In a much-anticipated move, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is set to officially launch the campaign for the next general election during the closing keynote speech at the Conservative Party’s annual conference. This pivotal announcement comes amid considerable challenges for Sunak’s ruling Tories, who have grappled with a series of scandals and economic difficulties in recent years.
Despite being in power since 2010, the Conservative Party has consistently trailed the main opposition, Labour, in polls throughout Sunak’s tenure. However, there are signs that the gap may be narrowing, offering a glimmer of hope for the Conservatives as they convene in Manchester for their annual conference.
Rishi Sunak, aged 43, is scheduled to deliver his speech at 11:45 am (1045 GMT) and is expected to continue his recent shift into campaign mode. He has made a series of populist policy announcements aimed at distinguishing his party from Labour.
One potentially controversial announcement expected in his speech is the scrapping of the northern leg of the HS2 train line. Defense Minister Grant Shapps indicated that this decision could be confirmed in Sunak’s address, citing the need to reassess the project’s feasibility in light of changing circumstances.
Sunak, who has been in office for nearly a year, is likely to frame this decision as a fiscally responsible move due to rising costs, portraying himself as a leader willing to make tough decisions. He emphasized his approach in recent interviews, citing his softening of the net-zero agenda and plans for “pro-motorist” policies as examples.
However, Sunak faces an uphill battle in convincing voters to stick with the Tories after 13 years in power and amid significant economic challenges, including high inflation and sluggish growth. Three upcoming by-elections, with the first in a Scottish constituency on Thursday, could further highlight the challenges the Conservative Party faces.
Despite recent polls showing a narrowing gap between the Conservatives and Labour, the opposition party remains confident about its prospects of returning to government. Some experts believe that the Conservatives may face a significant electoral defeat in the upcoming election, particularly in the face of a resurgent Labour Party.
While opinions within the Conservative Party vary, with some members expressing trust in Sunak’s leadership, others acknowledge the difficulties ahead and the uncertainty of the political landscape.
The general election, due sometime in 2024, promises to be a crucial moment in British politics, determining the future direction of the country’s leadership and policies.