Jeremy Lefroy has been made a parliamentary patron for the rural fair share campaign.

This campaign brings together Members of Parliament from all parties, along with organisations, community groups, and individuals concerned about the welfare of our rural communities.

Mr Lefroy commented: “Rural areas have often be underfunded compared to urban areas by succesive Governments, yet they tend to be good stewards of public funds. As patron to the Rural Fair Share campaign I will be pushing for fairer allocation of limited public resources that give rural areas the resources they need.”

A report by the Rural Services Network showed that rural residents earn less, on average, than those in cities, pay council tax which is £100 higher per head, and see urban areas receive government grants fifty per cent higher per head than those in the countryside. This means people in the country earn less, pay higher council tax and then receive substantially less support for services. Delivering services in sparse, rural areas also tends to be more expensive, which can add to the burden.

“This essential campaign will ensure constituents living in both Stafford and surrounding communities will gain equal access to services provided in the area, ensuring all are able to benefit from funds granted to the constituency ” Mr. Lefroy added.