Local Politics

---

Reading West Constituency

Background of Reading West

The postcode RG7 5FH is located in Reading West, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Alok Sharma MP of the Conservative party.

Reading West is a UK parliamentary constituency situated in the county of Berkshire, encompassing parts of Reading and the areas west of the town, including Tilehurst, Calcot, and Theale. It was established in 1983 following boundary changes and has been represented by various political parties over the years. Historically a swing seat, it has seen both Labour and Conservative MPs, reflecting shifting political tendencies.

The constituency's demographics are diverse, with a mix of urban and suburban populations. Reading West is home to a varied economic landscape, including sectors such as information technology, business services, retail, and light manufacturing. The presence of the Thames Valley business corridor plays a significant role in the local economy, providing employment and contributing to a relatively high standard of living. However, the area also experiences some socio-economic disparities, particularly in the more urbanised sections.

Politics in Reading West tend to mirror broader national trends. In recent elections, the constituency has leaned towards the Conservative Party, with Alok Sharma serving as the MP since 2010. Sharma’s representation aligns with the Conservative-dominated local governance, although there has historically been strong Labour support, particularly in more urbanised wards.

Regarding Brexit, Reading West voted narrowly to remain in the European Union in the 2016 referendum, with a marginal majority reflecting the broader divide seen across the UK. This split underscores the constituency’s mixed views on national issues, balancing economic pragmatism with traditional political alignments.

The electorate is engaged, with voter turnout typically reflecting national averages. The constituency’s political dynamic continues to evolve, influenced by demographic changes and shifting economic conditions.

Brexit

Did Reading West vote for Brexit?

In 2016, the constituency of Reading West voted to leave the EU, mirroring the national sentiment. Residents cited concerns over immigration, sovereignty, and a desire for more control over their laws and borders as primary reasons for choosing Brexit. The area has faced challenges relating to population growth, strain on public services, and feelings of being left behind by globalisation. The vote served as a reflection of these underlying tensions and a call for change. While there were varied opinions within the constituency, the result demonstrated a strong desire for a new direction.