Labour Party surges in popularity with a 30-point lead over the Conservatives in a recent YouGov poll, while facing internal challenges over the controversial admission of former Tory MP Natalie Elphicke.
Labour has surged to a 30-point lead over the Conservatives in the latest YouGov poll, achieving a 48% to 18% difference in voter support, the largest gap since the era of Liz Truss. This development comes as Keir Starmer, the Labour Party leader, navigates internal challenges, notably the controversial admission of former Tory MP Natalie Elphicke into the Labour ranks. Elphicke, known for her right-wing views and her defense of her ex-husband during his sexual assault trial, has sparked discord within Labour, with some members and shadow cabinet figures expressing displeasure.
Tensions heightened further with the treatment of Elphicke compared to veteran Labour MP Diane Abbott, who remains suspended. Labour Chair Anneliese Dodds defended the party’s decision to accept Elphicke based on her alignment with key Labour issues such as border security and housing, while also emphasizing the ongoing independent investigation concerning Abbott.
The controversy extends to Elphicke’s recent activities, having issued a leaflet criticizing Labour policies just a day before her defection. Her acceptance into Labour has led to criticisms of Starmer’s commitment to addressing violence against women and girls, a significant aspect of his leadership platform.
Meanwhile, the broader political landscape shows multiple Conservative MPs, including high-profile figures such as Nadhim Zahawi and Theresa May, choosing not to run in the upcoming general election, signaling potential major shifts in the UK’s political scene. The public’s apparent confidence in a forthcoming Labour majority contrasts starkly with concerns over the Conservative Party’s future direction and leadership, as reflected in the dire poll standings.
