Labour Election Win Hangs On 'Recovery'

The Conservatives may still be holding their ground in popular opinion polls, but it seems all is not lost for Gordon Brown's Labour Party.

Today's Guardian/ICM survey shows the Tories have retained their 12-point lead ahead of the government, but almost 8% of Conservative and Liberal voters said they would defect to Labour should the Prime Minister manage to turnaround the recession by May next year.

Currently enjoying a 42% approval rating, Tory David Cameron would be highly likely to step into he UK's top political office if an election was held tomorrow.

However, should Mr Brown convince so-called 'floating voters' the economic downturn is on the ascent once again, his party could take a slim majority in parliament.

Nine per cent of Tory faithfuls said they would back the government if there were clear signs of a recovery, a further 22% of Lib Dem supporters voiced similar views.

Mr Brown must call an election by June next year.

Despite the prospect of changing fortunes for Labour, it appears the incumbent Prime Minister is still not regarded as the best man for the job.

Forty-five per cent of those questioned for the Guardian/ICM poll favoured Mr Cameron, almost double the 24% approval for Mr Brown.

A resounding 70% of respondents indicated it's time for change.

ICM polled 1,004 adults between March 13 and 15.

(PR/JM)