Lord Ashcroft: “It would be very funny if he didn’t get in” – My latest focus groups
Lord Ashcroft's recent focus groups revealed mixed sentiments among Labour voters regarding potential leadership changes. Many expressed skepticism about Keir Starmer's future as leader, while others questioned the viability of alternative candidates. Overall, participants felt that a new leader might not significantly alter the party's trajectory or public perception.
- ▪Participants in focus groups were from various constituencies, including Barking, Lewisham, Newbury, and Carshalton.
- ▪There was a general belief that Keir Starmer's departure as Labour leader was inevitable due to lack of support within his party.
- ▪Andy Burnham was viewed as a more credible candidate by some, but concerns about his approach were also raised.
- ▪Angela Rayner faced skepticism regarding her tax clearance, with participants highlighting perceived double standards.
- ▪Many felt that changing the leader would not lead to substantial changes in the Labour party's direction.
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| Canonical URL | https://conservativehome.com/2026/05/26/lord-ashcroft-it-would-be-very-funny-if-he-didnt-get-in-my-latest-focus-groups/ |
| Publication time | Tue, 26 May 2026 12:00:20 +0000 |
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Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC is an international businessman, philanthropist, author and pollster. For more information on his work, visit lordashcroft.com My latest focus groups took place in Barking, where we heard from Labour voters tempted by Reform; Lewisham, with Labour voters tempted by the Greens; and Newbury and Carshalton, where we heard from Lib Dem voters who switched from the Conservatives in 2024. “We’re just going to get the circus that we had with the Tories” Most in our groups thought Keir Startmer’s departure as Labour leader was inevitable before very long: “If so many people in his party turn against him, how can he stay there? Who’s he got there to support him?” “I think about twelve months ago it was obvious he would never see the next election.” However, by no means…
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