Jeremy Hunt hints at October general election

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt suggests a possible general election in October, stating preparations for the government’s spending review, which must be finalized by next April, would be challenging if this timeline were to be followed.

Although elections are legally due by January 2025, PM Sunak anticipates one in the latter part of 2023, excluding 2 May to avoid clashing with local elections.

Speaking to the House of Lords, Hunt expressed his desire for another fiscal event—where tax and spending plans such as the Budget are presented—within the current parliamentary term ending in January. He aims to remain Chancellor post-election to deliver a spring Budget.

Sunak has the prerogative to call an election sooner than the five-year schedule. With the Conservatives behind Labour in polls and facing criticism for delaying, there's a push from some Tories for additional tax cuts, potentially in another fiscal statement before elections.