A recent survey conducted by More In Common revealed that Labour has garnered a 35% approval rating, surpassing the SNP at 30%, with the Conservatives at 17%, the Liberal Democrats at 10%, Reform UK at 4%, and the Greens at 3%.
The survey, conducted among 1,016 Scottish voters from May 22 to 24, found a prevailing sentiment among voters in Scotland favoring a change in leadership, exceeding the overall sentiment in the UK. While 70% of UK voters expressed a desire for change, this number rose by nine points among Scottish voters.
Additionally, the survey assessed approval ratings for various party leaders. SNP’s chief John Swinney led with an approval rating of minus two, followed by Labour Party’s Sir Keir Starmer at minus 10, Anas Sarwar of Scottish Labour at minus 11, and Tory’s Rishi Sunak at minus 43.
The survey also highlighted a perception shift regarding Mr. Swinney, with 34% considering him an improvement over his predecessor Humza Yousaf, 5% viewing him as a downgrade, 37% perceiving no significant change, and the remainder uncertain.
Luke Tryl, executive director of More in Common UK, noted the shifting political landscape in Scotland, indicating potential gains for Labour at the SNP’s expense. He attributed these changes to a combination of factors, including perceived legislative setbacks, scandals surrounding former first minister Nicola Sturgeon, and issues within the Yousaf administration.
These developments in Scotland could have broader implications for the UK political scene, potentially influencing the path to a majority in Westminster, particularly if Labour secures significant gains in Scottish seats.