A new poll has shown the Conservative Party closing the gap on Labour in UK voting intentions, reaching its highest level of support since the 2024 general election. Source: independent.co.uk.
Conservative Support Rises
According to a YouGov poll published by The Times, the Conservatives now have a notable level of support — a two-percentage-point increase from the previous week.
This marks a significant improvement on the range the party had averaged over much of the past year.
Stronger Voter Base Among Young People
Among voters aged between 18 and 24, a notable share now intends to support the Conservatives — a figure that exceeds the combined support of the Liberal Democrats and Reform UK.
This shift suggests the party is gaining traction among younger demographics, a key area of political interest.
Labour Holds a Solid Lead
Labour remains ahead with a substantial level of voting intentions — a one-point drop from the previous poll.
While this is a slight decline, it still outperforms a previous level the party reached in the summer before Andy Burnham became prime minister.
Reform UK’s Support Fades
Reform UK is now in third place in the poll — a point increase from the previous week.
However, this is its lowest level since the general election, indicating a continued decline in its appeal.
Liberal Democrats and Greens Stable
Liberal Democrat support remains at a stable level, unchanged from the previous poll.
The Greens hold a stable level of support, unchanged from the previous poll.
Political Statements and Reactions
Following last week’s Budget, Kemi Badenoch said the fiscal event was ‘all about an election’ — a claim that has drawn attention.
Badenoch, however, challenged this, saying: ‘I actually think that they were preparing for one much sooner.’
She added that Burnham ‘just thinks about elections, doesn’t actually know how to run the country’ — a criticism that reflects broader political tensions.
What This Means
The poll shows a notable shift in public sentiment, with the Conservatives gaining ground in both overall support and among younger voters.
It also highlights a growing divide in how political leaders frame the role of elections — with Badenoch suggesting the Budget was a strategic move to boost electoral momentum.
While Labour remains the largest party in the poll, the narrowing gap suggests a more competitive political landscape.
The poll is the first since the Budget and provides a snapshot of public opinion at a critical moment in the political cycle.
Sources & further reading
Featured image: original publisher image. Via original publisher. Image source
