Local Politics

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Newton Abbot Constituency

Background of Newton Abbot

The postcode TQ12 6BE is located in Newton Abbot, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Anne Marie Morris MP of the Conservative party.

Newton Abbot is a parliamentary constituency located in Devon, South West England. Established for the 2010 general election, it amalgamated parts of the former Teignbridge and Torbay constituencies. The seat includes the town of Newton Abbot, Dawlish, Teignmouth, and several rural locales.

Politically, Newton Abbot has demonstrated a tendency towards the Conservative Party, with the first MP being Conservative Anne Marie Morris, who has held the seat since its creation. The constituency has witnessed competitive elections, with significant presence from the Liberal Democrats and, to a lesser extent, the Labour Party.

The demographic profile of Newton Abbot includes a mix of semi-rural and coastal communities. The population skews older compared to the national average, reflecting Devon’s broader demographic trend. The economy is diverse, with employment spread across agriculture, tourism, retail, and light manufacturing. Newton Abbot also serves as a commuter town for nearby Exeter and Torbay, contributing to its local economy.

Regarding the electorate, Newton Abbot had approximately 70,000 registered voters as of the last general election. Voter engagement has been relatively high, which is consistent with the general trend in the South West.

In the 2016 EU referendum, Newton Abbot voted strongly in favour of leaving the European Union, with Leave securing around 62% of the vote. This anti-EU sentiment was reflected in subsequent general elections, where Brexit-related issues played a significant role.

Newton Abbot is a constituency marked by its close ties to traditional Conservative values, an ageing populace, and a significant pro-Brexit stance, all of which influence its political landscape and economic characteristics.

Brexit

Did Newton Abbot vote for Brexit?

Newton Abbot voted to leave the EU in 2016, following a national trend. Many residents in this constituency cited concerns over immigration and sovereignty as key factors in their decision. The feeling of unease about the perceived lack of control over borders, and the desire to reclaim autonomy over decision-making, resonated with a significant portion of the local population. Additionally, some believed that leaving the EU would allow the UK to forge its own path in terms of trade agreements and regulations, potentially benefiting the economy in the long run.