Rural crime often escapes the national spotlight, overshadowed by high-profile urban offences such as knife crime, drug-related activities, and gang violence. While these urban issues are undeniably serious, it is crucial to recognise and address the unique challenges faced by our rural communities.

Since the election, it has become increasingly clear that the Labour Government does not understand rural areas, nor does it prioritise them. Ministers’ attention is overwhelmingly directed at metropolitan issues, leaving smaller towns and villages overlooked. Rural communities deserve proper support, yet time and again, we see a London-centric approach that fails to grasp the realities faced by those living and working outside the major cities.

Across our towns and villages, residents continue to raise concerns about theft, antisocial behaviour, and other criminal activities that disrupt daily life. Balancing police resources between smaller communities and larger urban centres is no easy task, and it is clear that rural areas require dedicated attention to ensure residents feel secure.

I fully support the hard work of our local police forces, who are committed to tackling these issues despite the challenges they face. The support from our Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) in Surrey and Hampshire has been instrumental in strengthening rural policing, helping to ensure that more officers are available to serve our communities. Their collaboration with local police chiefs plays a vital role in enhancing law enforcement and rebuilding trust.

Back in October, alongside Surrey’s Deputy PCC, I met the Countryside Alliance and National Rural Crime Network to discuss their ongoing campaigns about some of the most pressing challenged faced by rural communities.

Theft remains a serious concern, particularly when it comes to farm machinery, livestock, and vehicles. These crimes can have a devastating financial and operational impact on rural businesses and individuals alike.

Antisocial behaviour, fly-tipping, and illegal encampments also pose persistent challenges that, while sometimes perceived as minor compared to urban crime, can undermine confidence in local policing and create an environment where more serious offences may take root.

I am committed to continuing to raise these concerns on behalf of residents, and I regularly meet with the borough and district commanders in Waverley and East Hampshire to discuss our local situation.

I will continue supporting our PCCs to deliver tangible improvements in rural crime prevention. The Labour Government must recognise that rural crime is not a second-tier issue, and I will continue to challenge them to provide the necessary resources to keep our communities safe.

By working together - residents, police, and politicians - we can ensure that our towns and villages remain secure places to live and work, even if those in Westminster fail to give them the attention they deserve.