Starmer hails 'new age of hope' as Britain votes in historic election

PM's allies talk of defeat, with last polls predicting huge win for Labour

- Jessica Elgot , Kiran Stacey & Anna Isaac

Keir Starmer has hailed a "new age of hope and opportunity" as millions of people prepare to vote in a general election that could deliver the biggest shake-up of British politics in a generation.

The Labour leader said he was "ready for government" and his intended cabinet would "hit the ground running" if it wins today's election. With Rishi Sunak's closest allies appearing to concede defeat for the Conservatives, and the final opinion polls predicting an unprecedented Labour victory, Starmer said he hoped Britain was about to start a new chapter.

On the last day of a fractious sixweek campaign, the Guardian was told Sunak had confided to his inner circle that he was fearful of losing his own seat, and a new YouGov poll predicted 16 cabinet ministers would be voted out potentially handing Starmer the biggest majority for any single party since 1832.

Speaking at a campaign stop in Scotland, Starmer told his activists they were "on the final few yards towards the start of a historic day".

"This is a great nation, with boundless potential. The British people deserve a government that matches their ambition. Today is the chance to begin the work of rebuilding Britain with Labour."

He promised a flurry of activity should he enter No 10, saying he would push back the parliamentary recess to get his legislative programme under way. He said he had told his shadow cabinet they would not be forgiven if they did not show results immediately.

In a rare sign that he is mentally preparing for victory after a deeply cautious campaign, he said: "I'm really pleased four and a half years of work is being vindicated because this has not been an easy gig."