Local Politics

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East Devon Constituency

Background of East Devon

The postcode EX2 7XX is located in East Devon, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Hugo Swire MP of the Conservative party.

East Devon is a UK parliamentary constituency located in the South West of England, encompassing areas including Exmouth, Sidmouth, and Honiton. Historically, it has been a stronghold for the Conservative Party, consistently returning Conservative MPs since its creation in 1997. Prior to that, the predecessor constituencies of Tiverton and Honiton were similarly aligned with conservative representation, underscoring the area's long-standing political inclinations.

The demographic profile of East Devon reflects a predominantly older, rural, and relatively affluent population, with many residents engaged in professions related to agriculture, tourism, and local small businesses. These characteristics contribute to the area's economic framework, which balances traditional industries with a growing services sector. The presence of coastal towns further bolsters the tourism industry, making it a significant contributor to the local economy.

East Devon's electorate stands at over 70,000 registered voters, a mix of long-term residents and an increasing number of retirees relocating for the area's high quality of life. The constituency's voting patterns align closely with broader national trends seen in similar rural and semi-rural areas of the UK.

During the Brexit referendum of 2016, East Devon voted predominantly to leave the European Union, reflecting the Eurosceptic sentiment prevalent in many parts of the South West. This result has influenced local political discourse and policy priorities, emphasizing issues of national sovereignty and localism.

East Devon remains a key Conservative stronghold, with a stable economic base influenced by traditional and emerging sectors, and a clear stance on major national issues like Brexit.

Brexit

Did East Devon vote for Brexit?

In the 2016 referendum, the constituency of East Devon voted to leave the EU. The decision could have been influenced by concerns about immigration, sovereignty, and the desire to regain control over laws and regulations. The rural and coastal communities in East Devon may have felt disconnected from decisions made in Brussels, leading them to opt for Brexit. The area also has a strong farming industry, which could have been a factor in the decision to leave the EU and potentially secure better trade deals for British produce.