Holborn and St Pancras by-election underway as Andy Burnham faces major test

Become an Independent member to bookmark this article Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Membership today. Join today Already a member? Log in Holborn and St Pancras by-election underway as Andy Burnham faces major test Abbie Llewelyn Thursday 08 October 2026 08:04 BST Bookmark popover Removed from bookmarks Close popover Voters divided ahead of crucial by-election test for Burnham Voting has opened in the Holborn and St Pancras by-election to select a new MP following the departure of Sir Keir Starmer from the seat. Labour candidate and Camden Council leader Sagal Abdi-Wali is hoping to retain the long-standing Labour stronghold. Green Party leader Zack Polanski is seeking to challenge Labour, advocating for rent controls, public ownership of Thames Water, and an end to North Sea oil drilling. Prime minister Andy Burnham endorsed Abdi-Wali, highlighting her local roots as a former refugee and her pledges to tackle rough sleeping and water companies. A total of 15 candidates are contesting the seat, including representatives from the Conservatives, Reform UK, the Liberal Democrats, and George Galloway for the Workers Party of Britain. In full Holborn and St Pancras by-election live: Voting opens in big test for Burnham against Polanski in Starmer’s old seat