A significant by-election is set to take place in the Blackpool South constituency on May 2, following the resignation of Conservative MP Scott Benton. Benton’s departure comes in the wake of a lobbying scandal that led to his suspension from the Conservative party. This development marks a critical moment for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, potentially adding to the series of electoral challenges his government faces.

Scott Benton stepped down after a newspaper sting operation revealed his involvement in a lobbying scandal, where he was recorded offering to provide inside information and lobby for gambling investors in exchange for money. Following this, the Committee on Standards recommended a 35-day ban from the House of Commons, sparking a recall petition in his constituency. Despite Benton’s attempt to appeal against the suspension, his resignation was ultimately triggered, prompting the need for a by-election to select his successor.

The by-election in Blackpool South is notably significant as it represents a key Labour target. Benton, who had secured the seat in 2019 from Labour, left with a narrow majority, putting the Conservatives at risk of losing to their main opposition. Benton acknowledged the need for a successor to effectively represent the community in his resignation letter to constituents, citing the threat of a Labour government as a reason for his decision to step down and allow more time for a new candidate to campaign.

This forthcoming by-election will be the fourth such electoral test this year and marks a pivotal moment for Sunak’s leadership. Having faced multiple by-election defeats since assuming the role of Prime Minister in October 2022, Sunak confronts growing pressure to stabilize the Conservative Party’s performance in polls ahead of an anticipated general election.

The situation underscores the challenges faced by the Conservative Party, highlighted by recent by-election losses and ongoing scrutiny over ethical conduct and adherence to parliamentary rules. The outcome of the Blackpool South by-election, coinciding with local and mayoral elections on May 2 in England and Wales, will be closely observed as it may have broader implications for the political landscape and the government’s standing with the electorate.