The CLA has commented on the General Election result. CLA President Henry Robinson said: “Following five years in Government, we expect Ministers appointed with responsibility for rural affairs to demonstrate a strong understanding of the unique issues our members face. 

"We will be pressing for the party to keep the promises it made to the countryside and to rural businesses during the election campaign, such as a major business rates review, boosting British food exports, and cutting farm inspection red tape.

“We have made good progress recently towards vital policy improvements such as reform of the compulsory purchase system and delivery of reliable and effective rural broadband. The Government must maintain momentum in these important policy areas.

“We now expect there to be a referendum on UK membership of the EU before the end of 2017. Our priority is to ensure Government is clear about the implications of any change in the UK’s relationship with the EU for the rural economy. It is vital that businesses have confidence that all eventualities are being planned for, so as to prevent uncertainty hampering investment, job creation and growth.”