Championing Rural Issues in Parliament

As a representative in Parliament for a largely rural constituency, I am acutely aware of a wide variety of issues and concerns which come with modern, rural living.  Be that transport links, mobile signal, internet connections and rural schools and shops, and of course wider issues for those who work in the agriculture sector.

I have met with many of the parish councils in our rural villages and hamlets to discuss their concerns, and raised several matters with Ministers in Parliament.  Although there is welcome progress on some issues, such as the super-fast broadband roll-out across West Oxfordshire, there is still more to be done.

I am also in regular contact with many of the farmers who live and work in West Oxfordshire, and have done for generations.  Agriculture is one sector most effected by the UK's withdrawal from the EU, and I will work hard to ensure that West Oxfordshire is able to thrive from this opportunity.

Rural Communities Survey

  • Rural Communities Survey
  • National Issues
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  • Your details
1.1 Which are the biggest issues facing your rural community?
1.2 What do you perceive as the most common type of crime in your rural community?
1.3 On rural crime, have you witnessed any of the following in the past twelve months?
1.4 On internet connectivity, how reliable is your broadband connection?
1.5 How would you rate the bus service in your community?

News

Robert Questions Transport Secretary on Cotswold Line Progress

Robert has helped to deliver significant improvements to local rail services in West Oxfordshire in recent years, with additional car parking provision, platform extensions, upgraded facilities, world-class new trains - and a staff presence at Hanborough Station for the first time in over 50 ye

£1 Billion Deal Set to Solve Poor Mobile Coverage Thanks to Robert's Campaign

Robert, who led calls for a Shared Rural Network to extend mobile rural coverage to hard-to-reach areas, says a new deal between Government and the phone industry will mean that poor mobile coverage in parts of West Oxfordshire and elsewhere will be a thing of the past. The new plans for all o

Robert Hails Introduction of Landmark Environment Bill

Earlier today, the Government introduced the Environment Bill to Parliament. This landmark Bill will tackle the biggest environmental priorities of our time, signalling a historic step change in the way we protect and enhance our precious natural environment. The Bill will help ensure th

Robert Welcomes Recruitment of Additional Local Police Officers

Robert has welcomed the announcement of a recruitment drive which will see Thames Valley Police recruit an additional 183 police officers in 2020-21. Thames Valley Police will be able to recruit an additional 183 officers in the first year of the scheme (2020-21) with figures for yea

Robert Continues his Volunteering Week with Chippy Green Gym

Robert's Volunteering Week continued today as he joined Chipping Norton Green Gym at one of their regular sessions. Chippy Green Gym are an independent community group that works on environmental conservation projects in Chipping Norton and the surrounding area.

Robert Meets British Horse Society at New Yatt Farm

Robert said: "I had a really informative meeting with The British Horse Society at New Yatt Farm recently. "There is a significant equestrian community within West Oxfordshire and - although they try to use bridleways where possible - many are disjointed, making the use of unsuitable busy roads nec

Robert Produces Information Guide on Going Green

Robert said: "Our environment affects everything – from the air we breathe to the water we drink. But protecting our environment is not only good for our children and grandchildren. It actually helps you save money.

Robert Receives 'Beer Champion' Award For Supporting Local Pubs

Robert said: "Pubs are a vital part of West Oxfordshire's economy and I am proud to have been standing up for every pub during my time as an MP. "I was honoured to receive this special 'Beer Champion' award this week, presented to me in Parliament by Brigid Simmons, Chief Executive of the Brit