Reform UK hits highest-ever vote share in bombshell poll in fresh blow to Rishi Sunak

By Katie Harris, Political Reporter

Reform UK MP Lee Anderson and leader Richard Tice (Image: GETTY)

Reform UK has hit its highest-ever vote share in a new poll as the insurgent party closes in on the Tories.

The YouGov survey put the rebranded Brexit Party up one point from last week on 16%.

Reform is just five points behind the Conservatives on 21% in the survey carried out from March 26 to 27.

Sir Keir Starmer's Labour Party is almost 20 points in the lead with 40%, while the Lib Dems are fourth on 10%.

Reform UK leader Richard Tice told the Express: "Delighted, we hoped it was coming in April so a delicious Easter present. Now let's aim for 17%."

Meanwhile, separate polling by Redfield & Wilton Strategies of 878 Welsh voters between March 23-24 put Reform just one point behind the Tories in Wales on 15% to 16% respectively.

It comes as a boost to Reform as the party kicks off its Blackpool South by-election campaign today.

Ashfield MP Lee Anderson, who defected from the Tories earlier this month, will unveil Reform's candidate Mark Butcher.

The party will be hoping for a strong showing in the contest in the northwest seat, triggered by the resignation of former Conservative MP Scott Benton after he was caught in a gambling sting.

The polling is another blow to Rishi Sunak after Britain's top polling expert Professor Sir John Curtice said Labour has a 99% chance of forming the next government.

There is speculation the Prime Minister could opt for a general election as early as June amid fears the current situation is untenable.