It is rural England that forms the bedrock of Conservatism. But we must not take its support for granted.
Even in “safe seats” a culture of knock-every-door campaigning is needed. That was the lesson from the local elections.
Counties are the most exposed to financial pressures, but the least resourced to deal with them. Rural residents are getting a raw deal.
Destroying coastal barriers to “create a new habitat area” would mean leaving our seaside towns and villages to be flooded. People must come first.
And, as Boles says, we will never build the number of homes we need unless the state is building 100,000 a year.
Rural communities will welcome development – if it fits the local vernacular and genuinely meets community needs.
I am setting up a think tank to explore how we can sensibly use the countryside as part of the wider economy.
Rural areas have higher costs for services such as social care – yet we have been coping with bigger spending cuts than our urban counterparts.
Local decision-making must be respected if communities are to be confident in embracing development. We need these principles in urban areas too.
At best, people don’t think about the issue. But as soon as they do, they overwhelmingly support the ban. A vote would have been hugely damaging.
Aylesbury Vale District Council staff travel on business using pool cars – and the pool cars are Nissan Leafs.
A free vote on repeal gives legislators the opportunity to review the impact of the fox hunting ban. No wonder the law’s supporters are nervous.
Community Land Trusts and other schemes are making a positive difference around the country.
I truly believe that this election will finally banish the tribal, class-driven polarisation of workers versus bosses. That rhetoric will be firmly placed in the dustbin of history.
If he is looking for a legacy beyond Brexit, then ‘rural proofing’ all government policy would be a good place to start.