The Conservative Party is facing significant internal divisions and a potential electoral defeat, with Sir Alan Duncan warning of long-term damage. Polls suggest a major loss for the Tories, with Labour poised for victory. Key issues include immigration policy and the party’s stance on the European Convention on Human Rights.
The Conservative Party in the UK is currently facing significant challenges and internal divisions, with former minister Sir Alan Duncan warning that infighting could severely damage the party for more than a generation. This comes amid polling suggesting the party may secure fewer than 100 MPs in the next general election, with a potential defeat for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The polls indicate Labour could achieve a 154-seat majority, representing a substantial loss for the Tories compared to their 2019 performance. High-profile Conservative MPs, including Jeremy Hunt and Jacob Rees-Mogg, are at risk of losing their seats.
The party is also divided on issues like immigration policy and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), with Sunak indicating a willingness to leave the ECHR to implement his Rwanda policy. This stance has been criticized by opposition politicians, accusing the Prime Minister of prioritizing party factions over national interests. Additionally, the rise of the Reform Party and potential gains by the Lib Dems add to the uncertainty facing the Tories.
With approximately 17% of voters undecided, strategists hope to sway these ‘don’t knows’, who have previously leaned towards the Conservative Party, particularly in the southern regions of the UK. However, the party faces the challenge of appealing to both ‘don’t knows’ and Reform supporters, amid concerns of drifting voter support towards Labour and smaller parties. The looming election and the potential for a significant Conservative defeat underscore the urgency within the party to unify and present a compelling case to the electorate.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak’s recent comments prioritising border security over remaining in the ECHR have sparked debate within the Conservative Party and attracted criticism from Labour politicians. Some Tory MPs call for a commitment to withdraw from the ECHR, while others suggest a referendum on the matter. These developments highlight the contentious policy debates and internal conflicts within the party as they prepare for the upcoming general election and finalize their party manifesto.
