We're continuing our monitoring and support of rural proofing, working with government departments to encourage them to consider the rural impact of policies and learn from experience ‘on the ground’.

We're also following up the recommendations of our participation inquiry into the role of local councillors. And we're helping ensure that decisions and activity are devolved to the most appropriate level by contributing to the sub-national review, promoting subsidiarity and the development of Local Area Agreements and Local Strategic Partnerships. 

By responding to relevant consultations by Government departments and others we'll ensure that rural issues are given due consideration.