UK Prime Minister Theresa May announces snap poll on June 8

Move comes as a surprise as her govt hasn't even completed half its term

In what is being regarded as a sudden and unexpected move, British Prime Minister Theresa May has announced a snap general election in the UK.

In a statement at Downing Street on Tuesday, May said she was starting the process of calling a vote on June 8.

The move is unexpected as her government has not even completed half its term.

British law says a five-year term can only be cut short with Parliament's approval.

May took over as Britain's Prime Minister on July 16, 2016, replacing David Cameron who resigned following the British vote to break away from the European Union.

Details awaited