In a surprising turn of events, Rishi Sunak has faced a double by-election defeat in two safe Tory seats, with Labour and the Liberal Democrats both overturning majorities of around 20,000.
Labour’s Keir Mather emerged as the victor in the Selby and Ainsty by-election, securing 16,456 votes and a majority of 4,161. At just 25 years old, Mather is set to become the youngest member of the House of Commons, earning him the moniker “baby of the house.” Celebrating his win, Mather expressed his belief that the Conservative government has let down the people, emphasising the need for a fresh start. Party leader Sir Keir Starmer praised the historic result, stating that it reflects Labour’s renewed focus on the priorities of working people with an ambitious, practical plan to deliver change.
Meanwhile, the Liberal Democrats also achieved a triumphant victory in the Somerton and Frome by-election. Sarah Dyke, the declared candidate, secured 21,187 votes and an impressive majority of 11,008. Dyke paid tribute to party leader Sir Ed Davey for leading the party to four consecutive by-election victories over the Conservatives. She described the win as a stunning and historic moment for the Liberal Democrats, declaring that they are indeed back in the West Country. Dyke also criticised the current government as being “tired and out of touch,” citing the need for change and a departure from what she referred to as the government’s “circus of chaos.”
On a brighter note for the Conservative Party, Steve Tuckwell secured victory in the Uxbridge and South Ruislip by-election, narrowly defeating his Labour rival Danny Beales by a mere 495 votes. Tuckwell attributed Labour’s loss to Sadiq Khan’s contentious ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) policy, which seemingly swayed voters in favour of the Conservative candidate. Tuckwell’s win was a relief for the Conservatives amidst the losses in the other two constituencies.
