Reform UK MP Lee Anderson launched a direct and highly critical attack on Prime Minister Keir Starmer during a live television appearance, accusing him of weak leadership, political inconsistency and failing to regain public trust after months of controversy over taxes, immigration and public services.

Anderson said voters were “losing patience” with what he described as a lack of clear direction from the government, arguing that everyday pressures such as high living costs, housing shortages and stretched local services were being ignored.

The clash came after the publication of a new YouGov poll suggesting Starmer’s personal approval rating has fallen to around 11%, with about 70% of respondents saying they disapprove of the government’s performance. The figures place Starmer among the least popular UK prime ministers in recent polling history.

Downing Street has not directly responded to Anderson’s comments, but ministers said the government remains focused on economic stability, reforming the asylum system and restoring confidence in public services.