Labour's advantage over the Conservatives has narrowed to 13 points, the smallest margin since the pre-conference period, according to the latest Opinium poll for the Observer.
The approval ratings for both Labour leader Keir Starmer and Conservative leader Rishi Sunak remain unchanged despite a recent downturn. Starmer registers a net approval of -9, while Sunak has improved slightly to a net approval of -29.
This polling comes in the wake of Sunak's government quashing a potential revolt regarding their contentious plan to deport certain asylum seekers to Rwanda. Despite internal party strife, no Conservative MPs opposed the bill last week.
Despite the shrinkage in Labour's lead, the party still holds a significant advantage, currently at 40% voter share compared to the Conservatives' 27%. Starmer is ahead of Sunak by six points as the preferred next prime minister, yet a notable portion of the electorate prefers neither candidate.
Amidst some Conservative criticism of Sunak's leadership, the public does not seem eager for his resignation, unlike the noticeable sentiment against former Prime Ministers
Boris Johnson and Liz Truss. Only 40% of the public wants Sunak to step down, compared to 34% who support his continuation as leader.
Voters have prioritized NHS waiting times, followed by inflation reduction and addressing cost-of-living issues, with concerns about fuel prices also high on the agenda. Notably, combating illegal immigration has climbed to the fourth priority after Sunak emphasized legislation aimed at deporting asylum seekers to Rwanda.
The poll reveals a consistent desire to reduce immigration, with 63% considering it too high. As for the policy on Rwanda, opinions are split: 45% doubt its effectiveness in deterring irregular Channel crossings, while 35% believe it might work. Public opinion has not shifted significantly on whether the UK should leave the European Convention on Human Rights, with 29% in favor, consistent with sentiments since March.