Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

What steps her Department is taking to develop a future funding model for local councils in rural areas.

As the hon Member will be aware, Local Government is a devolved matter.

The government is absolutely committed to supporting rural communities.

This year’s Settlement saw places with a significant rural population on average receive almost a 6% cash increase in their Core Spending Power.

We are introducing an improved and updated approach from 2026-27, directing funding to where it is needed most.