Rishi Sunak axes plan for a summer general election in belief that Rwanda flights take-off and improving economic picture can enhance Tories’ re-election bid [Video]

20:20 EDT 05 May 2024, updated 03:11 EDT 06 May 2024

Rishi Sunak has ditched his plans for a summer election hoping that by improving the economy and seeing deportation flights to Rwanda finally take off, he can salvage his re-election bid.

The Prime Minister is now planning on carrying out an autumn election, rather than in July, following widespread Tory defeat at local elections up and down the country.

The Conservatives lost 397 council seats and only won one of the 11 mayoralties, with West Midlands mayor Andrew Street, who had distanced himself from the PM, narrowly losing to his Labour opponent Richard Parker.

Downing Street insiders warned that any plans from unruly backbenchers to oust Mr Sunak could result in an earlier election, however, the party’s rebels are thought to have given up on a change in leadership before the general election.

Aides working on the Conservative campaign reportedly said it is ’80 to 90 per cent likely’ the …