Age and Education Now Key Factors in UK Politics, Survey Reveals

Age and education have replaced class as the main demographic dividing line in British politics, as per a study on public views.

The British Social Attitudes survey, conducted annually since 1983, revealed a decline in traditional class-based party support.

Prof Sir John Curtice, a senior research fellow at the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen), noted that trust in government and politicians is at an all-time low, making it challenging for the Conservatives and Labour to maintain support.

In the 2024 general election, Labour struggled to reconnect with its working-class base, with only 30% of those in semi-routine and routine jobs voting for the party compared to 42% of professionals.

The survey highlighted that age and education were key factors in voting behavior, with younger voters and graduates showing different preferences compared to older and less educated individuals.

The analysis also pointed out the impact of Brexit in shifting the political landscape towards culture wars and social issues.

Record levels of support for electoral reform were observed, with a majority of supporters from all major parties favoring a change in the electoral system to allow fair representation for smaller parties.

The survey also revealed declining satisfaction with public services, including the NHS and social care, as well as increasing financial struggles among respondents.

The findings suggest a potential transformation in the political landscape, with challenges to the traditional two-party system and a need to restore public trust and confidence.

According to the source: The Guardian.