Since the previous election, the council had gained the power to administer welfare benefits, and the Municipal Reformers argued that the Labour Party would practice "Poplarism" and be overly generous.

[1] It also contended that the Municipal Reform Party had not constructed houses for workers, and supported a government scheme for a board with oversight of traffic control in the city.

[2] The Manchester Guardian noted that Labour did not expect to take control of the council, as it was losing ground nationally.

[4] The Liberal Party released a pamphlet putting forward ideas on housing, education, traffic, and the rating of land values.

[5] The Times noted that the Liberals were planning a much smaller campaign than in 1928, due to their losses that year, and a shortage of funds.