On May 28, 2024, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak visited Churchill China in Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent as part of the Conservative general election campaign. He assured that the city would remain a priority even if some levelling up funds are redirected to the proposed National Service scheme. This scheme, estimated to cost £2.5 billion a year, would either involve compulsory armed forces service or community volunteer work for 18-year-olds.

Sunak stated that Stoke-on-Trent would continue to benefit from other levelling up initiatives despite the potential winding down of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) in 2028. The city received £9.5 million from UKSPF for various community projects and was recently granted another £20 million for local regeneration efforts, including the restoration of Burslem Indoor Market.

Political candidates from both Conservative and Labour parties are focusing on Stoke-on-Trent in the upcoming general election on July 4, 2024, with Labour candidate David Williams vying for the Stoke-on-Trent North seat currently held by Conservative Jonathan Gullis.

Simultaneously, on the same day, Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves visited Rolls-Royce in Derby. When asked to describe her political stance, Reeves identified as a “social democrat.” She emphasized her commitment to strong public services and economic security for all working individuals. Labour’s strategy includes prioritizing economic growth, supporting businesses, and maintaining a balanced relationship with the European Union. Reeves’ visit underlined Labour’s plans to rejuvenate the British economy with a focus on local entrepreneurship and international trade.