Labour leader sees major swing and potential for 40 seat gains in Scotland
Sir Keir Starmer is basking in the glory of a "seismic" by-election victory, which not only humiliated the Scottish nationalists but also positioned his party one step closer to Downing Street. Political experts suggest that the impressive 20% swing could potentially result in the Labour party securing as many as 40 seats in Scotland if replicated in a general election.
Labour's triumph causes excitement among party members
An upbeat shadow Cabinet Minister voiced their excitement, stating, "There is no area of the country we can't win in now." Party insiders, however, are concerned about managing the enthusiasm of MPs and supporters, fearing that they may become overly triumphant at the upcoming annual conference in Liverpool.
Starmer praises supporters for defying expectations
While visiting the Rutherglen constituency, Sir Keir Starmer addressed the crowds, declaring, "They said that we couldn't win in the south of England and the north of England, and we did it. They said 'you'll never beat the SNP in Scotland' and Rutherglen, you did it. You blew the doors off!" He emphasized that the by-election win was a significant step in the right direction and credited the positive campaign for the size of the victory.
By-election called after SNP MP breaks lockdown rules
The by-election was triggered due to the expulsion of SNP MP Margaret Ferrier by her constituents after she violated lockdown rules. The SNP has also faced a police investigation into financial misconduct within the party, which resulted in the arrest of ex-First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
Political expert predicts major impact on Scottish seats
Renowned election expert Professor Sir John Curtice commented on the Labour party's performance, saying, "This is Labour apparently now able to put on the kind of performance that, frankly, it has not been able to put on at any stage since the independence referendum. And if – obviously it's a big if – the swing since 2019 were to be replicated across Scotland as a whole, you are talking of Labour being back to having about 40 seats and the SNP being back down to not much more than half a dozen seats."
Michael Shanks MP secures landslide victory for Labour
Labour's Michael Shanks MP achieved a resounding win in the by-election, firmly defeating the SNP.
