The Conservatives are more trusted than Labour to handle the economy after a slump in the UK’s performance since the Government took power last year, a new poll has shown.
The survey carried out for The i Paper by BMG Research found that the Opposition had gained a slim lead on which party is backed by voters on the issues of the economy and security.
But Labour remains in front in some other key areas including the NHS, education, housing and crime. Meanwhile Reform UK is the public’s preferred party on immigration and the Greens are favoured to tackle environmental policy.
The poll is the latest confirmation of a highly divided electorate, with no party gaining the support of more than around a quarter of voters on any one policy area.
For each of the 19 issues raised by BMG in the poll, at least 24 per cent of those surveyed responded that “none of the above” could be trusted to handle it correctly.
On the economy, the key issue which is often thought to decide general election results, 22 per cent of respondents backed the Tories with 21 per cent favouring Labour.
Sir Keir Starmer’s party held a solid lead over the Conservatives on the issue between the Liz Truss “mini Budget” and ensuing market panic and the general election in July 2024.
Leader of the Conservative Party Kemi Badenoch (Photo: Leon Neal/Getty Images)Economic growth has been flat since Labour took power, while inflation has been rising in recent months, although the Government is hoping for a boost this week with the Bank of England likely to cut interest rates on Thursday.
Rachel Reeves’s growth speech last week was largely well received by businesses and MPs, although some Labour insiders have expressed concerns that the policies she announced may not make a significant impact on most people in time to rescue the party’s popularity.
Former chief economist at the Bank of England Andy Haldane has warned that Reeves’ growth plan is “unlikely to work”. He claimed she must put more focus on local growth missions and helping older people stay in work for longer.
The poll was carried out on Tuesday and Wednesday, partly before and partly after the speech.
The areas where Labour is still seen as the best party include healthcare, education, welfare, crime and energy policy.
On immigration, 25 per cent of voters think Reform UK is the best party, with no other party getting as much as 20 per cent. Nigel Farage’s outfit is also the most popular on the issue of EU relations.
Asked which party would be best at looking after the environment, 27 per cent of voters named the Greens – well ahead of any other party. Reform, which is sceptical about the push for net zero, was backed by just 12 per cent.
A separate poll by Opinium found that the cost of living is the most important issue facing the country, with 63 per cent of voters naming it as a top priority. Energy bills and food costs are the main worries, according to the survey.
BMG Research interviewed a representative sample of 1,514 GB adults online between 28-29 January 2025. BMG Research is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules.
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