British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak appeared to lean on recent economic news to justify his decision to call an early election, with the U.K. reporting its lowest inflation in 3 years.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced a snap election that will take place on July 4 in what could prove a pivotal election for the United Kingdom.
“Earlier today, I spoke with His Majesty the King today to request the dissolution of parliament,” Sunak announced outside No. 10 Downing Street on Wednesday. “The king has granted this request, and we will have a general election on the fourth of July.”
“These uncertain times call for a clear plan and bold action,” Sunak said. “To chart a course to a secure future, you must choose in this election, who has that plan? Who is prepared to take the bold action necessary to secure a better future for our country and our children?”
Sunak stood in the pouring rain and took the gamble of his political career, discussing the various pitfalls and challenges of his administration, claiming that he was proud of how he and the greater United Kingdom handled them, citing the pandemic crisis and economic turmoil.
Sunak touted economic successes such as the newly announced low inflation rate and improving economy as reasons to call for an election, saying that “this period of economic stability was only ever meant to be the beginning” and that “now is the chance for Britain to choose its future.”
Rumblings started to grow early Wednesday as cabinet ministers delayed or outright canceled appointments for the rest of the day to attend a 4 p.m. BST meeting with the prime minister, leading to heavy speculation that he would call an early election.
