The general election has been announced for this summer as Rishi Sunak makes statements

Rishi Sunak called a general election for July 4, saying it was “time for Britain to choose its future”. The prime minister has bet that improved inflation figures and a recovering economy will help him overturn Labour’s 20-point lead in the opinion poll.

In a sign that security and the economy will be key battlegrounds, Sunak said: “This election will take place at a time when the world is more dangerous than it has been since the end of the Cold War.”

“Uncertain times” call for a “clear plan,” he said. The July election is earlier than many in Westminster had expected, with an October or November contest thought to be more likely.

Mr Sunak’s announcement came after the Office for National Statistics said consumer price index (CPI) inflation fell to 2.3 per cent in April, down from 3.2 per cent in March. He said this was “a major milestone” for the country, with inflation now “returning to normal levels”.

One reason for the delay was to allow chancellor Jeremy Hunt to deliver another tax cut financial statement before the vote, but official figures revealed that borrowing for April exceeded forecasts, reaching £20.5bn , suggesting that he may have had a limited loan. space for pre-election gifts.

It comes after the Tory leader said inflation was “back to normal” in a “major milestone” for the country after official figures showed inflation fell to 2.3% in April.

Speculation of an announcement was rife in Westminster as cabinet ministers were summoned for an unusually timed meeting, with Defense Secretary Grant Shapps and Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron cutting short trips abroad.

The Prime Minister would have informed the ministers about the electoral plan at the assembly. Many were photographed entering No.10 Downing Street throughout the afternoon.

Parliament is reported to be dissolved next week. At PMQs this afternoon (May 22), the SNP’s Stephen Flynn asked the Prime Minister directly whether he plans to call a general election.

“Speculation is rife, so I think the public deserves a clear answer to a simple question. Does the Prime Minister intend to call a general election this summer or is she afraid?” asked Mr. Flynn.

“There is, Mr Speaker – spoiler alert – there will be a general election in the second half of this year,” Sunak said in response, in what was his only public remark today about the date. The second half of the year begins on July 1.