Labour Faces Tough Start Under Starmer as Local Election Results Highlight Sharp Decline

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Keir Starmer’s leadership of the Labour Party has faced significant challenges during its initial months, as an analysis of council election results reveals a sharp decline in the party’s performance. Since July 4, Labour candidates have secured only 53 of the 150 contested local authority seats, a steep drop from the 75 previously held.  

 

In contrast, the Conservative Party has improved its standing, increasing its seat count by 21 to 44. Reform UK, a relative newcomer to council elections, has also made gains, securing five seats. Labour's share of the vote has fallen markedly, dropping from 32.6% before the general election to 24.5%, according to data from ElectionMapsUK.  

 

Meanwhile, the Conservatives experienced a modest increase in their vote share, rising from 23.2% to 24.1%. Other parties have also benefited from Labour’s decline, with the Liberal Democrats climbing by 3.4 percentage points to 18% and the Green Party improving to 10%. Reform UK, which previously had limited presence in local contests, captured 6.7% of the vote.  

 

This decline follows what has been described as a tumultuous first five months for Starmer, despite his landslide victory in the general election. That victory, however, came with one of the lowest winning vote shares in history, setting a challenging backdrop for his leadership.  

 

Much of the backlash has centered around economic policies introduced under Labour's Chancellor Rachel Reeves. A controversial £40 billion tax increase, unveiled in her first Budget, has drawn criticism from various groups. Farmers have voiced frustration over inheritance tax changes, while pensioners have expressed anger at the removal of winter fuel allowances.  

 

Adding to Labour’s troubles is growing public discontent, with a parliamentary petition calling for a new general election nearing 2.8 million signatures.  

 

The local election results underscore the difficulties Starmer faces in maintaining public support while managing economic pressures and addressing voter concerns. With dissatisfaction rising, Labour must navigate a politically volatile landscape to regain its footing.

 

Based on a report by Daily Mail 2024-11-29

 

 

 

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