When Rishi Sunak became Tory leader, the party was 30 points behind Labour: that kind of deficit has historically been terminal for a political party. But since then, inflation has slowed, the Northern Ireland Protocol has been resolved and a deportation deal with Albania meant small boat arrivals fell for the first time on record. That Labour lead has fallen closer to 15 points; one poll last weekend put it as low as 11. A Keir Starmer defeat is now at least conceivable.
As one Labour party insider says: ‘Nice doesn’t win elections’
This is the context in which Labour has tried a new tactic: attacking the Prime Minister personally. ‘He is the Tories’ greatest single weapon,’ says one shadow cabinet member. ‘People see him as quiet, reliable and even impressive – even if they think his party is a smouldering wreck.’
Labour is seeking to play dirty in the run-up to May’s local elections.
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