Rosena Allin-Khan wins Tooting by-election for Labour

Labour has more than doubled its majority in Tooting, with Dr Rosena Allin-Khan elected in yesterday’s by-election.

However, Allin-Khan refused to make a victory speech on a night that was overshadowed by the death of Labour MP Jo Cox. The flag of Wandsworth Town Hall, where the count was held, was flown at half-mast and counting was paused at 11pm for a two minute silence in Cox’s memory.

On a rainy day in South London turnout was higher than expected, but still down by a third to 42.5 per cent.

Despite that, Labour’s majority rose considerably from last, with Allin-Khan winning by 6,357 votes on 55.9 per cent of the vote.

Instead of making a victory speech, Allin-Khan said:

“Given the horrific events of today and the shocking death of Jo Cox, I do not intend to make a speech. Instead, I would like to make a short statement.

“First of all, I would like to give my profound thanks to the people of Tooting for electing me as their MP.

“But my thoughts and prayers are with Jo’s husband and her children. She was a proud and passionate campaigner who will be desperately missed.

“Jo’s death reminds us that our democracy is precious but fragile – we must never forget to cherish it. Thousands of people voted today and we are all here in recognition of our democratic values.

“I would like to thank the police for all the hard work they have done today, not just here but across the country.

“I would like to thank the returning officer and staff for their efficient and smooth running of this by-election, and I would also like to thank my agent and his campaign staff.

“I would like to thank the other candidates for the respectful way in which this by-election has been fought.

“And lastly, I would like to thank my family and friends for their love and support.

“Thank you very much.”

Both MP Clive Efford and London Labour staff members deserve credit for a strong campaign, showing what an electoral force the party is in the capital.

You can see the full results here: