In a striking shift in public opinion, nearly two-thirds of voters now believe that Keir Starmer does not respect them, according to a new poll conducted by UCL Policy Lab in collaboration with polling firm More in Common. The survey interviewed over 7,000 people, revealing a significant decline in the perceived respectfulness of the Labour Party leader since he took office just over a year ago.
Voter Sentiment Shifts Dramatically
During the last general election campaign, 41% of the electorate felt that Starmer “respected people like them.” However, this figure has plummeted to just 24% a year later, with 63% now feeling the opposite. Notably, Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, is viewed more favorably on this front, with 33% of respondents believing he respects them.
This perception is having a tangible impact on Labour’s support base. Only 60% of those who voted Labour in the last election would do so again if an election were held tomorrow. Labour’s support is fragmenting, with 11% of its previous voters indicating a preference for Reform UK, 8% for the Liberal Democrats, and 4% each for the Green Party and the Conservatives. Additionally, 10% of former Labour voters remain undecided.
Reasons Behind the Decline
The decline in support is closely tied to perceived broken promises and policy reversals by the Labour government. Key issues include a failure to manage the cost of living and controversial changes to the winter fuel payment scheme. The UCL Policy Lab report suggests that these factors are eroding Labour’s standing among voters, particularly those who were first-time supporters in the last election cycle. Among these voters, only a third continue to support the party, while a fifth now favor Reform UK.
The concept of “respect” in politics has gained traction since the 2007/8 financial crisis, with the public increasingly desiring a government that stands up for ordinary people against powerful interests. Earlier research indicated a widespread belief that certain influential groups have been overly favored, either through intimidation or because they include government insiders. A popular move by the current government was the decision to raise the minimum wage by £1,400 in April, despite resistance from some business sectors.
In contrast, unpopular measures such as changes to the winter fuel allowance and disability benefits have exacerbated voters’ sense of being undervalued. These decisions highlight the perception that the interests of ordinary individuals are overlooked in political decision-making.
As the government seeks to regain its footing, it remains crucial for it to demonstrate alignment with public interests. While there is still time to rebuild trust, the electorate now questions who the government truly represents. The answers to these questions will be pivotal as Keir Starmer and his party navigate the political landscape moving forward.
Marc Stears, director of UCL Policy Lab, contributes this analysis based on recent polling data. He formerly served as the chief speechwriter for the UK Labour Party.
