The UK elections explained

Al Jazeera breaks down the election process and the main contenders.

UK eletions explainer

Britons will go to the polls on June 8 to determine who is best equipped to run the country, as well as prepare for Brexit negotiations. Theresa May, the UK prime minister, announced the surprise snap general elections in April to seek a fresh mandate, claiming the opposition parties were jeopardising the government’s preparations for Brexit.

READ MORE: UK election: Why does Nuneaton matter?

The three parties in the fray are: the ruling Conservative party, the main opposition Labour party and the Liberal Democrats. Key issues that will be the focus of the election are Brexit, creating jobs, the NHS, taxes, trade, and social welfare.

 

When Prime Minster May announced the elections in April, the Conservatives had a 25-point lead over Labour and some even predicted an absolute majority for the right-wing party. However, since then Conservatives’ lead over the Labour has been falling. 

READ MORE: UK Election – Is this the NHS election?

One thing is for sure, whoever is elected will have to hit the ground running as the Brexit talks with the EU will be starting soon

 
 
Source: Al Jazeera, News Agencies