Elections Test Labour as Tories Mull Reform Pact

Polling has opened across England for local, mayoral, and parliamentary elections, serving as a major test for Prime Minister Keir Starmer's Labour government. The Conservatives, facing the prospect of significant losses, and Reform UK are considering the potential for post-election coalitions, particularly at the local council level, though their leaders have ruled out a national alliance. Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen has suggested such pacts may be necessary to prevent Labour from gaining power, while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage have both downplayed the possibility of a formal national coalition. The Liberal Democrats and Greens are also aiming for gains amid concerns over Reform's growing influence. Informal local arrangements between parties remain possible where councils are under no overall control. Early results, especially from the Runcorn and Helsby byelection, will be closely monitored for signs of shifting voter allegiances.