LOCAL election should be about local issues. From the potholes of Purford Green to anti-social behaviour in Abbotsweld.

However, many, over the years, have been mini-referendums on how the government is doing.

The Tories in Harlow took a hit in 1996 when they returned no councillors at all. Labour sat pretty with 39.

By 2002, that Labour number was down to just nine. The Tories was up to 12 as were the Lib Dems.

This was no judgement on the local councillors of Harlow. It was just national stuff.

Usually because people were angry/browned off/disillusioned with the government.

Bloody Wilson/Thatcher/Major/Blair/Brown etc etc.

In 2010, the Tories were back up to eighteen.

By 2012, Labour, even though they were struggling for candidates, had 20 seats and took over the council.

Of course, there is also a bounce due to the national leader. See 2019 and 2021 for details.

The question is whether 2022, will follow that pattern and voters will express their anger at Partygate/Cost of Living etc.

We shall see.

Here are the results in Harlow from 1973 to present day