- By Sam Francis and Nick Eardley
- BBC Politics
Rishi Sunak will say the UK “is at a crossroads” ahead of “some of the most dangerous years” in a pre-election speech to voters on Monday.
In a speech, the Prime Minister will argue that his “bold ideas” can “create a safer future” for Britons.
Labor said the Conservatives cannot solve the UK’s problems because “they are the problem”.
National polls put Labor up to 20 points ahead of the Conservatives in general election voting intentions.
Sunak is expected to argue in a speech in London that voters face a difficult choice about who will lead the country through “some of the most dangerous but transformative years” ever.
The prime minister is seeking to present himself as the best person to deal with the challenges following the general election – expected before the end of the year.
He will say he has “bold ideas” that can “create a safer future” for Britons and restore their “confidence and pride in our country”.
“I feel a deep sense of urgency because there will be more change in the next five years than in the last 30,” he said.
Sunak will promise to safeguard the UK against threats of war, a global rise in immigration and “those who seek to undermine our shared values and identities”.
And it will commit to capitalizing on the opportunities presented by technologies such as artificial intelligence.
He will say: “In the coming years, from our democracy to our economy, to our society – to the most difficult issues of war and peace – almost every aspect of our lives will change.
“How we respond to these changes – not only to keep people safe and secure, but also to seize opportunities – will determine whether or not Britain succeeds in the years to come.
“And this is the choice the country faces.”
Labor national campaign coordinator Pat McFadden said: “Nothing the Prime Minister says will change the fact that over the last 14 years the Conservatives have brought costly chaos to the country.”
He added: “The only way to end the chaos, turn the page and begin renewal is with a change of government.”
Downing Street argued that Sunak has a track record of delivering bold solutions, from furlough during the pandemic to the Rwanda scheme – which was first launched by Boris Johnson’s administration.
The prime minister sought to convince voters that Britain’s economic prospects are improving in a bid to reverse the Conservatives’ electoral fortunes.
Whether today’s appeal is enough to convince disheartened Conservative MPs – or voters – is another question.
Foreign Secretary Lord David Cameron argued on Sunday that it would be “absolutely right” for the general election to be held in the second half of the year to give voters time to see “the economic plan is working”.
Last week’s official figures showed that the economy grew 0.6% during the first quarter, ending a technical recession recorded in the last half of last year.
But Sunak has faced repeated setbacks – including the recent local election results. His problems were worsened by the defection of Natalie Elphicke in protest at her record on housing and banning small boat crossings of the Channel – the second MP to abandon the Tories for Labor in as many weeks.
