Jeremy Corbyn and Tim Farron welcome June election after Theresa May's shock announcement

Tom Powell18 April 2017
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Jeremy Corbyn has welcomed Theresa May’s shock decision to call a General Election on June 8, saying Labour will offer an “effective alternative” to the current government.

The Labour leader was quick to respond after the Prime Minister’s stunning announcement outside Number 10 this morning.

But he failed to mention either the EU or Brexit, expected to be a key battleground in the poll, in his statement.

Explaining her change of heart on an early election, Mrs May said "the only way to guarantee certainty and security for years ahead is to hold this election."

Mr Corbyn responded: “I welcome the Prime Minister’s decision to give the British people the chance to vote for a government that will put the interests of the majority first.

“Labour will be offering the country an effective alternative to a government that has failed to rebuild the economy, delivered falling living standards and damaging cuts to our schools and NHS.

“In the last couple of weeks, Labour has set out policies that offer a clear and credible choice for the country. We look forward to showing how Labour will stand up for the people of Britain.”

Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron labelled the shock election as “your chance to change the direction of your country”.

Theresa May called a general election today which will be held on June 8
Jeremy Selwyn

He claimed his party, not Labour, could prevent a Conservative majority.

“This election is your chance to change the direction of our country,” said Mr Farron.

"If you want to avoid a disastrous hard Brexit.

Lib-Dem leader Tim Farron said his party could stop the Conservatives winning a majority
PA

"If you want to keep Britain in the single market. If you want a Britain that is open, tolerant and united, this is your chance.

"Only the Liberal Democrats can prevent a Conservative majority."

The Lib Dems have consistently called for a second referendum on the final Brexit deal Mrs May achieves after negotiations with the European Union, and want to keep the UK in the European single market.

Theresa May spoke outside 10 Downing Street

The Tories' 2015 general election victory saw the party gain several formerly Lib Dem seats in the south-west of England.

Green Party co-leader Caroline Lucas welcomed an early vote at a time when "Britain is at a crossroads" and said the people should be given a say over the country's future direction.

Jeremy Corbyn has welcomed the snap election
PA

She promised the Greens would present a "bold, positive vision for a different kind of Britain".

"At this election we will stand for an economy that works for everyone, not just the privileged few; a Britain that's open to the world and the protection of our precious environment," Ms Lucas said.

"We will stand up to the politics of hatred and division that is scarring our communities and give people across the country a chance to vote for a better Britain."

Her co-leader, Jonathan Bartley, said the announcement of a snap election, following a string of denials there would be an early vote, revealed a "deep dishonesty at the heart of government".

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