Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has called a snap summer general election.
Speaking in the rain outside Downing Street, Mr Sunak said “now is the moment for Britain to choose its future” and confirmed the election will take place on Thursday July 4.
In a seven-minute speech in heavy rain he described how he “came to office above all to restore economic stability” and vowed he has "never and will never leave the people of this country to face the darkest of days alone".
Mr Sunak also said the UK economy is recovering with inflation “back to normal”.
He explained that he had spoken to the King on Wednesday, who had granted his request to dissolve Parliament.
Making the announcement while getting soaked in heavy rain, Mr Sunak attacked the Labour Party and Sir Keir Starmer, saying they lacked a plan for the country.
He said: "I hope that my work since I became Prime Minister shows that we have a plan and are prepared to take bold action necessary for our country to flourish.”
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said: "Give the Tories five more years and things will only get worse. Britain deserves better than that."
Mr Sunak later spoke at a Conservative Party a campaign event in east London. Follow the latest updates below...
