The Times view on the general election: Battle Commenced

A rain-drenched prime minister called the July 4 election in front of No 10 late on Wednesday afternoon

TOBY MELVILLE/REUTERS

N

o prime minister trailing by 20 points in the opinion polls will relish the prospect of his electoral judgment day. Nor will many Conservative MPs be pleased that Rishi Sunak has hastened their date with destiny. But the reality is that their leader faced an invidious choice. Yesterday was perhaps the last possible moment for this ­government to head to the country on something like the front foot. Beyond July lies an uncertain political landscape dotted with dangers as well as opportunities. There was logic, therefore, in ending speculation that, over time, would have become only more of a distraction to governing.

Mr Sunak is like a commander assaulting a ­fortified hill: the mission is daunting but at least his line of attack is clear.