Labour is expected to suffer significant losses in its traditional London strongholds as the Green Party gains ground, a recent poll reveals ahead of the upcoming elections. According to YouGov’s MRP survey, Keir Starmer’s party is projected to maintain the largest vote share in 15 councils, a decrease of six from the previous borough elections in 2022.
In a notable shift, the Green Party, currently without control of any of the 32 London boroughs up for election on May 7, could emerge as the leading party in four local authorities long held by Labour, including Hackney, Lambeth, Waltham Forest, and Lewisham. Additionally, Nigel Farage’s Reform UK is poised to become the dominant party in three suburban councils – Bromley, Havering, and Barking and Dagenham.
The survey indicates that across London, Labour’s support stands at 26%, a drop of 16% compared to the 2022 elections, while the Greens follow closely at 22%. The Conservative Party holds 17% of the vote, the Liberal Democrats at 15%, and Reform UK at 14%.
YouGov’s findings suggest a significant shakeup in local government in London, with Labour facing the prospect of losing long-held councils. The survey cautions that the competition is fierce, with multiple parties vying for victory on May 7.
The projected outcomes show Labour leading in 15 councils, down from 21 in the previous local elections, with breakthroughs for the Greens and Reform UK, each expected to lead in four and three councils respectively. The Conservatives are forecasted to maintain the lead in five councils, while the Liberal Democrats are set to secure the most votes in four councils.
The upcoming local council elections on May 7 are expected to be challenging for Keir Starmer and Labour, with predictions of substantial losses nationally. In addition to the English elections, crucial voting will take place in Scotland and Wales, where Labour is facing difficulties in retaining power.
Labour’s London Mayor, Sadiq Khan, acknowledged the growing support for multiple parties among Londoners, emphasizing the importance of service over protest in public office. Khan urged voters to consider the achievements of the past 20 months under Labour leadership compared to previous years when deciding on their vote.