Keir Starmer says he ‘takes responsibility’ for English council losses

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said he takes responsibility for a “very tough” set of English council results.

With counting only underway in some parts of England, Labour has so far lost control of eight councils amid a strong showing for Reform UK.

Counting is also taking place in Scotland and Wales with results for Holyrood and the Senedd to be announced later.

Speaking to journalists earlier this morning, Starmer said of the results so far: “They are very tough, and there's no sugarcoating it.”

He said it “hurt” to lose Labour councillors across England, adding: “I take responsibility”.

He said: “Days like this don’t weaken my resolve to deliver the change that I promised.”

Reform leader Nigel Farage said the results showed a “truly historic shift” was taking place.

More to follow.