Our research

The Labour Rural Research Group (LRRG) has opened its latest call for submissions to inform our upcoming report examining the future of the rural economy.

 

Rural areas are fundamental to the UK’s economic, social and environmental success. Home to distinctive industries, deep expertise and a highly skilled workforce, they hold significant untapped potential — yet structural barriers continue to constrain their ability to thrive, scale and attract investment. As such, this report will assess the current state of the rural economy and take a forward-looking view to 2040, with a particular focus on the actions needed during the current parliament to unlock long-term growth, resilience and opportunity.

 

The research will build on existing evidence and analysis while bringing together fresh research, practical experience and Labour MPs’ perspectives to produce a coherent and forward-looking set of recommendations for government. The study will cover rural areas across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, recognising different devolved policy contexts while identifying shared challenges and opportunities.

 

We are therefore inviting individuals, businesses, community organisations, charities, local authorities, academics, sector bodies and service providers to submit evidence and insights to inform the study. Evidence should consider:

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Economic activity, productivity and growth

• What structural factors drive rural productivity and growth across key sectors, and which policy interventions can best unlock sustainable, long-term economic potential relative to urban areas?​

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Small and micro-businesses, entrepreneurship and access to finance

• What are the main barriers facing rural small and micro-businesses in starting, scaling and accessing finance, and how can policy better support inclusive entrepreneurship and business growth?

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Business-related tax environment

• How does the current tax framework shape investment, diversification and growth in rural businesses, and what reforms are needed to better reflect rural economic conditions and support innovation?

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Workforce issues

• How do skills provision, demographics and labour market dynamics affect workforce availability in rural areas, and what interventions can improve recruitment, retention and participation?

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Infrastructure and connectivity

• How do deficiencies in digital, transport and energy infrastructure constrain rural productivity and access to opportunities, and which investments would deliver the greatest economic and social returns?

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Housing

• How do housing affordability, availability and planning systems impact labour supply and community sustainability in rural areas, and what policy approaches could better align housing with local needs?

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Land use and environmental economy

• How can land use change and environmental markets support rural economic growth and climate goals, and what barriers and governance reforms must be addressed to realise these opportunities?

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Public services, access and rural crime

• How do gaps in public service access and safety affect economic and social outcomes in rural communities, and what policy and delivery models could better meet rural needs?

 

Submission must take the form of written evidence, and can be case studies, research summaries or qualitative reflections. We welcome data and statistics where this is available. Both organisational and individual contributions are welcome.

 

Submission can be made directly by emailing: info@labourruralresearchgroup.com