UK's Sunak admits defeat, acknowledges Labour's victory
Britain's Prime Minister and Conservative Party leader Rishi Sunak reacts as he waits for the declaration of results for Richmond and Northallerton in Northallerton, Britain, July 5, 2024. PHOTO: REUTERS
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak conceded defeat in the national election on Friday, saying the opposition Labour Party had won.
“The Labour Party has won this general election and I have called Sir Keir Starmer to congratulate him on his victory,” Sunak said after winning his parliamentary seat in northern England.
“Today, power will change hands in a peaceful and orderly manner, with goodwill on all sides. That is something that should give us all confidence in our country’s stability and future.”
On a humiliating night for Sunak, the Conservatives have so far only won 70 and were predicted to suffer the worst performance in the party's long history with voters punishing them for a cost of living crisis, failing public services, and a series of scandals.
"Tonight, people here and around the country have spoken and they're ready for change, to end the politics of performance, a return to politics as public service," Starmer said after winning his seat in London.
"The change begins right here ... You have voted. It is now time for us to deliver."