>won't be known for sure
which would be consistent with "back channel inquiries" taking place ;-). Not saying it's the reason but...
Corbyn effed up their Remain positioning and looks dead in the water for it. Hence the election call. Libs could suck in votes from Conservatives and Labour on that issue. What are their usual score ? Low double digits? What's the downside, if they don't come of as amateurish by having Brussels disown the attempt?