Election results: First council statements cast a grim picture on Starmer’s Labor Party | Political news

The count began after a day of voting that could have profound implications for the future of the UK and the Labor Party.

The first results paint a grim picture for Sir Keir Starmerof Labour Party – which lost Hartlepool to the Tories for the very first time – as ballots continue to be counted in England, Scotland and Wales following the Super Thursday ballots.

The coronavirus pandemic has delayed some of last year’s council contests, making this year the biggest test of political opinion outside of a general election in nearly 50 years.

UK elections live: follow the latest results and reactions to the ‘Super Thursday’ vote count

In Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon’s SNP hopes for an overall majority, which she would see as a mandate to hold a second independence referendum, which risks dividing the UK.

In Wales, Mark Drakeford hopes to maintain Labor’s grip as voters choose their representatives in Senedd. However, he could find himself counting on a coalition to keep him prime minister.

In England, people voted in local council elections, mayoral competitions, and for police and crime commissioners.

Early results show the Tories seized Redditch and Nuneaton & Bedworth councils in the Labor Midlands, as well as Harlow in Essex, while Sir Keir’s party suffered heavy losses in local authorities in the North- Is.

Nuneaton Tory MP Marcus Jones wrote on Twitter that he was “delighted” with the result, adding: “A missive effort (sic) from all concerned. Thanks to everyone who supported the Tory candidates.”

Robert, MP for Harlow …