Key Takeaways:
– Rishi Sunak appeared on This Morning and joined Rylan Clark and Rochelle Humes in the kitchen.
– The trio tasted chicken while discussing the PM's 36-hour fasting.
– Sunak brushed off questions about GP appointments and pay for junior doctors.
– He joked about being fueled by the chicken and expressed confidence in a future general election.
Chicken and Politics:
Chancellor Rishi Sunak found himself in the hot seat on This Morning as he cooked with hosts Rylan Clark and Rochelle Humes. The trio sampled chicken dishes while discussing Sunak's 36-hour fasting routine. However, when pressed about issues such as GP appointments and pay for junior doctors, Sunak deflected by saying, "We don't have a magic money tree."
Confidence in a Future Election:
Despite the grilling, Sunak expressed confidence in a future general election. When asked about the timing, he joked, "I've been fuelled by the chicken from This Morning." He reiterated that the election would likely take place in the second half of the year.
Timing and Parliament Dissolution:
In the UK, the maximum term of a Parliament is five years from the day it first meets. The last general election was called by Boris Johnson in December 2019, meaning the next automatic dissolution of Parliament will occur on December 17, 2024. This sets the latest possible date for a general election at January 24, 2025. However, sitting prime ministers have the power to call an election earlier if they choose.
Campaign Mode and Election Announcement:
In order for a general election to take place, there must be a minimum of 25 days notice. This allows candidates to enter campaign mode. During this period, Parliament is dissolved, and major government business is suspended. Therefore, the latest possible date for an election announcement is December 29, 2024.
