Tory leader Kemi Badenoch has claimed that Labour is preparing for a general election as early as May 2027. This assertion comes despite Prime Minister Andy Burnham having ruled out an early contest, stating last week he would not call a national vote before 2029.
Badenoch, speaking ahead of the Conservative party conference next week, suggested that the timing of pledges in Burnham's recent conference speech indicates a spring vote. She questioned why the Prime Minister would discuss policies for 2030 if he was not planning an election sooner.
Speculation about an early election has increased following recent polls showing Labour in the lead. However, Westminster sources reportedly indicate that while an early poll has been discussed, Labour could risk losing its majority and needing to form a coalition.
In other political developments, Zack Polanski is expected to advocate for a triple lock-style guarantee for private renters in his keynote speech at the Green party’s annual conference this afternoon, aiming to alleviate housing costs for young adults.