The results from the local elections are in — and we’re beginning work out what it means for the parties with regards to next month’s general election. While the Conservatives have much cause for (cautious) celebration, Ukip looks on the brink of extinction, Labour has had a dismal showing – and the Liberal Democrats are having a ‘neutral‘ time of it, at least according to Sir Vince Cable.
This is a somewhat optimistic gloss on the party’s showing today. The Lib Dems have lost 34 seats but have seen their share of the national vote jump by seven pc. Now this doesn’t sound too bad — especially when compared to the plight of other parties — but given the party has been predicted a surge in support, it’s a rather disappointing result.
Tim Farron had hoped to seize the momentum given to his party since the EU referendum result to mount a sizeable comeback.
Britain’s best politics newsletters
You get two free articles each week when you sign up to The Spectator’s emails.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Comments
Join the debate for just £1 a month
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for £3.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just £1 a monthAlready a subscriber? Log in