UK MPs to Debate General Election Petition

A petition calling for a fresh general election, initiated by pub owner Michael Westwood, has garnered nearly 2.8 million signatures and will be debated in Westminster Hall on January 6, led by Lib Dem MP Jamie Stone. The petition accuses the current Labour government, led by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, of failing to uphold pre-election promises. Despite its popularity, the debate will not trigger a new election as it will be held under a 'neutral' motion. Starmer has dismissed the petition, attributing the backlash to 'difficult' budget decisions and emphasizing that a significant portion of the electorate did not vote for Labour. The petition's visibility was boosted by endorsements from notable figures like Elon Musk and Michael Caine. Although the House of Commons believes most signatories are legitimate, concerns remain about verification of their residency status.