Gallup Euro-Poll: Lib Dems set to be big gainers as Tories slump

10.44.47pm BST (GMT +0100) Sat 5th Jun 2004

Labour's support will slump to just 23% (down 5% on 1999) in next week's European Parliament elections, according to a newly released survey.

The poll, conducted by EOS Gallup Europe, puts Labour narrowly in second place, just 3% ahead of the Liberal Democrats, on 20% (up 7% on 1999), with the Conservatives in the lead on 30 per cent (down 6% on 1999).

The telephone poll of around 750 people, conducted between 5-22 May, puts UKIP on 10% (up 3% on 1999) with the Greens on 8% (up 2% on 1999).

Equivalent polls, conducted in 21 of the 25 EU member states, show that for most countries, the elections will see bad results for the ruling party. The survey predicts a slight increase in turnout at the elections, although interest remains particularly low in Britain.

At the European Elections in 1999, the Liberal Democrats went from having 2 MEPs to 10 MEPs. This time the Lib Dems are averaging 5% higher in the polls.

The Liberal Democrats are the only major party predicting an increase in their number of MEPs after June 10th. Over the last five years the Lib Dems have used their influence in the Parliament to ensure that the EU delivers practical benefits for the people of Britain.

In these elections the Liberal Democrats are standing on, and by, their record in Europe. Only the Liberal Democrats now have the credibility and constructive approach to, at the same time, be able to play a central role in Europe while securing change where needed.