Labour Government Faces Growing Struggles One Year After Landslide Victory

One year after its landslide victory, the British Labour government under Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing significant challenges, including internal dissent, policy reversals, and declining public support. Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who has focused on fiscal discipline, experienced a highly publicized emotional moment amid backlash over welfare reform cuts, leading to a costly policy reversal and uncertainty about her future. Labour's difficulties are reflected in polling, where Reform UK leads slightly ahead of Labour, with voter dissatisfaction evident, especially among older demographics, while Labour retains strength among younger voters. The political landscape is further complicated by former Labour MP Zarah Sultana's formation of a new party alongside former leader Jeremy Corbyn, which could draw support from Labour and the Greens, particularly from left-leaning and younger voters. Despite some economic growth early in the year and trade deal successes, the government has struggled to boost business optimism, productivity, and job creation, with inflation and borrowing costs continuing to pressure household finances. These factors have contributed to a decline in Starmer's popularity and ongoing questions about Labour's direction and ability to govern effectively.