5.25pm
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has called a General Election for 04 July, saying it was “the moment for Britain to choose its future”.
The prime minister said that earlier today, he asked King Charles to dissolve Parliament on 30 May – this was granted. It means a general election will take place on Thursday, 04 July.
Battling the rain in Downing Street, Sunak said he was proud of what his government had achieved as he set out intentions to fight for “every vote”. He added that there were uncertain times ahead and insisted he and his government had a clear plan.
Sunak then went on to criticise UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer as someone who had no plan and said: “I don’t know what they offer – and in truth, I don’t think you do either.”
5.45pm
Speaking after the prime minister announced the election date, Sir Keir Starmer called this a moment the country needs and has been waiting for.
He added that this is the time to change communities and the country and called this election campaign an opportunity to secure a better future.
Watch Keir Starmer react to UK general election announcement.
6.35pm
Layla Moran (Liberal Democrat MP for Oxford West and Abingdon) reacted to the news on X (formerly Twitter).
Phew. A General Election is finally upon us and not before time. It has been the privilege of my life to be the MP for Oxford West and Abingdon since 2017 and I hope to secure the honour again this time around.
— Layla Moran 🔶🕊️ (@LaylaMoran) May 22, 2024
7.15pm
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has posted an explainer video on X (formerly Twitter), describing why he has called the election.
This is why I’ve just called the election. pic.twitter.com/z54gZc7w2D
— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) May 22, 2024
8.35pm
Robert Courts (Conservative MP for Witney and West Oxfordshire) reacts to the news on X (formerly Twitter).
Let’s get this show on the road. It’s the honour of my life to be the MP for Witney and Western Oxfordshire. I look forward to seeing you out and about soon! Vote Conservative on 4th July 🔵 pic.twitter.com/4LjTrvONmX
— Robert Courts MP (@robertcourts) May 22, 2024
9.15pm
Anneliese Dodds (Labour MP for Oxford East) reacts to the news on X (formerly Twitter).
It’s time for change.
Oxford desperately needs a Labour government to turn the country round.
Bring on the election! pic.twitter.com/PYejXnxcdj
— Anneliese Dodds (@AnnelieseDodds) May 22, 2024
