Local Politics

---

Shipley Constituency

Background of Shipley

The postcode BD18 3LX is located in Shipley, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Philip Davies MP of the Conservative party.

The UK parliamentary constituency of Shipley is located in West Yorkshire and has been represented in Parliament since its establishment in 1885. The constituency includes the towns of Shipley, Baildon, and Bingley, as well as smaller surrounding communities, forming part of the metropolitan borough of the City of Bradford.

Politically, Shipley has historically alternated between the Conservative and Labour parties. Since 2005, it has been held by Conservative Philip Davies, known for his right-wing, libertarian views. Prior to that, it was represented by Labour from 1997 to 2005, highlighting its status as a bellwether seat in the broader political landscape.

Demographically, Shipley is predominantly White British, with a mix of socio-economic statuses. The area encompasses both affluent suburbs and more deprived urban areas. The population is relatively stable and includes a significant number of commuters due to its proximity to Leeds and Bradford.

Economically, Shipley benefits from a diverse mix of industries, including manufacturing, retail, and service sectors. The local economy is supported by its strong transport links and connectivity to larger urban centres.

The electorate of Shipley, as of the latest figures, consists of roughly 75,000 registered voters. Electoral turnout in the constituency has varied, often reflecting broader national trends.

On the issue of Brexit, Shipley voted to leave the European Union in the 2016 referendum, with 55.5% of voters supporting Brexit. This aligns with the stance of its current MP, Philip Davies, who is a vocal advocate for leaving the EU.

Shipley provides a microcosm of broader national trends, including fluctuating political allegiances, economic diversity, and a key interest in national issues such as Brexit.

Brexit

Did Shipley vote for Brexit?

In the 2016 referendum, Shipley constituency voted to leave the EU. The decision was likely influenced by a variety of factors, including concerns about immigration, sovereignty, and a desire to take back control. Many residents in Shipley felt that leaving the EU would allow the UK to make its own laws, control its borders, and have greater autonomy in decision-making. The result reflected a strong belief in the idea of independence and self-governance, with voters in Shipley keen to see a break from the perceived constraints of EU membership.