Local Politics

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Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland Constituency

Background of Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland

The postcode TS14 6TG is located in Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Simon Clarke MP of the Conservative party.

Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland is a UK parliamentary constituency located within the ceremonial county of North Yorkshire. Established for the 1997 general election, it encompasses the town of Guisborough, suburban Middlesbrough, and a collection of rural villages.

Historically, this constituency exhibited strong Labour support, represented by the party until the 2017 general election when Conservative Simon Clarke won the seat, marking a significant shift in local political alignment. Its political history features fluctuating margins and a diversified voter base that has seen both major parties contend closely.

Demographically, the constituency exhibits a mix of urban and rural characteristics, drawing residents from various socio-economic backgrounds. It is largely composed of working-class communities, alongside pockets of relatively affluent areas. Key demographic details include middle-income households, a notable ageing population, and a diverse range of socio-economic statuses impacted by regional employment patterns.

Economically, Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland has been traditionally reliant on industries such as steelmaking, manufacturing, and mining which have seen decline, influencing economic restructuring efforts toward services, technology, and renewable energy sectors. Employment rates and average incomes typically reflect broader regional trends, underlining both opportunity and challenge within the local economy.

Regarding Brexit, the constituency voted predominantly in favour of leaving the European Union in the 2016 referendum. This stance mirrored broader sentiments across many similar post-industrial regions in the UK, further influencing local political dynamics and voter priorities in subsequent elections. The Brexit vote has been seminal in shaping ongoing political discourse and policies, particularly concerning trade, employment, and regional development.

Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland is emblematic of the shifting political landscape in northern England, reflective of broader socio-economic changes and evolving voter priorities.

Brexit

Did Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland vote for Brexit?

In the 2016 EU referendum, the constituents of Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland voted in favour of leaving the European Union. The area, like many others in the North East, has faced economic challenges in recent years, including job losses and austerity measures. Some residents believed that leaving the EU would bring back control over issues such as immigration and trade, and potentially bring new opportunities for the local economy. The result reflected a desire for change and a belief that leaving the EU could lead to a better future for the region.