Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner hits the campaign trail amid protests and fierce political rivalry
In a robust defence of Scottish Labour’s prospects in the upcoming Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has declared that candidate Davy Russell is “in it to win it”, as the party faces a growing challenge not just from the SNP, but also from Reform UK.
Campaigning alongside Mr Russell on Thursday, Ms Rayner’s visit was partially overshadowed by protests which forced a last-minute relocation of her scheduled media interviews. Demonstrators, largely angered by the UK Government’s stance on the conflict in Gaza, gathered at the original venue, prompting the Deputy Prime Minister to alter plans.
Voters in the constituency are set to go to the polls on 5 June in a by-election triggered by the death of SNP MSP Christina McKelvie. While Labour initially positioned itself as the natural successor to the seat, recent polling and public discourse suggest a more unpredictable race, with Reform UK gaining ground and the SNP urging tactical votes from Labour supporters.
Scottish Labour’s campaign has faced criticism in recent days, with candidate Davy Russell opting out of both a televised debate and a scheduled morning radio appearance. Despite this, Ms Rayner offered full-throated support, highlighting his long-standing local ties.
“Davy Russell is a local person who has lived here all his life, he really believes in championing his community,” she told reporters. “He’s not here for short-term gain. He’s been serving his community for 45 years, and once the by-election is over, he’ll still be here. That’s what this campaign is about – a genuine, grassroots connection.”
Ms Rayner also dismissed suggestions Labour could place behind both the SNP and Reform, brushing aside speculation that the seat had effectively become a two-horse race between John Swinney’s party and Nigel Farage’s insurgent movement.
“Davy Russell’s in it to win it,” she repeated, reinforcing Labour’s message that its candidate remains committed and focused on delivering for constituents.
However, the political temperature has risen sharply in the constituency. A controversial online video produced by Reform UK has drawn widespread condemnation. The ad targets Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar, suggesting he prioritises the Pakistani community – a claim both the SNP and Labour have branded as divisive and misleading. The parties have called on Meta to remove the video.
Ms Rayner said she had not viewed the clip but condemned Reform’s tactics, doubling down on her criticism of Farage.
“He’s a snake oil salesman that just wants to sow division,” she said, adding that such rhetoric “has no place in Scottish politics or anywhere in the UK.”
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Reform UK has defended the ad, stating it simply highlights Mr Sarwar’s past remarks regarding the need for more representation of Scots with South Asian heritage. Mr Sarwar, however, has made no claims about prioritising any ethnic group.
Addressing the protests that disrupted her visit, Ms Rayner acknowledged the depth of feeling surrounding international affairs. “I know that those protesters are upset about what’s happening in Gaza, and that situation is intolerable. I completely understand why people are upset about that.”
With less than a week to polling day, the Hamilton by-election remains hotly contested. The outcome could offer a crucial indicator of Labour’s standing in Scotland as it eyes a broader resurgence, while the SNP and Reform UK are both seeking to reshape the electoral landscape in their favour.
As the campaign enters its final stretch, all eyes will be on Hamilton – and whether Labour’s “grassroots” message can overcome political turbulence and voter scepticism.
