Local Politics

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Exeter Constituency

Background of Exeter

The postcode EX2 5LU is located in Exeter, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Ben Bradshaw MP of the Labour party.

Exeter is a UK parliamentary constituency located in Devon, comprising the city of Exeter and surrounding suburban areas. The constituency has a rich political history, traditionally a Labour stronghold in recent decades, with the party maintaining control since 1997. Labour’s Ben Bradshaw has represented Exeter since then, consistently securing re-election through a mix of majority and marginal victories.

The demographics of Exeter are diverse, reflecting its status as a regional economic hub and educational centre, home to the prestigious University of Exeter. The population includes a significant number of students, young professionals, and an emerging tech and creative industries workforce. Consequently, the constituency exhibits a vibrant cultural and social scene, underpinned by a robust service sector economy.

Economically, Exeter benefits from its strategic position as a connectivity boost via the M5 motorway and its railway links. Key sectors include education, healthcare (highlighted by the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust), retail, and tourism geared towards the historic city centre. The rising property market and continuous investment in infrastructure further shape the economic landscape.

The electorate of Exeter is younger and more diverse compared to surrounding constituencies, contributing to its progressive political tendencies. Electorate turnout and participation levels generally reflect a high engagement in both national and local elections.

Concerning Brexit, Exeter’s stance was predominantly pro-Remain in the 2016 EU referendum, with approximately 55% voting to remain in the European Union. This result mirrors the constituency’s liberal inclinations and significant student population, contrasted against the broader Leave sentiment observed across Devon.

Exeter’s unique blend of historical tradition and modern development continues to shape its dynamic role within the Devon region and UK politics at large.

Brexit

Did Exeter vote for Brexit?

In the 2016 EU referendum, the people of Exeter voted to remain in the EU, with a significant majority opting to stay. However, there were pockets of support for Brexit, with some residents citing concerns over immigration and sovereignty as key reasons for wanting to leave the EU. Like many other parts of the country, there was a clear divide within the community on this issue, reflecting the wider divisions that emerged during the referendum campaign. Despite the overall result in favour of Remain, the voices of those who voted leave in Exeter were a reminder of the diversity of opinions within the constituency.