Local Politics

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Penrith and The Border Constituency

Background of Penrith and The Border

The postcode CA8 2ET is located in Penrith and The Border, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Rory Stewart MP of the Conservative party.

Penrith and The Border is a UK parliamentary constituency situated in North West England, largely comprising the rural areas of Cumbria. Established in 1950, it is characterised by its extensive countryside, small villages, and market towns such as Penrith, Appleby-in-Westmorland, and Brampton. The constituency's landscape is defined by the Eden District and parts of the Carlisle District.

Politically, Penrith and The Border has historically been a Conservative stronghold. Since its creation, it has predominantly elected Conservative MPs, with occasional representation by the Liberal Democrats and independents in local elections. Currently, the MP is Neil Hudson, a member of the Conservative Party.

The constituency has a predominantly rural and aging demographic, with substantial portions of the population involved in agriculture, tourism, and small-scale local businesses. Farming, particularly livestock and dairy, plays a significant role in its economy, which benefits from the picturesque Lake District and Pennines foothills attracting tourists. Educational services, healthcare, and public administration also provide employment.

The electorate skews older with a notable presence of retirees, reflecting national trends in rural demographics. Issues of local healthcare, agricultural policies, and rural internet connectivity are significant to constituents.

Regarding Brexit, Penrith and The Border voted predominantly to leave the European Union in the 2016 referendum, reflecting a broader Eurosceptic sentiment in many rural English constituencies. As a result, issues surrounding Brexit's impact on agriculture, trade, and local economy have been particularly relevant in political discussions.

Penrith and The Border is marked by its rural character, conservative political leanings, and strong local identity, with economic and social policy closely tied to its demographic and geographic makeup.

Brexit

Did Penrith and The Border vote for Brexit?

The constituency of Penrith and The Border voted in favour of Brexit in 2016, echoing the sentiments of many other areas in the UK. Residents may have been drawn to leave the EU due to concerns over immigration, sovereignty, and a desire to take back control of their own laws and borders. The rural nature of the region could also have played a role, with some feeling disconnected from the decision-making process in Brussels. the vote in Penrith and The Border reflected a deep-seated desire for change and a belief in a more independent future outside of the EU.