Britain’s ruling Conservative Party has faced a significant defeat in local elections, indicating a potential loss of power in the upcoming general elections.
After nearly all council results were tallied, the Conservatives lost 473 seats, while the opposition Labour Party gained 185. The counting process continued on Saturday for a few remaining assembly and mayoral polls.
Of particular note, Labour’s Sadiq Khan secured a historic third term as London’s mayor, dealing another blow to the Conservatives.
With results from 106 out of 107 council elections available, the Conservatives lost approximately half of their defended seats, resulting in the loss of control over 10 councils.
Meanwhile, Labour took over eight councils and clinched three newly established mayoral positions, including one in Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s constituency in northern England.
Additionally, Labour emerged victorious in a by-election for the Blackpool South parliamentary seat, following the resignation of Conservative MP Scott Benton.
Labour leader Keir Starmer emphasized that the decisive wins across the country were a clear message to the prime minister to call for a general election.
“Voters in Blackpool South have sent a direct message to Rishi Sunak: Step aside, let’s have a general election,” Starmer stated.
Sunak, facing a significant drop in polls compared to Labour, must schedule a general election to take place by January 28 of the following year.
Voters in Blackpool South have sent a direct message to Rishi Sunak: step aside, let’s have a general election.
Only Labour can lead Britain’s future. pic.twitter.com/M1ZBKsins0
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) May 3, 2024
Where did Labour succeed?
Labour demonstrated strength in regions that supported Brexit, such as Hartlepool in the northeast and Thurrock in the southeast of England. The party also gained control of Rushmoor, a council with a significant military presence in southern England…
Link from www.aljazeera.com