Downing Street has forcefully rejected accusations that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is behaving like a "dictator", amid a furious political row over plans to postpone four mayoral elections until 2028.
A 'Pragmatic' Delay or Democratic Cancellation?
The Government confirmed on Thursday that it is "minded" to delay inaugural mayoral votes for four new combined authorities. The elections for Sussex and Brighton, Hampshire and the Solent, Norfolk and Suffolk, and Greater Essex were originally scheduled for next year but are now likely to be held in 2028.
Number 10 insists the move is a pragmatic step to allow more time for the reorganisation of local authorities under its devolution agenda. A spokesman stated the delay ensures new mayors have the proper structures "to hit the ground running from day one."
However, the decision has ignited fierce criticism from across the political spectrum, with opponents accusing the Labour government of "cancelling democracy." The controversy comes as the party faces dismal poll ratings and internal speculation about Sir Keir's leadership.
Cross-Party Condemnation and Broken Trust
The backlash has been swift and severe. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage declared that "only dictators cancel elections," while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch branded the postponement a "scandal" and vowed to oppose it "every step of the way."
Perhaps the most stinging rebuke came from within Labour's own ranks. Former local government minister Jim McMahon, speaking in the Commons, warned the Government had a "moral and a legal obligation" to honour its deals with local leaders. "Trust is hard won but is easily squandered," he stated bluntly.
Local government minister Miatta Fahnbulleh defended the delay, arguing that "breathing room" was needed to ensure the new authorities were set up correctly. The postponement follows the earlier move to delay council elections in nine areas from 2025 to 2026 due to reorganisation.
Practical Fallout and Financial Cost
The delay has caused significant practical disruption and financial waste. Kevin Bentley, Conservative leader of Essex County Council, expressed "huge disappointment," noting that main parties had already selected candidates and campaigning had begun.
The Association of Electoral Administrators highlighted that dozens of councils had already invested time, effort, and money in preparing for the 2026 votes. Chief Executive Peter Stanyon called for clarity on reimbursement for these incurred costs and for the wider election schedule.
The County Councils Network called the news "bitterly disappointing" and said it would seek immediate assurances from the Government. The group warned the move "injects uncertainty" for other counties seeking devolution deals.
As the Prime Minister's spokesman repeatedly declined to apologise for the change, the political storm over democracy delayed shows no sign of abating, with critics framing it as a fundamental breach of faith with local communities.
