Gorton by-election ‘likely to be cancelled’
The Gorton by-election in Manchester – called in the wake of the death of long-standing Labour MP Sir Gerald Kaufman – looks unlikely go ahead following Prime Minister Theresa May’s snap election announcement.
The local poll was due to take place on May 4, the day after parliament is to be dissolved.
This would potentially create the unusual situation of a newly-elected MP with no parliament to sit in.
Returning Officer for Manchester Joanne Roney said on the BBC News website: “We are seeking advice in discussion with the Government and Electoral Commission and will confirm arrangements for the Manchester Gorton constituency as soon as possible.”
But the BBC said it understood the snap poll means the Gorton by-election is unlikely to take place.
Cabinet member David Davis, Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union, said on Sky News the by-election would be cancelled, while the Leader of the House David Lidington told the Commons the decision on whether to hold the poll is one for the returning officer in Manchester.
