Prime Minister Insists on Campaigning for Every Vote Amid Growing Labour Support

As the UK General Election approaches its final hours, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has reaffirmed his commitment to the Conservative cause, despite his ally Mel Stride conceding that Labour appears poised to secure a historic majority. Sunak, campaigning hard for each vote, maintained that he could hold his head high knowing he had done all he could for the country.

However, Mel Stride, a senior Conservative figure, acknowledged that current polling suggested Labour would win “the largest majority any party has ever achieved,” underscoring the challenges facing the Tories. Stride, a key campaign strategist for Sunak, told BBC Radio 4 that the polling data had been consistent for some time, making it unlikely that a drastic shift would occur before the vote.

Meanwhile, Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party, used the final day of campaigning to assert that a Labour victory could help counter the rise of populism globally. Speaking to PA, Starmer outlined his vision of a progressive response to the challenges the UK and the world face, emphasising the need for a change in leadership.

Polling data from More in Common and YouGov suggests a significant Labour victory is likely, with Labour predicted to secure a majority of over 200 seats. In contrast, the Tories are forecast to struggle, with some estimates indicating as few as 102 seats.

Adding to the political mix, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, campaigning in Clacton, used controversial rhetoric to connect with his supporters, suggesting that the increasing scrutiny on young men’s behaviour, especially in relation to football and political correctness, had led to a rise in populist figures like Andrew Tate.

Sunak, determined not to concede defeat just yet, stated, “This election is ongoing. I am campaigning hard for every vote.” He also expressed his frustration at the Reform UK vote, warning that supporting Farage’s party could inadvertently hand Labour the keys to power. “I’ve been very clear with those voters,” Sunak remarked, urging them to consider the consequences of their vote carefully.

The election campaign’s final day saw an unusual endorsement as The Sun newspaper threw its weight behind Labour, breaking a long-standing tradition of supporting the Conservatives. Despite some reservations, the endorsement was seen as another sign of Labour’s rising momentum.

As Sir Keir Starmer looks toward a potential victory, he remains focused on the broader implications of his party’s success, hoping that a Labour-led UK could offer a counterbalance to populist movements that have gained traction in Europe and the US. His comments reflect a desire to position Labour as a progressive force not just in the UK, but across the globe.