Petition demanding UK General Election hits 2 million signatures
The petition has sparked debates across the country.
A petition calling for a UK General Election, accusing Labour of breaking promises, has reached 2 million signatures. The public voices frustrations over unkept pledges.
A petition calling on Sir Keir Starmer demanding a General Election in the UK has gained over 2 million signatures, highlighting public frustration with the Labour Government. The petition started on November 20, accuses Labour of failing to deliver on its promises from the last election.
The man behind the petition, businessman Michael Westwood, shared his disappointment over what he called a “betrayal” of voters. Speaking about the issue, he said, “The British public feels let down. The promises made before the election don’t match what’s been done since.”
The petition quickly gained momentum, thanks to social media shares, including one by Elon Musk, CEO of X. It reached the 2-million mark in just five days.
Mr. Westwood, who owns Britain’s “cheapest pub,” Wagon and Horses, believes the public is demanding change. His pub is known for offering pints as low as £2.30. He added, “People are tired. They’ve seen change happen in other countries, and now they want the same here. If we stand together, we can make a difference.”
The petition has sparked debates across the country. Kundan Bhaduri, a property developer at The Kushman Group, criticized Labour’s approach. He said, “Labour seems more focused on taxing success than helping businesses grow. It’s no surprise this petition grew so quickly.”
Political expert Vernon Bogdanor also weighed in. He explained that while petitions don’t have the power to force a General Election, they can push the government to address the issue in Parliament. “If enough people sign, it becomes an embarrassment for the government. Parliament will have to debate it,” he said.
The British public cannot directly call for an election through a petition. General elections are governed by the law, specifically the Dissolution and Calling of Parliament Act 2022.
The sitting government decides when to call an election, with approval from the monarch. Even if millions of people sign a petition, it can only create pressure, not enforce an election.
The petition reflects widespread disappointment. Labour won with just 34% of the vote, which means only about 20% of the total electorate actively supported them.
Low voter turnout, at just under 60%, adds to the frustration. Many believe this doesn’t represent the majority of the UK population.
