UK: Public opinion on coronavirus – 26th March
Boost for Boris: Approval ratings soar to 55%
In a week that saw a lockdown implemented across the UK, Boris Johnson’s approval ratings have reached an all time high, now at 55%. The rating has doubled almost consecutively over the last two weeks, up +14% last week and rising to +29% this week.
Rishi Sunak is also emerging from the crisis as a popular and trustworthy public figure. The prime minister, the health secretary, and the Chancellor have all seen an increase in public trust on coronavirus information from last week, with Rishi Sunak holding the biggest net trust of the three (+43%).
Public support more restrictive measures on travel and transport
The overwhelming majority (92%) are behind measures to curb the spread of Coronavirus through a national lockdown, with only 4% thinking it was not the right thing to do. And they are in it for the long hall, with 82% anticipating that this lockdown will extend beyond three weeks.
However, there is appetite among the general public for further measures to be introduced. Over half (57%) think more drastic rules should be implemented to stop the spread of the virus. A third (33%) of the public think there should be a ban on public transport, while 38% think there should be a ban on travel between local areas.
Despite approval ratings for the prime minster, over half (56%) think that the Government hasn’t acted fast enough to stop the spread of the Coronavirus. This is in tune with calls for further action.
Tables and report