Sunak said he had spoken to King Charles and asked for the British Parliament to be dissolved,sparking what is likely to be a bruising six-week campaign before the vote on July 4.
After more than two years of scandals,continued fallout from the Brexit referendum and a revolving door of leaders,many pollsters and even Conservative MPs have written off the government’s chances of securing a fifth successive term.
“Now is the moment for Britain to choose its future,” he said. “This election will take place at a time when the world is more dangerous than it has been since the end of the Cold War.”
Sunak,44,said he hoped his work since he became prime minister in October 2022,showed that he had a plan and was prepared to take bold action necessary for the country to flourish.
“Now I’ve stuck with that plan,and always been honest with you about what is needed even when that’s been difficult,” he said. “Because I’m guided by doing what is right for our country,not what is easy,and I can’t say the same thing for the Labour Party because I don’t know what they offer and,in truth,I don’t think you know either.”
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer posted a campaign video on X,formerly Twitter,within moments of Sunak’s appearance,saying it was “time for change”.