Story perspectives

Labour Faces Worst Local Defeat Since 1995, Reform UK Surges

5/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Labour Party suffered its worst local-election losses since 1995, losing 1,000 council seats and Wales control.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the result reflected a cost-of-living crisis and pledged possible fuel-duty relief.
MP Catherine West warned she would trigger a leadership challenge unless cabinet acted, calling the outcome apocalyptic.
Reform UK and the Green Party gained council control, with Reform UK topping the vote and the Greens adding 376 councillors.

History

Historical Context

On 6 May 2010 the UK held simultaneous local and general elections; Labour’s council losses handed the Conservatives their first decline in councillor numbers since 1996, while opinion polls had swung from Labour’s double-digit lead in 2005 to a Conservative advantage by May 2006. The defeat sparked internal Labour challenges and set a pattern of later local setbacks.

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Story summary

Labour Party suffered its worst local-election losses since 1995, losing 1,000 council seats and Wales control.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the result reflected a cost-of-living crisis and pledged possible fuel-duty relief.
MP Catherine West warned she would trigger a leadership challenge unless cabinet acted, calling the outcome apocalyptic.
Reform UK and the Green Party gained council control, with Reform UK topping the vote and the Greens adding 376 councillors.

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