Tories expect ‘difficult’ night as votes counted

Rishi Sunak is braced for a difficult night as counting is underway in local elections across England and one by-election in Blackpool South.

Forecasts have suggested the Conservatives could lose up to half of the council seats they are defending, and a disastrous night for the party could add pressure to the Prime Minister’s leadership.

The elections are the final test of public opinion before a general election, which is expected in the second half of this year.

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