Labour thrash SNP in by-election in stinging blow for independence supporters – though turnout was nearly HALF that of 2019 vote
Labour has won Scotland’s first recall by-election, with the party’s candidate Michael Shanks taking Rutherglen and Hamilton West from the SNP.
Mr Shanks took the Westminster seat in the by-election – which was called after former SNP MP Margaret Ferrier was ousted for breaking Covid rules.
Both Labour and the SNP were looking to secure a victory as a boost ahead of the next general election, which is expected to be held in 2024.
The turnout in the Rutherglen and Hamilton West by-election was 37.19%, with a total of 30,531 votes cast.
That is down from 66.48% at the snap 2019 general election, when 53,794 valid votes were cast.
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Scottish Labour candidate Michael Shanks (R) and Scottish Labour Leader Anas Sarwar arrive at the Rutherglen and Hamilton West by-election
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