Poll Shows Drop in Starmer's Popularity

A recent Ipsos poll indicates a decline in the public perception of UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and his cabinet, with 52% of respondents believing the country is heading in the wrong direction, compared to just 22% who feel it is on the right track. Starmer's net approval rating has dropped to zero, down from plus seven immediately after the recent general election, although he remains the most popular politician with equal favourable and unfavourable opinions at 38% each. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner's ratings have also dipped, with 33% favourable and 36% unfavourable opinions. The poll shows a slight increase in unfavourable views towards Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and Chancellor Rachel Reeves. Despite the declines, Gideon Skinner, senior director of UK politics at Ipsos, noted that Labour still enjoys a 'moderate honeymoon period' compared to the initial ratings of previous Conservative leaders. Overall, the findings suggest a growing public dissatisfaction that could pose challenges for the Labour government moving forward.