Keir Starmer should know to beware the mayors

Key Concerns for Labour

The article centers on the potential pitfalls for the Labour Party arising from the expansion of elected mayors across England, a key policy of Keir Starmer. The author argues that this devolution initiative, while intended to empower communities, presents significant political risks for Labour.

Historical Precedents

The piece uses the example of Stuart Drummond, a Hartlepool mayor known as "H'Angus," to illustrate how past mayoral elections have often gone against Labour's favor. It also mentions other instances where Labour lost mayoral races to independent candidates or from other parties, highlighting a recurring trend.

Political Risks

• Loss of Local Control: The new mayoral system is predicted to replace smaller, potentially Labour-winnable councils with larger, county-wide authorities more likely to be won by opposition parties.
• Rise of Opposition Parties: The article suggests that the devolution initiative could empower parties like the Reform Party and the Green Party, allowing them to gain control of mayoral seats.
• Internal Party Conflicts: The policy has led to internal dissent within the Labour party, with many MPs expressing their opposition.

The author highlights the irony of Labour, historically associated with centralisation, now embracing devolution, and speculates on the potential negative consequences for the party in upcoming local elections.

Potential for Reform Party Success

Nigel Farage's Reform Party is presented as a significant beneficiary of this new system. The article notes Farage's view that his party is better positioned to win mayoral races due to their candidate selection process.

Governmental Efficiency vs. Political Strategy

The article explores the tension between the government's aim of improving efficiency through devolution and the potential political ramifications. Some ministers express concern that the focus on reorganizing councils may detract from addressing citizens' needs.