The Conservative Party’s plans for a general election this summer have been put on hold, according to reports from The Telegraph. The decision comes in the wake of significant losses for the Tories in local elections, prompting a reevaluation of the party’s electoral strategy.
Rishi Sunak, allies say, is banking on an improving economic outlook and upcoming deportation flights to Rwanda to bolster his chances of reelection in the autumn.
Despite initial speculation that a plot to oust the Prime Minister might trigger an early election in June or July, Tory rebels have reportedly abandoned such efforts. Instead, there is growing consensus within the party that a general election in October or November is more likely.
Summer election rumours swirl as Sunak faces poll reckoning (Credits: The Times)
The recent local election results underscored the scale of Tory defeats, with the party losing 397 council seats and claiming only one of 11 mayoralties.
Although there is hope among some Tories that Sunak could reverse the party’s fortunes with more time, polling data suggests a close race between Labour and the Conservatives, pointing to a potential hung parliament.
In response to the election setbacks, there has been public debate within the Conservative Party about its future direction. Some, like Suella Braverman, advocate for a shift to the right on policy, calling for measures such as leaving the European Court of Human Rights and reducing immigration. Others, like Andy Street, argue for a continuation of moderate, inclusive conservatism.
Voting (Credits: CNN)
Despite differing opinions within the party, there is a sense of urgency among Conservatives to address the challenges they face. With the prospect of a general election looming, the Prime Minister and his allies are expected to redouble their efforts to regain lost ground and present a compelling vision for the future of the country.
However, there are concerns among some Tory figures, including Lord Frost, that it may be too late to reverse the party’s fortunes before the next general election. As preparations for the election continue, Conservatives are bracing themselves for what could be a challenging political landscape in the months ahead.
