Member

I was very struck by a report I read in my local newspaper a week or two ago from Northumberland County Council. It was its statutory annual report on health inequalities and well-being. It talked about the problems of rural areas in Northumberland, such as the availability and cost of housing, employment opportunities, employment opportunities for young people and the problems of distance for travelling to work, education and healthcare. I am convinced that there is a cost premium for those living in rural areas and that needs to be proofed, which is why the amendment in the name of the noble Baronesses, Lady Royall and Lady Bennett, and the noble Lords, Lord Cameron and Lord Best, is right. Every area of competence should be rural-proofed in the same way as they should be urban-proofed.