Keir Starmer reacts to Labour's victory in Batley and Spen

“This is a fantastic result for the brilliant and brave Kim Leadbeater who will be an incredible Labour MP for Batley and Spen.

“Kim has shown inspiring resilience in the face of hatred and intimidation. She was unafraid to call it out and ran a positive campaign of hope. Kim embodies everything I want the Labour Party to stand for: passionate about her local community and determined to bring people together.

“We won this election against the odds, and we did so by showing that when we are true to our values – decency, honesty, committed to improving lives - then Labour can win.

“This result shows Labour at its best. This is just the start.”