SNP wins North Lanarkshire by-election

THE SNP has won a by-election in North Lanarkshire with the newly returned candidate Steven Bonnar taking the Thorniewood ward on the authority.

SNP candidate Steven Bonnar took the Thorniewood ward on the authority. Picture: Lisa Ferguson

The number of votes polled was 3,308, giving a percentage poll of 28.2 per cent.

Gavin Whitefield, Returning Officer, said: “I would like to congratulate Steven Bonnar on his election to Thorniewood.

“I look forward to seeing him at the next council meeting.”

Councillor Bonnar said: “It is a privilege to be elected to represent Thorniewood – I am overwhelmed by the support I have received and will work hard to repay the community’s trust.

“Over the coming months and years I will work tirelessly for my constituents and for a fairer future for our community.”

SNP Business Convener Derek Mackay added: “This result is further proof that voters continue to put their trust in the SNP to stand up for Scotland.

“That this was Labour’s second safest ward in North Lanarkshire shows that they are no longer considered advocates of social justice in Scotland and continue to pay a heavy price for their referendum alliance with the Tories and support for austerity.

“The devastating cuts announced by the Chancellor this week show that it has never been more important that our communities have strong SNP representatives to fight their corner.”