Ribble Valley MP promises to tackle political rural neglect

Ribble Valley Labour backbencher Maya Ellis helped produce a landmark new report that calls for a fresh political approach to tackle the challenges facing rural communities.

The document ‘Understanding Rural Britain’, published by the Labour Rural Research Group (LRRG), shines a spotlight on the growing issues facing countryside areas and calls for a distinct rural strategy.

The research, led by 26 rural Labour MPs including Maya Ellis, found healthcare, the environment, and the rural economy top the list of political priorities for rural voters.

It highlights widespread feelings of neglect, with nearly three-quarters believing rural communities have been overlooked over the past 15 years.

More than 80 per cent of respondents believe a distinct rural strategy is needed to address challenges unique to rural life, including access to public services, affordable housing, and the future of farming and food production.

Mrs Ellis said: “Having grown up in a rural area, I’ve always understood the deep pride people take in countryside life, but also the very real challenges they face.

“In my first year as MP for Ribble Valley, the message from our communities has been loud and clear: we want to be heard, we want fairness, and we want certainty. 

“I’m proud to be part of the Labour Rural Research Group and I’d like to thank everyone in Ribble Valley who filled out the survey, which is helping shape a new national conversation about the future of our countryside. 

“As I’ve promised to many of the farmers and residents in this area, rural MPs are getting organised and making sure your voice is heard in the heart of Westminster like never before.

“This is just the start. I’ll be keeping the conversation going over the next few months and years.”

The survey of more than 1,400 rural voters, conducted this summer, revealed more than 65 per cent of respondents expressed support for local development, provided it respects rural identity and meets local needs.

However, trust in politicians remains low, with 65 per cent expressing little or no trust across all parties. 

The LRRG will now use the findings to inform a series of in-depth policy papers over the coming year, focusing on housing, public services, agriculture, and environmental recovery in rural settings.