Taunton Deane MP Rebecca Pow celebrated rural businesses at a special reception in the House of Commons hosted by the All Party Parliamentary Group for Rural Business and the CLA.

The CLA, which represents landowners, farmers and rural businesses invited its members from across England and Wales to Westminster to showcase successful rural businesses and highlight how the Government can support economic growth in the countryside.

CLA South West Regional Director John Mortimer said: “Businesses based in the countryside make an amazing contribution to the economy as a whole. There are more than 650,000 rural businesses employing over 3.5million people in England and Wales, contributing £235billion in gross value added. It is wonderful to have such a diverse range of successful businesses demonstrating their credentials in the heart of Westminster. We are grateful to MPs like Rebecca who champion rural businesses tirelessly in Parliament.

“However, there are still challenges to overcome alongside ensuring a profitable farming sector that remains at the core. Running a business in the countryside should be afforded the same opportunities as those based in towns and cities. It has been invaluable for parliamentarians to hear first-hand the barriers that rural businesses still face and what can be done to help them flourish, such as improving digital connectivity and creating a planning system which supports rural economic growth and allows desperately needed homes to be built.”

Commenting on the event, Rebecca said, ‘I was so pleased to join the CLA to celebrate rural businesses across the country, and of course, the local business men and women who are working hard in Taunton Deane to keep rural Britain thriving. These businesses are the backbone of our communities and it is vital that they get the recognition they deserve.’

Follow #CRB2018 on Twitter for images of the event.