Holborn and St Pancras by-election under way as polls open
Polls have opened for the Holborn and St Pancras by-election in London, triggered by the resignation of former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Fifteen candidates are competing for the seat, with voters required to present identification.
Why it matters
By-elections in the UK are critical indicators of local political sentiment and can influence the broader national political landscape.
Image source, Getty Images Published 8 October 2026, 07:00 BST Voting is under way in the Holborn and St Pancras by-election as candidates from across the political spectrum vie to become its new MP.
About 30 polling stations - at churches and community centres - in the north London constituency opened at 07:00 BST and will close at 22:00, when a count will begin.
The seat became vacant after former prime minister Sir Keir Starmer announced he was standing down to focus on a role in international affairs .
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