United Kingdom: Political developments and data in 2025. Navigating choppy waters

Abstract 2025 marked the first full year of the Starmer Government and was characterised by the continued pressure of immigration on national politics, alongside the success of Reform UK at the local elections. A full Cabinet reshuffle took place after Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner resigned in September. Rebellion over proposed benefit reforms led to a government U-turn in July and the UK asserted its place on the international stage through the formal recognition of the state of Palestine as well as helping shape the Coalition of the Willing to assist with the Russia-Ukraine conflict. However, this was overshadowed by controversy surrounding Peter Mandelson, the British Ambassador to the US, and his resignation from the post.