THE SOUTH EAST REGION
photo: Caroline campaigning against post office closures
Elected in 1999, Caroline is one of ten MEPs representing the South East region - Kent, East and West Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and the Isle of Wight.
Introduction to the South East - Facts and Figures
- The South East is the largest region in the UK. With over 8 million inhabitants, it also has the highest population of any region.
- It is one of the richest regions in the country. The GDP (estimated at £130 billion in 2001) is greater than that for Denmark, Norway, South Africa and Singapore. Overall, the South East is one of the busiest and most populated regions in Europe.
- There is, however, a great deal of variation in economic standards. Areas of deprivation exist in the eastern and southern region, particularly in coastal areas. Overall the GDPs of East Sussex, Kent, West Sussex and the Isle of Wight are all lower than the national average.
- The South East is governed by a total of 74 local councils.
- Car ownership is higher than anywhere else in the UK - the region also has serious transport problems and the worst traffic congestion of any area except London.
- The South East has the worst performing health service of any region in the UK
- The South East harbours a rich natural and cultural heritage, with many areas designated as National Nature Reserves and Sites of Special Scientific Interest because of their special wildlife interest. Areas designated as "Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty" in the region include the New Forest, Surrey Hills, the High Weald and North and South Downs. The South Downs - which receive a total of 35 million day visits a year - are in the process of being designated as a new National Park.
More information about the region can be found here (external link).
