Local Politics

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Dover Constituency

Background of Dover

The postcode CT4 6RL is located in Dover, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Charlie Elphicke MP of the Conservative party.

Dover is a UK parliamentary constituency located in the county of Kent, encompassing the towns of Dover and Deal as well as surrounding rural areas. Established in 1369, it is one of the oldest constituencies in the country.

Politically, Dover has experienced shifts between the Labour and Conservative parties. Labour held the seat from 1997 until 2010, when the Conservatives reclaimed it. In recent elections, the constituency has largely favoured Conservative candidates, reflecting a trend towards right-leaning policies in the area.

Demographically, Dover has a mixed population with significant working-class communities, particularly in the port town of Dover, juxtaposed with more affluent areas in Deal. The constituency has a diverse age profile, with a substantial proportion of elderly residents due to its appeal as a retirement destination.

Economically, the Port of Dover is a crucial element of the local economy, playing a vital role in international trade and transport. The area also benefits from tourism, given its rich history and landmarks like Dover Castle and the White Cliffs of Dover. However, certain parts of the constituency face issues related to economic deprivation and unemployment.

The electorate in Dover has shown active participation in both local and national elections. The turnout in the Brexit referendum was high, with the majority of voters (62.2%) opting to leave the European Union. This outcome has influenced the political discourse and priorities within the constituency, with ongoing emphasis on border security, trade, and immigration.

Dover remains a notable constituency with a blend of historical significance and contemporary political relevance, shaped by its economic dependencies and demographic composition.

Brexit

Did Dover vote for Brexit?

The people of Dover, like many other areas in the UK, voted to leave the European Union in the 2016 referendum. The coastal constituency has a strong fishing industry, and some residents believed that leaving the EU would allow them to regain control over their waters and protect their livelihoods. Additionally, concerns over immigration and sovereignty were also key factors influencing the decision to vote leave. the residents of Dover were swayed by a combination of economic and nationalistic reasons in their choice to exit the EU.