Betting on politics: Labour to win the Newport West by-election

Two week ago, I tipped that you bet on Labour winning the Newport West by-election, due on4 April. I still think that this is a good bet, especially since you can now get slightly better odds of 1/6 (83%) on Labour winning with Ladbrokes though, as usual, if you've already taken my advice, don't bet any more money. Ladbrokes is also running an additional market on Labour's share of the vote.

Ladbrokes thinks that the most likely outcome is Labour getting between 40% and 50% of the vote, offering 5/4 (44.4%). The next most likely outcome is between 50% and 60% of the vote, with 7/4 (36%) available. It's also offering 5/1 (16.7%) on Labour getting between 30% and 40%. Those who are very optimistic about Labour's chances can get 10/1 (9.1%) on more than 60%; those who think Labour will do unexpectedly badly can take a punt on it getting less than 30% of the vote at 16/1 (5.8%).

My guess is Labour will win with a reduced share of the vote. In three out of the past four general elections Labour's percentage share of the vote in Newport West has been in the 40s. Labour just managed to get above 50% at the last election, but its polling ratings have slipped since then.

Subscribe to MoneyWeek

Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE

Get 6 issues free

Sign up to Money Morning

Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter

Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter

Sign up

A delayed Brexit will probably see some protest votes going to Ukip's Neil Hamilton; a successful vote for PM Theresa May's withdrawal agreement will do the same for the Lib Dems. Although this won't be nearly enough to change the outcome, I'd suggest you take the 5/4 (44.4%) on Labour getting between 40% and 50%.