The public has sent a clear message to Keir Starmer that he must address existing issues promptly. According to exclusive Deltapoll research, Labour stands at 20% in the polls, slightly behind Reform at 30%, with the Tories at 19%. Despite coming to power last year and achieving several milestones, Labour still has ground to cover in the polls.
The Prime Minister informed ministers this week that 2026 would mark a turning point for Britain, with significant policies set to be implemented the following year. These policies include enhanced neighborhood policing, removal of the two-child benefit cap, a freeze on rail fares, and a planned reduction in energy bills.
Leadership approval ratings present a challenging outlook for Downing Street, with the PM receiving a net score of -46. A substantial 70% believe he is not performing well, including over half (54%) of previous Labour voters. These numbers come ahead of vital upcoming local elections in May, including the Holyrood election in Scotland and the Senedd election in Wales.
Kemi Badenoch’s approval rating is at -9, with 19% unsure of her performance. Despite Reform’s lead in the polls, Nigel Farage maintains an approval rating of -4, with public trust issues surrounding his party on various matters.
Reform UK faces skepticism from 42% of the public regarding defense policies. Additionally, 50% express distrust towards the party on matters concerning the cost of living and the economy. On immigration, Reform UK is distrusted by 46% and trusted by only 40%. Similarly, on education, 43% show distrust compared to 35% trust, as Reform pledges to introduce a “patriotic school curriculum.”
Joe Twyman, Co-founder and Director of Deltapoll, remarked that the past year has been challenging for the Labour government and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. With potentially three and a half years until the next general election, Downing Street aims to reverse the current trend.
Looking back, Boris Johnson’s discussions about a third term as Prime Minister were three and a half years ago, emphasizing the fluid nature of politics. However, the longer public sentiment remains unchanged, the tougher the government’s task becomes in addressing public opinion.