This is why Labour might not back Johnson’s call for a general election

If you’re confused about Labour general election policy, don’t worry – you’re not the only one.

After months of calling for a general election, the party is now saying it might not support Boris Johnson if he announces plans for an election this week, the thing most people were positive that the party wanted the most.

Why are Labour considering blocking Johnson’s potential plan to announce an election?

Although the government has suggested it will hold an election on 14 October – leaving enough time for a new government to seek an extension or revoke Article 50 – the prime minister could actually change that date after parliament has agreed to a national vote.

That could mean setting the election date for 1 November, after thhe 31 October Brexit deadline and leaving parliament unable to stop the UK crashing out of the EU with a no-deal.

Former Conservative chancellor Philip Hammond admitted this morning that some anti-no-deal Tory MPs are worried about this outcome.

So last night, Labour MP Mary Creagh explained that her party would not vote for a general election until the threat of no-deal Brexit is removed.

And because they believe Johnson can’t be trusted to stop no-deal, MPs will have to make sure their legislation is in place before an election is called.

Like everything else about Labour’s Brexit policy, it doesn’t make for a good soundbite even if it does ultimately make sense.

Another complication is Johnson might not even be able to call an election on Wednesday if rebel MPs succeed in taking control of parliamentary business today.

Labour's plan has received a mixed reaction – with some accusing the party of flip-flopping on their election pledge and others praising them for not taking Johnson’s “bait”.

If Johnson was trying to play a "trick" on parliament, he's been found out very quickly.

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