The View From Here

George Freeman, MP for Mid-Norfolk and a former minister, tells me why so many people in rural communities voted for Brexit and are in despair at the endless bickering over the decision to leave the EU.

Beef farmer Hugh Broom tells me of the uncertainties and opportunities of Brexit … and the future of farming after Veganuary

Tim Morton, project manager for seven food banks in North Norfolk, tells me of the hidden poverty in rural areas and why so many people in remote towns and villages are turning to food banks to feed their families.

Norman Lamb, Liberal Democrat MP for North Norfolk, tells me Whitehall does not understand the needs of rural communities and calls for more power to be devolved to local bodies.

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In the Northamptonshire village of Gretton, the regular bus service has been withdrawn and the only local shop has closed. Residents tell me they feel abandoned by politicians and worried about the isolation of their community.

In the ancient market town of Bungay, all five banks and a building society have closed in recent years. Didy Ward, who represents local businesses, tells me small traders are struggling ..”it feels as if we are fighting against the powers that be just to keep going”..

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Why Build on the Greenbelt?

Why is the local council poised to give the go-ahead for 10,000 new homes on Green Belt in Hertfordshire?  Linda Haysey, the Conservative leader of East Herts Council tells me she will not allow the county to become a concrete jungle.

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The government says it will only allow building on the Green Belt in “exceptional circumstances”. So why is it about to allow 10,000 new homes to be built on Green Belt in Hertfordshire.  Kevin Fitzgerald from the Campaign to Protect Rural England tells me why he objects to the plans.

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Why politicians should heed the voters of the future.  Mental health, transport links and education are all real concerns for young people in rural communities. Listen to my podcast with Fee Robinson, who represents North Norfolk on the National Youth Parliament.

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