Labour pulls off historic swings
Rishi Sunak, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, faced a devastating blow as the Labour Party achieved historic swings in the Tamworth and Mid-Bedfordshire by-elections. The Labour victories were celebrated by party leader Sir Keir Starmer, who declared that the results indicated a strong desire for change among the electorate.
Tamworth's new MP
In Tamworth, Sarah Edwards emerged as the winner, defeating Conservative candidate Andrew Cooper by 1,316 votes. This victory marked a significant overturn of a massive 19,600 majority previously held by the Tories. The seat became vacant after the resignation of Chris Pincher, who faced public disgrace.
Mid-Beds sees Labour triumph
In Mid-Bedfordshire, Alistair Strathern of the Labour Party emerged victorious, defeating former minister Nadine Dorries' 24,000 majority. This result marked the largest numerical Tory majority to be overturned at a by-election since 1945.
Labour's resurgence
Sir Keir Starmer expressed his elation at the Labour Party's success in these traditionally Conservative strongholds. He stated that the victories demonstrated a widespread desire for change and a renewed faith in the Labour Party to deliver it. Sir Keir pledged to act in the interests of the people and focus on their priorities to restore Britain's future.
Tories face potential defeat
Polling expert Professor Sir John Curtice described the by-election results as "extremely bad news" for the Tories, suggesting that Rishi Sunak and the Conservative Party are at risk of defeat in the next General Election. He emphasized the need for a dramatic and radical turnaround by the Conservatives to avoid staring defeat in the face in 12 months' time. Sir John further warned that the Tories could lose voters to both Labour on the left and Reform UK on the right.
