Labour Routed in Birmingham as Reform UK Becomes Largest Party

Birmingham City Council has entered a state of No Overall Control (NOC) following the collapse of Labour’s majority, with Reform UK emerging as the largest party. Among those elected was John Lambert, CTO and senior partner at VP News, who secured victory in the Kingstanding Ward for Reform UK.

The staff at VP News extend their congratulations to John on his election as part of a dramatic reshaping of Birmingham’s political landscape.

The Kingstanding Result

In Kingstanding, Reform UK secured a double gain. John Lambert topped the poll with 1,893 votes, alongside running-mate Jex Parkin, who secured 1,771 votes.

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The pair finished well ahead of their rivals:

A Fragmented Council

Labour’s long-running control of Birmingham City Council came to an end after major losses across the city. The party, which held 65 seats in 2022, was reduced to 16 seats, with several senior figures losing their positions.

With 101 seats contested, the council is now divided between multiple parties:

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Note: Four seats remain subject to recounts on Monday, including Glebe Farm & Tile Cross and Bournville & Cotteridge.

Across the West Midlands

Reform UK also made gains elsewhere across the region:

Reform UK Deputy Leader Richard Tice, speaking at the Birmingham count, said: “We have absolutely smashed it in the Midlands.”

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What Happens Next?

With no party holding a majority, Birmingham now faces a period of negotiations between parties and independent councillors over how the authority will be run.

The incoming administration will inherit major financial and service pressures, including the council’s ongoing efforts to stabilise its finances and improve local services. For Reform UK councillors including John Lambert, attention will now turn from campaigning to council governance and decision-making.