A neutral map of the parties you will find at Westminster and within the nations of the UK. In this guide, we have gathered the key points so you can organise yourself at your own pace and with more confidence.
Parties present in Westminster politics
The Labour Party and the Conservative Party (the Conservatives or Tories) have been the two major parties of government at a national level. The Liberal Democrats usually occupy the liberal and centrist space. Reform UK and the Green Party of England and Wales also compete in general elections.
These labels are for guidance: proposals and leadership change. To compare a specific election, consult the parties' current manifestos and the official list of candidates in your constituency.
Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
In Scotland, the Scottish National Party (SNP), which advocates for independence, is prominent; Scottish Labour, Scottish Conservatives, Scottish Liberal Democrats and Scottish Greens also compete. In Wales, Plaid Cymru plays a significant role alongside the Welsh branches of UK-wide parties.
In Northern Ireland the landscape is different: Sinn Féin and the SDLP identify with Irish nationalism; the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) and the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) identify with unionism; Alliance defines itself as a non-aligned party. At Westminster, Sinn Féin MPs maintain a policy of abstentionism and do not take up their seats.
The same party can have very different results in general, devolved and local elections.
Where to verify who is standing
The Electoral Commission publishes party registers and explains how elections work. Specific candidates and results can be consulted in the official sources for each vote. Do not confuse a party's support across the whole country with its representation in your constituency.