Local Politics

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Henley Constituency

Background of Henley

The postcode OX9 5AN is located in Henley, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by John Howell MP of the Conservative party.

Henley is a UK parliamentary constituency in Oxfordshire, established in 1885. Historically, Henley has been a Conservative stronghold; it has predominantly elected Conservative MPs. Its most notably distinguished former MP was Boris Johnson, who represented the constituency from 2001 to 2008 before becoming Mayor of London.

Demographically, Henley is characterized by a predominantly white, middle-class population with a high level of educational attainment. The area is known for its affluent residents, picturesque villages, and notable landmarks such as the Henley Royal Regatta. The constituency includes the towns of Henley-on-Thames, Thame, and a number of smaller rural communities.

Economically, Henley benefits from its proximity to London, making it a favourable location for commuters. The local economy is bolstered by sectors such as professional services, technology, and small-scale manufacturing. Tourism also plays a significant role owing to Henley-on-Thames’ riverside attractions and historic sites.

The electorate in Henley is known for its relatively high voter turnout, reflecting the engaged and active nature of its residents. During the 2016 EU referendum, the constituency of Henley voted to leave the European Union, mirroring the broader national trend, though the leave majority was narrower compared to some other Conservative strongholds.

Henley represents a quintessentially rural and affluent part of South-East England with a strong Conservative presence, an engaged electorate, and a leaning towards a Brexit-voting preference in recent political history.

Brexit

Did Henley vote for Brexit?

Henley, like many constituencies across the UK, voted in favour of Brexit in 2016. The reasons behind this decision varied, with concerns about immigration, sovereignty, and a desire for greater control over laws and borders often cited as driving factors. Additionally, the constituency has a history of supporting the Conservative Party, which campaigned in favour of leaving the EU. the result reflected a combination of national trends and local priorities influencing voters' choices on the day.