Prediction of 1,000 Tory seat losses in local elections more than just expectation management: The Yorkshire Post says

Many may put it down as an exercise in expectation management but it is worth noting that in last year’s local elections, projections that the Tories could lose around 500 seats were viewed as an overstatement but proved to be accurate.

The growing view in Westminster and in slightly narrowing national polling is that Rishi Sunak is gradually turning around the Conservative brand following the major reputational damage caused by Boris Johnson and Liz Truss’s premierships, which were both truncated for different damaging reasons last year.

There is little doubt there is greater professionalism, a stronger focus on policy and a better grasp on financial decisions than under the previous two Prime Ministers.

But Mr Sunak’s priorities of halving inflation, growing the economy and reducing hospital waits are yet to bear fruit in a way that is apparent to voters.

Inflation stubbornly remains in double digits, economic growth has flatlined, while NHS waiting lists are at record highs with more strikes on the horizon.

Mr Hands is right to prepare Conservative councillors and supporters for what is likely to be a tough verdict from voters on May 4.