Labour Gains Poll Momentum as Conference Begins with Housing Pledge

Labour’s prospects received a significant boost in the latest polling as its annual conference kicked off, with More in Common projecting the party will secure 250 seats compared to Reform UK’s 147. The positive survey data comes as Labour mayoral candidate Andy Burnham vowed to deliver “radical change” on the eve of the event.

Burnham, who was recently interviewed by Laura Kuenssberg for the BBC, faced questions regarding the day’s news cycle. Kuenssberg noted that most Sunday newspaper front pages were not featuring stories directly related to the Labour conference, suggesting the political narrative is currently dominated by other headlines.

In economic policy announcements, the Chancellor confirmed that a new equity loan scheme designed to assist first-time buyers in purchasing newly built homes will be introduced in next month’s budget. Pre-registration for the initiative is expected to open before the end of 2026. The program aims to support those without familial financial help to enter the housing market by targeting modest new-build properties.

Further measures include provisions for eligible young people receiving health benefits. These individuals will be offered a guaranteed voluntary job position three months after their work capability assessment. Partner organizations will provide tailored mentoring and support regarding mental health, finances, and housing to prepare participants for employment, while employers will receive assistance with onboarding costs.

The government also addressed the issue of empty properties through Empty Dwelling Management Orders (EDMOs). Although these orders permit councils to manage long-term vacant homes for up to eight years, no applications have been submitted since 2021. Under the English devolution white paper, the government has committed to strengthening local authority powers to reclaim and manage these empty properties.