Countdown to Election Night in Britain

It has been over a decade since an opposition party emerged victorious in a general election in Britain. However, current opinion polls strongly suggest that this streak is on the brink of being shattered by the Labour Party. As the voting process draws to a close, here’s a comprehensive guide to what is expected to unfold tonight and in the subsequent days.

Anticipated Timeline of Results

The first crucial insight into the election outcome will be unveiled shortly after the polls close at 10 p.m. local time (5 p.m. Eastern). This unveiling will be marked by the release of the national exit poll by major British broadcasters. While historically accurate, there is always a slight chance of deviation from the final results.

Counting of the votes will take place overnight. Typically, the first few parliamentary districts conclude their counting within two hours of polls shutting, with the majority of districts projected to declare their respective winners by 7 a.m. local time (2 a.m. Eastern). Both Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his Labour counterpart, Keir Starmer, are expected to address the public following the declaration of results in their respective districts, likely after 2:30 a.m. local time for Mr. Starmer and after 4 a.m. local time for Mr. Sunak.

Post-Election Procedures

In the event of a clear win by the opposition, the transition of power would transpire swiftly and decisively. According to the Cabinet Manual, the incumbent prime minister and government would promptly resign if the election yields an overall majority for a different party. Subsequently, the leader of the winning party would be invited by the sovereign to form a new government. This transition is expected to take place on Friday morning.

As per customary practice, departing prime ministers traditionally partake in a final photo session with their families in Downing Street, serving as both their residence and workplace throughout their tenure.