British Prime Minister Faces Record Disapproval Amid Party Unrest
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has become the least popular prime minister in the history of UK public opinion polling, according to a new Ipsos sociological study reported by Sky News. The survey reveals that just 13% of the public approves of Starmer's performance as prime minister, while 79% express dissatisfaction, resulting in a net approval rating of -66 points. This represents the worst rating for any British government leader since polling began.
The previous record low was held by Conservative Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who registered a net approval rating of -59 points in April 2024. Other recent prime ministers who faced significant public disapproval include Liz Truss at -51 points in October 2022, Boris Johnson at -46 points in June 2022, and Theresa May at -44 points in June 2019. Starmer's current rating marks a significant decline in public confidence since taking office.
Internal party polling conducted by Survation between September 23-25 reveals growing discontent within Labour's own ranks. The survey of 1,254 party members showed that 53% want a new leader by the next election, while only 31% support Starmer remaining in position until then. Additionally, 65% of members believe Starmer is heading in the wrong direction, compared to 26% who support his current approach, while more than 60% rated his governance as poor.
The polling data emerges as both major parties face voter defection to Reform UK. According to Ipsos, just 22% of the public would currently vote for Labour in a general election, while 34% would support Reform UK. The surveys were released as the Labour Party began its four-day conference in Liverpool, highlighting the challenges facing Starmer's leadership amid declining public and party support.
