The Green Party's emphatic by-election victory in Greater Manchester has dealt a severe blow to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, raising questions about his leadership. Labour finished third in the Gorton and Denton constituency, behind both the Greens and Reform UK, in a result that highlights the fragmentation of British politics.
Since winning power in July 2024, Starmer has struggled to deliver economic growth and repair public services, while missteps over welfare cuts have eroded support. The by-election, triggered by the resignation of a Labour MP, saw the Greens win with a message focused on the cost of living, drug legalisation, and support for Palestine.
Green leader Zack Polanski said the result shows that 'Labour's electoral stranglehold is over.' Newly elected MP Hannah Spencer, a 34-year-old plumber, apologised to customers for cancelling appointments as she took up her seat. The result underscores Labour's vulnerability to challenges from both the left and the right.
Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, has topped opinion polls for months despite having only eight MPs. The two-party system that has dominated British politics for a century is under threat as smaller parties gain ground. Starmer faces further peril in local elections on May 7, where Labour is expected to perform poorly.
