Phew...
It was a close call, but Labour did much better than the Conservatives (Tories) had planned. Because they both had around 40% share of votes, combined with Conservative failing to reach the 326 constituencies required to win, this has result in hung parliament.
It was a long night, as BBC declared that parliament was hung at roughly 6:30 AM UK time. Corbyn announced a few hours before that Theresa May should resign, due to her failure in this snap election (similar to David Cameron's failed EU referendum). As May has caused a second public failure for the Tories, it's likely that she's receiving a lot of pressure from the party to step down, before their image is destroyed any more.
It's unlikely that Labour and the Tories will form a coalition (shared government), there are many things that could happen, including that we may be getting a second election in the upcoming days. If we get a second election, I urge you to vote for Labour if you care about the internet (see my article about why).
What happens to the current Conservative party in power?
The BBC explains, that Theresa May will stay in power until we can get a new government in place:
In a hung parliament, the Conservative government will remain in office - and Theresa May can live in Downing Street - until it is decided who will attempt to form a new government or unless she decides to resign.
There are several things that could happen now:
- Theresa May could resign, handing over power to Corbyn, therefore declaring victory for Labour
- MPs may vote for a second election to be held
- A coalition could be formed between 2 or more parties (unlikely at this point)
- The House of Commons may vote no confidence in May, forcing her to hand over to Labour
- A minority government may be formed. This may cause issues when passing laws, for example Labour may need votes from the Lib Dems and Green Party before being able to pass a law.
The main deadline is the 13th of June, when May needs to convince the House of Commons she's capable, or she will resign.
The second deadline is the 19th of June, when the Queen puts the laws into power. By this point, we should know for sure which government is going to rule the UK.
It's been a hectic night, however it's looking unlikely that the Conservatives can stay in power. I predict that by the second deadline, May will have resigned, and Labour will be in power.