Labour’s Sagal Abdi-Wali has claimed victory in the Holborn and St Pancras by-election, retaining the party’s seat in a vote which was seen by many as an opportunity for Green leader Zack Polanski to enter Westminster.

If you’re just joining us, here’s what you need to know:

• Abdi-Wali secured 12,292 votes, fending off Polanski’s 8,928 in a poll which was triggered by the resignation of Keir Starmer from the Labour stronghold seat
• The Camden Council leader said she was honoured to represent the constituency while touching on policies such as homelessness and nationalising Thames Water in her victory speech, saying: “People need to believe that politics can make their lives better”
• Polanski’s loss comes amid criticism of his party’s Zionism motion at its conference last weekend – his interview this morning is the first time he’s answered questions on the matter
• Despite his by-election loss, the Green leader has said he will “of course” remain in his role – our political correspondent Jack Fenwickspeaks of the pressure he may face ahead of the next election
• The Conservatives came third in the by-election, claiming 1,922 votes, with Reform UK, the Lib Dems and Restore subsequently following
• Thursday’s vote saw a turnout of 38.76%, marking a decrease when compared to the 2024 general election

Read More: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/cqgl7jxdwr43t