Last day of campaigning in the municipal elections

Tomorrow’s election across the UK will be the first test of the ballot box for Boris Johnson since the partygate scandal broke and the cost of living crisis really started to bite.

While local issues are a key factor in how people vote and turnout tends to be much lower than in a general election, national issues are reflected in the results – and many MPs Mr. Johnson sees this election as a litmus test of his own standing among voters.

of the sky political editor Beth Rigby to this analysis of why these elections are so important:

Prime Minister pushes back on all-female shortlists for MP candidates

Boris Johnson has said he wants MPs to win their seats on merit after being quizzed on the all-female shortlists.

The Prime Minister was asked about his attitude towards women and how they are treated within the Conservative Party following multiple sex scandals.

Asked whether the Conservatives had fewer women elected than other parties in 2019 and whether he would support all-female shortlists, he told Times Radio: ‘I’m very supportive of people establishing their position, earn their position, on their merits.

of the sky political journalist Alix Culbertson see you:

Cost of living pressures dominate voters’ concerns in the Welsh Valleys

In Carmarthenshire, the cost of living is at the forefront of voters’ concerns ahead of local elections. But many are skeptical that politicians can cope with soaring costs, which are forcing people to go to food banks but putting pressure on local businesses.

of the sky people and politics correspondent Nick Martin see you:

What is at stake in the elections in Northern Ireland?

Sinn Fein could be on the verge of a historic election victory in Northern Ireland.

If it wins Thursday’s Assembly elections, an Irish nationalist party will have edged out a pro-British party in Stormont for the first time.

With Brexit having led to a sea border between Northern Ireland and Britain, the DUP vote is under pressure.

of the sky senior correspondent in Ireland David Blevins has this report: