Reform UK’s recent setback in failing to secure a crucial Welsh constituency indicates vulnerability within Nigel Farage’s party, as emphasized by Andy Burnham. The Mayor of Greater Manchester highlighted a growing willingness across the nation to confront and impede the right-wing group. This development follows Labour’s significant loss in the Caerphilly Senned by-election, relinquishing a seat they had held since its inception in 1999.
Despite significant investment and being favored by bookmakers, Reform was thwarted as Plaid Cymru triumphed with 47% of the vote compared to Reform’s 36%. Burnham, in discussion with The Mirror’s Real Britain columnist Ros-Wynne Jones, noted the positive takeaway from the Caerphilly election, indicating that Reform is defeatable, signaling a collective desire to resist and challenge them.
Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram echoed the sentiment, stressing the need for a more concerted effort to directly confront Reform. He emphasized the necessity for unity within the Labour Party to counter the rising influence of the Greens and effectively combat Reform’s populist right-wing stance.
Burnham also expressed satisfaction with Lucy Powell’s victory in the deputy leadership contest, advocating for a more inclusive and unified approach within the party to effectively combat Reform’s agenda. Plaid Cymru’s leader, Rhun ap Iorwerth, seized on the election outcome to assert that Plaid is now the primary choice for Wales, positioning themselves as the true alternative to billionaire-backed Reform. The result in Caerphilly signifies a shift towards new leadership and a vision that resonates with the people of Wales, portraying Plaid Cymru as the party leading the charge for a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.