1969 Newcastle-under-Lyme by-election


The Newcastle-under-Lyme by-election of 30 October 1969 was caused by the death of Labour MP Stephen Swingler. It was held on the same day as four other by-elections and the seat was retained by Labour.

Results

Aftermath

Although the Conservatives achieved a 10.7% swing from Labour, John Golding claimed that his victory was a vote of confidence in Harold Wilson's Government. Conservative supporters responded by shouting "Rubbish", while their unsuccessful candidate, Nicholas Winterton, stated the result was notice for the Government "to quit - and soon". The other three by-elections in England held on the same day also saw similar large swings to the Conservatives, with Swindon being gained by the latter party.