British PM May calls early general election in UK

British Prime Minister Theresa May has called for a general election in the United Kingdom on June 8 to seek a stronger mandate in talks over leaving the European Union.

May said that she would go to the Parliament and ask for the national vote on June 8.

"We need a general election and we need one now," The Independent quoted May as saying from the steps of Number 10, Downing Street.

May said that she had reversed her position on an early vote to ensure stability during the Brexit negotiations.

"Last summer, after the country voted to leave the European Union, Britain needed certainty, stability and strong leadership, and since I became Prime Minister the Government has delivered precisely that," she said.

"Despite predictions of immediate financial and economic danger, since the referendum we have seen consumer confidence remain high, record numbers of jobs and economic growth that has exceeded all expectations," she added.

May further said that her government has delivered on the mandate provided by the referendum result.

May will have to secure a two-third majority in a vote to be held in the House of Commons tomorrow for the election to go ahead.