Truss Entrusted with Boosting Rural Sector

According to the CLA (Country Land and Business Association), Liz Truss’ administration needs to incorporate the rural economy into the “heart of government policy in these tough times”.

Following “years of neglect” by the government, an 18% productivity gap now stands separating the rural sector from the national average. Estimates dictate that eliminating this will boost the UK economy by £43 billion.

Although there are many factors that underpin rural areas’ poorer level of production, some of the most significant are: limited digital connection, planning system limitations, complicated administrative procedures, and long-term lack of investment. To solve this problem, it has been suggested that a simplified tax system and increased investment in regional skills is imperative.

Head of the CLA, Mark Tufnell, outlined that “no prime minister in the last 20 years has had an ambitious strategy for the rural economy”. Liz Truss’ £110 million support plan is “a welcome start”, but “still does not fully address the challenges faced by rural businesses”.

He continued: “As Liz Truss must go for growth, laying out in detail her plans to deliver genuine planning reform, full connectivity, a simpler tax system for diversified businesses. A Whitehall shake up” needs to “encourage cooperation, otherwise her party risks losing the hearts and minds of 12 million rural voters.”

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