Overview

• British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has indicated that the general election will likely be held in the second half of 2024, a move that could give him more time to close the poll gap and offer voters something that might turn them back to the Tories.
• Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, who is currently leading in the polls, has accused Sunak of 'squatting in Downing Street' and called for an election 'as soon as possible'.
• Starmer has refused to commit to unfreezing tax thresholds if Labour wins the next general election, but has pledged to reverse any Tory cuts to inheritance tax.
• Sunak's decision to delay the election could also allow Labour more time to refine their pre-election pledges, including spending £28bn on green investment schemes.
• Both parties are preparing for a potentially long and bruising campaign, with the possibility of personal attacks and low blows.