Keir Starmer Faces Key By-Election Test in Manchester Amid Close Contest

Voters in Manchester's Gorton and Denton are participating in a closely contested by-election seen as a significant test for Labour leader Keir Starmer. Labour is framing the vote as a choice between their party and Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, warning that votes for the Greens could indirectly benefit Reform. The election follows criticism of Starmer over policy reversals and the appointment of Peter Mandelson as ambassador. Labour selected Angeliki Stogia amid internal disputes, facing opponents Matt Goodwin (Reform) and Hannah Spencer (Greens).