Esther McVey urges Conservatives to support Reform UK in Runcorn by-election

Esther McVey, a prominent Conservative MP, has suggested that her party should step aside in the upcoming Runcorn by-election to allow Reform UK a chance to win against Labour. In a recorded conversation, McVey expressed her belief in a pragmatic electoral pact, claiming that allowing two right-wing parties to split the vote could lead to Labour's victory. This stance contradicts Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch's firm rejection of any electoral arrangement with Reform UK, which she accuses of wanting to undermine the Tories. Current polling indicates that Reform UK is leading with 40% of the vote, compared to Labour's 35%, while the Conservatives trail significantly behind. The Runcorn by-election, triggered by the resignation of Labour MP Mike Amesbury, is seen as a critical test for both parties, with betting odds favoring Reform to secure the win. Despite McVey's comments, the Conservative leadership remains resistant to cooperating with Reform UK ahead of the general election.