As Lord Mandelson’s arrest sends shock waves through Westminster, Sir Keir Starmer is set to face his biggest electoral test yet.

It is not just a by-election; it is a referendum on the establishment. This week, all eyes are on Manchester as the Gorton and Denton by-election prepares to deliver a verdict that could redefine the UK’s political map and stick another nail in Labour’s coffin.

Camilla and Tim are joined by Scarlett McGuire, pollster and founder of Merlin Strategies, to break down the numbers in what is traditionally a “red wall” fortress, discuss the extraordinary unpopularity of Sir Keir and the potential for a new coalition government.

And they catch up with Matt Goodwin, Reform UK’s controversial candidate. The academic-turned-politician discusses his belief that the party will win the seat, the “darker forces” and “sectarianism” he claims his opponents are enabling, his comments on the UK’s fertility crisis and Reform’s push to win over white working-class and minority voters.

Producer: Georgia Coan

Senior Producer: John Cadigan

Executive Producer: Charlotte Seligman

Video Producer: Will Walters

Studio Operator: Meghan Searle

Social Producer: Nada Aggour

Editor: Camilla Tominey

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