Theresa May calls snap general election

The Fixed-Term Parliaments Act sets the general election date as the first Thursday in May every five years, meaning 2020 is the next expected contest.

But Theresa May has today called today for a general election for this June.

She made the announcement immediately following a meeting of her Cabinet.

Explaining her change of heart on an early election, Mrs May said: "I have concluded the only way to guarantee certainty and security for years ahead is to hold this election."

She elaborated that division among the parties “jeopardises the work we must do to prepare for Brexit and weakens government position in negotiations".