Watch in full: Youngest MP Keir Mather delivers victory speech for LabourCredit: PA
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00:00 [APPLAUSE]
00:10 Thank you.
00:14 Now, I want to begin my time as your MP by being very clear.
00:20 I understand the enormity of what has just happened.
00:24 I know what an honour this is.
00:27 And I am humbled by this opportunity to serve.
00:31 In this campaign, we have rewritten the rules on where Labour can win.
00:36 People have opened their doors to us and embraced our positive vision for the future.
00:41 And thousands of the votes cast yesterday were in Labour's box for the very first time.
00:48 For those of you who have put your faith in our party, thank you.
00:53 I don't take it lightly and I won't let you down.
00:57 And I don't shy away from the work that's to come.
01:00 The people of Selby and Ainsty have sent a clear message.
01:04 For too long, Conservatives up here and in Westminster have failed us.
01:10 And today that changes.
01:12 It's time for a fresh start.
01:15 Thank you to the returning officer, election staff and police
01:20 who have ensured the smooth running of both this election and this count.
01:24 Your work enables our democracy and it could not be more important.
01:28 Thank you also to my agent, Scott, and of course the hundreds of Labour campaigners
01:33 who have made this victory possible.
01:35 Your enthusiasm and your dedication have made history.
01:40 I have been so proud to campaign alongside you.
01:43 And I want to say a special thank you to my partner, Ewan, for all his help and support
01:47 and to my family for everything that they've done.
01:50 Over the past few months, speaking to hundreds of people on the doorstep,
01:54 I have encountered so much hardship.
01:57 Hardship made worse by 13 years of negligence and complacency from the Conservatives.
02:04 Today, that changes.
02:07 The people of Selby and Ainsty have made it clear.
02:10 They deserve public services that work and a thriving local economy.
02:15 They deserve urgent support in the cost of living crisis,
02:19 flood defences to protect our communities and an NHS that's fit for the future,
02:24 public transport that connects us, more police on our streets
02:29 and action to protect our beautiful countryside and rivers.
02:33 That's what we want and that's why I'm here.
02:37 And in a year's time, I believe we will be on the precipice of a Labour government.
02:42 A mission-driven Labour government to transform the country,
02:45 make fairer choices and empower communities across our region.
02:50 Today, we have made history so that tomorrow will be a fresh start for the people of Selby and Ainsty.
02:56 Thank you for giving me this chance to listen, to serve and to fight our corner.
03:01 I can't wait to get started. Thank you.
03:04 [Applause]