Labour Rural Research Group Publishes Groundbreaking Report on the Political Priorities of Rural Britain

• Nearly three quarters of respondents believe rural communities have been overlooked over the past 15 years, while three in five people feel that their rural communities are in
• Meanwhile, over 80% of respondents believe a distinct rural strategy is needed to address challenges unique to rural life, including access to public services, affordable housing, and the future of farming and food
• The report also challenges stereotypes about rural voters’ resistance to development, with over 65% of respondents showing support for local development, provided it respects rural identity and local

A landmark new report published today by the Labour Rural Research Group (LRRG) reveals the shifting political dynamics in rural Britain following Labour’s historic 2024 General Election victory.

Based on a survey of over 1,400 rural voters conducted between 30 June and 14 July 2025, “Understanding Rural Britain” sets out the issues, identities and expectations shaping the political landscape across the UK’s countryside.

The research, led by 26 rural Labour MPs, including local MP for North West Leicestershire Amanda Hack, finds that healthcare, the environment, and the rural economy top the list of political priorities for rural voters. The report highlights widespread feelings of neglect, with nearly three quarters (74.4%) believing rural communities have been overlooked over the past 15 years. Over 80% of respondents believe a distinct rural strategy is needed to address challenges unique to rural life, including access to public services, affordable housing, and the future of farming and food production.

Commenting on the findings, Jenny Riddell-Carpenter, MP for Suffolk Coastal and Chair of LRRG said:

“This research confirms what many of us have been hearing on the doorstep for years – that rural Britain has its own distinct identity, that we value nature and the countryside – but we also desperately need public services to work for our communities. The ‘rural wall’ is critical for the UK to deliver its national ambitions – but we must be central to the national conversation. The LRRG will play a vital role in making sure that the rural interests are heard, understood and valued”.

The report also challenges stereotypes about rural voters’ resistance to development. Over 65% of respondents support local development – provided it respects rural identity and local needs. Meanwhile, trust in politicians remains low, with 65% expressing little or no trust across all parties, underlining the need for tangible, community-driven change.

Amanda Hack MP added:

“Having been part of this group since its inception, I’m proud of the work to highlight our countryside communities and ensure they are at the heart of the national conversation. This work is about more than just identifying problems; it’s about building practical, progressive solutions that reflect the realities of rural life. Areas such as North West Leicestershire must play a crucial role in delivering our ambitious growth mission and drive for better infrastructure.”

The Labour Rural Research Group will use these findings to shape further policy work over the coming year, including deep-dive papers on housing, public services, agriculture, and environmental recovery in rural settings.

Download the full report at: labourruralresearchgroup.com