Since 1979 Gloucester has been a bellwether constituencyby passing between representatives of the two largest parties in the same way as the government. After nearly three decades as a Conservative seat, it was held by Labour from 1997 to 2010 before returning to a Conservative on a swing of 8.9%.
Boundaries
1918–1950: The County Borough of Gloucester. 1950–1955: The County Borough of Gloucester, and in the Rural District of Gloucester the parishes of Barnwood, Brockworth, Hempsted, Hucclecote, and Wotton Vill. 1955–1974: The County Borough of Gloucester, and in the Rural District of Gloucester the parishes of Barnwood, Brockworth, Hempsted, and Hucclecote. Wotton Vill parish had been absorbed by Gloucester CB in 1951. The constituency boundaries remained unchanged. 1974–1983: The County Borough of Gloucester. 1983–1997: The City of Gloucester, and the District of Stroud wards of Quedgeley and Hardwicke, and Upton St Leonards. 1997–2010: The City of Gloucester. 2010–present: The City of Gloucester wards of Abbey, Barnwood, Barton and Tredworth, Elmbridge, Grange, Hucclecote, Kingsholm and Wotton, Matson and Robinswood, Moreland, Podsmead, Quedgeley Fieldcourt, Quedgeley Severn Vale, Tuffley, and Westgate.
Members of Parliament
MPs 1295–1640
MPs 1640–1885
In 1881, Robinson's willingness to stand down faced with a popular petition and the unwillingness of the Conservatives to make allegations nor investigate matters further led to suspicions of collusion between the parties and a Royal Commission was set up to examine electoral practices. The Royal Commission concluded that Gloucester was among the most corrupt of the seven towns investigated and that bribery was endemic in all elections in the city. The Commission concluded that half of the electorate had taken bribes in 1880 and blamed local politicians for most of the corruption. Despite these findings and virtually halving the electorate eligible to vote Robinson was reelected for Gloucester in 1885 when representation had been reduced to one member under the Redistribution of Seats Act 1885.
A petition was raised against the election of Robinson and Monk, leading to Robinson's election being made void. Although the petition against Monk was dismissed, the writ was suspended and Monk became the only MP for the constituency.
Elections in the 1870s
Caused by Price's resignation after being appointed a railway commissioner.
Elections in the 1860s
Caused by Powell's appointment as Recorder of Wolverhampton.
Caused by the previous election being declared void on petition "by reason of extensive corruption".
Elections in the 1850s
Caused by Price seeking re-election after resigning to accept a contract for supplying huts to the army in the Crimea.
