The Guardian reports that Keir Starmer, who is due to take the stage at the National Farmers’ Union conference next week, may find the audience more receptive than expected

The rural vote is swinging away from the Conservatives, and seats in communities that have been true blue for years could be going to Labour or the Liberal Democrats at the next election if recent opinion polls are correct.

Thérèse Coffey, the environment secretary, faced tough questions and a chilly reception late last year at her first public outing.

She had chosen to address countryside landowners, the Country Land and Business Association (CLA), which previously would have been one of the safest audiences.

But a botched agricultural strategy that has left land managers out of pocket and trade deals that undercut UK farmers have led to widespread anger in the sector.

Not to mention the scourge of second homes, cuts to public services in remote areas, and lack of connection to broadband and the National Grid.

Thirteen years of Tory rule have failed to bring many rural areas into the 21st century.

Full article:

The Guardian - Taken for granted: rural vote up for grabs if Labour can make hay