Why local elections matter
These elections could be the last big test of the current Westminster government's popularity ahead of the next general election, expected in 2024.
On 4th May, more than 8,000 seats will be contested at 230 councils across England. Mayoral elections are also taking place in Bedford, Leicester, Mansfield and Middlesbrough. In Northern Ireland, 11 council elections are being held on 18th May. So why do they matter? They decide who is in charge of local public services - and how they are run. Local issues, such as contentious planning decisions, the state of roads or rubbish collection, often decide council elections. These elections could be the last big test of the current Westminster government's popularity ahead of the next general election, expected in 2024. The Conservatives are currently trailing Labour by about 15 points in national voting polls.
There are no elections in Scotland or Wales.
For 5 Questions On, the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ's Political Correspondent David Wallace Lockhart explains why the local elections in England and Northern Ireland matter.
Image Credit: Andy Rain
