Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

UK Shared Prosperity Fund: Rural Areas

11 May 2022 · 3 other contributors

Opened by Alicia Kearns Con Rutland and Melton

EconomyTransportAgriculture & Rural Affairs

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Alicia Kearns raised concerns about uk shared prosperity fund: rural areas in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • The MP for Rutland and Melton highlighted the challenges faced by rural communities, including higher costs of delivering services and barriers to social mobility.
  • The speech covered funding disparities between counties like Leicestershire and Surrey, and the need for a rural capital investment fund.
  • The Minister acknowledged funding disparities but emphasised the flexibility of the UK shared prosperity fund and detailed investments in broadband connectivity and health services.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Alicia Kearns Con Rutland and Melton

The MP for Rutland and Melton highlighted that rural areas are often overlooked in discussions about levelling up. She emphasised the challenges faced by rural communities, including higher costs of delivering services, hidden poverty, and barriers to social mobility. The speech also covered funding disparities between counties like Leicestershire and Surrey, the need for a rural capital investment fund, and the importance of digital connectivity and transport infrastructure. The MP called for fairer funding for local authorities, improved health services, and investments in tourism and heritage.

Other contributors (3)
  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Agreed with the need to support rural communities and highlighted the challenges of connectivity in his constituency.

  • Jane Hunt Con Loughborough

    Raised concerns about local government funding and the shared prosperity fund's limitations, advocating for fairer allocations.

  • William Wragg Con Hazel Grove

    Supported the need for more GPs in rural areas and acknowledged efforts to secure a second GP practice in Melton Mowbray.

Government Response

Neil O'Brien

The Minister congratulated the lead MP on her speech and highlighted several positive initiatives for Rutland and Melton. He acknowledged funding disparities but emphasised the flexibility of the UK shared prosperity fund, which recognises rural challenges and provides local control over spending priorities. The Minister also detailed investments in broadband connectivity, health services, and new funds aimed at regenerating towns and villages. He assured that these measures will empower local leaders to address specific needs such as digital infrastructure, transport, and community events. Additionally, he announced the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill addressing GP surgeries and infrastructure funding for development projects.

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