Rural Economy

Our NHS is in Crisis

As MP for Newbury, I’m proud to represent one of the rural constituencies in the country. From our local farms and food producers to the global reach of the Lambourn racing industry, the countryside is not only part of our identity – it’s vital to our economy.

But all too often, rural voices are ignored in Westminster. That’s why I’ve made it a priority to stand up for our rural communities.

Farming, Food Security, and the Agricultural Workforce

I’ve met with farmers, growers and producers across West Berkshire to listen to their concerns – from labour shortages to skyrocketing costs. I’ve joined NFU roundtables, spoken with Yellow Wellies about farm safety, and backed the sector in Parliament.

I also supported a recent farming drop-in event in Westminster and was proud to sponsor a conference highlighting the pressures on rural food production. I’m a proud member of the NFU’s Parliamentary Fellowship Scheme and will keep working to ensure farming and food security remain national priorities.

Horse Racing & the Equestrian Sector

Lambourn – the Valley of the Racehorse – is a global centre of excellence, and I’ve spent time visiting yards and speaking to trainers and staff about what the industry needs to thrive. I’ve been to Newbury Racecourse and backed calls to protect the sector from damaging gambling reform that fails to distinguish between remote casino games and racing-linked betting.

I’m also supporting campaigns for safer rural roads for horses and riders – an issue I know many constituents feel strongly about. Our villages and lanes must work for everyone – whether you’re driving, cycling, walking or riding.

Rural Connectivity & Infrastructure

Too many areas of our constituency still suffer from patchy signal or poor internet speeds. I’m speaking with network providers and have written to ministers to press for urgent improvements. Connectivity shouldn’t be a postcode lottery; rural homes and businesses deserve the same digital access as anyone else.

Transport is another big issue, with some communities cut off by limited bus services or poor road conditions. I’m working to raise these concerns in Westminster and with local authorities.

Other issues I am looking into include:

Lack of affordable rural housing
Rural GP and healthcare access
Rural school transport
Fuel poverty in off-grid homes

Flooding in Rural Areas

Flooding affects many of our rural communities, from Lambourn to the villages along the Kennet and beyond. I’ve chaired a roundtable on chalk stream pollution and continue to press for urgent infrastructure investment and a stronger voice for local people in flood planning and resilience.

If you'd like to share your experiences or discuss these issues further, please get in touch at lee.dillon.mp@parliament.uk