Surprise bounce for Labour
By Ian Dunt
Labour’s poll performance enjoyed a surprise bounce this month, with the latest Ipsos Mori poll showing a four per cent rise in their performance.
But the party still stands ten points behind the Conservatives, which dropped six points to 42 per cent, compared to Labour’s 32 per cent.
The figures only apply to those absolutely certain to vote.
Gordon Brown’s personal ratings improved significantly. One in three (34 per cent) are satisfied with the way he is doing his job – up from 26 per cent last month.
Unfortunately for the prime minister, David Cameron’s ratings showed a marked increase since February.
Fifty-two per cent of respondents were satisfied with his performance and 30 per cent dissatisfied giving him a net figure of +22. This is up from +9 last month and matches his highest ever level, from August 2008.
The increase in Mr Cameron’s figures could be put down to public sympathy after the death of his son Ivan, but that will not become clear until next months results are in.
Nick Clegg continues to tread water, with two in five (38 per cent) satisfied with the way he does his job, and a quarter dissatisfied (26 per cent). Over a third (36 per cent) said they don’t know.
Lib Dem performance overall is down three points to 14 per cent.
Economic confidence is at its best point since August 2007, although pessimists still outnumber optimists.
Twenty-three per cent of people believe the economic performance of the country will improve in the next year, while 52 per cent believe it will get worse.
