Labour faced a significant defeat in Gorton and Denton without any attempt to downplay it.
During the early hours of Friday, it was evident that one of the party’s most secure seats had been claimed by the Green Party. The optimism cautiously held by the numerous activists canvassing the Greater Manchester constituency in recent days faded away as Labour’s voting percentage plummeted by 25%.
The situation worsened as the party ended up in third place, trailing behind Nigel Farage’s Reform UK. The Greens, who had ranked the Greater Manchester seat as 127th on their priority list, were exultant, characterizing the outcome as “earth-shattering.” Local plumber Hannah Spencer triumphed, securing victory as the first-ever Green candidate to win a by-election.
While acknowledging the disappointment of the outcome, Keir Starmer endeavored to convey a resolute stance, affirming his commitment to “continue the fight” for as long as he is able. In a letter addressed to all Labour MPs on Friday afternoon, he expressed, “It stings. However, this type of result is not uncommon for parties in power. During by-elections, people can voice their opinions without risking a change in government. I understand: individuals are rightfully eager to witness the change they cast their votes for.” A source from No10 stated: “We possess a progressive agenda that resonates with the public, and we must focus on delivering it. It is not about emulating the Green Party’s platform. Distractions are inevitable in governance, but there is a substantive agenda that demands our vocal support.“The paramount concern is the cost of living, and we must persist in addressing it ardently rather than diverting onto a different path.” The source added: “We have the Greens on one end and Reform on the other. We have a genuine opportunity to cater to mainstream Britain.”
“I was not complacent, but I was confident we could achieve it.” A Labour MP from the 2024 intake informed The Mirror: “He [the PM] thwarted Andy, and now he must take responsibility.” Another individual claimed that the so-called King of the North would have emerged victorious in the competition. This sentiment was echoed by Labour MP Karl Turner in a series of impassioned interviews on Friday. “I can guarantee you, without a doubt, Andy Burnham would have won that by-election yesterday indisputably. That is the truth, and we cannot ignore it,” he vehemently expressed on the Today program. “Andy Burnham would currently be the MP for that constituency.” Despite some being eager to voice their frustrations on the airwaves, the vast majority of Labour MPs have, at least publicly, opted to remain silent thus far.
One Labour MP remarked: “Following the unsuccessful coup [against the PM] the other week, it was evident that while people are dissatisfied with us, they are not interested in games. We must focus on our responsibilities and assess the situation in the foreseeable future.” They are also preparing for the more substantial event in May, when millions will participate in the elections, with over 6,000 council seats in England up for contention alongside the Scottish and Welsh parliamentary elections. This will serve as Mr. Starmer’s most significant electoral challenge since the 2024 general election and could play a pivotal role in determining his future in Downing Street.
Ashley Cowburn is The Mirror’s Deputy Political Editor, stationed at Parliament. For any stories or tips, please contact ashley.cowburn@mirror.co.uk
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