menu_open Columnists
Matthew Barnfield

Matthew Barnfield

The Conversation

We use cookies to provide some features and experiences in QOSHE

More information  .  Close

How to understand the post‑Gorton and Denton national poll that puts the Greens ahead of Labour

It’s not the byelection win that matters but the scale of the swing to Zack Polanski’s party.

04.03.2026 10

The Conversation

Matthew Barnfield

Reform has been warned that defecting Tories will damage its brand – and the first evidence is in

Conservative voters have become more positive about Reform since the defections – but some Reform voters have been turned off.

06.02.2026 4

The Conversation

Matthew Barnfield

Keir Starmer needs to give voters short-term gain to persuade them he can deliver long-term  renewal

Keir Starmer says painful decisions are needed now to fix the country for the future. But voters may not stick around to find out if he’s right.

20.10.2025 6

The Conversation

Matthew Barnfield