Manchester mayor faces high risk of defeat in Makerfield by-election

A commentator has stated that the mayor of Manchester faces a high risk of losing a by-election in the Makerfield constituency. The same statement described Brexit as a mistake and called for more direct criticism of its effects. Makerfield is described as a constituency where two-thirds of voters supported leaving the European Union.

The commentator said the candidate would need to explain these past remarks to voters during the campaign.

Immigration and policy positions The commentary also addressed the candidate's statements on immigration. It noted support for criticism of plans to make settled status harder to obtain for some residents. The assessment said the candidate would need to defend government policy on issues including small boat crossings while campaigning in the constituency.

Background to the by-election The commentator described the by-election as resulting from the mayor asking sitting members of Parliament to step aside. It stated that the candidate would need to explain the decision to hold the contest to local voters.

The commentary added that the mayor would retain the mayoral post if unsuccessful in the parliamentary contest. It noted that a vacancy in the mayoral role would likely be filled through a separate election process.