Henley was considered a safe seat for the Conservative Party—having been held by the party continuously since 1910 up to this election.Boris Johnson given safe Tory seat BBC News; 14 July 2000; Accessed 23 June 2008 Johnson had gained a 12,793 majority from the Liberal Democrats at the previous election, though recent local elections have seen the Liberal Democrats' vote rise.Henley By-Election To Be Held On June 26 Sky News; 5 June 2008; Accessed 23 June 2008 Despite this, an easy win for the Conservative Party candidate was predicted, with the Labour Party being given little to no chance of victory.Bookies Predict Easy Win For Conservative Party In Henley! William Hill; Accessed 23 June 2008 It had been expected that the by-election would be held after the parliamentary summer recess.Boris to make way for new Thame MP in the autumn - Thame Gazette 2008-05-10 However, following their victory in the Crewe and Nantwich by-election, the Conservatives took the opportunity to bring the by-election forward to 26 June,Tory win in Crewe could prompt Boris by-election - Times Online in order to capitalise on their strong support.Cameron hails 'end of New Labour' - BBC News 2008-05-23
