A new poll reveals that British teenagers are more patriotic than their parents, casting doubt on Labour’s recent move to extend voting rights to 16 and 17-year-olds. The survey, conducted by More in Common for The Sunday Times, shows that nearly half—49 percent—of teens express pride in being British, while only 10 percent report feeling ashamed. That’s a stronger patriotic sentiment than the national average, where 45 percent say they are proud and 15 percent ashamed.
The sharp generational contrast undermines assumptions that younger voters would naturally lean left. Instead, the data signals growing alignment with right-leaning views on national identity, border control, and national service—issues long championed by Reform UK and other conservative-leaning movements.
Among 16 and 17-year-old boys, 57 percent reported being proud of their British identity, compared to just 39 percent of girls. Willingness to defend the country in wartime also showed a gender gap: 32 percent of boys said they would serve, while only 15 percent of girls said the same.
The youth survey also revealed growing discontent over illegal immigration. A significant 44 percent of teens believe the government has not done enough to stop illegal boat crossings in the English Channel, while only 26 percent think there has been too much focus on the issue. That concern directly echoes the central platform of Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, which promises tough action on illegal immigration, including detention and deportation.
Labour’s strategy to harness youth votes in the next general election could now backfire. Reform UK has actively targeted younger voters, using social media platforms like TikTok and offering discounted memberships to those under 25. The effort appears to be paying off. A separate poll last week showed Reform UK polling neck and neck with Labour among 16 and 17-year-olds—23 percent and 24 percent respectively—while Jeremy Corbyn’s new far-left party captured 21 percent, splitting the progressive vote.
As the general election approaches, Labour faces a youth electorate that no longer fits the predictable left-leaning mold. These young voters, shaped by a decade of crisis and instability, are embracing patriotism, questioning mass immigration, and leaning toward parties willing to defend Britain’s sovereignty and borders.
