Labour wins Greater Manchester mayoralty decisively

Labour has achieved a significant victory in the Greater Manchester mayoral byelection, reclaiming areas that had recently leaned towards Reform UK and the Greens. Bev Craig, the leader of Manchester City Council, will now assume one of the most influential political roles outside of Westminster, succeeding Andy Burnham.

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move away from divisive politics that try pit neighbour against neighbour

In the initial count, Labour secured 47% of the vote. Under the supplementary voting system, where second preferences are considered if no candidate reaches 50%, Labour's share surged to an impressive 66.3%. Reform UK followed with 33.7% after second preferences were allocated.

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you can vote Labour again

Craig, in her victory speech, called for a move away from divisive politics. The scale of this win provides a considerable boost to the new prime minister, indicating Labour's potential to attract voters from both the left and right who had previously shifted away from the party.

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massively underperformed

The result also raises concerns for Nigel Farage's Reform UK, which has seen its national poll lead diminish and faces scrutiny over its funding. The party had previously made inroads in Greater Manchester, winning over 100 seats in May elections, including significant gains in traditionally Labour areas. However, Farage's decision to step down as an MP to contest a byelection in Clacton appears to have impacted the party's momentum.

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rejecting the politics of hate but standing with their neighbours, looking out for each other