster had expected, with a contest in October or November previously seen as the feasible options.
It comes after Rishi Sunak heralded a “major milestone” for the country, with inflation now “back to normal” levels.
Rishi Sunak began his address by reflecting on the Covid pandemic.
He said: “In the last five years our country has fought through the most challenging times since the Second World War.
“As I stand here as your Prime Minister, I can’t help but reflect that my first proper introduction to you was just over four years ago. I stood behind one of the podiums upstairs in the building behind me.
“I told you that we faced a generation-defining moment and that we as a society could not be judged by some Government action, but by the small acts of kindness we showed one another.
“You met that challenge and then some, and I had never been prouder to be British.”
Announcing a general election, Rishi Sunak said: “This hard earned economic stability was only ever meant to be the beginning, the question now is how and who do you trust to turn that foundation into a secure future for you, your family, and our country?
“Now is the moment for Britain to choose its future, to decide whether we want to build on the progress we have made or risk going back to square one with no plan and no certainty.
“Earlier today I spoke with His Majesty the King to request the dissolution of Parliament.
“The King has granted this request and we will have a general election on July 4.”
Announcing a general election, Rishi Sunak said: “This hard earned economic stability was only ever meant to be the beginning, the question now is how and who do you trust to turn that foundation into a secure future for you, your family, and our country?
“Now is the moment for Britain to choose its future, to decide whether we want to build on the progress we have made or risk going back to square one with no plan and no certainty.
“Earlier today I spoke with His Majesty the King to request the dissolution of Parliament.
“The King has granted this request and we will have a general election on July 4.”
