The announcement of an election by the British Prime Minister is a high-risk move Rishi Sunak on July 4, as the Labor party led by Keir Starmer is leading the polls significantly and has a strong chance of settling into Number 10 Downing Street after 14 years of Conservative government.

Speaking in the rain outside Downing Street, Mr Sunack said yesterday that it was “time for Britain to choose its future”, as he argued the Tories were the party people could trust in a time of global uncertainty.

Sunak’s announcement has alarmed Tory MPs, who are worried their party, which is 20 points behind Labor in the polls, could be deflated. In fact, some MPs are considering sending letters of censure, according to the Guardian.

Starmer looks set to become the next prime minister after the total facelift he achieved in the Labor party, which he reformed after the election debacle nearly five years ago.

In a televised message in front of union flags, the Labor leader he said that calling an election gives voters a chance to bring about change. “The future of the country is in your hands,” he said.

“On the 4th of July you have a choice and together we can stop the chaos, we can turn the page, we can start rebuilding Britain and changing our country,” Starmer said.

Sunak eventually decided to set a date for an election based on the narrative that the economy is improving. Earlier, speaking to the cabinet, he said falling inflation and developments on immigration would strengthen the Tories’ campaign message.

However, two cabinet ministers – Esther McVey and Chris Heaton-Harris – are said to expressed reservations for the date amid concerns that voters are unconvinced despite the improved outlook for the economy.

The housing secretary, Michael Gove, backed the prime minister’s decision, saying “whoever dares wins”. “And you dared, prime minister, and you will win.”

Speaking outside Downing Street, Mr Sunak said: “I hope my work since becoming Prime Minister shows that we have a plan and we are ready to take the bold steps that are necessary for our country to flourish. I have always been honest with you about what needs to be done and when that is difficult. I will not claim that we have done everything right. No government can, but I am proud of what we have achieved together, the bold actions we have taken. I am confident in what we can do in the future. The question now is how and whom you trust for a secure future for you, your family and our country.”

Sunak warned that the British people cannot believe any of Starmer’s promises.

“This election will be held at a time when the world is more dangerous than it has been since the end of the Cold War,” he said. “These uncertain times call for a clear plan and bold action to chart a path to a secure future. You have to choose in this election who has this plan.”

Senior Conservative Party figures then spoke to Tory MPs, who were told the party must retain as many of the votes it won in 2019 as possible, arguing it was the best option at a time of global instability.

Sunak attended a campaign rally in London on Wednesday evening and will campaign across the country in the coming days.