Sir Keir Starmer’s approval rating plummets amid freebies controversy
Prime minister's approval rating dives after accepting £107,000 in freebies
Eighty days into his tenure following a landslide election victory, Sir Keir Starmer addressed the Labour conference in Liverpool as the first Labour prime minister in 15 years. This occasion, rather than being a triumphant victory lap, saw him already stumbling, burdened by controversies over the freebies he accepted as opposition leader and internal dysfunction.
A year earlier, Sir Keir enjoyed rock star-like adulation in the same conference hall, with staffers emotional as he made his pitch for leadership. On Tuesday, the reception was warm, but public opinion is cooling on the new leader. The enthusiasm and hope seen at last year’s conference, with Labour on the brink of power and Sir Keir leading in the polls, have given way to the harsh realities of governing.
New polling by Opinium shows the prime minister’s approval rating has plummeted 45 points to -26 since taking office, making him marginally less popular than his predecessor, Rishi Sunak. The controversy over accepting free clothes, holidays, and event tickets has significantly impacted public perception, with a YouGov poll indicating two-thirds of people believe it was wrong.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer mistakenly calls for the 'return of the sausages' instead of the hostages in Gaza during the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool.
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At the conference, Sir Keir aimed to realign his “mission-led” government and explain the short-term sacrifices he has warned about. His speech had three main parts. The first part detailed measures his government has initiated, such as setting up a new border security command, planning reforms, and launching Great British Energy for renewable power investment. The second part addressed “fixing the foundations,” acknowledging the tough decisions, such as cutting the winter fuel allowance, and reiterating that change will take time and be challenging. The third part sought to provide a vision of the country’s future if long-term decisions are made now, including higher economic growth, better living standards, reduced hospital waiting lists, safer streets, stronger borders, more opportunities for children, and clean British energy.
The speech was filled with rhetoric about “national renewal” and a government serving working people, but the announcements were modest for a government with a significant majority. Insiders suggest the inheritance from the Conservatives was worse than anticipated, making the chancellor’s job more difficult and delaying public service improvements until the end of the parliament.
Despite some public sympathy, Sir Keir has struggled with the cultural change he promised as opposition leader. His government aimed to restore trust in politics and heal the “wounds of trust” between voters and politicians. However, internal infighting and controversies over freebies have marred this vision.
Behind the scenes at the conference, the mood was defensive and somewhat deflated. Senior ministers and staffers privately admitted the “free gear Keir” controversy should have been addressed more decisively. One senior figure expressed frustration that the government had lost its focus, and Downing Street did not manage the situation effectively. Another insider mentioned that Sir Keir had been “upset” by the controversy, especially as it brought his wife Victoria into the spotlight.
There is also dissatisfaction regarding leaks from Number 10. Political operatives are agitated about pay cuts for backroom special advisers, while Sue Gray’s pay rise has put her above the prime minister’s salary. Despite this, Sir Keir values Ms Gray’s advice, and cabinet ministers speak highly of her role in linking departments and facilitating government operations.
The task after the conference is to eliminate distractions and refocus on the government’s missions. Although Sir Keir aimed to inspire voters with a vision of the future, he is weighed down by his promise to do things differently and the controversy over the £107,000 in freebies he accepted during the last parliament. This makes it challenging to promote a message of “change begins” when actions appear inconsistent with words.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Sky News reports that Labour’s victory is uniquely fragile due to the freebie row, highlighting the party’s need to focus on voters’ priorities despite ongoing distractions. (Read more)
- Yahoo Finance reports that Keir Starmer faces scrutiny over gifts, internal conflicts, and economic messages, threatening Labour’s momentum despite his mission-led government promises, which aim to redirect public service priorities. (Read more)
- Bloomberg reports that Keir Starmer’s Labour Party premiership is marred by controversies over donors, freebies, and feuding staff, undermining his mission-led government promise. (Read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why is Sir Keir Starmer’s approval rating dropping?
His approval rating has dropped due to rows over freebies and dysfunction in Number 10.
What were the main points of Sir Keir Starmer’s speech at the conference?
The speech focused on change beginnings, fixing foundations, and envisioning the country’s future.
Why are people upset about Sir Keir Starmer taking freebies?
Two-thirds of people in a YouGov poll said it was wrong for him to take free clothes, holidays, and tickets.
What challenges is Sir Keir Starmer facing as Prime Minister?
He is dealing with declining approval ratings, internal government dysfunction, and backlash over taking freebies.
How has the public’s perception of Sir Keir Starmer changed since he became Prime Minister?
The public is cooling on him, with his approval rating dropping significantly since taking office.
