Na h-Eileanan an Iar (UK Parliament constituency)

Na h-Eileanan an Iar is a constituency of the House of Commons of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. It represents the Outer Hebrides, a chain of islands off the west coast of Scotland.

History:

The constituency was created in 1918, originally named Western Isles. The name was changed to Na h-Eileanan an Iar (the Gaelic translation of Western Isles) in 1997. It has predominantly returned Labour or Scottish National Party (SNP) Members of Parliament (MPs).

Boundaries:

The constituency covers the entire area of the Outer Hebrides council area, comprising the islands of Lewis and Harris, Uist, Benbecula, Barra, and several smaller inhabited islands. Due to its island geography, it is one of the most sparsely populated constituencies in the UK.

Political Representation:

The seat is currently held by the Scottish National Party. The electoral history generally reflects the strong sense of national identity and the importance of local issues within the islands. Past MPs have included prominent figures in both the Labour and SNP parties.

Demographics:

The constituency is characterized by a strong Gaelic language and culture. Traditional industries like fishing, crofting (small-scale agriculture), and tourism are significant contributors to the local economy. The population is relatively small compared to mainland constituencies.

Electoral Performance:

The constituency's voting patterns have shifted over time. While historically a Labour stronghold, the SNP has gained significant support in recent decades, reflecting broader political trends in Scotland. The unique issues and demographics of the Outer Hebrides often play a crucial role in election outcomes.