Rishi Sunak faces major test as voters head to the polls for by-elections in Mid Bedfordshire and Tamworth

Today, voters in Mid Bedfordshire and Tamworth will head to the polls for two crucial by-elections, putting Rishi Sunak's premiership reset to the test. The Conservative Party is bracing for potential crushing blows, as polls suggest significant swings towards Labour.

High stakes in Tamworth and Mid-Bedfordshire

In Tamworth, Andrew Cooper, the Conservative candidate, is defending a 19,636 majority won by Chris Pincher, who was ousted from the Commons due to a groping scandal. Meanwhile, in Mid-Bedfordshire, local Police and Crime Commissioner Festus Akinbusoye is trying to hold onto the seat previously held by former minister Nadine Dorries, who enjoyed a 24,000 majority.

Labour's call for change

Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party, urged voters to support his party in the by-elections. He said, "Today, vote for change. Vote to get Britain's future back. Vote Labour."

Tough battles for the Conservatives

Even the Prime Minister's most loyal supporters have admitted that the two by-elections are challenging. The final weekend of campaigning was described as "tough" and "dire" for the Conservatives.

PM in Israel as polls open

As the polling booths opened, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak arrived in Israel for a meeting with Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the conflict with Hamas.

Controversies surrounding the candidates

Last night, Rishi Sunak refused to condemn his Tamworth candidate, Andrew Cooper, for making controversial remarks on Facebook. Cooper suggested that out-of-work parents who cannot afford to feed their children should "f*** off." Meanwhile, Labour's candidate in Mid Beds, Alistair Strathern, faced criticism after being revealed as a Greenpeace enthusiast who participated in an eco protest dressed as a zombie.