Speaking outside Downing Street in the pouring rain on Wednesday afternoon, a drenched Rishi Sunak fired the starting gun, calling a General Election for the 4th July. Citing positive economic news and signs of recovery, Mr Sunak hopes to persuade voters that his plan and priorities are working. 

With key issues such as the economy, healthcare, and immigration at the forefront, the elections will determine the direction of the UK amidst global uncertainties and domestic challenges. The Conservative Party faces significant scrutiny over its handling of inflation and public services, while the Labour Party seeks to capitalise on this dissatisfaction with promises of reform. Smaller parties, including Reform, the Liberal Democrats, and Green Party aim to influence the agenda with their own stances. Meanwhile, in Scotland, a likely battle between the SNP and Labour may redraw the wider electoral map.

With Sir Keir Starmer’s Labour Party currently surging ahead in the polls, as campaigning intensifies over the next few weeks, voters will critically assess the party platforms and leadership candidates.

Chartwell Speakers represents a wide range of expert commentators from across the political divide, journalism and academia, some of whom are below.

For more experts who can speak on the upcoming UK political elections, see here.