Merthyr (UK Parliament constituency)

Merthyr was a parliamentary constituency represented in the House of Commons of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. It was located in South Wales.

The constituency was historically associated with the town of Merthyr Tydfil, and its boundaries varied over time to encompass surrounding areas. It was a borough constituency, meaning it represented a specific town or group of towns.

Merthyr was known for its strong Labour party support, reflecting the area's industrial heritage rooted in coal mining and iron production. Throughout much of the 20th century, the seat was considered a safe Labour constituency.

The constituency existed under different names and boundaries for several periods. Originally, it was part of a larger Merthyr Tydfil constituency. Later boundary changes resulted in the creation of the Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney constituency, and subsequently, Merthyr Tydfil and Bedwellty.

In 2024, further boundary changes resulted in the abolishment of the Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney constituency and the creation of the new constituency of Merthyr Tydfil and Upper Cynon. This effectively ended the existence of a constituency solely named "Merthyr" for UK Parliament representation.

Notable Members of Parliament (MPs) who represented the Merthyr constituency include:

• Keir Hardie: A founding member of the Labour Party, who served as MP for Merthyr Tydfil from 1900 until his death in 1915.

The political landscape of the area continues to be shaped by its history and the social and economic conditions of the communities within its boundaries.