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3mo ago

Reform UK Surge Challenges SNP and Labour in Hamilton By-Election

Opinion polls suggesting Reform UK could overtake both main parties have fueled race-focused adverts in the lead-up to the June 5 vote

Sir Keir Starmer with Anas Sarwar, the leader of Scottish Labour. Sources loyal to Sarwar say claims that Labour is certain to fall behind Reform are misguided
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Overview

  • With voting set for June 5, the by-election is seen as a bellwether for Scotland’s 2026 Parliament elections and the SNP’s 4,582-vote majority from 2021 faces its stiffest challenge as Reform UK support surges.
  • Reform UK’s adverts misrepresenting Anas Sarwar’s comments on the Pakistani community have sparked formal complaints from both Labour and the SNP and intensified a race-related campaign row.
  • Nigel Farage and Anas Sarwar have exchanged public personal attacks over race and sectarianism accusations, escalating the contest into a head-to-head showdown.
  • Scottish Labour’s candidate, Davy Russell, has declined televised debates and radio appearances, drawing criticism of an ineffective campaign operation.
  • Senior Scottish Labour MPs warn they may oppose planned welfare cuts if the party finishes behind the SNP and Reform, exposing internal divisions ahead of the vote.