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Conservatives Triumph in Stranraer By-Election Amid Reform UK Surge

11/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Reform UK failed to win Scotland’s Stranraer by-election, losing to Conservative candidate Julie Currie.
Currie was elected at stage 7, despite Reform UK having the most first preferences.
The by-election followed the resignation of Willie Scobie.
Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay praised Currie's victory, citing voter frustration with rising taxes and SNP services.
Polls show Reform UK could win more than 20 MSPs in the next Holyrood election.

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Story summary

Reform UK failed to win Scotland’s Stranraer by-election, losing to Conservative candidate Julie Currie.
Currie was elected at stage 7, despite Reform UK having the most first preferences.
The by-election followed the resignation of Willie Scobie.
Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay praised Currie's victory, citing voter frustration with rising taxes and SNP services.
Polls show Reform UK could win more than 20 MSPs in the next Holyrood election.