The Conservative Party faces significant challenges, with poll ratings plunging to their lowest since Liz Truss’s resignation. The Labour Party is projected to win a substantial majority in the next General Election, while internal calls for unity emerge amid discontent.
The Conservative Party in the United Kingdom is currently facing significant challenges, reflected by their lowest poll rating since Liz Truss resigned as Prime Minister. A YouGov poll indicated only 19% of voters support the party under the leadership of Rishi Sunak, projecting them to win a mere 36 seats in the upcoming General Election. In contrast, the Labour Party is on course for a substantial majority of 398 seats. The Reform party, led by Richard Tice, has also seen a notable increase in support, trailing the Conservatives by just four points with 15% of voter support.
The decline in support for the Conservatives is partly attributed to former Conservative voters in the Red Wall area, citing immigration as a significant reason for their disenchantment. Additionally, dissatisfaction with the party’s performance since 2019 and criticism towards Prime Minister Rishi Sunak are prevalent concerns. Internal tensions within the party were highlighted by MP Sir James Duddridge’s call for unity and loyalty among party members.
In a separate political development, Brian Rose, a former Wall Street banker, has announced his intention to run for London mayor, marking his second bid for the position. Rose, advocating for a non-establishment leadership, focuses on freedom of speech, blockchain technology, and the privatisation of Transport for London. He is among 12 candidates, including incumbent Sadiq Khan, competing in the election set for May 2.
Meanwhile, Health Minister Dame Andrea Leadsom has refuted claims of major divisions within the Conservative Party concerning Sunak’s leadership. Although acknowledging discontent from a minority within the party, Leadsom emphasised unity and support for the Prime Minister from the majority of Tory MPs. Amid speculations and media scrutiny, Sunak has called for unity ahead of the local elections in May, with Leadsom suggesting a possible general election in autumn and stressing the importance of party cohesion.
These developments highlight a period of upheaval and change within the Conservative Party and the broader UK political landscape, underscored by declining public support and internal challenges.
