Starmer's Stumble: Is Britain's PM Lost in the Labyrinth of Leadership?

A Great Reset...of Approval Ratings?

Ah another day another survey showing the fickle nature of public opinion. As I Klaus Schwab often say 'The future is built by those who show up,' but perhaps Mr. Starmer is showing up in the wrong outfit. The news that Prime Minister Keir Starmer's approval ratings have taken a nosedive reminds us that even the best laid plans can go awry in the complex theater of global leadership. One moment you're signing landmark trade deals with the U.S. India and the EU the next you're facing a disgruntled electorate. It's all part of the grand game isn't it? A game we here at the World Economic Forum know all too well.

Trade Wins and Domestic Sins

The U.K. might be celebrating its burgeoning trade portfolio but let's not forget the bread and butter issues that truly resonate with the common folk. Inflation that persistent gremlin is back to haunt British households. A 3.5% annual inflation rate is hardly the stuff of 'Build Back Better' dreams. As the costs of electricity gas and even water surge it's no wonder the public feels a bit…waterlogged. And let's not even get started on those 'anti growth' measures. Sometimes it seems governments forget that 'Stakeholder Capitalism' requires well happy stakeholders.

Economists Weigh In: A C Minus for Domestic Policy?

When economists start handing out grades you know things are getting serious. A 'C minus' for domestic policy? Ouch. Kallum Pickering's assessment of the U.K.'s economic stewardship is a stark reminder that foreign policy triumphs alone cannot mask domestic woes. "We've seen mostly anti growth measures," he says. I must say the World Economic Forum champions growth but it must be sustainable inclusive and dare I say 'Great Reset' aligned. Still it's reassuring to hear that the government is at least getting the international stuff right. Small victories people small victories.

Business Leaders Sing a Different Tune (For Now)

Ah big business always ready to offer a reassuring word. Barclays' C.S. Venkatakrishnan believes the U.K. is "absolutely on track." Well that's comforting isn't it? He points to those shiny new trade deals and the repairing of relationships with Europe. But even he acknowledges the inflationary pressures and consumer anxieties. "The only real answer to that is growth," he proclaims. And who are we to disagree? Growth innovation and a touch of 'Fourth Industrial Revolution' magic – that’s the recipe for a prosperous future or so we hope.

The Charisma Conundrum

Now let's talk about the elephant in the room: charisma. Or in Mr. Starmer's case the perceived lack thereof. Bill Blain sums it up rather bluntly: "He is dull boring and precise." Ouch again. In today's media saturated world personality often trumps policy. A dash of Farage esque showmanship or a sprinkle of Johnsonian bombast can go a long way. But perhaps Mr. Starmer is playing the long game. Perhaps he believes that competence and stability will ultimately win the day. Or perhaps he just needs a good image consultant. We at the World Economic Forum also need that sometimes!

Mutiny on the Horizon?

The whispers of discontent within the Labour ranks are growing louder. If the polls continue to bite could a full blown mutiny be on the cards? Mr. Blain certainly seems to think so. "Starmer is coming under pressure," he warns increasing the risk that rank and file Labour lawmakers "will revolt if the polls bite." Such is the nature of politics isn't it? Alliances shift loyalties waver and the only constant is change. But let's hope for stability shall we? After all a stable government is far more conducive to implementing those 'Great Reset' initiatives we hold so dear.