Overview

• Scott Benton, former Tory MP for Blackpool South, resigns after lobbying scandal suspension.
• Benton's resignation triggers a critical Red Wall by-election, posing a challenge for Rishi Sunak.
• The resignation allows for a by-election to potentially coincide with local elections on May 2.
• Labour is seen as the frontrunner to take the Blackpool South seat in the upcoming by-election.
• Benton was suspended for 35 days from the Commons for a lobbying breach, triggering a recall petition.