24 January 2022

Below is an RSN review of last week's rural related politics as well as a look forward to the week ahead:

Last week in politics (17 January - 23 January)

• On 18^th January, the Government revealed it would begin ‘The Social Housing White Paper Professionalisation Review’ which will explore the qualifications currently available for staff, with landlords, residents and trade bodies putting forward recommendations to the government. It will also consider if additional training is required to improve the service to residents.
• On 19^th January, The Buchanan Trust announced they will be creating homes for armed forces veterans in rural communities, with support from the Government’s housing agency Homes England; the Government issued the latest instalment of the Farming Investment Fund, worth £25 million, allowing Farmers and growers in England to apply for up to £500,000 to invest in cutting edge robotics and technology to boost food production; and finally, the Prime Minister issued a statement announcing that the Cabinet Office agreed to return to Plan A in England and allow for Plan B requirements to end.

This week in politics (24 January - 30 January)

• On Monday 24^th January, the House of Commons will hear oral questions on Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and the Health and Care Bill will enter day 5 of the committee stage led by Lord Kamall (Con).
• On Tuesday 25^th January, Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee will hear oral evidence on the ‘Coronavirus Act 2020: Two Years On.
• On Wednesday 26^th January, the House of Commons will debate on fatal accidents, rural crime and the adequacy of vehicle ownership restrictions led by Richard Holden MP (Con) and the Health and Care Bill will enter day 6 of the committee stage led by Lord Kamall (Con).