The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Rural Services, supported by the Rural Services Network as the Secretariat, held its inaugural meeting last week with a clear sense of enthusiasm and purpose. With a full room of MPs eager to advocate for rural communities, the session highlighted both the commitment of its members and the crucial issues they aim to address over the coming year.

The meeting resulted in the election of the APPG’s leadership team. Sarah Dyke, Liberal Democrat MP for Somerset, was voted as Chair, Sam Rushworth, Labour MP for Bishop Auckland, was elected Vice Chair, while Joe Morris, Labour MP for Hexham, was appointed Treasurer. Dr. Kieran Mullan, Conservative MP, was chosen as Secretary, ensuring representation across the political spectrum.

Key Priorities for 2024

The meeting saw a lively discussion around the main priorities the APPG will focus on throughout the year. The group agreed on five key areas that will shape their agenda:

1. Fair Funding Across Public Services – Recognising the financial pressures facing rural communities, the APPG will advocate for fair funding not only for local authorities but also for other public services that support rural areas.
2. Affordable Rural Housing – With a housing crisis affecting both affordability and availability, the group emphasised the need to improve access to truly affordable housing in rural areas.
3. Transport – Rural connectivity remains a significant issue, with inadequate transport services often leaving communities isolated. The APPG will work on solutions that enhance rural transport options.
4. Health Services – Ensuring equitable access to healthcare for rural residents is a top priority, with the APPG focusing on addressing the unique health challenges these communities face.
5. Rural Economic Growth and Skills Development – There was a strong emphasis on fostering local economic growth, particularly through skills development and job creation. The group aims to highlight the potential for economic prosperity in rural areas by supporting local talent and encouraging innovation.

An additional topic, raised during the meeting, was the potential impact of these priorities on young people and older residents. MPs agreed that the APPG should consider the broader societal impacts, such as how limited transport affects young people’s access to education and skills, or how inadequate services can isolate older populations.

Positive Momentum and Looking Ahead

The inaugural meeting was marked by a strong sense of optimism, with attendees commenting on the unusually high level of engagement and interest. Many MPs were pleasantly surprised by the turnout, signalling the growing importance of rural issues in parliamentary discussions.

Looking ahead, the APPG aims to hold more informal briefings, which will allow members to engage with the issues more flexibly and dynamically. Sarah Dyke and her team are already planning follow-up meetings to strategise on how to move forward effectively.

Sarah Dyke MP, Glastonbury & Somerton: "During my time as a serving councillor on Somerset Council, I saw firsthand how hard it is for local authorities in rural communities to deliver essential services. I have campaigned for fairer funding and support for rural services since my election as a Member of Parliament, and I am honoured to have been elected as the chair of the APPG for Rural Services. I look forward to working with colleagues from across the political spectrum to deliver stronger outcomes for all of our rural communities".

Kerry Booth, Chief Executive, Rural Services Network: "With a well-rounded leadership team, cross-party collaboration, and clearly defined priorities, the APPG for Rural Services is in a strong position to address the challenges facing rural communities. As the Secretariat, the Rural Services Network will continue to support the APPG, ensuring that rural voices are heard loud and clear in Parliament. This inaugural meeting marks the beginning of what promises to be a productive year of rural advocacy. The APPG is set to tackle key issues such as funding, housing, transport, health, and economic development. The energy and enthusiasm displayed by its members provide a hopeful outlook for those living in rural areas".