A recent study conducted by the Mile End Institute at Queen Mary University of London has revealed that the UK’s international policy positions, especially regarding Gaza and Kashmir, significantly influence voting patterns among ethnic minority communities in London. According to the survey, 60% of Pakistani and 42% of Indian Londoners consider a political party’s stance on these issues important to their voting decision.

The study further noted that British-Indian Londoners particularly exhibited stronger support for Rishi Sunak, marking notable backing for the UK’s first Hindu Prime Minister, from within this demographic. This support is seen as influential for the Conservative Party in key London constituencies such as Brent, Harrow, Ealing, and Hounslow.

Racial dynamics were also a highlight of the survey, revealing that 13% of ethnic minority Londoners had experienced racist incidents within the last two years. The findings additionally pointed out a pervasive mistrust towards institutions, with 82% of Caribbean Londoners viewing the Metropolitan Police as institutionally racist.

Despite these challenges, the survey indicated relatively strong support for the Labour Party in London, with a 52% approval rating, although the satisfaction with Sadiq Khan’s performance as mayor was lower across the board.

In a different context, addressing the Conservative Party’s local election setbacks, Rishi Sunak, who has been Chancellor of the Exchequer up until October 2022 and now the Prime Minister, was reported to be committed to dealing with the country’s key issues such as the economy and migration. He has planned several announcements, including welfare reforms, aiming to foster economic recovery. Despite criticism and discussions on the party’s future direction, Sunak remains determined to address the challenges ahead and influence the outcome of the forthcoming national vote.