Sunak stated that he would not “say anything more than I’ve already said,” implying that the national poll will take place in the second part of the year.
Most Westminster experts interpret this as meaning October or November, while it might possibly indicate July.
However, a hammering in the mayoral and council elections on May 2 may either call into question his leadership or persuade him that an earlier vote day is a better answer than limping along with a split party.
The defection of a Conservative ex-health minister to Labour may frighten already restive Tory MPs and put more pressure on the Prime Minister.
Dr. Dan Poulter said on Saturday that he was leaving the Tory Party, accusing it of no longer prioritising the overburdened NHS.
Mr. Sunak was asked on Sunday morning with Trevor Phillips, filmed before Dr. Poulter’s shocking departure, if the later half of 2024 might imply July.
The Prime Minister stated, “I’m not going to say anything more than I’ve already said; I’ve been very clear about that.”
When asked again if he was ruling out July, he replied, “I’m not going to do that.
“You’re going to attempt to draw whatever conclusions you want from what I say. I will always strive to say the same thing. You should just listen to what I stated, which has been the same for the last year.
When presenter Sir Trevor asked when he should plan his summer vacation, the Prime Minister responded: “Actually, Trevor, it’s more important than your holiday or anyone else’s holiday. I have a task to complete that involves delivering for the country.
“And, as previously said, we are delivering on our commitment to combat unlawful migration. We’re doing a good job of investing in our defence.”
The complete interview will be shown on Sky News on Sunday morning.
In less than a week, the Conservatives are poised to lose around half of their council seats, while its two most prominent regional mayors face challenging races.
Some commentators feel that defeats for West Midlands Mayor Andy Street and Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen might lead to a no-confidence vote for the Prime Minister, which would require 52 Tory MPs to initiate one.
Rumours circulated in Westminster on Friday that Mr Sunak may launch an election campaign as early as Monday in order to stave off a potential challenge from disgruntled MPs, but Downing Street dismissed them.
The latest date he might hold the election is January 28, 2025.
Mr Sunak attempted to buttress his leadership this week with a slew of announcements, including the passage of Rwanda asylum law and a vow to spend 2.5% of GDP on defence by 2030.
Defence Secretary Grant Shapps advised colleagues who are considering replacing Mr Sunak before the general election to “let him get on with the job”.
“Now is not the time or place” to try to install another Conservative leader, he stated.
