Zapatero confirms ealry election date

 

Despite denials from his office earlier in the day, Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero has announced that the country's General election will be held before the March 2012 deadline

The date has been named as the 20th of November.

The Prime Minister, who has been in office since 2004, has already ruled himself out of running for a third term in office in favour of PSOE party favourite, and cabinet veteran Alfredo Perez Rubalcaba.

Analysts have suggested that early election date may be part of a strategy to allow the PSOE to take advantage of recent improving poll results following months where the PP has been way ahead. The timing will also coincide with financial reports that traditionally show a growth in the economy and employment figures over the summer season.