Visit from Hexham MP to the Centre for Rural Economy Centre

It was a pleasure to welcome Joe Morris MP to Newcastle University, where he met with Professor Sally Shortall and colleagues from the Centre for Rural Economy.

As the MP for Hexham and the first Labour MP to represent the constituency, Joe’s visit offered a valuable opportunity to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing rural communities and to share insights from our latest research.

The visit followed our meeting in the House of Lords in April, where we contributed to discussions on the Government’s Land Use Framework. Building on those conversations, we explored how research can inform policy and support thriving, sustainable rural communities. Bringing together researchers and policymakers is essential in ensuring that evidence and local perspectives shape the future of rural areas.

Our discussions covered rural connectivity, poverty and employment, and the pressures facing tenant farmers. Joe also highlighted what he is hearing most frequently on the doorstep: the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and frustration about limited services in rural areas.

Thank you to Joe for taking the time to engage with our work and for a thoughtful and constructive conversation.