Labour Members Hold Tougher Welfare Views Than Expected, Poll 2026

Labour members hold tougher views on welfare than previously assumed, according to a new poll that reveals a majority believe the government spends too much on benefits. The survey of 788 party members, conducted between late June and late July, shows that 47% think welfare spending is excessive, while only 21% say it is insufficient. This finding challenges the narrative of internal party rows over welfare and suggests a more fiscally conservative membership than many expected.

Key Findings on Welfare and Taxation

The poll, carried out by ThinkLabour, indicates that Labour members are not uniformly supportive of increased welfare spending. When asked about funding the current welfare bill, 52% said taxes should be raised, but with a clear preference for targeting high earners. Specifically, 70% of members said only high earners should face higher taxes, while 24% supported raising taxes on everyone to maintain current welfare levels.

This sentiment extends to social care, where 73% of members backed increased spending funded by higher taxes, either on the wealthy or through general taxation. The data suggests a pragmatic approach among the grassroots, prioritizing fiscal responsibility while maintaining support for essential services.

Defence Spending and Climate Priorities

Defence spending also emerged as a priority, with 68% of members wanting Britain to increase its military budget. Among those supporters, 61% agreed to fund this through higher taxes. Meanwhile, climate change was ranked as one of the country’s biggest challenges by 29% of respondents, placing it fourth after health (43%), the economy (42%), and the cost of living (39%). Welfare benefits and immigration were considered less critical, with only 7% and 6% respectively.

These findings indicate a membership that is more hawkish on defence and more concerned with economic stability than with expanding the welfare state. The results also reflect a desire for fiscal prudence, even among those who support increased public spending.

Comparison of Member Priorities vs. Public Opinion

To illustrate the divergence between Labour members and the general public, the table below compares key issue rankings and welfare spending views.

This comparison shows that Labour members are less focused on welfare and immigration than the broader electorate, which may influence party policy direction.

Leadership Implications and Burnham's Standing

The poll also sheds light on leadership dynamics. Three-quarters of members supported Keir Starmer in the 2020 leadership contest. However, a separate poll before the local elections showed Andy Burnham with a net favourability of 72% among members, suggesting he would likely win any leadership contest. Burnham, who became leader unopposed, did not require a membership vote, but the data indicates strong grassroots support for his potential leadership.

Key Takeaways

• Labour members are more sceptical of welfare spending than often portrayed.
• Majority support higher taxes on high earners to fund public services.
• Defence spending is a priority, with most backing tax increases to pay for it.
• Climate change ranks high but below health, economy, and cost of living.
• Andy Burnham enjoys high favourability, potentially positioning him for future leadership.

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