Local Politics

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The Cotswolds Constituency

Background of The Cotswolds

The postcode GL7 3AY is located in The Cotswolds, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP of the Conservative party.

The Cotswolds constituency is located in Gloucestershire, South West England, encompassing a large rural area known for its natural beauty and historical towns. Established in 1997, it succeeded the former Cirencester and Tewkesbury seats. The constituency includes significant towns such as Tetbury, Cirencester, and Moreton-in-Marsh.

Politically, The Cotswolds has been a Conservative stronghold since its creation. Geoffrey Clifton-Brown has represented the constituency as the MP since 1997, consistently winning with comfortable majorities. The region's voting pattern reflects a traditionally conservative, rural electorate with a preference for right-leaning policies.

Demographically, the area is predominantly White British, with a higher-than-average median age compared to national figures, indicative of its appeal as a retirement destination. The population is noted for being relatively affluent, with lower-than-average unemployment rates and a high proportion of residents engaged in professional, managerial, and agricultural occupations. Education levels are generally above the national average, with many residents holding higher education qualifications.

Economically, The Cotswolds benefits from tourism, agriculture, and retail sectors. The picturesque countryside and historic architecture attract millions of visitors annually, boosting the local economy. Agricultural activities, particularly livestock farming and crop production, also play a significant role.

In the 2016 Brexit referendum, The Cotswolds voted to remain in the European Union, reflecting a divide between its electorate and the broader national outcome. The remain vote highlights the constituency's historical ties to European markets through agriculture and tourism, and a wariness about the economic impacts of leaving the EU. The Cotswolds constituency presents a blend of traditional conservative values with a significant economic dependence on both tourism and agriculture.

Brexit

Did The Cotswolds vote for Brexit?

The Cotswolds constituency in the UK did vote for Brexit in 2016. The strong agricultural heritage in the area could have been a key factor in influencing voters to choose to leave the EU. Concerns about regulations impacting the farming industry, as well as a desire for greater control over immigration and sovereignty, may have swayed residents in this picturesque part of the country to cast their ballots in favor of Brexit. The result reflected the complex mix of opinions and priorities within the local community, leading to a decision that ultimately shaped the future of the UK's relationship with the EU.