General election scheduled for 4 July

The prime minister has announced that the general election will be held on 4 July.

He made the announcement in a statement outside parliament earlier today.

It was already known that the election would be held in the second half of the year, but July is earlier than many expected.

The announcement follows recent council elections where the Conservatives suffered widespread losses.

Cllr Shaun Davies, Local Government Association Chair, said: “This election comes at a pivotal time for the country. Securing the future of our public services must be front and centre of all political party manifestos.

“As we lead up to July 4, the LGA will be making the case that, with the right powers and adequate long-term funding, it is councils who can provide the answers to so many of the issues any incoming government will face.

"This includes building more affordable homes, boosting economic growth, improving support for children, vulnerable adults and older people, and creating a better future for everyone."