UK Election 2017 highlights: Let's get to work, says Theresa May after meeting the Queen

Brexit talks must end in 2018: EU commissioner

German EU commissioner Guenther Oettinger has turned the timetable screws even more on Britain, saying negotiations on its exit from the European Union must actually be finished by October 2018, instead of March 2019, to allow the 27 remaining nations to approve the deal.

AP

No time to lose to start Brexit talks: EU’s Tusk tells May

European Union President Donald Tusk took time to write British Prime Minister Theresa May in the wake of the elections.

“Our shared responsibility and urgent task now is to conduct the negotiations on the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union in the best possible spirit, securing the least disruptive outcome,” he wrote.

He said, in the letter, that the March 2019 deadline left them with no time to lose to begin the talks on Brexit.

'No time to lose' on Brexit talks warns @eucopresident, President of the EU Council. Here's the letter: pic.twitter.com/mVGzNGtsFQ

— Robert Nisbet (@MrRobertNisbet) June 9, 2017

Theresa May should resign: Nicola Sturgeon 

Scottish National Party leader Nicola Sturgeon said that the Conservative Party’s “reckless” approach to Brexit should be abandoned.

Speaking on Friday after Theresa May lost her majority in Parliament, Sturgeon said the prime minister had “lost all authority and credibility,” and should resign.

AP

.@NicolaSturgeon warns hard #Brexit "must be abandoned" & urges MPs to help her keep UK in single market https://t.co/CVzlEK3svs #GE2017 pic.twitter.com/XPvlimUi9G

— BBC News (UK) (@BBCNews) June 9, 2017

PM Theresa May vows to lead Britain forward at "critical time" for country https://t.co/8xOR0yPeRE #bbcelection #GE2017 #hungparliament pic.twitter.com/Jf30HlzkPY

— BBC Breaking News (@BBCBreaking) June 9, 2017

Theresa May confirms plans to stay on as Britain’s prime minister 

After a brief meeting with Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace, May said the new government will guide Britain’s exit talks from the European Union, which are set to begin in just 10 days.

Standing in front of 10 Downing Street, May said her Conservatives and the DUP will work together to “fulfill the promise of Brexit.”

AP

Now, let’s get to work: Theresa May

I will form a government to "provide certainty and lead Britain forward" - Theresa May https://t.co/8xOR0z6PJc #bbcelection #GE2017 pic.twitter.com/GPFYj5GxH5

— BBC Breaking News (@BBCBreaking) June 9, 2017

Theresa May leaves Buckingham Palace

After spending about 15 minutes with the Queen, Theresa May has left the Buckingham Palace, The Guardian reported.

May is due to give a statement in Downing Street soon.

Theresa May leaves Buckingham Palace after meeting with the Queen https://t.co/8xOR0z6PJc #bbcelection #GE2017 #hungparliament pic.twitter.com/5alYfzGiXL

— BBC Breaking News (@BBCBreaking) June 9, 2017

Theresa May leaves Downing Street to meet the Queen at Buckingham Palace https://t.co/8xOR0z6PJc #bbcelection #GE2017 #hungparliament pic.twitter.com/536Nidw9kq

— BBC Breaking News (@BBCBreaking) June 9, 2017

The count for UK election's last seat in London's Kensington will resume at 6pm (1pm ET) after two failed attempts https://t.co/crHxLUKcMm pic.twitter.com/epJoAznXG0

— CNN (@CNN) June 9, 2017

Prime Minister Theresa May arrives at Buckingham Palace to meet queen

AP

Theresa May leaves Downing Street to meet the Queen at Buckingham Palace https://t.co/8xOR0z6PJc #bbcelection #GE2017 #hungparliament pic.twitter.com/536Nidw9kq

— BBC Breaking News (@BBCBreaking) June 9, 2017

Theresa May has lost all authority and credibility: Scottish National Party leader Nicola Sturgeon  

AP

Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron says Theresa May’s ’extreme’ vision of Brexit was rejected by the British people.

AP

Here’s what the new political map looks like

With Kensington left to declare, here's how the political map of Great Britain now looks.

Con: 317 (-12)
Lab: 261 (+29)
SNP: 35 (-21) pic.twitter.com/HNyrsY7FVk

— Britain Elects (@BritainElects) June 9, 2017

The seats that changed hands - coloured according to the winning party - in the 2017 general election.

[GB only; Kensington yet to declare] pic.twitter.com/rg3v5ooW2B

— Britain Elects (@BritainElects) June 9, 2017

Nigel Farage may return as UKIP leader

With Paul Nuttell resigning as UKIP leader, it may be upto Nigel Farage to return to the helm for a fourth stint, The Telegraph reported.

European Union president Donald Tusk wants Brexit talks to start soon

We don't know when Brexit talks start. We know when they must end. Do your best to avoid a "no deal" as result of "no negotiations". #GE2017

— Charles Michel (@eucopresident) June 9, 2017

UKIP has a bright future despite poor show, insists Paul Nuttall

UKIP may have won just the one seat in the elections, but the party has a “bright future”, said party leader Paul Nuttall. BBC reported that Nuttall also resigned as UKIP leader, leaving Pete Whittle as the party’s sole leader and Assembly member.

Tories’ deal with DUP official

DUP’s deal with the Conservatives is now official, and with help from 10 MPs the Northern Ireland party brings, Tories can cross the magic figure of 326.

Theresa May to meet Queen today to stake a claim to power

As leader of the largest party in the House of Commons, British Prime Minister Theresa May will meet the Queen at 12.30 pm local time, and will stake her claim to forming a government.

We don't know when Brexit talks start. We know when they must end. Do your best to avoid a "no deal" as result of "no negotiations". #GE2017

— Charles Michel (@eucopresident) June 9, 2017

So good Brexit rejected: Former Labour foreign secretary

Wow. So good Labour stronger. So good Brutal Brexit rejected. So good next generation realized the stakes and spoke up.

— David Miliband (@DMiliband) June 9, 2017

EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier says Brexit talks should begin when UK is ready

#Brexit negotiations should start when UK is ready; timetable and EU positions are clear. Let's put our minds together on striking a deal

— Michel Barnier (@MichelBarnier) June 9, 2017

Theresa May pays a heavy price for a political blunder

In the big book of political blunders, Theresa May’s decision to hold a snap election to solidify her Brexit mandate will rank among the most memorable — and the most unnecessary.

The British prime minister was cruising along two months ago with a solid majority in Parliament and several years to run on her party’s mandate. There was no need for her to put her position on the line, and she had said earlier that an election was not needed.

But her party’s huge lead in the opinion polls — 20 percent in most cases — made the prospect too tempting to pass up.

At the time, it seemed to make sense. Her main opponent — Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn, known for his left-wing views — was stumbling from mishap to mishap, unable even to muster solid support from his party’s own lawmakers. May seemed virtually certain to add to her party’s strength, win a mandate in her own name (not just as a stand-in for her disgraced predecessor, David Cameron) and gain five years to negotiate a deal on exiting the European Union without facing a pesky national vote in the middle.

So she flung the dice — and marched off a political cliff.

After Thursday’s vote, May’s Conservative Party still has the largest number of lawmakers, but lacks a parliamentary majority. It may well be able to form a minority government in the coming days and weeks, but the prime minister’s ability to cling to the keys of Number 10 Downing Street is very much in doubt, and her stated goal of unifying the country behind her ahead of the upcoming Brexit negotiations with EU leaders is utterly out of reach. — AP

Kensington keeps parties waiting, another recount expected

There’s still no result in West London’s Kensington seat despite two recounts. The Conservatives have said they will not concede the polls, instead keep asking for further recounts, according to the BBC. As such, there’s going to be a third recount, which will take place in the next day or two. But before that can happen, the officials would need to find replacement staff for the count, and may even need another venue.

DUP’s support may come at a cost for Conservatives

Arlene Foster, leader of Northern Ireland’s DUP, has hinted she expects British Prime Minister Theresa May to stand down. “It will be difficult for her to survive given that she was presumed at the start of the campaign, which seems an awfully long time ago, to come back with maybe a hundred, maybe more, in terms of her majority,” she told BBC Radio Ulster. “Now we’re in the position we find ourselves in tonight, so it will be an incredibly difficult evening for her.”

Foster said any discussions about an informal agreement with the Scottish National Party would be taken over the weekend. “It’s too soon to say what we are going to do yet, we need to see the final make-up of parliament and we need to reflect on that,” she said. “There will be contact made over the weekend but it is too soon to work out what we are going to do.”

Jeremy Corbyn ‘ready to serve’ Britain

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has stood by his earlier demand seeking Prime Minister Theresa May’s resignation, saying he is “ready to serve” his country. He also said the Brexit negotiations will have to go ahead, and that he wants a “job first Brexit”. According to The Guardian, Corbyn said delaying negotiations is out of Britain’s hands. He also repeated his call for Theresa May to resign, and said it was pretty clear Labour won the election on a “strong and hopeful” programme.

Northern Ireland’s DUP may offer Conservatives support of 10 MPs

The Democratic Unionist Party, which has 10 MPs in Northern Ireland, may offer support to the Tores, which could help give the party a wafer-thin majority. This could also be a boost for Prime Minister Theresa May, who may get to retain her post. But it will be an uncomfortable alliance, given the narrow margins.

For children unfamiliar with the British electoral process, here’s a handy guide

What is a hung Parliament? Here's our guide for kids that adults definitely 100% won't need 😉 https://t.co/H4TnNMGS5b#GE2017 #BBCElection pic.twitter.com/iK0I47wTjX

— BBC Newsround (@BBCNewsround) June 9, 2017

Sadiq Khan congratulates Labour for a ‘positive night’

Delighted that London led the way in a positive night for Labour. #GE2017 https://t.co/EMYcp8Obat

— Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) June 9, 2017

BBC reports that Prime Minister Theresa May is unlikely to resign

Break - PM has no intention of resigning - working to form a govt based on being largest party in seats and votes

— Laura Kuenssberg (@bbclaurak) June 9, 2017

The phenomenon of a minority government looms

If neither Conservatives nor Labour is able to conjure together the numbers required to cross the 326 figure, they can technically form a “minority government”, but it will be unable to pass legislations or laws without support of the other parties. For example, Labour could be a minority government with Jeremy Corbyn as prime minister — but would likely require the votes of the Scottish National Party and Liberal Democrat MPs to get things done.

More realistically, however, to get the Liberal Democrats, Scottish National Party, UKIP, Plaid Cymru, and the Democratic Unionist Party on the same page regarding legislation will be a near impossibility.

Theresa May gambled on snap polls, but failed to do an Indira or Thatcher

When Theresa May took what she thought was a bold decision in April this year to call for elections long ahead of schedule, and opinion polls then predicted a landslide victory for her Conservative Party, there was a general feeling that she was carving a path just as Indira Gandhi and Margaret Thatcher had done before her.

Why then has May failed where Thatcher or Gandhi succeeded? It could be because when Gandhi or Thatcher called for early elections by a year, they had already been in power for four years and had taken some policy decisions and implemented certain astute programmes that had captured the imagination of the voters. Voters had no hesitation in reinforcing their faith and hope in these leaders.

But May had been in office for just around 10 months when she called for elections. She had not taken any major decisions during this period to capture the attention of the voters. Throughout this period, she was largely preoccupied with setting in motion the process of Britain’s withdrawal from the European Union, as mandated by the British citizens in a referendum last year.

To read more, click here

And now for a footballing metaphor

How will Northern Ireland help provide kingmaker in British elections

Results from Northern Ireland are coming in, and it looks like 10 seats for the Democratic Unionist Party and seven for Sinn Féin, the latter still boycotting Westminster. This leaves the DUP in a very strong position, and could potentially help form the next government.

Will May’s tough Brexit stance hurt Tories?

Since Theresa May’s Conservatives emerged the single largest party in the House of Commons, the prime minister will get first shot at stitching together a coalition. However, given her tough stance on Brexit, she may find it hard to secure allies ready to back her.

Nigel Farage blames Theresa May

Article 50 had been triggered and we were on our way. May has put all this in jeopardy. Even David Davis is now making Brexit concessions.

— Nigel Farage (@Nigel_Farage) June 9, 2017

Will Theresa May resign?

British Prime Minister Theresa May called for snap elections three years ahead of schedule, but failed to consolidate the Conservatives’ majority in Parliament. With Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn already asking for her ouster, the pressure may be on her to step down. But will she? There has been no indications from Downing Street yet.

Theresa May can’t renegotiate Brexit for Britain, says Labour leader Ed Miliband

We know Theresa May can't now negotiate Brexit for Britain because she told us losing majority would destroy her authority---and it has.

— Ed Miliband (@Ed_Miliband) June 9, 2017

What happens if no one wins the election?

According to BBC , it is possible for the Labour Party to form the government in this case with the support of other parties.

In case of a hung parliament, the Conservative government remains in office until it is decided who will form the new government or unless Theresa May decides to resign.

The Labour Party does not need to wait for May to exhause all her options to form a government.

And even though there is no deadline, the government is expected to be formed by 13 June, which when the new Parliament meets for the first time.

If you've just woken forget that "strong & stable government. Britain's voted for a hung parliament. PM's survival in doubt @BBCr4today

— Nick Robinson (@bbcnickrobinson) June 9, 2017

Theresa May loses overall majority in British parliament: AFP

#BREAKING British PM May loses overall majority in British parliament: results

— AFP News Agency (@AFP) June 9, 2017

PM Theresa May says Conservatives will ensure much-needed "stability" for Britain as the party reels from a string of losses pic.twitter.com/LBIx3HK1EI

— AFP News Agency (@AFP) June 9, 2017

Jeremy Corbyn, the firebrand symbol of Britain’s resurgent Left

Labour’s hard-left leader Jeremy Corbyn has repeatedly beaten the odds in his long and colourful political career and he appears to have done so again with an unexpectedly strong result in Britain’s national election.

A 68-year-old socialist stalwart who has never held major office, Corbyn began his election campaign as rank outsider — a status he turned to his advantage — and experts said the results mean internal party rumblings against his leadership will be toned down.

Drawing comparisons to Bernie Sanders in the United States, Corbyn on the campaign trail railed against the establishment and harnessed public angst over Prime Minister Theresa May’s leadership in turbulent times. — AFP

British Prime Minister Theresa May should step down after losses for her Conservative Party in election, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn says pic.twitter.com/bhjXvNeDJF

— AFP News Agency (@AFP) June 9, 2017

Tories bag 302 seats, Labour at 256

Can Labour mount a challenge with support from smaller parties?

Though Conservatives have a handy lead over the Labour, it’s the latter that can boast the support of smaller parties like the SNP and the Liberal-Democrats. This may be a shot in the arm for Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn.

Record number of female MPs, with 192

The Press Association has reported that there are now 192 female MPs in the British House of Commons, which is a record high, one more than the 191 number achieved in 2015. That again was a big improvement on the 2010 figure, when only 143 out of 650 MPs were women.

Tories may let PM Theresa May continue, but ask her ’to soften approach’

BBC has reported that the word from Tories’ headquarters may be to ask Prime Minister Theresa May to soften her approach, or to adopt a more inclusive working style, as it has been felt that her reach is limited to a tiny group of close aides. BBC political editor Laura Kuenssberg wrote that the PM is “famed for her stubbornness”, which could have worked against her.

UK gets its first woman Sikh MP, as Preet Kaur Gill wins from Birmingham

Labour Party candidate Preet Kaur Gill has won from the Birmingham Edgbaston seat, defeating Conservative rival Caroline Squire.

Conservatives eye absolute majority of 326

An incredible late surge by Theresa May’s Conservatives has given the party a firm advantage heading into the home stretch. The party has now 294 seats, with 40 still to be counted. The magic figure of 326 needed to pull off an absolute majority is looking a realistic possibility once again for PM May.

Will Theresa May be among shortest serving British PMs of all time?

If the Conservatives don’t manage to retain their majority in the House of Commons, Theresa May could be forced to resign as Prime Minister. barely 11 months after taking office. This could be the shortest stint of a British PM in nearly a century, since Bonar Law in 1922.

Late surge gives Tories 282 seats heading into home stretch, Labour at 240

A late surge from the Conservatives has given the party 282 seats, giving the party a solid 40-seat advantage over Labour which has 240. Until recently, the latter was enjoying a 20-seat lead of its own.

Conservatives riding anti-Independence tide across rural Scotland

Though the SNP is on course to have the largest number of Scottish seats, its Westminster party is now completely hollowed out. Salmond and Robertson losing indicates the Conservatives rode the tide of pro-Brexit and anti-independence sentiment across rural Scotland, according to The Guardian.

Alex Salmond loses Gordon, another major setback for SNP

Former Scottish National party leader Alex Salmond has lost his Gordon seat, the second major setback for the SNP, after Angus Robertson lost from Moray. The Conservatives now have 10 Scottish seats, and are likely to demand SNP drops its quest for a second independence referendum. Speaking after his defeat, Salmond said his parliamentary career had been “the privilege of my life". “I’m grateful for these times. For the activists in the SNP who have made the many electoral successes possible,” he said, adding that “the public had not seen the last of him”.

Theresa May’s grip on power in doubt as British polls head for stalemate

British voters punished Theresa May for her electoral gamble by denying her the resounding mandate she wanted to strengthen her hand in Brexit talks, casting doubt over her premiership and raising the prospect of a deadlocked parliament. May unexpectedly called the snap election seven weeks ago to increase the slim majority she had inherited from predecessor David Cameron before launching into arduous divorce talks with the European Union, set to start in just over a week.

To read more, click here

Nicola Sturgeon calls election a ‘disaster’ for Theresa May

Scotland National Party leader Nicola Sturgeon has claimed a victory for the SNP, saying losses were inevitable given the high watermark of 2015 when it went into the election with just 11 seats. “One of the biggest issues tonight UK-wide is the fact this is a disaster for Theresa May. She called this election…tonight she has had an absolutely disastrous performance,” Sturgeon said, adding that she said she was “not going to make any rash decisions at 4am in the morning”.

Press Association predicts Conservatives to tip the scales

As of 4 am local time, the two parties were locked in a dead heat with 218 seats apiece. With 165 seats still to be counted, Press Association still predicts Conservatives to tip the scales at 325 seats.

How British newspapers covered the UK elections

Election night headlines in Britain pointed on Friday to looming political turbulence and an uncertain future for Prime Minister Theresa May. “Britain on a knife edge,” headlined the pro-May Daily Mail, while the conservative The Sun described the situation as “Mayhem,” saying there was fear of a “coalition of chaos” led by the opposition Labour party.

To read more, click here

SNP leader Angus Robertson loses Moray seat; Sturgeon admits SNP has ’lot of thinking’ to do

Counting day is getting worse for the Scottish National Party, which has seen Angus Robertson lose from Moray. The seat had been a key target for the SNP in Scotland. Speaking from Glasgow, SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon said the result will be a “big loss” for the party. She explained there is “clearly uncertainty” around Brexit and Scottish independence, which played a factor in the party’s performance. She added that the SNP has a “lot of thinking to do”. Sturgeon also stressed that this is still the second-best result the SNP has enjoyed in a Westminster election.

What happens if there is a hung Parliament?

If no party manages to cross the magic figure of 326 required to have a majority in the House of Commons, the incumbent prime minister — in this case, Theresa May — stays in office until it is decided who will attempt to form a new government.

The Telegraph has put together a detailed report on the possibilities in case there is a hung Parliament. To read the full report, click here

Huge honour to be elected from Maidenhead, says Theresa May

After clinching her victory from Maidenhead constituency, prime minister Theresa May said, “It is a huge honour and a privilege to be elected as the MP for this constituency. I pledge that I will continue to work for all my constituents. As we look more widely across the country, returns are still coming in. We are yet to see the full picture emerging. This country needs a period of stability. If the Conservative Party has won the most seats, it will be incumbent on us to deliver this period of stability.”

Theresa May reelected from Maidenhead

Prime Minister Theresa May won 37,718 seats, to retain her Maidenhead constituency, even as questions over her future as leader of the Conservative party and her position as British PM continued to circulate.

Voters have had enough of cuts in public expenditure: Corbyn

Jeremy Corbyn made his acceptance speech on Thursday, after being elected as MP from Islington for the ninth time. “This election was called in order for the prime minister to gain a larger majority to assert her authority. The campaign has gone on for the past six weeks, I have traveled all over the country, and politics has changed. Politics is not going back into the box where it was before. Voters have had quite enough of cuts in public expenditure, underfunding in the NHS and in our schools. I am proud of the results that are coming in tonight across the country — voting for hope in the future and turning their backs on austerity,” he said.

Our campaign changed politics for the better: Corbyn

Whatever the final result, our positive campaign has changed politics for the better. pic.twitter.com/EHLta2rnIW

— Jeremy Corbyn (@jeremycorbyn) June 9, 2017

Jeremy Corbyn retains Islington seat

Labour’s Jeremy Corbyn has retained his Islington seat by a massive margin, winning 40,086 votes as against second-placed Toby Clarke of Conservatives who got 6,871 votes.

Pound takes a pounding

As the possibility of a hung Parliament looked increasingly likely, analysts warned this is the “worst possible outcome for Britain”. Even as reports were still coming in, the Pound Sterling fell sharply. It fell over 1.5 percent, to $1.27 following the poll. Against the Euro, the Pound plummeted over 1 percent to 1.13 euros.

Former Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg loses

Ex-Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg defeated as MP for Sheffield Hallam, losing to Labourhttps://t.co/jpy6wse1Rp #BBCelection #GE2017 pic.twitter.com/v9kI9UNNfS

— BBC Breaking News (@BBCBreaking) June 9, 2017

How punters got the vote all wrong

In the Brexit referendum and the 2016 US presidential elections, betting markets and punters all got the outcome wrong. But they seem to not have learnt their lesson. Ahead of the 2017 Britain snap election, markets were again confident Theresa May would retain her majority. But the status quo was wrong yet again.

So how did it all go wrong for the punters yet again? To read more, click The Economist’s coverage  here

Jeremy Corbyn is all smiles as he arrives at the counting centre

"A beaming Jeremy Corbyn arrives at his count... smiling like a Cheshire Cat"https://t.co/YMVJP13SGk #GE2017 pic.twitter.com/OeQxnsIT3q

— BBC News (UK) (@BBCNews) June 9, 2017

Brexit becomes tricky with exit polls predicting a May lose

Theresa May is now facing questions over her judgment in calling the election three years early, risking further upheaval as Britain negotiates a complicated exit from the European Union, the first country to leave the bloc.

“It if turns out as the exit polls are suggesting then Theresa May is going to have no parliamentary majority or a tiny one,” said Professor Tony Travers of the London School of Economics.

“It is exactly the opposite of why she held the election and she then has to go and negotiate Brexit in that weakened position.”

Pound falls sharply post exit poll predictions

The pound fell sharply amid fears that the Conservative leader will be unable to form a government and could even be forced out of office, after a troubled campaign overshadowed by two terror attacks.

The exit poll published as voting closed late Thursday projected May’s party could fall from 330 to 314 seats, short of an overall majority in the 650-seat House of Commons.

The main opposition Labour party, led by leftist Jeremy Corbyn, was on course to increase its number of seats from 229 to 266, according to the joint exit poll by Sky, the BBC and ITV.

Exit poll points to no clear winner

Theresa May spectacularly lost her electoral gamble, according to an exit poll that suggested her Conservatives would fall short of a majority in parliament, throwing her Brexit plans into disarray.

The exit poll predicted the Conservatives would win 314 seats in the 650-member parliament and the leftist opposition Labour Party 266 — a “hung parliament” with no clear winner.

May unexpectedly called the snap election seven weeks ago to increase the slim majority she had inherited from predecessor David Cameron and strengthen her hand before launching into arduous divorce talks with the European Union, set to start in just over a week.

Exit poll points to no clear winner

Theresa May spectacularly lost her electoral gamble, according to an exit poll that suggested her Conservatives would fall short of a majority in parliament, throwing her Brexit plans into disarray.

The exit poll predicted the Conservatives would win 314 seats in the 650-member parliament and the leftist opposition Labour Party 266 — a “hung parliament” with no clear winner.

May unexpectedly called the snap election seven weeks ago to increase the slim majority she had inherited from predecessor David Cameron and strengthen her hand before launching into arduous divorce talks with the European Union, set to start in just over a week.

Who will win — Theresa May or Jeremy Corbyn?

Will May make a comeback?

Theresa May was criticised for a lackluster campaign and for a plan to force elderly people to pay more for their care, a proposal her opponents dubbed the “dementia tax.” As the polls suggested a tightening race, pollsters spoke less often of a landslide and raised the possibility that May’s majority would be eroded.

After the terror attacks in Manchester and London, which killed 30 people and forced the suspension of campaigning, security became the focus of the debate.

In her final message to voters, May appealed directly to the undecided, urging them to support her in negotiating the best deal for Britain as it leaves the European Union.

AP

A woman rides her horse into the driveway of a house set up as a polling station in the UK general election near #Reading, west of London pic.twitter.com/twpzZ5dnXD

— AFP News Agency (@AFP) June 8, 2017

A mobile library is used as a temporary polling station in Trecwn, Wales, Britain. 

Reuters

Election had not gone as expected

Voter Rachel Sheard, who was casting her ballot near the site of Saturday’s attack in London, said the election had not gone as expected.

“They wanted this election to be very much a kind of Brexit vote and I don’t think that’s in the hearts and minds of Londoners at the minute, (not) nearly as much as the security is,” said Sheard, 22. “It was very scary on Saturday.” 

AP

Poll puts Conservatives on 44%, Labour on 46%

An Ipsos MORI poll for the London Evening Standard on Thursday put the Conservatives on 44 percent and Labour on 36 percent, a wider lead than they had a week ago but not win the landslide foreseen when May called the election seven weeks ago.

“The Conservatives had a wobble last week, but have regained a clear lead in the last few days,” said Gideon Skinner, head of political research at Ipsos MORI.    

Reuters

Suspicious package found

Police have briefly closed off an area of London near Charing Cross station after a suspicious package was found.

The Metropolitan Police said on Thursday the incident was not related to terrorism. The package turned out not to be a threat.

There have been increased security patrols throughout London since the attack on London Bridge Saturday night, and security has been stepped up in the run-up to the election.

326 is the magic number of seats Theresa May and Jeremy Corbyn need to form a majority in House of Commons #GE2017 https://t.co/vIvfVZ5oHZ pic.twitter.com/pA9cSdbNFZ

— AFP News Agency (@AFP) June 8, 2017

#fightsatpollingstations 🗳https://t.co/N3rrTsVvzc #GE2017 pic.twitter.com/YbAJWRzI2A

— BBC News (UK) (@BBCNews) June 8, 2017

Theresa May and Jeremy Corbyn tweet urging people to come out and vote. 

Your vote will help secure a stronger economy & a brighter future for Britain. Make sure you head to the polling station before 10pm tonight pic.twitter.com/c76YiQ76K7

— Theresa May (@theresa_may) June 8, 2017

I will lead a government you can rely on. Labour will build a Britain that works #ForTheMany, not the few. #VoteLabour pic.twitter.com/HzBmTEjpcl

— Jeremy Corbyn (@jeremycorbyn) June 8, 2017

Opinion polls predict Conservative lead, but not a landslide victory

A flurry of opinion polls on Wednesday gave Theresa May’s Conservatives a lead ranging between one and 12 percentage points over the main opposition Labour Party, suggesting she would increase her majority – but not win the landslide foreseen when she called the election seven weeks ago. 

A smiling May did not speak to media as she and her husband Philip voted in the village of Sonning on the River Thames in her Maidenhead constituency.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn grinned broadly and gave the thumbs-up to reporters and party workers as he voted in Islington, north London.

“I’m very proud of our campaign,” he said.

Reuters

Polls open amid heavy security

Polling stations across Britain opened for national elections amid heightened security Thursday as one senior police official said the country was living through “unprecedented times” following a series of terror attacks in recent weeks.

Authorities asked people to be alert and report any concerns to police as voters choose 650 lawmakers for the House of Commons. Atrocities near Parliament, a Manchester concert venue and London Bridge have left Britain on high alert, with the official threat level at severe, the second-highest rating, indicating an attack is “highly likely.”

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Lucy D’Orsi of London’s Metropolitan Police Service acknowledged security concerns surrounding the election.

“We appreciate that these are unprecedented times and together with our partners we continue to keep communities safe,” D’Orsi said.

AP

Britain’s Liberal Democrats leader Tim Farron arrives to cast his vote in the General Election at a polling station at Stonecross Manor Hotel in Kendal, England on Thursday. 

AP

As millions cast their ballots in a key poll, AFP examines the British political system #GE2017 pic.twitter.com/0aOBNkUlbC

— AFP News Agency (@AFP) June 8, 2017

Who is likely to win?

When the campaign started, the Conservatives were as much as 20 points ahead in opinion polls. More recent surveys still point to victory for May — but not necessarily the landslide she seeks.

The latest opinion polls vary between a solid Conservative lead and a dead heat, with projected outcomes ranging from a Conservative majority of more than 100 to a “hung Parliament,” in which no party has a majority.

The difference depends largely on the predicted size of turnout among young people, traditionally the least likely to vote.

Polls are open from 7 am until 10 pm (0600GMT to 2100GMT) on Thursday, and results should be known in the early hours of Friday. 

AFP

.@Theresa_May​ votes in her constituency of Maidenhead and is greeted by a life-sized Elmo. #GE2017 pic.twitter.com/WvTlP9VOTI

— RT UK (@RTUKnews) June 8, 2017

Jeremy Corbyn – Liberal Democrats leader

In the opposition red corner is the Labour Party’s Jeremy Corbyn, a 68-year-old socialist who was elected leader by party members two years ago — to the chagrin of many Labour lawmakers, who wanted a more centrist chief.

Critics say Corbyn, an advocate of nationalization and other old-left policies, embodies an outdated vision the party left behind during the “New Labour” years of Prime Minister Tony Blair. Supporters see him as a refreshingly authentic alternative to the pro-business, budget-cutting Conservatives. Here’s what he promises to achieve on key issues.

Immigration: Jeremy Corbyn’s party has made no pledge to reduce immigration, saying in its manifesto that it “believes in fair rules and reasonable management of migration”.

Brexit: The party will accept Britain’s departure from the European Union, but will fight to retain benefits of the single market, vowing in its manifesto not to leave the bloc without a deal.

Terrorism: Corbyn has promised to fund an extra 10,000 police officer jobs. He said more community policing will increase.

Theresa May – Conservative leader

In the blue corner — traditional color of the Conservative Party — is Theresa May, a 60-year-old lawmaker known in her party as a quietly effective operator. A former advocate of remaining in the EU, she now promises to press forward with Brexit, taking Britain out of the bloc, reducing immigration and forging a new relationship with the UK’s European neighbors. Here’s what her stand has been on key issues.

Immigration: May has promised that Britain will end freedom of movement with European citizens following Brexit.

Brexit:  May has already outlined her negotiating demands, saying she will seek a departure from the European Union’s single market and an end to free movement of people.

Terrorism: “I’m clear: if human rights laws get in the way of tackling extremism and terrorism, we will change those laws to keep British people safe,” May said. She has said “enough is enough” and vowed to clamp down on extremism, even if that means watering down human rights laws.

Who are the contenders?

In Britain’s one of most crucial general elections, the country will be be choosing its leader who will steer it through the Brexit negotiations. In a Tory vs Labour war, adds are favouring Conservative Theresa May. However, Labour Jeremy Corby is perceived to be the strongest Labour contender in recent times.

Follow this space for the profiles of all the key candidates.

Jeremy Corbyn casts his vote

Jeremy Corbyn, leader of Britain’s opposition Labour Party, arrives to vote in Islington, London

Theresa May casts her vote at Sonning, Berkshire

Britain: One country four nations

Britain, officially the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, is made up of four nations: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The kingdom comprises the island of Great Britain — surrounded by the North Sea, the Channel, the Irish Sea and the Atlantic Ocean — and the northeast part of the island of Ireland.

On polling day, Britons remember Emily Davison

‘Suffragate’ Emily Davison, who many believe fought for women’s right to vote was a controversial figure at best, as mystery surrounds her death, life and what she stood for. According to BBC History, “Davison was a militant suffragette who died after throwing herself in front of the king’s horse at the Epsom Derby.” However, many see her as a “an emblem of women’s emancipation,” as reported in The Guardian.  

Emily Davison's grave. She died #OTD in 1913 after a life dedicated to gaining votes for women pic.twitter.com/Qrbvyh6n7T

— Prof. Frank McDonough (@FXMC1957) June 8, 2017

Emily Davison died on this day. She died trying to garland the King's horse with a "Votes for Women" sash. Use the vote she died to win.

— Jo Maugham (@JolyonMaugham) June 8, 2017

Today is the 104th anniversary of the death of suffragette Emily Davidson.
Ladies, use the vote she fought to get for you.#Vote2017

— Mary-Anne Boermans 🕷️💙🦤 (@wotchers) June 8, 2017

Appeals to cast vote feature in traditional #ThursdayThoughts Twitter trend

Thought we'd share some pertinent #ThursdayThoughts for election day! pic.twitter.com/4Yjvhscjpb

— dentons (@officialdentons) June 8, 2017

Tweeples appeal to Britons to cast their votes

Ireland early bird voters face heavy shower

According to The Guardian , early voters in Northern Ireland braced bad weather to cast their votes.  Heavy showers, possibly hail and thunder was reported in many regions this morning, however, the bad weather is likely to moderate later in the day.

Punter bets £75,000 on Tory victory

According to a report in Mirror , “one brave Paddy Power punter placed a cool £75,000” bet on the Conservative party emerging as the single largest party in the poll outcomes. The massive bet was made at odds of 1/14, meaning a potential return of just over £80,000, the report said.

EU wary of Brexit talks walkout whoever wins UK vote

The EU is steeling for a possible collapse of Brexit negotiations whoever wins Britain’s increasingly close general election this week, officials and analysts say.

While many in Brussels still bet on Prime Minister Theresa May’s return to power, despite a fading poll lead, the real focus is on British threats to walk out when the talks start.

“A big punch-up or blow-up is not unlikely” after Brexit negotiations formally start, an EU source told AFP on condition of anonymity.

“A ’no deal’ is possible — absolutely.”

May and her Brexit minister David Davis have repeatedly warned that “no deal is better than a bad deal”, particularly when it comes to a 100-billion-euro exit bill that Brussels is demanding.

AFP

Asian shares flat as UK votes, ECB meeting loom

Asian stocks benchmarks were fairly steady Thursday as investors parsed economic data and awaited market-moving events in Europe, including Britain’s general election and a European Central Bank meeting. “MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan .MIAPJ0000PUS was little changed, through China edged up on unexpectedly solid trade data, while Japan’s Nikkei .N225 dropped 0.4 percent,” according to Reuters.

With no policy change expected, market players are focusing on how the central bank may alter its economic assessment and policy guidance in light of a strengthening euro zone economy.

A vote of ‘very little confidence’

It is the third time Britain has gone to the polls in two years, twice for a general election and once for the EU referendum, and voter fatigue appeared to be an issue among the early voters.

“I don’t think it has really been a campaign, we don’t know anything about what they are going to do about Brexit, it’s been pointless really,” said Joe Kerney, 53, at a polling station in Hackney, east London.

“I have little confidence in anybody,” added voter Simon Bolton, 41. “I think we lack quality in terms of who we can choose, it is very limited.”

AFP

Theresa May plays up Brexit negotiations, calls opponent Corbyn ‘chaos’ for Britain in polling day vote appeal

‘I remember how nerve-wracking election day can be’: David Cameron tweets best wishes to Conservative candidates

Very best of luck to all @Conservatives candidates today – I remember how nerve-wracking election days can be! #VoteConservative #GE2017 pic.twitter.com/j3ZzLEX3xR

— David Cameron (@David_Cameron) June 8, 2017

Singer Shania Twain’s concert interests more people on Google than election related news

Barely an hour after polling stations opened in Britain, more people were reading about Singer Shania Twain’s concert than about election related news. News of twain throwing a surprise concert in London topped Google trends, while election related keywords ranked at the third spot.

Britain bites back: #dogsatpollingstations trend reappears on Twitter

Of late, with the rise of the social media, British citizens have given rise to a unique trend by posting pictures of their dogs at the polling station. It’s now a staple part of any election or vote in the country since the general elections of 2015. The trend also reappeared during the EU referendum, and today it’s again doing rounds as Britishers walk their dogs to the polling stations. 

Decisions are made by those that show (p)up. Sprocket says VOTE! #dogsatpollingstations pic.twitter.com/aRIhQ2XJbF

— Roo (@mallocuproo) June 8, 2017

Google’s UK search page marks Britain elections with a Google Doodle

Terror attacks put national security to the top of the agenda

The deadly terror attacks just weeks ahead of the elections have pushed national security to the top of the agenda in Britain’s snap election, which anyway entailed high-stakes owing to the Brexit negotions facing the country. The key candidates have all vowed to take a tough stance in uprooting terrorism.

Theresa May, said “enough is enough” and vowed to clamp down on extremism, even if that means watering down human rights laws. Corbyn has promised to fund an extra 10,000 police officer jobs.

Conservatives urge people to exercise franchise, say ‘You know what to do!’

POLLING STATIONS ARE OPEN. You know what to do, #HackneyNorth: #VoteConservative!

— Amy Gray (@hackneyamyg) June 8, 2017

Meanwhile… Memes and GIFs take over the internet as Britain goes to poll

Rock that vote, British people. Rock that vote. #GeneralElection pic.twitter.com/jIT3jJmLhN

— Noah Mitchell (@noahrmitchell) June 8, 2017

This is our day. Our Chance. Our Win: Jeremy Corbyn’s last-ditch appeal to sway voters

This is our day. Our time. Our chance. Today, let's come together and #VoteLabour to transform Britain #ForTheMany, not the few. #GE2017 pic.twitter.com/AM8UOXlzk5

— Jeremy Corbyn (@jeremycorbyn) June 8, 2017

Voting begins in key general elections

It’s 7 am (EST) and the polling stations have opened as much remains at stake in the tight race competition. The outcome of the polls will determine who gets to negotiate Britain’s departure from the EU over the next two years, and the strength of mandate that the government will have in parliament for five years.

Labour Party leader Tim Farron makes last ditch appeal before voting begins

Tim Farron has launched a last-ditch plea for Labour voters to back the party in it’s strongholds, touring cities like including London, Bath and Oxford that have traditionally voted for the party, The Guardian reported_._

Who are the contenders in the high-stake elections

The main parties across the whole of Britain are the Conservatives (centre-right), led by Theresa May, and Labour (left), led by Jeremy Corbyn, followed by the Liberal Democrats (centre-left), the UK Independence Party (populist) and the Greens (left).

The Scottish Nationalists (left), Welsh nationalists Plaid Cymru (left) and four parties from Northern Ireland also won seats at the last general election in 2015.

Record number of people signed up to vote on deadline day

According to a report in Independent a record numbers of people registered to vote on the final day (Wednesday), with almost 600,000 names added to the electoral roll within 24 hours.

Britain’s election this year appears tighter than expected, as Brexit negotiations draw closer and threat from terrorism looms large over the country. Even polling experts — many of whom failed to predict the referendum vote to leave the European Union last year — are now wary of calling the outcome.

Brexit expected to dictate voting patterns

Brexit is expected to be the central factor behind voting patterns, including for the estimated 1.5 million Indian-origin voters.

The Liberal Democrats have been focused on their Remain-voting target seats, while the anti-EU UK Independence Party (UKIP) has stuck to its central  message of ensuring there is no back-tracking on Brexit.

Where do I go to vote?

Polling Stations are usually set up at public buildings and schools and the easiest way to find out your polling centre is by checking the election card that you may have recieved by post. You can also visit   About My Vote website to find out more details. Since the polling will start at around 7 am (EST) and remain open till 10 pm, there would be plenty of time to caste your vote.

Odds may favour May

The final pre-poll survey done by Comres for the Independent newspaper gives the Tories a 10-point lead over the Labour part.

Theresa May’s ruling Conservatives are on 44 percent, Labour at 34 percent, the Liberal Democrats at 9 percent, with far-right UKIP at 5 per cent, the Scottish National Party (SNP) at 4 per cent and the Green Party at 2 percent.Betfair, another leading bookmaker, also views the Tories as the odds-on favourite to winthe general election, with odds of 1/12.

Who is going to win?

Voters to seal fate of 650 MPs in UK general election

A total of 650 Westminster MPs will be elected, with about 46.9 million people registered to vote. Some votes have already been cast, through postal voting. A handful of seats will be declared by Thursday midnight, with the final results expected on Friday afternoon.

To form a majority in the House of Commons, one party must win 326 seats.

Polling to begin in an hour

Millions of people across the UK are set to vote in the general election under the two deadly terror attacks that rocked the country in the past three weeks. Voting will begin at 7 am UK time (11.30 am IST) in over 40,000 polling stations across the country, the BBC reported.

Counting will start once the voting ends at 10 pm (2.30 am IST).