Local Politics

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St Ives Constituency

Background of St Ives

The postcode TR20 8XG is located in St Ives, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Derek Thomas MP of the Conservative party.

The UK parliamentary constituency of St Ives, located in Cornwall, covers the westernmost parts of mainland England, including the Isles of Scilly. Established in 1885, it comprises scenic coastal towns such as Penzance and St Ives, alongside rural and island communities.

Politically, St Ives has alternated between the Conservative Party and the Liberal Democrats over recent decades. Historically, it has been a stronghold for the Liberals and later the Liberal Democrats, with periods of Conservative representation. As of the last general election, St Ives is represented by Derek Thomas of the Conservative Party.

Demographically, the constituency has a mix of urban areas with a significant influx of tourists and more isolated rural and island populations. It has a relatively higher proportion of older residents compared to the UK average, reflecting its appeal as a retirement destination.

Economically, St Ives’ economy revolves around tourism, agriculture, and fishing, with Penzance and the Isles of Scilly serving as key tourist destinations. The creative arts and hospitality sectors are also significant employers due to the area's picturesque setting and cultural heritage.

The electorate is diverse, unique for having a dedicated MP for the Isles of Scilly, enhancing representation for these remote islands. Concerns in the constituency often centre around issues like housing affordability, sustainable fishing policies, and the impact of tourism.

Regarding Brexit, St Ives voted predominantly to leave the European Union in the 2016 referendum. Since then, local sentiment has reflected concerns over fishing rights, agricultural policies, and economic resilience post-Brexit. The constituency remains engaged on how national policies affect its specific socio-economic landscape.

Brexit

Did St Ives vote for Brexit?

In the 2016 referendum, the constituency of St Ives voted to leave the EU. One possible reason for this decision could be the region's strong ties to fishing and agriculture, industries that some felt were constrained by EU regulations. Additionally, concerns over immigration and a desire for greater control over laws and sovereignty may have influenced voters in this coastal area. The feeling of being disconnected from decisions made in Brussels may have also played a role in shaping their decision to leave the EU.