Liberal Democrats Select Jake Austin to Contest Makerfield By-Election on 18 June

The Liberal Democrats have formally announced Jake Austin as their candidate for the Makerfield by-election, set to take place on 18 June. Austin, a sitting councillor for Hazel Grove in Stockport, hails from Wigan, placing him in the Greater Manchester area where the contest will unfold.

This by-election follows the departure of Labour MP Josh Simons from the Makerfield seat. Austin previously stood as the Liberal Democrat candidate in the 2024 Greater Manchester Mayoral election, indicating his established presence in regional politics.

Austin stated his intention to "champion the issues that matter most to people - the cost of living, protecting our natural environment and supporting our local high streets and businesses." The full roster of confirmed candidates for the Makerfield by-election is expected shortly, as other parties finalise their selections.