Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has claimed a major victory following a controversial elections U-turn by the government. He praised the decision to restore 30 local ballots, originally postponed by Labour until 2027. Farage described it as a win for democracy.
Initially, Labour planned to delay elections affecting over 4.5 million voters. The government said it needed more time to reorganise council structures. However, Reform UK challenged the move in court, prompting a legal review. On Monday, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reversed its stance, confirming elections will proceed on May 7.
Alongside the announcement, the government allocated £63 million to support councils with restructuring efforts. Officials also offered practical guidance to ensure smooth polling. Farage called the U-turn a clear concession, adding that Local Government Secretary Steve Reed’s position should be questioned. The government also agreed to cover Reform UK’s legal fees, reportedly reaching six figures.
The reversal impacts city councils including Lincoln, Exeter, Norwich, Peterborough, and Preston. Several district councils, such as Cannock Chase, Harlow, Welwyn Hatfield, and West Lancashire, will also hold elections as scheduled. County council voters in East Sussex, West Sussex, Norfolk, and Suffolk will now cast their ballots in May.
Election officials expressed frustration at the repeated changes. Laura Lock, deputy chief executive of the Association of Electoral Administrators, warned that teams lost months of planning time. She explained that election staff had paused preparations to avoid unnecessary costs. Now, they must work quickly to catch up.
Similarly, Conservative councillor Richard Wright said local officers and residents face confusion from shifting timelines. He called the elections U-turn a “race against time” for councils to book polling stations and coordinate staff. Matthew Hicks, leader of Suffolk County Council, described the repeated changes as “whiplash” and said uncertainty hinders effective planning and stability for communities.
Labour-run Thurrock Council leader Lynn Worrall said she found the reversal disappointing, as it comes too late for many administrators to adjust fully. Despite the challenges, officials now focus on executing the elections fairly and efficiently.
Observers say the elections U-turn highlights tensions between government strategy and legal accountability. Councils must act quickly, while voters expect clarity. Farage celebrated the result, but many local officials warn that time pressures could complicate logistics.
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