Following the Prime Minister’s announcement to call a General Election, the Advertiser found out people’s opinions about his decision.
Rishi Sunak made the announcement yesterday (May 22) outside Downing Street at 5pm, revealing that people will head to the polls on Thursday (July 4).
He spoke to the King and requested to dissolve the Parliament, which his Majesty granted.
Opinions across Newark varied, with some people being supportive of conservative leader Rishi Sunak and others waiting to see him crumble at the next elections and for the Labour party to win.
“I think the sooner the better, they have done a lot of things wrong, the lies they have told and I think they have dragged the country the down,” said Karl Volichenko.
He added: “The rest of the world looks at us and must think what the hell are we doing?
“It is a joke.
“I think Labour will win but I don’t know if they will be able to turn it around with the budget they have got because we need a massive amount of money to spend on infrastructure, railways, hospitals, school’s, NHS, everything, it’s a mess.”
Marion Squires said: “It is a good decision because everyone is moaning about everything and they get the chance now to actually have their say.”
Leanda Bishop said: “I don’t really follow it but I don’t see any reason why he shouldn’t call an earlier election?”
Tracy Gilmore said: “I just think you don’t get nowhere with either. Calling an earlier election will be the same.
“Whatever he is doing it is going to be in his own favour.”
Simon Bennington said: “I think it is risky. I think he is taking a hit in the local by-elections and I thik he relying on getting inflation down as the thing that is going to win him the election but I am not so sure that it is going to do it for him.
“Having said that he probably feels that if he loses he will only be out for four years because Keir Starmer doesn’t seem to have what it’s needed to survive for more four years, so it would be wise doing it but it is still a risk.”
Ian Brown said: “I don’t care what happens, I just don’t like the Torrys.”
The General Election follows a difficult period for the Conservatives, who have suffered two defections by backbench MPs and a drubbing at the local elections earlier this month.
Polls continue to suggest the Tories are on course to lose the forthcoming vote, with Labour retaining a double-digit polling lead.
The latest possible date Mr Sunak could hold the election is January 28, 2025.
