Political drama characterised 2025 in the UK, with notable events including significant leadership challenges and party defections, reports BritPanorama.
Sir Keir Starmer faced a turbulent year as his approval ratings plummeted, Labour grappled with internal strife, and concerned Conservative MPs defected to Nigel Farage’s Reform Party.
Among the year’s surprises was Angela Rayner’s exit from government following revelations of her failure to pay £40,000 in stamp duty on a second home in Hove. Despite asserting that her lawyers misled her, Rayner’s resignation triggered a Cabinet reshuffle within Labour, intensifying the party’s struggles.
Meanwhile, Rachel Reeves, Labour’s Chancellor, saw her reputation tarnished after delivering a controversial budget that raised public sector pay and taxes to their highest levels since World War II. Accusations of dishonesty surrounding the country’s fiscal state further alienated her from both the public and party colleagues, leading to speculation about her position.
Bombshell exit of the year
Rayner’s downfall served as a stark reminder of the political volatility in Westminster, with commentators questioning her potential for a comeback.
Villain of the year
Reeves’ controversial budget made her a focal point of public discontent, with many anticipating a leadership change within Labour soon.
Political break-up of the year
The Conservative Party suffered significant defections, with Danny Kruger being the first sitting MP to leave for Farage’s Reform Party. This trend raised concerns over the Conservatives’ cohesion as more MPs eye potential exits.
Political dust-up of the year
Within the Labour Party, tensions escalated between Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana during their attempt to establish a new political party, aptly named Your Party. Disagreements over finances and party direction quickly unfolded into public disputes, indicating potential fractures ahead.
Blunder of the year
David Lammy’s first appearance as acting leader in Prime Minister’s Questions was widely perceived as chaotic, earning him the moniker ”Calamity Lammy”.
U-turn of the year
Amid numerous policy reversals, Labour’s decision to lift the two-child benefit cap emerged as the major U-turn of 2025, after substantial pressure from MPs.
Troublemaker of the year
Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, openly expressed his ambitions for Labour leadership, positioning himself as a key player for the future.
Future plot twist
Wes Streeting, the charismatic Health Secretary, has unofficially launched his campaign for leadership, positioning himself as a forward-thinking alternative within the party.
Newcomer of the year
Zack Polanski’s election as leader of the Green Party marked a significant shift in the political landscape, with fears among Labour MPs that he could siphon off votes.
As 2025 closes, the shifting dynamics in UK politics suggest a year filled with unexpected turns, highlighting the need for parties to adapt rapidly to the evolving electorate’s sentiments.
The year showcased the precarious state of British politics, characterised by leadership vacancies and shifting party allegiances. As the landscape evolves, party leaders will need to address both internal challenges and public expectations to maintain relevance in an increasingly dynamic political arena.
