ELECTION: Polls a 'good chance to give the government a kicking' says Tameside MP

A Tameside Labour MP has criticised the Tories for being unable to field a full set of candidates in the local elections.

Denton and Reddish Labour MP Andrew Gwynne said tonight: "I think the three Denton wards are going to be really solid results for Labour. The three councillors have a proven track record of delivering for local people and I think and hope that the results will show that.

"The interesting thing in Tameside tonight, though, is the fact the Conservatives were unable to field a full set of candidates which, considering they're the party of government, I think is really quite shocking and denies people a choice in the borough but also the fact that there are far more independents this time and that can throw up some odd results as well.

"I think it will be an interesting night but I think it should be a good night for Labour overall.

"Cost of living is an important reason why people will vote. People do vote on local issues and sometimes hyper local issues, so it might be a planning application but for most people, whether we like it or not, local elections are determined by national factors.

"Lots of people vote to give the government a kicking and to tell them that their time is up and that the general election we so desperately need cannot come soon enough."