The Labour Party in the United Kingdom has suffered another blow, losing a by-election, held on Thursday, in the north of England to the Conservative Party (or Tories).
The by-election in Hartlepool, in Durham, saw the Conservative candidate, Jill Mortimer, win over 50% of the vote, with Labour securing nearly 30%. An independent, Sam Lee, came third, with just under 30%.
The by-election was necessary as the previous MP for the constituency, Mike Hill, was forced to resign following allegations of sexual harassment.
Since the constituency was formed in 1974 Labour has won it in every election. It has been considered part of the ‘Red Wall,’ which is a number of constituencies in northern England which had generally been considered safe Labour seats. However, in recent years a number of these seats have chosen the Tories, rather than Labour, particularly in the last general election, held in 2019.
The result will be a blow for Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer, who has been leader of the party since 2020. Conversely, it will be a boost for British Prime Minister and Tory leader, Boris Johnson, who has been under pressure recently, following controversy over refurbishments to his official Downing Street residence in London.
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