The United Kingdom is gearing up for a snap election on July 4, called by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on May 22. With parties competing for the 650 seats in the House of Commons, manifestos are being released outlining their stances on key issues such as the economy, healthcare, immigration, and the UK’s relationship with the European Union.
After the last general election in December 2019, which saw Boris Johnson’s Conservatives return to power, parliament was dissolved on May 30, marking the start of a “purdah” period. During purdah, civil servants and local governments are barred from announcing initiatives that could favor a specific party, though political candidates are free to campaign.
Here’s a snapshot of the main parties and their pledges ahead of the upcoming election:
Conservatives
Political alignment: Center-right to right
Manifesto highlights: Reduce borrowing, increase NHS funding, tighten migration policies
Current leader: Rishi Sunak
Support in latest polls: 20%
Labour
Political alignment: Center-left
Manifesto highlights: Industrial strategy, healthcare improvements, border security
Current leader: Keir Starmer
Support in latest polls: 36%
Liberal Democrats
Political alignment: Center to center-left
Manifesto highlights: Pro-EU, healthcare investment, renewable focus
Current leader: Ed Davey
Support in latest polls: 14%
Greens
Political alignment: Left-wing eco-politics
Manifesto highlights: Tax reforms, renewable energy push, migrant support
Current leaders: Carla Denyer and Adrian Ramsay
Support in latest polls: 7%
Reform UK
Political alignment: Right wing
Manifesto highlights: Infrastructure projects, tax cuts, immigration crackdown
Current leader: Nigel Farage
Support in latest polls: 18%
Scottish National Party
Political alignment: Center-left
Manifesto highlights: Pursuit of Scottish independence, pro-NHS policies
Current leader: John Swinney
Seats in previous parliament: 43
Plaid Cymru
Political alignment: Center-left to left wing
Manifesto highlights: Welsh independence, healthcare and child benefit boosts
Current leader: Rhun ap Iorwerth
Seats in previous parliament: 3
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