Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has launched a scathing critique of Reform UK's political approach, branding it a "politics of poisonous division." This condemnation follows the endorsement of Reform's candidate for the upcoming Gorton and Denton by-election by far-right activist Tommy Robinson.
By-Election Battle Intensifies
The Labour leader's remarks come ahead of a crucial vote in the Greater Manchester constituency, which Labour is determined to retain. Speaking during the final stages of his east Asia trip, Sir Keir directly addressed the endorsement, stating it "tells you everything about the politics they intend to inject into this by-election."
He framed the contest as a clear choice between Labour's vision of "renewal, inclusive communities and bringing people together" and what he termed Reform's "plastic patriotism." Sir Keir insisted Labour represents the "only contender" capable of defeating Reform in this pivotal electoral test.
Candidate Selections and Campaign Dynamics
Labour has confirmed Angeliki Stogia, a Manchester City Councillor for Whalley Range first elected in 2012, as their candidate. At her campaign launch, Ms Stogia emphasised her identity as a "proud Mancunian woman" and declared Manchester a "city united" that rejects division.
Reform UK has selected Matt Goodwin, a GB News presenter and former academic, as their candidate. The party swiftly distanced itself from Robinson's endorsement, with a spokesman stating they have been "consistently clear" that the far-right activist "isn't welcome in the party."
The Green Party has entered the fray with candidate Hannah Spencer, a 34-year-old plumber and councillor. Green Party leader Zack Polanski warned there are "just days to stop Reform" as campaigning intensifies.
Polling Controversy and Electoral History
An early opinion poll suggesting Reform might lead in the constituency has sparked controversy. Pollsters Find Out Now conducted a survey of just 143 people that placed Reform first with 36% support, Labour second with 33%, and the Greens third with 21%.
The polling company subsequently apologised for "confusion or misinterpretation" resulting from their limited sample size, acknowledging the results could be subject to an unusually large margin of error.
Historical context reveals Labour secured the seat comfortably in the 2024 general election with 18,555 votes, representing more than half the electorate. Reform UK finished second with 5,142 votes, narrowly ahead of the Greens' 4,810.
Labour Internal Tensions Surface
Despite public unity, signs of internal Labour divisions have emerged following the party's decision to block Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham from standing as their candidate. Mr Burnham has expressed frustration that "people just think they can say what they like to the media" regarding his exclusion.
Steve Rotheram, Labour Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, publicly criticised what he described as "gutless" anonymous briefings from within government against Mr Burnham. He warned these internal attacks "help nobody but our opponents" and urged those responsible to cease immediately.
Mr Burnham nevertheless demonstrated party loyalty by publicly endorsing Ms Stogia on social media, promising his full support throughout her campaign.
The by-election now represents a significant test for Sir Keir Starmer's premiership, with political observers watching closely to see how Labour's message of unity fares against Reform's controversial associations and the Greens' environmental platform.
