Ask John Rentoul anything as Rishi Sunak calls July 4 snap election

After months of speculation we now know when the UK will head to the polls. The Independent’s chief political commentator John Rentoul is here to answer all your election questions

Britain’s Prime Minister Rishi Sunak (10 Downing Street)

Rishi Sunak has called a snap election for 4 July, following months of speculation about when the country would go to the polls.

Previously, chancellor, Jeremy Hunt suggested that the general election could be held in October.

And in March, Labour leader Keir Starmer accused Mr Sunak of “bottling” a 2 May general election, which could have been called to coincide with council and mayoral elections being held across the country.

Now, it appears the prime minister has decided that improved economic figures and the prospect of flights heading to Rwanda could make up the difference with Labour’s huge lead in the polls.

Parties will have up to four weeks to convince Brits to vote for them in the ballots.

But why is Mr Sunak calling a snap election now? What significance will the date have on the results? And can we make any reasonable predictions on the outcome?

If you have a question on the local elections or, once they come in, the results, submit it now, or when I join you live at 12pm on Thursday 23 May for the “Ask Me Anything” event.

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