Harriet Harman congratulated Labour in Norwich and Exeter after yesterday's council elections  - the largest voting test since the general election and formation of the new government - which saw Labour gain from the Tories and from the Lib Dems  

The votes cast in all by-elections since May 6th are Labour 41,679; Tories 34,491; Lib Dems 25,083.  

"Labour has now polled more votes than the Tories in council by-elections since May 6th. Our membership has grown by 32,411. Our united team in Parliament is holding the government to account. Labour is fighting back" said Ms Harman, Labour Leader.