Labour has secured an eight-point lead over the Conservatives in Uxbridge and South Ruislip, Boris Johnson's former constituency, according to an exclusive poll by JL Partners.

The survey reveals that Labour candidate Danny Beales holds 41 percent of the vote, while Conservative candidate Steve Tuckwell stands at 33 percent. Additionally, Labour is also ahead by 12 points in the Selby and Ainsty by-election in North Yorkshire, casting a shadow over the Prime Minister's prospects.

The key campaign issues in Uxbridge include concerns about the cost of living, such as rising food prices and energy bills. Approximately 59 percent of adults cited this as one of the three most important factors influencing their vote. Another significant issue highlighted by 29 percent of respondents was the increasing costs of mortgage or rent payments, especially in light of potential interest rate hikes by the Bank of England.

The poll conducted by JL Partners suggests that Labour is on track to win the Uxbridge by-election, but the Conservatives could potentially narrow the gap in the coming days. The outcome of the election will likely be determined by issues that affect people's daily lives, such as grocery prices, waiting times for healthcare services, and housing expenses.

Rishi Sunak, facing the possibility of losing several by-elections, including Uxbridge, Somerton and Frome, and Selby and Ainsty, is dealing with a challenging political landscape. Losing Uxbridge, a constituency that Labour has not won since 1966, would be a significant setback for the Tories.

The forthcoming by-elections, scheduled for July 20, will be closely watched as they unfold alongside the ongoing controversies surrounding partygate and the Prime Minister's conduct. Rishi Sunak's party is currently trailing Labour by around 20 points in national polls, and his key pledges, including tackling inflation and addressing immigration concerns, are facing difficulties.

The survey also reveals that immigration is a top issue for 25 percent of Uxbridge residents, while concerns about NHS waiting times and crime and policing were cited by 43 percent of respondents. The Conservatives were perceived as more divided, out of touch, and representing the interests of the wealthy, according to the poll.

The outcome of the by-elections will have significant implications for the political landscape and could further impact the already strained relationship between the Conservative Party and the public. Photo by Chris Harte, Wikimedia commons.