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Labour loses Newcastle as councillors quit
Prime Minister Keir Starmer giving a speech during an event in the West Midlands, October 28, 2024

LABOUR has lost control of Newcastle city council after six councillors quit the party in protest against Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s policies.

The party now holds just 39 of 78 seats on the council, although it has not had to surrender the political leadership yet.

Among those leaving are former council leader Nick Kemp. There are now 14 independents serving on the council.

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