Pollster Sir John Curtice has revealed that Chancellor Rishi Sunak is unlikely to call a summer general election, contrary to Nigel Farage’s claims. The local election results are predicted to favour the Tories due to Reform UK’s limited presence. Sir John emphasised the significance of anti-Conservative tactical voting and shifts in party support in key strongholds. Farage had suggested a summer election, but Sir John pointed to Sunak’s plans for July flights to Rwanda as evidence against it. Speculation suggests a potential election date in autumn or early 2025 as the Conservatives seek to enhance their position, with Tory strategist Mark Littlewood stating that a November election announcement is more likely based on current polling and public sentiment. The decision may be influenced by the upcoming local elections and timing to optimise campaigning effectiveness.

Former Scottish First Minister, Alex Salmond, has urged the Alba Party to avoid future coalitions with the Scottish Greens as the Scottish National Party (SNP) looks for a new leader following Humza Yousaf’s resignation. Salmond criticised Yousaf’s removal of the Greens from government, implying that support from Alba could have bolstered Yousaf’s position. He expressed regret over Yousaf’s resignation, suggesting a different outcome could have emerged sans the Greens’ influence. Salmond cautioned SNP members to reflect on recent events during the upcoming leadership contest, emphasising the Greens’ impact on the SNP’s leadership and warning against coalition ties with them. Despite Salmond’s stance, some within the SNP have reservations about aligning with Alba, with MP Pete Wishart advising against letting Salmond shape government decisions. Yousaf, upon stepping down, emphasised his reluctance for power-retaining arrangements, indicating a potentially contentious period for the SNP ahead.