Local Politics

---

Richmond (Yorks) Constituency

Background of Richmond (Yorks)

The postcode DL8 5PY is located in Richmond (Yorks), a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Rishi Sunak MP of the Conservative party.

Richmond (Yorks) is a parliamentary constituency in North Yorkshire, England, historically known for its significant rural landscape and market towns. It has existed since the Model Parliament of 1295 and has consistently been held by the Conservative Party since 1910. Notable past MPs include former Prime Minister William Hague and current Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak, who has represented the constituency since 2015.

The constituency encompasses the Richmondshire district and parts of Hambleton. Its demographics reflect a predominantly white British population with a high percentage of residents in rural and small-town settings. Key towns such as Richmond, Northallerton, and Bedale serve as commercial and cultural hubs within the area. The local economy is largely driven by agriculture, small businesses, and tourism, with Catterick Garrison, one of the British Army's largest bases, playing a crucial role in employment.

Electoral turnout in Richmond (Yorks) typically aligns with or exceeds national averages, indicative of an engaged electorate. The constituency has experienced minimal electoral volatility, reinforcing its status as a Conservative stronghold.

On Brexit, Richmond (Yorks) voted predominantly to leave the European Union in the 2016 referendum, reflecting the broader Eurosceptic sentiment common in rural England. This Brexit stance aligns with the policies and positions of its Conservative representatives, who have supported the UK's departure from the EU.

Richmond (Yorks) is characterised by stable Conservative dominance, an engaged electorate, and an economy intertwined with agriculture and the military, all set against a backdrop of significant historical continuity.

Brexit

Did Richmond (Yorks) vote for Brexit?

Richmond (Yorks) voted to leave the EU in 2016, surprising some observers given its traditionally conservative nature. This decision may be attributed to deep-rooted concerns over immigration, sovereignty, and a desire to 'take back control'. The area has experienced demographic changes in recent years and some voters may have felt left behind by the political establishment. Additionally, dissatisfaction with the EU's perceived undemocratic structure and regulations may have also played a role in swaying opinions towards Brexit.