Lee Anderson warns Keir Starmer over delayed local elections in England

Local elections in several areas, including Essex and Hertfordshire, have been postponed from May 2025 to 2026 or 2027. This change follows a new government plan to merge county and district councils, requiring restructuring proposals by mid-January. Reform UK has criticized the delay, claiming it threatens democracy. Party leader Nigel Farage accused the government of desperation, asserting that the postponement targets areas where Reform is gaining support. Chief Whip Lee Anderson echoed this sentiment, labeling the situation a "threat to democracy." Local Government Minister Jim McMahon stated that any postponement would be brief. Meanwhile, Reform UK denied reports of forming electoral pacts with the Conservative Party, insisting they will run candidates independently in the upcoming elections.