Politics latest: Chancellor to deliver spring forecast – Greens leapfrog Labour into second place in poll
Politics latest: Chancellor unveils Spring forecast – Greens surpass Labour in poll rankings
Today marks the release of the Spring forecast, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves set to present her economic outlook this lunchtime. The announcement comes amid a significant shift in public sentiment, as the Greens have moved past Labour to secure second place in recent polling data. The political landscape is also being reshaped by ongoing tensions in the Middle East and growing debates over the UK’s role in international conflicts.
International legal debate intensifies
The prime minister has defended his stance on the US-Israeli strikes, arguing that the decision to avoid direct participation in the offensive aligns with broader strategic considerations. Meanwhile, Sir Jeremy Hunt, a former foreign secretary and current chancellor, has voiced support for the legality of the strikes, stating the UK’s position is “a lot less clear” than critics suggest. “I think the case for self-defence is very justifiable,” he added, citing repeated attacks on UK interests by Iran.
“I think it was and I think the legal advice is a lot less clear than Keir Starmer was making out.”
Hunt highlighted the alignment of left-leaning governments in Australia and Canada with US actions, suggesting the UK’s hesitation contrasts with their assertiveness. “They found they were able to come out in full support of Trump’s action,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for a unified stance in international alliances.
Greens gain momentum in polls
Exclusive polling data reveals a surge in support for the Greens, who have overtaken Labour to claim the second spot. Their recent success in the Gorton and Denton by-elections has bolstered confidence in their political viability. A party spokesperson noted: “Voters have been let down time and time again by high bills, toxic rhetoric on migration, and failure to make real change to improve people’s lives.”
Senior cabinet minister Darren Jones described the Greens as “the populist of the left,” acknowledging their ability to diagnose issues but questioning their capacity to deliver actionable solutions. “When the public look at that, especially at the point of a general election, they’ll be able to see that neither the populist left nor the populist right have got any credible plans,” he said.
Opposition voices challenge UK’s approach
Kemi Badenoch’s team has accused Sir Keir Starmer of “abandoning British interests and our allies,” citing the UK’s perceived weakness in the Iran conflict. “While Canada and Australia stand with the US, Britain cowers,” they claimed. “Our bases are now being targeted by Iran and still Keir Starmer does nothing.”
The prime minister’s team remains steadfast, asserting they are “in the right place in terms of policy, politics, and legality.” The Spring forecast will address economic uncertainties, including spiraling energy prices and the ongoing conflict in Iran. Reeves is expected to highlight her fiscal decisions, arguing they have strengthened the UK’s resilience to external shocks. However, opposition MPs will scrutinize the defence budget shortfall and push for caution on fuel duty hikes starting in September.
