MPs take further evidence on Rural Communities

• Parliament TV: Rural Communities
• Inquiry: Rural Communities
• Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee

The first part of this evidence session will focus on the challenge of providing much needed housing and superfast broadband to rural areas whilst safeguarding the countryside for future generations. In the second part of the evidence session the Committee will ask whether the recent funding settlement for local authorities is a fair one for rural areas. The Committee will also explore the impact of an ageing population on rural communities.

The meeting will take place on Wednesday 9 January at 3pm in Committee Room 15, Palace of Westminster.

Witnesses

At 3pm

• Neil Sinden, Policy and Campaigns Director, Campaign to Protect Rural England
• Paul Hamblin, Director, English National Park Authorities Association
• Tony Gates, Chief Executive, Northumberland National Park Authority

At 4pm

• Councillor Roger Begy OBE, Leader of Rutland Council and Chair of Sparse
• Sonia Mangan, Chief Officer, Age UK Lakeland 

The work of the Rural Communities Policy Unit in Defra, its ability to act as rural champion in the heart of government, and its effectiveness in delivering rural development will also be covered during the meeting.

Further information

• About Parliament: Select Committees
• Visiting Parliament: Watch Committees