Prime Minister Rishi Sunak appears to rule out spring general election

Rishi Sunak has appeared to rule out a spring general election.  

Speaking to the media, the prime minister said he expects the election to take place in the second half of the year.  

It had been speculated in recent weeks that Sunak could call an election in May.  

He said: “My working assumption is we’ll have a general election in the second half of this year and in the meantime I’ve got lots that I want to get on with.” 

Sunak added: “I want to keep going, managing the economy well and cutting people’s taxes. But I also want to keep tackling illegal migration. 

“So, I’ve got lots to get on with and I’m determined to keep delivering for the British people.” 

At the latest, a general election must be held by January 2025.  

Labour had said that a springtime general election is the "worst kept secret in parliament". 

While the Liberal Democrats have called for the election to take place in May, urging the Conservatives not to “cling on” to power for the rest of the year.