SME4Labour and 89UP Fringe Event: Understanding Voters’ Heads and Hearts Through Polling
The SME4Labour and 89UP fringe event centered on the insights polling provides into voter expectations and priorities. The panel of MPs and experts discussed how different regions view the Labour Party’s policy agenda and the party’s need to better communicate its goals and achievements.Speakers & Key Topics
- Chris Curtis, MP for Milton Keynes North
- Jenny Riddell-Carpenter, MP for Suffolk Coastal
- Babatunde Williams, Director of Insights at 89UP
- Tom Mauchline, Director of Campaigns at 89UP
- Valerie Oladeinde, Associate Director at 89UP
Discussion Highlights
- Public Expectations & Policy Testing Babatunde Williams shared findings from 89UP’s experiments on voter reactions to Labour's broader policy agenda. The research indicated that the public holds high expectations for change under a Labour government and is prepared to give the party time to deliver on its promises.
- Understanding Regional Priorities Chris Curtis emphasized the need to understand the varying priorities across the UK. While the economy, NHS, and cost of living are national concerns, he noted regional differences, such as housing being a priority in London and environmental issues topping the list in Suffolk Coastal.
- Effective Communication of Labour’s Message Jenny Riddell-Carpenter highlighted the importance of the Labour Party communicating its achievements and future goals clearly and concisely to the public. She called for a more compelling and straightforward message to connect with voters.
- A Call for Ambitious Policy Tom Mauchline concluded with a call for greater ambition in Labour’s policy agenda, suggesting the party should not shy away from proposing bold and radical solutions to meet the expectations of voters.
Key Takeaways
- The public has high expectations for change from a Labour government.
- Voter priorities differ regionally, with key issues varying across the UK.
- Clear, concise messaging is crucial for the Labour Party to communicate its goals and achievements effectively.
- Labour should adopt a more ambitious approach in its policy proposals.