‘That’s politics!’ – South Cambs MP speaks of her shock at Prime Minister Theresa May’s snap General Election announcement
Heidi Allen said she thinks the Conservatives will annihilate Labour in the 2017 General Election. - Credit: Archant
The MP for South Cambs has said she was shocked at Prime Minister Theresa May’s announcement to take Britain to the polls in a snap General Election on June 8.
Prime Minister Theresa May announcing the snap general election to be held on June 8. Picture: PHILIP TOSCANO/PA WIRE - Credit: PA
The Conservative leader made the announcement on the steps of Downing Street on Tuesday and, as the Crow went to press yesterday afternoon, the decision was expected to be approved by a vote in the House of Commons.
Conservative MP Heidi Allen has told the Crow she had no idea that the election would be called.
“I can’t believe it is happening,” she said.
“I was shocked because we just didn’t know it was happening. I was just checking my emails, and suddenly Twitter went bonkers.
“It’s not something I was expecting in my first two years in the job, to be honest.
“I hope people will see the hard work I have put in and will keep me as their MP.”
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The PM had previously denied a vote would be held before the next scheduled poll which had been due in 2020.
“I probably would have preferred the election in 2020,” said Mrs Allen.
“I suppose Theresa May decided to call it now because she’s ahead in the polls and can increase her majority while Brexit is happening.
“I know there are some people who are wondering if it will be a soft Brexit or a hard Brexit – that’s why keeping an MP like me would be important so we can continue working for our constituents.”
And when asked if she thinks it’s fair to call a vote when other parties may not have candidates already in the frame, she said: “That’s politics! It’s no different when you’re in business and you’ve got a good product and the competition haven’t. It’s never the right time for everybody.
“I think the Prime Minister will annihilate Labour.”
Mrs Allen also said that the early election would mean decisions like the boundary changes affecting Melbourn, Bassingbourn, the Mordens and surrounding areas would be pushed back until the 2022 election.
“Vote for me – I hope to be able to continue representing and working for everyone in South Cambs,” she added.
The Crow also approached North East Herts MP Sir Oliver Heald but he was unavailable for comment.
After the news, broke Sir Oliver tweeted: “Prime Minister calls General Election to secure the strong and stable leadership the UK needs.”
To register to vote, go to the website www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
