As Prime Minister Keir Starmer marks one year in office, his leadership is facing significant headwinds. Despite a sweeping election victory on July 4, 2024, that ended 14 years of Conservative rule, Starmer’s first year has been marred by internal party strife, economic stagnation, and plummeting approval ratings.
A major test of his leadership is unfolding in Parliament, where he faces a rebellion from Labour lawmakers over controversial welfare reforms, exposing fractures within his own party.
Global Wins Fade As Economic Woes And Welfare Revolt Shake Starmer’s Domestic Standing
Internationally, Starmer has won plaudits for his diplomacy, including rallying support for Ukraine and negotiating a trade deal with President Donald Trump to reduce tariffs. However, these accomplishments have been overshadowed by domestic struggles.
Inflation remains persistently high, economic growth is weak, and the public feels little relief from the cost-of-living crisis. His approval ratings are now approaching the lows once seen by Liz Truss during her brief and turbulent time as Prime Minister in 2022.
One Year In, Keir Starmer Faces Labour Rebellion, Economic Stagnation, and Falling Public TrustThe immediate crisis involves welfare reform, with over 120 Labour MPs threatening to vote against a bill that initially proposed stricter eligibility for disability benefits — a move that would have cut income for millions.
After widespread backlash, the government made concessions: no existing claimants would be affected, and consultations with disability groups were promised. Still, around 40 Labour MPs continued to oppose the bill, arguing it goes against Labour values and harms the vulnerable.
Policy U-Turns, Leadership Doubts, And Rising Threats Reshape Starmer’s Political Standing Dramatically
The welfare policy reversal is Starmer’s third major U-turn in recent months. Earlier, he abandoned plans to cut heating subsidies for retirees and launched a national inquiry into child sexual abuse under public and political pressure.
Critics argue that these reversals reflect weak leadership, especially given Labour’s commanding majority in the House of Commons. Moreover, they complicate the government’s efforts to manage public finances, as the original welfare reform was expected to save £5 billion annually, now been halved by concessions.
Acknowledging the mishandling of the welfare issue, Starmer admitted he was too preoccupied with foreign affairs to manage domestic unrest. Though his government has implemented policies like raising the minimum wage and funding healthcare, these achievements are overshadowed by unpopular tax increases and benefit cuts.
The public perception that Starmer’s government is not delivering on promised change has further dimmed the optimism that followed Labour’s landslide victory.
Despite Labour’s dominance in Parliament, U.K. politics remains volatile. The Conservatives are still reeling from their worst election defeat, but new threats are emerging. Reform U.K., led by Nigel Farage, is siphoning off support from both major parties, even topping some opinion polls.
Although Starmer has time on his side—he isn’t required to call another election until 2029—the recent Labour rebellion signals that tougher political battles lie ahead, especially without a dramatic economic turnaround.