2024 General Election

Polls predict total wipeout for the Tories – and Britain’s constitution makes it a real possibility

— Recent polls suggest the Tories could face a historic loss in the next general election, with projections showing a potential loss of 250 MPs, leaving them under 100 seats, and both the Prime Minister and Chancellor losing their constituencies.

2024 General Election

YouGov MRP model predicts a Labour landslide: What does it mean for the upcoming election?

— YouGov’s latest MRP model predicts a landslide victory for Labour in the upcoming general election, with a projected 154-seat majority and significant declines for the Conservatives.

2024 General Election

Labour’s economic plan is finally taking shape – but will it be enough?

— Labour’s surge in polls since 2022 prompts Rachel Reeves to unveil the party’s economic vision. Focusing on stability against Brexit and geopolitical challenges, she proposes “securonomics”, akin to Bidenomics but with smaller-scale ambitions.

UK Politics

Jeremy Hunt’s budget: The problem for Labour explained

— Jeremy Hunt’s pre-election budget prioritises short-term political gains, aiming to appease voters with key measures. However, this strategy delays crucial investment, sparking concerns about potential public service cuts. The budget also contains multiple traps for Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves.

Long-Read

How the failures of Brexit feed Radical Brexitism

— Brexit was expected to end the blame on the EU and foster political accountability. Yet, Brexiters like Truss, Anderson, and Braverman shift blame to globalism and wokeism, fuelling radical Brexitism, seeking new targets, and desiring to “smash the system.”

Budget 2024

Budget 2024: What to expect from Jeremy Hunt’s pre-election tax giveaway

— Jeremy Hunt faces challenges in delivering tax cuts before the election due to a weak economy and a reduced budget deficit. The political impact remains uncertain. Can the chancellor move the dial on the Tories’ grim polling?

UK Politics

What George Galloway’s win ‘for Gaza’ means for Labour’s standing with Muslim voters

— Labour’s loss in the Rochdale by-election to George Galloway, amidst candidate withdrawals and controversy, has had an impact on Muslim voter support. Galloway’s emphasis on Gaza raises concerns about Labour’s relationship with Muslim voters, sending a message to Keir Starmer.

COMMENT

Rochdale: How a special election in the UK became really special

— The by-election in Rochdale became noteworthy due to candidates’ controversies and its proxy for the Israel-Gaza debate, revealing societal divisions and neglect in the deprived area.

UK Politics

Speaker Lindsay Hoyle sparks chaos: Five steps to understanding why MPs stormed out of Parliament during Gaza vote

— Chaos unfolded in the House of Commons as Conservative and SNP MPs walked out during a Gaza ceasefire debate due to the Speaker’s decision to accept a Labour amendment – a procedural issue that eventually overshadowed the discussion on the conflict in Gaza.

UK Politics

Wellingborough and Kingswood by-elections: It’s never been this bad for the Conservatives, and it could still get worse

— The Tories’ by-election losses in Wellingborough and Kingswood reflect substantial shifts towards Labour amid a backdrop of resignations and controversies, dissatisfaction, particularly in economic stewardship and leadership, where Labour demonstrates strength.

2024 General Election

Labour scaling back its £28 billion green pledge will impact UK housing – and public health

— Too often government policy is not designed with the long-term in mind. Instead, short-term economic outcomes and political gains are prioritised – to the detriment of public health.

Children in Care

Have Conservative councils started placing more children in care each year than Labour councils?

— We investigated whether rates of children in care have been growing or falling across all English local authorities according to their party political leadership.

UK Politics

Four trends you’ll see in online election campaigns this year

— In the 2024 election campaign, TikTok gains prominence alongside traditional platforms. Parties use diverse digital advertising channels like Google and YouTube, focusing on specific demographics.

UK Politics

Labour’s £28 billion green investment promise could be watered down

— Labour leader Keir Starmer faces pressure over Labour’s proposed £28 billion yearly investment in green initiatives. Critics fear fiscal liability, while supporters argue for urgent climate action despite potential political backlash.

UK Politics

Should we believe Rishi Sunak’s hint that the election will be in October?

— Rishi Sunak has hinted at a general election in the second half of the year, giving the Conservatives time to narrow Labour’s lead. Sunak hopes for signs of economic recovery, with anticipated tax cuts in the spring potentially boosting the polls.

UK Politics

Steady ship: Labour maintains lead as Conservatives lag behind

— A recent YouGov survey indicates consistent support for the Labour Party, significantly ahead of the Conservatives. Labour also leads in voter preferences for the position of Prime Minister, with Keir Starmer surpassing Rishi Sunak.