Tories lose both by elections.

[the other bob wilson]

The Lib Dems hoovered up wholesale what were previously Labour voters too though.

Well, I’d say that was because the Lib Dems were the choice of the tactical voters as they were held to be the party more likely to beat the Conservatives. What I would say though is that the Lib Dems were very effective in getting the notion that they were the only alternatives to the Tories out there very quickly.

[Taunton Blue Genie]

Well, I’d say that was because the Lib Dems were the choice of the tactical voters as they were held to be the party more likely to beat the Conservatives. What I would say though is that the Lib Dems were very effective in getting the notion that they were the only alternatives to the Tories out there very quickly.

It could be argued that tactical votes should have gone to the opposition party that were second last time out and not to a party that was given little chance of winning the seat a while ago. Yes, it's clearly not 'Labour' country down here but I think the party still suffers from a major malaise away from its core areas of support.

[JamesWales]

It could be argued that tactical votes should have gone to the opposition party that were second last time out and not to a party that was given little chance of winning the seat a while ago. Yes, it's clearly not 'Labour' country down here but I think the party still suffers from a major malaise away from its core areas of support.

I agree. I am actually surprised that Labour had done so well in the last 2 elections there, as it really isn't known as Labour territory. I do think despite that, and as has been proved, the Lib Dems did have the better chance of winning it, but like you say, it is curious.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tivert..._constituency)