Local Politics

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Oldham East and Saddleworth Constituency

Background of Oldham East and Saddleworth

The postcode OL3 7AX is located in Oldham East and Saddleworth, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Debbie Abrahams MP of the Labour party.

Oldham East and Saddleworth is a constituency located in Greater Manchester, England. Established in 1997, it encompasses parts of the Metropolitan Borough of Oldham and the Borough of Saddleworth. The constituency combines urban areas in Oldham with the more rural Saddleworth, resulting in a diverse demographic profile. The population includes a mix of working-class communities, professionals, and a significant number of ethnic minorities, particularly of South Asian descent.

Politically, Oldham East and Saddleworth has been a marginal seat, historically swinging between the Labour Party and the Liberal Democrats. Labour has typically held the seat, with notable exceptions, such as the 2010 by-election when Liberal Democrat Elwyn Watkins narrowly lost to Labour's Debbie Abrahams. Debbie Abrahams has represented the constituency since 2011 and has held the seat in subsequent general elections.

Economically, the area has a mixed economic base. Oldham has a traditional industrial background with challenges such as higher-than-average unemployment rates and social deprivation in certain parts. Conversely, Saddleworth is more affluent, with strong commuter links to Manchester, attracting professionals and higher-income households.

The electorate reflects this diversity, spanning from the urban and more disadvantaged areas of Oldham to the rural and wealthier parts of Saddleworth. According to the 2016 EU referendum results, the constituency voted to leave the European Union, aligning with the overall Leave majority in the wider Oldham area.

Oldham East and Saddleworth is marked by its socioeconomic contrasts, fluctuating political allegiance, and a distinct split in urban and rural identity.

Brexit

Did Oldham East and Saddleworth vote for Brexit?

In the 2016 EU referendum, the constituency of Oldham East and Saddleworth voted to leave the EU. The area has a history of strong support for the Labour Party, but traditional working-class voters who felt disillusioned with Westminster politics may have been swayed by the promises of regaining control over immigration and laws. Economic concerns, such as job insecurity and stagnant wages, could also have played a role in their decision to opt for Brexit. The constituency's vote mirrored the broader national trend, reflecting a desire for change and a challenging of the status quo.