The MP for Skipton and Ripon, Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE, has spoken in Parliament about what he described as increasing pressures on rural communities across North Yorkshire.
Speaking during an Opposition Day debate on rural communities, he highlighted the specific challenges faced by areas such as North Yorkshire, including sparse infrastructure, dependence on small businesses and hospitality, and long-standing pressures on farming and local services.
He outlined a number of recent policy changes, which he said are having a combined impact on rural areas.
These included changes to farm taxation, additional employment regulations affecting small businesses, the removal of some rural services grants, and adjustments to local government funding arrangements.
Sir Julian also drew attention to rising costs for pubs and hospitality venues, particularly through business rates valuations.
He said these venues play an important role in rural communities by providing employment, acting as social hubs, and supporting community life.
During the debate, Sir Julian called for a review of business rates valuations, a reassessment of local government funding settlements, and the introduction of what he described as a “cumulative impact test” to assess how future policies may affect rural communities.
He argued that such measures would help ensure that rural areas are not disproportionately affected by national policy decisions.
Sir Julian’s comments were made as part of a wider parliamentary discussion on the future of rural communities across the UK.
North Yorkshire Police win national award for farm crime prevention project
Pop-up pumpkin patch and monster trail coming to Skipton
Motorcyclist dies following collision on A629 near Skipton
Louis Theroux makes special visit to Martin House children's hospice
Skipton football matches raise £2,100 for Manorlands Hospice
Stump Cross Caverns named finalist in family business awards
Keighley Healthy Living celebrates 25 years of growth
Dunelm Keighley partner with Airedale Hospital for Christmas appeal
Popular Big Skipton Quiz returns to raise funds for children’s charity
Leeds Bradford Airport strikes to 'escalate' over half term
Yorkshire Water sewer capacity threatens new homes and funding, says councillor
Hellifield businessman raises over £1,400 with 50-mile challenge
Growing pressure on North Yorkshire farmers, reports warn
Elsworth at The Mill named finalist in prestigious Yorkshire food awards
Cracoe farming content creator set to be part of Yorkshire Farming Conference
Skipton Business Awards raises more than £1,600 for cancer charity
Scarborough’s Alpamare waterpark set to be sold with 99-year car park lease
Martin House opens new memorial garden for bereaved families
More than £80,000 raised at Sue Ryder Starlight Hike
Mayor joins India trade mission as leaders target £170m boost for Yorkshire
