This constituency consists of deep valleys and plateau uplands on the eastern rim of the South Wales coalfield.
Having been traditionally dependent on coal and steel, it suffered serious economic decline throughout the last century, which despite government subsidy, culminated in the closure of the steelworks in 1978.
The coal trade also declined dramatically and was replaced by manufacturing and light industry. However, it has a high rate of unemployment.
The seat has been a traditional Labour stronghold, which incorporates parts of Abertillery, previously the safest Labour seat in Britain, and the former Ebbw Vale held by Aneurin Bevan, the architect of the National Health Service.
Former Labour leader Michael Foot held the seat until his retirement and since 1992 Blaenau Gwent has been represented at Westminster by former MEP Llew Smith - only the constituency's third MP.
Few in the area speak Welsh and voters elected a Labour candidate to the National Assembly for Wales in 1999.