Thursday’s front pages all lead on the announcement of a July 4 general election. Regardless of political leanings, all the papers note the snap election is a “gamble” on PM Rishi Sunak’s part. 

The media, public and even Tory MPs were shocked by the announcement of a July 4 election. Many Tory MPs were hoping for a November election so the benefits of the improving economy could be felt in the pockets of the public. 

The opinion polls still put the Conservatives far behind Labour and many struggle to see what the government’s plan is now. 

It feels reckless, and like a government who’s already thrown in the towel and has accepted defeat. With the hopes the summer’s Euros might act as a distraction, perhaps if the Tories do lose power, it’ll be against a backdrop of a public enjoying themselves and not looking too hard at No 10.

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