An Ipsos survey has found that the popularity of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has fallen to its lowest level.
The report stated that his approval rating has dropped below that of former United States president George W Bush at his most unpopular point. Only 18 per cent of Britons agree with Starmer’s policies, while Bush recorded a 20 per cent rating in 2008.
Half of Britons believe Starmer should stand down as the prime minister, while 36 per cent think he should remain in office, with sentiment unchanged since the autumn. Two-thirds of respondents, 68 per cent, consider it unlikely that he will win the next general election.
The survey, conducted between April 17 and 21, 2026, shows uncertainty over Labour’s prospects without Starmer. Some 36 per cent believe the party would be more likely to win under a different leader, while 37 per cent think it would make no difference. Only 12 per cent say Labour would fare better with Starmer in charge.
If Starmer were to step aside, Andy Burnham emerges as the preferred alternative, backed by 17 per cent of the public. However, 28 per cent favour none of the options and 27 per cent remain undecided. Angela Rayner is preferred by 5 per cent, followed by Wes Streeting on 4 per cent.
In favourability ratings, Burnham holds a net positive score, with 30 per cent favourable and 24 per cent unfavourable. Starmer records 19 per cent favourable against 59 per cent unfavourable. Other senior figures, including Angela Rayner, Wes Streeting, Ed Miliband, Yvette Cooper and Rachel Reeves, all register negative ratings.
Among opposition figures, Nigel Farage is seen by 40 per cent as likely to become prime minister in future, though 43 per cent consider it unlikely. Kemi Badenoch records 25 per cent as likely, while other leaders trail further behind.
Despite doubts over Starmer, Labour retains a lead over Reform UK, with 40 per cent preferring Labour against 31 per cent for Reform. However, 55 per cent view Labour unfavourably, and 51 per cent believe the party is performing poorly in government.
Public sentiment on the state of the country remains negative, with 67 per cent saying Britain is heading in the wrong direction. More than half, 52 per cent, say leaving the European Union has had a negative impact.
Healthcare, the cost of living and immigration remain the leading issues for voters ahead of the next general election.
Ipsos Director of Politics Keiran Pedley said public opinion on Starmer has not shifted significantly since the autumn, adding that there is no clear alternative leader commanding broad support.
