The announcement of a shock general election had the voters asking: Is this a high-stakes gamble? Why now?

And for the University – how can the collective expertise of our academics contribute to the debate?

The strength and depth of expertise at Hull’s Centre for British Politics meant academics were called upon from the off to provide expert analysis and commentary.

Dr Matt Beech, Director of the Centre for British Politics, appeared on the BBC World Service and Radio 5 Live. Speaking on the World Service he said the PM had chosen a “bright spot in a difficult premiership”. Whilst Radio 5 Live wanted a discussion on the sensitive and controversial subject of the suspension of Jeremy Corbyn from the Labour Party.

Lord Philip Lord Norton of Louth appeared on Vanessa Feltz’s LBC show to shed light on why it was important for MPs to join the House of Lords, arguing reform of how they join was needed.

Former politics students will be well aware and remember fondly the renowned Westminster placement scheme. Now running for 25 years, it is the largest of its kind in the UK and gives students unparalleled access to the Houses of Parliament.

With one week until the voters go to the polls, the University hopes to be able to engage with the latest cohort of students to further raise the profile of the School of Politics and International Studies to a wider audience.