Labour leads poll as first week's momentum pays dividends

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, July 28, 2026

Labour has risen to 28% in a recent poll, overtaking other parties for the first time in over a year following Andy Burnham’s first week as prime minister and his government’s focus on cost-of-living policies. This surge coincides with ongoing investigations and controversies surrounding Reform UK and its former leader Nigel Farage, who recently resigned his parliamentary seat.

Labour has surged to the top of a recent voting intention poll for the first time in over a year, benefiting from a strong start to Andy Burnham’s tenure as prime minister. The weekly tracker conducted by the non-profit agency More in Common indicates Labour’s support rising to 28%, a four-point increase, while Reform UK and the Greens experienced declines to 24% and 8%, respectively.

The Conservative Party’s support remained steady at 22%, and the Liberal Democrats saw a modest rise to 12%. This shift comes amid a backdrop of mounting challenges for Reform UK and its leader, Nigel Farage, who has faced ongoing scrutiny and negative headlines in recent weeks.

Luke Tryl, UK director at More in Common, noted that despite Burnham being in office for just one week, momentum clearly favors the prime minister and his party. He attributed Labour’s poll gains in part to a "jam-packed week" of high-profile policy announcements and media appearances. Tryl suggested that Labour’s focus on cost-of-living issues may be resonating with voters, drawing support from across the political spectrum, including those previously aligned with Reform UK and the Greens.

Burnham’s early policy measures have included proposals such as a tax cut on energy bills, a cap on bus fares, and reductions in business rates for pubs and clubs. These initiatives have generally been well received, contributing to Labour’s improved standing.

In contrast, Reform UK has struggled amid allegations involving its leader and party finances. Farage remains under investigation by the parliamentary standards watchdog over a £5 million gift he received from crypto billionaire Christopher Harborne in the year prior to becoming an MP. The probe centers on whether this sum should have been declared under parliamentary rules. Additionally, questions have been raised about party funding from George Cottrell, a longtime aide to Farage with a criminal conviction for fraud in the United States.

The Metropolitan Police are also examining donations to Reform UK, focusing on two £250,000 contributions made by Britain Means Business shortly before the 2024 general election. These payments were channeled through a company controlled by the party’s deputy leader, Richard Tice. Reform UK has denied any wrongdoing throughout the investigations.

Farage resigned his parliamentary seat in Clacton earlier this month, triggering a by-election as the party seeks to move past the controversies. Meanwhile, Labour’s apparent rebound under Burnham’s leadership marks a notable development in the UK’s evolving political landscape.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.