Subtle sign that can point out if Rishi Sunak is about to name an election

Rumours are swirling around Westminster that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is preparing to call a general election later today – and a clue on the No. 10 podium could provide a strong hint one way or another.

During today’s Prime Minister’s Questions the Scottish National Party’s Westminster leader asked Mr Sunak directly about the question on everyone’s lips. “Does the prime minister intend to call a summer general election or is he feart?” Mr Flynn asked.

Sunak repeated his frequent line that there would be an election in the second half of the year, which left open July 4 – the date which people are speculating will be the day of the election. While there is no indication so far that the general election will go ahead on this date, Downing Street has not quashed rumours.

There are some key indicators that an election announcement might be going ahead today, according to political analysts. There will also be a major clue visible on the podium outside No. 10 before Mr Sunak even steps up to speak.

In September 2019, now GB News Political Editor and presenter Christopher Hope said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, that then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson was signalling he would not call a general election as there was a Government crest on his lectern. When Mr Johnson did call an election on November 6, he appeared outside with a plain lectern with no government branding on it.

Today Mr Sunak’s press secretary told reporters in Westminster she was “not going to rule anything in or out.” But recent economic development may persuade the Prime Minister to call it as early as July 4.

The press secretary also highlighted positive economic news, with inflation falling. Mr Sunak earlier declared inflation was “back to normal” in what he described as a “major milestone” for the nation. It will also be welcome news for the Conservatives who faced a drubbing at the local and mayoral elections earlier this month.

No 10 has also refused to comment on claims that Mr Sunak might be calling a reshuffle, or that Jeremy Hunt could step down as Chancellor, further fuelling election rumours.

The latest possible date Mr Sunak could hold the next general election is on January 28, 2025. The Mirror has contacted Downing Street for comment.