Sleaford by-election

After a year of unexpected political events it was rather comforting to wake to the news that the Conservatives had easily held on to the Sleaford and North Hykeham constituency in the by-elections caused by the sudden resignation of the sitting MP Stephen Phillips. There was reason to be doubtful about the result. Firstly, the defending Party was the Party in Government and with the government not at stake it is easier for people to cast a protest vote. Secondly, the by-election was being held in December just about the most difficult month to persuade people to participate in the democratic process. Thirdly, it was an unnecessary by-election. My experience is that voters are not too keen on being asked to vote when someone has retired part way through their term of office.
So, despite all these problems it was quite an achievement by the team there and the new MP Dr Caroline Johnson will be arriving in the House of Commons next week.