CLA boosting rural economy conference finds partners

CLA President Ross Murray said: “I am delighted that the CLA’s first ever rural business conference has attracted so much interest"
CLA President Ross Murray said: “I am delighted that the CLA’s first ever rural business conference has attracted so much interest"

A rural business conference which aims to unlock investment and potential for the rural economy has been announced by the CLA.

‘Rural Business 2030: Unlocking Investment, Unlocking Potential’ will bring rural businesses and policy makers together to discuss practical ways to achieve a robust, productive and sustainable rural economy in 2030.

The challenges and opportunities around the UK’s exit from the European Union, securing the digital connectivity, investing in energy infrastructure and providing vital environmental services are set to be explored with a panel of speakers including Defra Secretary of State Liz Truss, author and journalist Matt Ridley and journalist Cathy Newman.

Internet use for rural customers

CLA President Ross Murray said: "I am delighted that the CLA’s first ever rural business conference has attracted the interest of Barclays, BT and EE, Strutt & Parker, CLA Insurance and CLA Utilities.

"The rural economy is so vital to the wealth and health of the whole nation so securing support from such influential partners will help to boost the importance of the countryside into 2030 and beyond."

Mark Suthern, Head of Agriculture at Barclays said: "Barclays is delighted to support the CLA’s inaugural rural business conference."

Sean Williams, BT Group Chief Strategy Officer said: "The UK is a digital leader today and it is vital that it remains one in the future.

"At BT, we know how important fixed and mobile broadband is for rural customers, and that’s why we’re investing more than any other company to connect people with fibre and EE's 4G mobile network, even in the UK’s hardest to reach areas.

"Working closely with rural communities is key to delivering our ambitions, so we’re delighted to be sponsoring the CLA’s inaugural conference on the rural economy."

James Farrell, Head of Estate & Land Management at Strutt & Parker said: "Strutt & Parker is delighted to be part of the Rural Business 2030 initiative as the CLA’s exclusive estate and land management partner.

"‘Unlocking Potential, Unlocking Investment’ is an extremely exciting initiative that aims to help rural businesses fulfil their potential through investment in a robust, productive and sustainable rural economy.

"It will also provide excellent evidence to help shape the future of the countryside and it could not come at a more important time for the rural economy as we embark on a new period of opportunity outside the EU."