In a surprising turn of events, Labour has emerged victorious in the Rutherglen and Hamilton West by-election, marking a significant swing of 20.4% from the SNP. The results, with a total of 30,531 votes cast and 54 rejected ballots, unveil the electorate’s firm stance for change.
Labour’s candidate, Michael Shanks, clinched a staggering 17,845 votes, more than double the count of SNP’s Katy Loudon. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer hailed it as “a seismic moment,” emphasising the message sent by the people for a transformative shift.
The breakdown of votes for other candidates ranged from the Scottish Conservatives’ Thomas Kerr securing 1,192 votes to Independent Garry Cooke receiving a mere 6 votes. The SNP, facing disappointment, acknowledged it as a challenging night.
The by-election was triggered by the removal of former SNP MP Margaret Ferrier following a breach of Covid rules. Turnout, however, saw a decline at 37.19%, considerably lower than the 2019 general election.
Scottish Tory candidate Thomas Kerr expressed disappointment at losing the deposit and attributed the decline in Conservative support to tactical voting. Kerr remains optimistic, foreseeing a return of voters to the Tories in future elections.
