UK: Leave cancelled for govt advisors, Johnson could call snap elections

Snap election has been on the table ever since PM Boris Johnson stepped into No 10 Downing Street. As of Friday, Boris Johnson's chief of staff cancelled leave for government advisers until 31 October. This has led to speculation that snap elections could be in the offing.

The email read that no one none should be booked until 31 October, with compensation being considered for those who had already booked leave. The email, however, said that the weekends could be spent as they wished. The mail also read that serious work needed to be done between now and October 31.

Johnson has refused to rule out the possibility of a general election after October 31 to force through a no-deal Brexit if he loses a no-confidence vote in the Commons.

Johnson's has promised to take Britain out of EU by October 31 with or without a deal. Apart from this, him visiting various corners of UK, a promise of infrastructure spending in traditionally Labour-voting areas and a new campaigning expert as his adviser has led to speculations that there could be snap elections.

It is not clear if anti-Brexit MPs in parliament would be able to swerve a general election. Decisions in Johnson's government are being taken by core circle of aides, led by senior adviser Dominic Cummings. “We’re making sure that we are practically ready if a poll does come this autumn,” said a Conservative MP.

Also, election-friendly announcements are being made like policies being announced, such as dropping the cap on the most high-skilled visas, reviewing pension arrangements for public sector workers, plus a significant cash injection for hospitals.