Dear All

The SNP continue going from strength to strength in the face of poor opposition.

Ken Andrew was chosen to represent the Hillhead ward in Glasgow in a by-election on Thursday.

This wasn’t unexpected, when a sitting councillor dies, the party usually hold the seat.

Mr. Andrew takes over the Hillhead Ward from Councillor George Roberts who died recently aged 68.

After being elected the new councillor said he was "delighted" to be elected after winning a by-election.

By-elections are odd because more human resources are put into them that normal so the result isn’t hugely significant by any means.

SNP 1026 votes
Labour 945 votes
Greens 435 votes
Conservatives 372 votes
Lib Dems 307 votes
UKIP Scotland 36 votes
Britannica 11

What is interesting is the exceptionally poor turn out of only 13.65%.

This result puts the SNP in a healthy position for the Glasgow City Council elections next year.

However, the low turn out and the circumstances in which it happened will not reveal anything.

The death of a sitting Councillor in the Bishopbriggs South Ward produced a Labour Councillor.

Mr Andrew said:

"I am delighted, and proud, to have been elected to represent the people of Hillhead”.

Adding:

"After the tragic death of George Roberts I know that I have big boots to fill, but it is a challenge I am looking forward to. I would like to thank the people of Hillhead for giving me the opportunity to represent everyone in the area. I would also like to thank my campaign team and all those who made this election win possible."

The difference between the Labour Party and the SNP was only 81 votes.

Yours sincerely

George Laird
The Campaign for Human Rights at Glasgow University