Beard Liberation Front
Press Release
24th February
Contact: Keith Flett 07803 167266
Poll of image experts says Keir Starmer must grow a beard to address poll woes
The Beard Liberation Front, the informal network of beard wearers, has said that a poll of hirsute image experts has concluded that Labour leader Keir Starmer should address Labour’s persistent problem of failing to take a poll lead over the Tories by changing his image and growing a beard.
The recommendation comes after a group of 50 hirsute image experts were polled on the matter.
40% said that the Labour leader would do better with a full organic beard. 25% backed a styled hipsterish beard. Less than 20% thought that Starmer’s current clean shaven suit style would see a poll improvement
Previously the beard experts have said that repeated tweaks to Labour’s policy positions are not getting across to voters. They note that Boris Johnson has no set and discernible policies aside from promoting himself and staying in office for the time being.
The beard experts report underlined that Johnson does have a clear image with voters. While this is unpopular with many, the deliberately tousled hair and generally unkempt appearance appears to cut through with voters.
Starmer by contrast comes across as a rather generic clean shaven man in a suit with a sharp haircut and as such presents a rather anonymous image.
The beard experts have agreed that the way forward for Starmer is to grow a gravitas adding beard. They note that the Labour leader may be reluctant to do this given it might associate him with the well-known appearance of the immediate past leader of the Party.
However they say there are a vast range of beard styles available and Starmer could easily adopt one that emphasised both a sharp appearance and wisdom. The new poll backs a full beard as the clear preference of image experts.
BLF Organiser Keith Flett said, we hope Sir Keir heeds the image experts view. An organic beard would clearly differentiate the Labour leader from Boris Johnson and could lead to a much needed poll bounce.
Full poll results:
What is the best image for Keir Starmer?
Organic beard 40%
Styled,hipsterish beard 24.4%
Clean shaven suit, wearer 17.8%
Dark glasses 17.8%
50 hirsute image experts were polled
Starmer must address his poor attitude to women