Local Politics

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Kingston and Surbiton Constituency

Background of Kingston and Surbiton

The postcode KT1 2HW is located in Kingston and Surbiton, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Edward Davey MP of the Liberal Democrat party.

Kingston and Surbiton is a parliamentary constituency in Greater London, established in 1997 from the former Surbiton and Kingston seats. Known for its suburban character, the area is predominantly residential with significant green spaces and a high proportion of owner-occupied homes. The constituency encompasses the towns of Kingston upon Thames, known for its historic market town appeal and Surbiton, characterised by its leafy streets and Victorian architecture.

The political landscape of Kingston and Surbiton has seen fluctuating control mainly between the Liberal Democrats and the Conservative Party. The Liberal Democrats, represented by Ed Davey, secured the seat in the 1997 general election, overturning a long-standing Tory dominance. Davey, who has served as a significant figure within the Liberal Democrats, including roles in the Cabinet, lost the seat in 2015 to the Conservative James Berry but regained it in 2017 with a substantial majority that was strengthened in the 2019 election.

Demographically, the constituency hosts a predominantly middle-class population, with high levels of educational attainment and professional employment. It has a substantial commuter base, benefiting from strong transport links to central London, including rail services and road connections via the A3.

Economically, Kingston and Surbiton benefits from a mix of retail, service sector jobs, and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The area supports a vibrant local economy with a diverse range of local businesses contributing to its prosperity.

Regarding Brexit, Kingston and Surbiton was one of the areas that voted to remain in the European Union during the 2016 referendum. This inclination towards Remain has been a notable aspect of the local political narrative, influencing campaigning and policy priorities, particularly reflected in Ed Davey's pro-EU stance and advocacy for a second referendum.

Brexit

Did Kingston and Surbiton vote for Brexit?

Kingston and Surbiton constituency in the UK voted to leave the EU in 2016. The decision could have been influenced by concerns over immigration, sovereignty, and a desire to regain control over laws and borders. The area has a mixed demographic, with some residents feeling disconnected from the EU and the political establishment. Economic worries and a desire for change may have also played a role in the vote for Brexit. Ultimately, the decision to leave the EU reflected a range of factors and opinions within the community.