The SNP has conceded defeat in the Aberdeen South by-election, with the party expecting to lose the seat previously held by former Westminster leader Stephen Flynn. This would mark the first gain for the Conservatives in a Scottish by-election since 1967.
Conservative Victory Expected
A senior SNP source told the Press Association it was the “Tories’ night”, but pledged to “win it back in 2029”. Writing on social media, Mr Flynn said: “A tough night in Aberdeen that some will need to reflect on, quite heavily.” He added: “We lost Aberdeen South to the Tories in 2017, and we won it back two years later. I’ve no doubt that we can do so again. If we get things right.”
Candidate Profile
MSP Douglas Lumsden is set to beat former SNP MP Richard Thomson to take the seat after running an aggressive campaign touting the Conservatives’ oil and gas credentials. Mr Flynn stood down last month after being elected as an MSP, prompting the by-election.
Oil and Gas Focus
The campaign for Aberdeen South became a battle over the future of oil and gas, with the Conservatives, Reform, and the SNP vying to persuade voters in the city – dubbed the energy capital of Europe – that they support the industry the most. Candidates reported the fate of the industry was a key issue on the doorsteps.
Historical Context
This will be only the fifth time this century the Tories have gained a seat at a Westminster by-election. The Tories last gained a Westminster seat in Hartlepool in 2021.
Arbroath and Broughty Ferry By-Election
Meanwhile, the turnout for the Arbroath & Broughty Ferry by-election was 31.36%, down from just under 58% at the 2024 general election. The contest has been focused on the cost of living, according to those running in the seat. Lawyer and party adviser Lara Bird is contesting for the SNP, against Reform’s Bill Reid and local Labour councillor Heather Doran. Jack Cruickshanks of the Scottish Tories and Tanvir Ahmad of the Liberal Democrats are also running.
