Anna Gelderd MP Welcomes New Report on Rural Political Priorities

South East Cornwall MP Anna Gelderd backs findings as trust in politics stays low

A major new report published yesterday, Thursday 7th August, by the Labour Rural Research Group (LRRG) is putting the spotlight on rural communities across the UK – and their growing demand to be heard. South East Cornwall’s MP Anna Gelderd is among those championing the findings.

The report, Understanding Rural Britain, is based on a survey of over 1,400 rural voters, carried out between 30th June and 14th July 2025. It highlights healthcare, the environment and the rural economy as the top political priorities for voters living in the countryside.

Rural voters say they’ve been ignored

The findings reflect deep frustration in rural communities, with nearly three quarters (74.4%) of respondents saying they feel overlooked by politicians over the past 15 years. More than 80% said a dedicated rural strategy is needed to tackle challenges like access to public services, affordable housing and the future of farming and food production.

The research also pushes back against long-held stereotypes about rural resistance to change. Over 65% of those surveyed said they support local development, as long as it fits with local identity and meets the needs of their communities.

However, trust in politics remains a sticking point. The report found 65% of rural respondents have little or no trust in politicians from any party.

Anna Gelderd: “Rural community voices like ours must be heard”

Anna Gelderd, who represents South East Cornwall, welcomed the publication and its findings.

“As a member of the Labour Rural Research Group (LRRG), and MP for South East Cornwall, I know how vital it is that rural community voices like ours are heard. Today’s report shines an important light on the issues rural communities care about most and will inform the LRRG’s work going forward.

“I am a proud member of the LRRG, which is one of many Labour groups working to address issues specifically affecting rural communities.”

What’s next for rural policy?

The Labour Rural Research Group, made up of 26 rural Labour MPs, will now use the report as a springboard for further policy work. Over the coming year, they plan to publish more detailed reports focusing on rural housing, public services, agriculture and environmental recovery.

Jenny Riddell-Carpenter, MP for Suffolk Coastal and Chair of the 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 full report Understanding Rural Britain can be downloaded at: labourruralresearchgroup.com