February 2001 World Headlines

Wednesday, February 21, 2001 - Web posted at 7:07:23 AM GMT

Blair's opinion poll lead soars

LONDON - British Prime Minister Tony Blair received a new opinion poll boost yesterday that could propel him into calling a general election as early as April.

The ICM poll for the Guardian newspaper showed that Blair's lead over the opposition Conser VAT ives had leapt to 15 points - an increase of five points over the past month.

Other opinion polls have also suggested that Blair's Labour Party is enjoying a new surge in support from voters - posing a dilemma for him in deciding on an election date.

Many political commentators have forecast for some time that Blair is likely to go to the country on May 3 to coincide with local council elections, but the Guardian said the ICM poll would place new pressure on him to consider an April 5 ballot."

"The strong lead gives added impetus to go to the polls sooner rather than later," the Guardian said.

The ICM poll signalled that Blair could expect to win a second term with a landslide victory similar to the one that brought him to power in 1997 with a parliamentary majority of more than 170 seats.

Blair does not have to call an election until May 2002 but analysts believe he would be foolish not to capitalise now on a buoyant economy.

Widespread concerns about a possible major slowdown in the US economy have fuelled this view.

- Nampa-Reuters

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