Polling Blow for Starmer: Reform-Conservative Coalition Could Defeat Labour.

New survey reveals potential right-wing alliance would hold seven-point advantage over governing party

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer faces fresh political challenges as new polling data suggests a hypothetical alliance between Reform UK and the Conservative Party would secure enough support to defeat Labour in a general election.

The survey, conducted by Conservative peer Lord Ashcroft and first published in the Mail on Sunday, indicates that a “unite the Right” coalition would maintain a seven-point lead over the current governing party, despite polling lower than the combined individual support of both parties operating separately.

Cross-Party Support for Alliance

The polling reveals significant appetite for cooperation among right-wing voters, with 61% of Conservative supporters expressing willingness to back such a coalition arrangement. Reform UK voters show more measured enthusiasm, with 50% indicating they would support the alliance.

Former Conservative MP Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg has joined calls for the two parties to explore a formal agreement aimed at removing Labour from power. However, both Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch have publicly dismissed the possibility of striking any electoral pacts.

Reform UK’s Rising Influence

The polling comes during a period of sustained growth for Reform UK, which has been consistently leading national opinion surveys. The party received a significant boost last week when Danny Kruger became the first sitting Conservative MP to defect to Reform UK.

The East Wiltshire MP, who will now spearhead Reform’s preparations for potential government, declared his former party “over” following his switch. Kruger’s defection has intensified speculation about a broader exodus from the traditional center-right party.

Conservative Leadership Under Pressure

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch acknowledged the difficult position facing her party, describing the current period as “rough and bumpy” in the wake of Kruger’s high-profile departure. The defection adds to mounting pressure on the Conservative Party as it struggles to maintain relevance in Britain’s evolving political landscape.

The developments underscore the challenges facing traditional political alignments as insurgent parties continue to reshape the UK’s electoral dynamics.