ABSTRACT
TWO THINGS are necessary in order to appreciate how contemporary regional differences that result from core and periphery have affected electoral dynamics in Britain: first, an understanding of core and periphery, and second, a grasp of regional electoral change. This second requirement has embedded in it more than simply a quantitative display of regional votes; a more qualitative understanding of political issues and elite perceptions is also needed. Electoral change goes beyond election results. The primary aim of this chapter is to trace, briefly, the modern electoral history of Britain with a special emphasis on its regional dimension. The evidence shows the extent to which British political parties have attracted balanced national support or, conversely, whether their electoral base has been restricted to specific regions of the country
The terms ‘north’ and ‘south’ will have relevance throughout this volume. Unless otherwise noted, the ‘south’ refers to London, the Home Counties, East Anglia, the counties of Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, Hampshire, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Lincolnshire, and the Midlands. The ‘north’ includes Scotland, Wales, the ancient counties of Lancashire and Yorkshire, and the hill country up to the Scottish border. In later chapters where the distinction between north and south may be drawn differently, any changes will be carefully described.
