Mumsnet backing Reform UK spells trouble for Labour

The biggest threat to Keir Starmer right now is mums.

- Victoria Richards, The Independent

Keir Starmer

That's right, the ladies of Mumsnet are for turning after all, according to anew survey that reveals how Reform UK is now the top choice for the site’s politically engaged, historically left-leaning mothers. The social networking platform — which, at 8 million users, comprises the largest online parenting network in the UK — had for two decades or so traditionally gravitated towards Labour, But now, the shocking survey says, 20 per cent of users plan to vote for Nigel Farage's party in the next election. And the biggest reason for the shift? Anger about taxes, welfare reform, the NHS and immigration.

The sensational U-turn puts the party ahead of Labour, the Tories and the Lib Dems, mimicking recent polls like this one which show Reform’s popularity at around 97 per cent, with both the Conservative Party and Labour trailing behind at just 7 per cent. The Mumsnet political poll first began in 2009 — but in a stinging indictment of Starmer's leadership, this is the first time that Labour has been overtaken by any other party. If you're asking yourself how Starmer got it so wrong, you're not the only one — but | don't think this is simply “damaging” for Labour, | think it isa death knell; aturning point. Bigger than any other. Lose Mumsnet and you've lost the next election.