Labour scores by-elections hat-trick, but Ukip can celebrate more (independent.co.uk) Where these people, some with fancy comb-overs and preferences, get such inside information from is anyone’s guess. Labour triumph as UKIP claim to be 'second party of North' (theweek.co.uk)
But as for us, less serious observers of the political process in the Kingdom, a quick cynical glance at these by-elections produces the following conclusions: that the only people who bother to vote these days are immigrants and those on benefit. That Labour supporters would vote for their party whatever it does and whoever it puts up as its candidates, as long as they have a red rosette stuck to their lapel. That Tory voters no longer bother to vote and those who do choose the marginals like UKIP and even BNP. That parliament has become irrelevant, with candidates chosen not for their abilities but for the lack of them. That voters’ apathy is becoming seriously fashionable, with Labour standing to gain most from it. R.F. Wilson (stirringtroubleinternationally.com)
Taking into account all of the above it would probably make sense to hold parliamentary elections along the lines of such family favourites as the X Factor and Strictly Come Dancing, when candidates would take part in singing or dancing competitions UKIP 'are third force in British politics', says leader (thesun.co.uk) with additional charges paying for the democratic process. Voters would actually get to know their prospective candidates.
Jubilant Ukip piles on pressure for EU vote (express.co.uk) It would make the leadership contests more transparent and democratic and prevent any upsets that brought undesirables like David Cameron and Ed Miliband to the frame. Ukip snaps at Labour's heels in Rotherham by-election (yorkshirepost.co.uk).