Sunak sets date for UK general election

RISHI SUNAK has called a general election for July 4, saying it was "the moment for Britain to choose its future".

The Prime Minister has gambled that improved inflation figures and a recovering economy will help him overturn Labour's 20-point opinion poll lead.

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

The "uncertain times" call for a "clear plan", he said.

A July election is earlier than many in Westminster had expected, with a contest in October or November widely thought to have been more likely.