The shift in votes is thought to be a result of voters staying at home, election turnout was down by over 10%, and many Labour voters have been angered by the treatment of their former MP Ian Gibson.
 

The by-election, which is a result of Norwich-North's previous MP Ian Gibson resigning after the expenses scandal, has been hailed by David Cameroon as a ‘historic result'. 

Cameron went on to praise Smith's ‘positive' campaign whilst criticizing Labour tactics as ‘utterly despicable'. 

The Conservative party received 13, 591 whilst Labour only managed 6, 243. Many have speculated that this by-election will be an indication of next years general election; however with local issues playing a role and the recent expenses scandal there is still some concern among conservatives. 

In an interview with the Guardian, Philip Hammond, the shadow Treasury Chief Secretary, states that due to the country's finances and the need for a rapid post-election budget 'the worst outcome for Britain would be an unclear political result at the election'.

Ms Smith, at 27, will be the youngest Member of the House of Commons.