"The result of the fiercely fought by-election in Gorton and Denton in Greater Manchester seen as major test of Sir Keir Starmer's leadership will be announced in the coming hours. Labour won the seat in 2024 with more than half the vote, but polling before election day suggested the party's candidate faces a tight three-way contest with Reform UK's Matt Goodwin and the Greens' Hannah Spencer."
"Victory for Labour would buy the prime minister some breathing space after a period in which his leadership of Labour has been questioned repeatedly. But defeat is likely to pile the pressure back on him, with some suggesting a third-placed finish in a previously safe part of Greater Manchester could spell the end of his premiership."
The Gorton and Denton by-election in Greater Manchester represents a significant political moment for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's leadership. Labour secured the seat in 2024 with over half the vote, but pre-election polling indicated a competitive three-way race between Labour's candidate, Reform UK's Matt Goodwin, and the Greens' Hannah Spencer. A Labour victory would provide the prime minister relief following recent questions about his leadership. Conversely, defeat or a third-place finish could intensify pressure on Starmer, though Labour MPs indicated no immediate leadership challenge would occur during the local and devolved elections scheduled for May 7. Polling stations operated from 7am to 10pm.
Read at www.independent.co.uk
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