The results of the next general election are not a “foregone conclusion” according to Rishi Sunak, after his party’s slate of defeats in the local elections.

The prime minister was speaking off the back of analysis of the results conducted by Sky News which indicated the country was heading towards a hung parliament.

This forecast, however, does not account for Labour now being the most popular party in Scotland, nor does it recognise that people are less likely to vote for an independent or small party in a Westminster election when compared to council seats.

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Speaking from a charity in north London, Mr Sunak said: “Well, the independent analysis shows whilst of course, this was a disappointing weekend for us, that the result of the next general election isn’t a foregone conclusion and indeed actually is closer than the situation is closer than many people are saying.”

Mr Sunak also paid tribute to the almost 500 Tory councillors who were unseated over the weekend, as well as West Midlands mayor Andy Street.

“Well, obviously disappointing to lose Conservative councillors and a fantastic mayor for the West Midlands in Andy Street,” the prime minister said.

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“And I’m grateful to them for their public service and all their hard work.

“For my part, reflecting on it, I’m determined more than ever to demonstrate to the country that we are making progress on the areas that matter to them, and we are going to deliver for them.”

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