Reform UK Strengthens Its Position in British Politics: Week 19, 2025

As the political dust settles after the local elections, Reform UK has maintained strong momentum in the week ending May 11, 2025. With a string of national polling successes and policy rollouts in local government, the party is quickly transitioning from insurgent to establishment contender. The latest data and public sentiment indicate that Reform UK is now a serious force within British politics, increasingly viewed as a viable alternative to the two-party status quo.

National Polls Show Reform UK on the Rise

A new Survation poll commissioned by True North Advisors reported that Reform UK has reached 30% in national voting intention. This places it ahead of Labour at 25% and the Conservatives at a strikingly low 18%. The data reflects growing disillusionment with traditional parties and a public appetite for change. The implications are stark: Nigel Farage is now regarded as a serious contender for Prime Minister.

Further north, Reform’s appeal is also growing. A separate Survation poll in Scotland revealed Farage’s approval rating has risen to 28%—two points ahead of current Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Historically, Scotland has been a difficult terrain for Reform-aligned parties, but this marks a meaningful shift in sentiment.

Local Governance: Implementing Reform’s Agenda

After gaining control in key councils such as West Northamptonshire, Reform UK has wasted no time enacting its policy agenda. The most high-profile initiative to date is a challenge to ESG-based investment strategies in local government pension funds. As reported by the Financial Times, the party is prioritising performance and fiduciary responsibility over what it terms “ideological” investment frameworks.

Across councils where Reform has gained influence, there is also a renewed focus on basic accountability and local service delivery. In live reports by The Guardian, residents have responded positively to Reform councillors placing renewed emphasis on transparency, fiscal discipline, and resident-first decision-making.

Impact on Labour and Conservative Strategy

The rise of Reform UK is not just a polling phenomenon—it is reshaping the political calculations of its rivals. Sources close to Labour leader Keir Starmer now confirm that Farage is being treated as the primary political opponent in the run-up to the general election. Reform’s anti-establishment message appears to resonate particularly with working-class voters and those in “Red Wall” constituencies, once seen as Labour heartlands.

The Conservative Party, meanwhile, faces what many are describing as an existential crisis. As noted in a recent commentary by the Institute for Government, 2019 Conservative voters are now more likely to defect to Reform UK than to Labour. This presents a serious long-term challenge for the Tories, especially in light of Reform’s disciplined messaging on immigration, tax policy, and local services.

Conclusion: Reform’s Ascent Continues

Week 19 of 2025 has confirmed that Reform UK is not simply riding the tailwinds of a protest vote. The party is consolidating power, setting a governing agenda, and shifting the Overton window on several major issues. With strong polling numbers, meaningful local wins, and a party leadership increasingly seen as viable at the national level, Reform UK is now firmly positioned as a defining force in the upcoming general election cycle.

For many voters, the party represents the kind of political reset they have been waiting for. Whether Reform can maintain and expand this momentum will be one of the central questions in British politics over the coming months.

All data referenced as of May 17, 2025.