UK elections on July 4: Here’s a look at key poll issues

As reported by The Guardian, recent polls suggest that Labour outscores the Conservatives when it comes to being trusted with the economy.

Immigration

Immigration remains a disputed issue. Thousands of asylum seekers and economic migrants have crossed the English Channel in flimsy inflatable boats, prompting concerns that the government has lost control of Britain’s borders. The Conservatives’ solution? Shipping off migrants to Rwanda.

According to news agency AP, critics argue both over the ethics and legality of the Rwanda plan. Their opinion is that this will not stop people fleeing war, unrest, and famine.

As the immigration saga unfolds, Britons are left pondering upon the future of the UK’s borders.

Healthcare

The National Health Service, or NHS, is the pride of British healthcare. But with long waiting lists, overworked staff and crumbling hospitals, the cracks are starting to show. The Conservatives have struggled to resolve junior doctor strikes, as per The Guardian reports.

Stories of seriously ill patients waiting hours for ambulances and even longer for hospital beds dominate the headlines. Disparities in maternal healthcare, which disproportionately affect voters in urban areas, have been neglected.

The NHS, itself in need of a health check, is putting immense pressure on the government to find solutions. And voters are concerned about who’s holding the prescription for a change.

British PM Rishi Sunak attends a Conservative party rally on May 22. (file/Reuters)

Housing

At least 1.5 million homeowners in the UK are feeling the effects of the Conservatives’ 2022 mini-budget, as per reports by The Guardian. Mortgage repayments have gone up by hundreds of pounds.

The Conservatives, with their housing target missed and loopholes for unfair evictions still open, seem to be in for a real estate rollercoaster.

Environment

To save the planet or authorise new oil drillings? Rishi Sunak’s counterproductive environmental commitments have disheartened the critics, reports AP.

As climate concerns reach boiling point, environmental advocates are urging the government to reconsider its stance on certain policies that undermine global efforts to combat climate change.

As per The Guardian, Labour argues that tackling the cost of living and the climate crisis go hand in hand. Their proposal? Policies like home insulation and renewable energy that not only fight climate change but also lower energy bills. Promoting green growth will attract investment and jobs as per them.

Bottomline, July 4th promises to be a date with destiny for the UK. With the Labour lurking in the shadows, and Sunak attempting to secure political stability, the outcome remains uncertain.