While the row over Azhar Ali may be connected to the upcoming Rochdale by-election, it's really a story about Sir Keir Stamer and his ability to make difficult political decisions. No one is disputing Mr Ali did say that Israel allowed the 7 October attacks to take place. No one - including Mr Ali himself - is disputing those remarks were ignorant, false and offensive. And yet, he remains Labour's candidate. Part of the explanation for that is technical. Image: Azhar Ali at a by-election campaign event. Pic: PA It's now too late for Labour to swap in someone else...