Reform UK Leads YouGov Poll at 24% as Labour Slumps to 16%
Reform UK has surged to the top of the latest YouGov voting intention poll with 24% support, leaving Labour trailing in third place on just 16% as the governing party faces mounting pressure ahead of May's local elections.
The YouGov poll, conducted on 6-7 April 2026 and published this week, shows the Conservatives in second place on 19%, with the Green Party matching Labour on 16% and the Liberal Democrats on 13%. The figures represent a significant challenge for Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has insisted he will not resign even if Labour suffers heavy losses in the May elections.
Key Developments
The poll comes as Labour prepares for anticipated significant losses in local elections scheduled for 7 May 2026, which include a swath of councils and elections for the Scottish and Welsh Parliaments. Reform UK is expected to make substantial gains, and the Green Party is also projected to inflict considerable damage on Labour.
A separate poll suggested that 16 out of 22 Labour Cabinet ministers could lose their seats if a general election were held now — 12 to Reform UK, three to the Green Party, and one to an independent candidate.
Background
Starmer's public approval rating has been consistently low, with his net approval falling to an average of –46% by November 2025. The Mandelson scandal, which led to the resignations of his Chief of Staff and Director of Communications in February 2026, has continued to dog his premiership.
Internal party tensions are also evident, with both Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham perceived to be positioning themselves as potential successors. A Labour councillor in Camden has publicly urged residents to vote Green in the upcoming local elections.
Why It Matters
The polling data reflects a dramatic fragmentation of the British political landscape, with five parties now competing seriously for votes. YouGov has begun reporting separately on Restore Britain and Your Party due to their consistent support levels, indicating the emergence of an even more fractured electorate.
What's Next
The State Opening of Parliament, including the King's Speech, is scheduled for 13 May — six days after the local polls — which could offer Starmer a chance for a political reset. The government is also implementing new cost-of-living measures, including a National Living Wage increase to £12.71, which came into effect on 1 April.
Full polling data available at YouGov.
