Ex-Labour MP enters Holborn and St Pancras by-election battle by backing Polanski

Zack Polanski, an ex-Labour MP, has entered the Holborn and St Pancras by-election with backing from former MP Tulip Siddiq's successor, Tracy Councillor (Ms Dent Coad). Ms Dent Coad argues that Holborn and St Pancras needs an MP who understands the failure of the current housing model, supporting leaseholders in a challenging system. She highlights numerous crises including poor construction standards, fire safety issues, and a lack of new housing provision, with over 8,500 households on the waiting list.

Labour's candidate, Sagal Abdi-Wali, was previously in charge of Camden’s housing department before becoming council leader four months ago. However, her department is considered the worst-performing part of the council despite Ms Abdi-Wali stating she has begun to improve performance. Ms Dent Coad supports Polanski's understanding and approach to addressing these crises rather than merely managing a failing system.