Immigration is now seen as the biggest burden on the NHS by Labour voters, according to a new poll, highlighting growing dissatisfaction within the party’s support base.
A survey of 2,000 people who backed Labour in the 2024 general election found that 24% believe high levels of immigration are putting the greatest strain on the health service and more than those who cited the ageing population or the mental health crisis. The poll, conducted by Merlin Strategy on behalf of the Adam Smith Institute, found 22% blamed mental health pressures, 13% pointed to a lack of social care, 12% cited junk food and obesity, and 10% blamed vaping.
The results come amid growing concern inside Labour ranks over the Government’s handling of immigration and healthcare. Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged in a major speech last month that years of record net migration have stretched public services, including the NHS.
The poll also revealed increasing voter discontent: one in five Labour voters said they would now consider switching to Reform UK, while 28% said they regret voting Labour at all. Reform, led by Nigel Farage, has surged in the polls with promises to crack down on illegal Channel crossings and freeze most forms of migration.
Maxwell Marlow, Director of Public Affairs at the Adam Smith Institute, said: “The British public clearly feels the effects of mass immigration on healthcare. If the Government doesn’t act quickly perhaps by requiring migrants to purchase private health cover for most visas voter dissatisfaction will only grow.”
Further research from Merlin Strategy, including a focus group in Runcorn and Helsby formerly a safe Labour seat lost to Reform by just six votes in a recent by-election suggested a broader frustration with Starmer’s leadership. Participants described the Government as “afraid of upsetting people, I don’t think they give a toss about us.”
Only 51% of Labour voters felt the Government was addressing issues that mattered to them, and just 40% said they approved of Nigel Farage though 41% still disapproved.
Scarlett Maguire, Director of Merlin Strategy, noted: “Labour voters are clear: they want meaningful action on healthcare, immigration, and the cost of living. The Government needs to show it understands these priorities.”
Some voters also criticised Starmer’s focus on banning disposable vapes and phasing out smoking, questioning the relevance of such measures. One participant asked: “How is that really relatable to the working person? It just feels like something shiny for the media.”
