Public trust in the government in the UK is at an all-time low, according to the latest British Social Attitudes survey. Dissatisfaction with the NHS and concerns over poverty have also reached record highs. The survey shows that Brexit is widely seen as negatively impacting the economy. This poses a significant challenge for the winner of the upcoming general election to restore voter confidence in the political system and public services.
The survey found that 45% of people “almost never” trust administrations of any color to put the national interest before political party interest, the highest share since 1986. The poll also revealed that 52% of respondents were dissatisfied with the health service, more than double the proportion in 2019. Additionally, 73% believed there was “a great deal” of poverty in Britain, the highest proportion recorded since 1986.
Brexit is perceived more negatively, with 71% of the public believing that the economy is worse off as a result of the UK leaving the EU, the highest share since the 2016 referendum. The winner of the election will need to address concerns of a public that is increasingly doubtful about the trustworthiness and efficacy of the country’s government. It is crucial to revive the economy and public services to regain public trust.
The findings of the survey come at a crucial time, just weeks before Britain chooses a new government on July 4. The main opposition Labour party is currently ahead of the governing Conservatives in opinion polls. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recently announced tax cuts in an attempt to close the gap, but Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer criticized the Tory manifesto as “a recipe for five more years of chaos”. The 2019-24 parliament has been described as one of the most politically turbulent and economically challenging periods postwar period by NatCen.
The survey also revealed that 79% of respondents believe Britain’s current system of governance needs significant improvement. This indicates a lack of trust in politicians, with 58% stating that they almost never trust politicians “to tell the truth when they are in a tight corner”. Changing attitudes towards Brexit were also evident, with a decrease in the belief that leaving the EU would strengthen Britain’s ability to be an independent country. Additionally, almost half of those surveyed expected immigration to increase following Brexit.
The results of the survey highlight the need for significant improvements in the governance and political system in the UK. With public trust at an all-time low and concerns over the economy, public services, and Brexit, it is clear that the next government will face a challenging task in restoring confidence and addressing the issues facing the country.
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