Election 2015: Leaders embark on last ditch whistle-stop tours

Britain’s political leaders will each today embark on whistle-stop tours covering thousands of miles across the UK as they enter the final leg of the 2015 general election. David Cameron and Ed Miliband are planning to travel to dozens of marginal constituencies in a last-ditch attempt to break the deadlock in what is proving to be the most unpredictable political race for a generation. Polls still do not have either of the biggest two Westminster parties on track for a majority – leaving open the possibility of a scrap for Government on Friday with talks about coalitions or other types of Westminster deals.

I would simply appeal to them and say, honestly this is a risk that is no longer a protest, but like a suicide note.

Iain Duncan Smith, the Tory party’s work and pensions secretary, used some forceful language aimed at those considering backing UKIP

The Prime Minister has repeatedly said his party needs “just 23” seats for a majority – and will try to press home the point during a 36-hour tour starting this morning. He will travel 1,300 miles covering the Midlands, South West, North West, London, Wales and Scotland, with his wife, Samantha, and London Mayor Boris Johnson, joining him along the way. The Conservatives are desperate to win back votes from wavering supporters considering voting for the Lib Dems or flirting with Nigel Farage’s party. Meanwhile, Ed Miliband will be focusing on the NHS - an area in which he believes his party is seen as more popular than the Tories - and the cost of living, during his own tour of the country.

Politics election