How Labour’s ‘terrible’ night unfolded as Reform surges and Greens and Lib Dems hail wins

Plaid Cymru set to take power in Wales and SNP to retain it in Scotland, but Reform made big gains in both nations

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The polls were terrible, the predictions dire and even one of his predecessors as Labour leader, Ed Miliband, had reportedly told Keir Starmer he should set a timetable for his resignation.

But for the prime minister, as polls closed in Wales, Scotland and many regions of England, there would be no consideration of such a course. “To all the Labour members and volunteers who have supported local campaigns across the country: thank you,” he posted on X late on Thursday. “Together we will build a stronger and fairer Britain.”