Voting to open in Mid Bedfordshire and Tamworth byelections

Conservatives defend large majorities in votes that have become unpredictable with Sunak’s dismal poll ratings

Voting is due to begin at 7am in Mid Bedfordshire and Tamworth in byelections seen as crucial in gauging the electoral fate of Rishi Sunak, but difficult to predict.

The Conservatives are defending majorities of nearly 25,000 in Mid Bedfordshire and close to 20,000 in Tamworth, which would normally point to an easy hold. However, their chances will be hampered by the party’s dismal poll ratings and the records of departing MPs.