London
The Conservative Party, in power in the United Kingdom for around 15 years, faces a challenging general election under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s leadership. Most polls predict the return of a Labour government for the first time since 2010. Over 4,000 candidates are campaigning for the July 4 election.
Polling suggests a Labour majority after more than a decade of Conservative rule under five leaders, including current PM Rishi Sunak. The Reform Party, led by Nigel Farage, is expected to improve its performance from the 2019 elections.
Economic stagnation, a housing crisis, the cost of living, immigration, and foreign policy concerns are key issues. The Institute for Fiscal Studies reports the worst income growth in generations. Britons have faced a cost-of-living crisis with rising prices and stagnant salaries.
Labour leader Keir Starmer has announced plans to reform the National Health Service, home-building system, and energy sector, with 7.4 billion pounds in tax rises promised. The Conservatives have promised 17 billion pounds per year in tax cuts, including reductions in National Insurance contributions.
Housing prices, rent hikes, and a lack of affordable new builds have caused a housing crisis. The number of temporary accommodations rose by 89 percent in the last 10 years. The Conservatives pledged to build 1.6 million new homes, while Labour aims to construct 1.5 million.
Health is another major issue. The NHS has 7.6 million people on waiting lists for treatment. The proportion of people waiting over four hours in Accident & Emergency departments has risen.
