The writ is yet to be moved for the Norwich North by-election (caused by the resignation of Labour MP Ian Gibson), but there is an expectation that the contest will held before the end of July.
However, today the first poll of the campaign has emerged, which points to the contest very much being a two-horse race between Conservative candidate Chloe Smith (pictured) and a yet-to-be selected Labour candidate, with the Lib Dems and Greens trailing in a fight for third place.
The ICM poll - commissioned by the University and College Union - puts the parties on the following percentages:
Con - 34% (+1 on the 2005 general election)
Lab - 30% (-15)
Lib Dem - 15% (-1)
Greens - 14% (+11)
Others - 7% (+4)
ICM Research conducted the poll in Norwich North between June 19th and 21st.
Jonathan Isaby
