THE rural economy will be “stifled” unless the Government sits down and listens to agricultural business people, a conference heard.

Dr Charles Trotman, senior rural business and economics adviser of the Country Land and Business Association, told Hampshire Fare members that deregulation, the country’s lack of housing and limited access to broadband will hinder future rural growth unless the next Government acts now.

Around 70 people attended the lecture at Sparsholt College on Monday, which was part of a series of talks discussing the future of local food and farming.

“We believe the next Government needs to sit down at the table and listen to everyone involved in the rural economy,” Dr Trotman said.

“The rural economy will not only be healthier but it will mark the way for rural economical growth.”

He said the biggest barrier to rural businesses was access to superfast broadband.

Around 50 per cent of rural businesses still don't have access to it, Dr Trotman claimed.

“You have to have access to superfast broadband. Without that you will not be able to continue your business.”

Dr Trotman also cited unfavourable tax treatment of many rural businesses. Around 89 per cent of all rural businesses are family-run.

“What’s necessary is that there has to be a new dynamic to prevent [the rural economy] becoming stifled.

“That has to be one of the key priorities for the next Government to put in place a more level playing field so that unincorporated businesses can benefit from the dynamics of the rural economy.”