Local Politics

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Banff and Buchan Constituency

Background of Banff and Buchan

The postcode AB45 2LF is located in Banff and Buchan, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by David Duguid MP of the Conservative party.

Banff and Buchan, a UK parliamentary constituency in northeast Scotland, covers the historic counties of Banffshire and Buchan. The constituency was established in 1983 and is predominantly rural, with key towns including Peterhead, Fraserburgh, Banff, and Macduff. It is traditionally a fishing and agricultural area, with both sectors playing a crucial role in the local economy.

Politically, Banff and Buchan has been a notable stronghold for the Scottish National Party (SNP). From 1987 to 2010, it was represented by prominent SNP figures, including Alex Salmond, who later served as First Minister of Scotland. The SNP's dominance was briefly interrupted between 2017 and 2019 when Conservative candidate David Duguid won the seat, reflecting a national surge in Conservative support. However, the SNP regained the seat in the 2019 general election, with David Duguid returning as MP.

The constituency has a diverse demographic profile, with a significant proportion of working-age individuals engaged primarily in traditional industries. While relatively low in ethnic diversity, it is characterised by a robust sense of local identity and community cohesion.

Regarding Brexit, Banff and Buchan represented a complex picture. The area voted predominantly to leave the European Union in the 2016 referendum, driven by concerns over fishing rights and sovereignty. However, the SNP, which strongly advocated for remaining in the EU, continues to maintain significant support in the constituency, reflecting broader Scottish sentiment towards European integration.

The electorate of Banff and Buchan is reflective of its economic character, with local concerns around industry impact, particularly fisheries, taking precedence in political discourse. The constituency’s voting patterns and issues highlight a blend of localised economic priorities and wider national identity considerations.

Brexit

Did Banff and Buchan vote for Brexit?

Banff and Buchan constituency in the UK voted in favour of Brexit in 2016. The decision could have been influenced by factors such as concerns over immigration, desire for greater control over laws and policies, and a belief that leaving the EU would allow for more independence and autonomy. Additionally, the area's strong fishing industry may have played a role, with some voters feeling that Brexit could lead to better opportunities for the sector outside of EU regulations. Ultimately, the vote reflected a mix of economic, political, and cultural considerations.