Most Brits Indifferent to Next Tory Leader

A recent Ipsos poll reveals significant public apathy regarding the Conservative Party's leadership contest, with three in five Brits expressing indifference about who succeeds Rishi Sunak. The survey indicates that 62% of respondents do not care much or at all about the next leader, while only 35% show a vested interest. This lack of enthusiasm highlights a disconnect between the party and the electorate as the leadership race unfolds. Among the candidates, James Cleverly, the shadow home secretary, garners some support, with 18% believing he would perform well. In contrast, Dame Priti Patel faces criticism, with 44% of respondents rating her potential performance negatively, resulting in the lowest net approval rating of -27 among the contenders. The poll also underscores a general unfamiliarity with the candidates, as none are widely recognized by the public. Dame Priti Patel is the most familiar figure, with 45% of respondents indicating they know a fair amount about her, followed by Cleverly at 26% and Kemi Badenoch at 24%. Trinh Tu, managing director of public affairs at Ipsos, noted the high level of apathy and the divisive nature of Patel's candidacy, suggesting that many Britons are not engaged with the leadership race. In a related development, Kemi Badenoch defended her past comments on immigration policy, responding to critics who referenced her support for relaxed visa rules. She emphasized the context of her statements from 2018, arguing that they reflect the party's evolving stance on skilled immigration rather than a current policy position.