The CLA says that, as voters in rural constituencies head off to vote in tomorrow’s General Election, they will have the opportunity to tick off mentally some of the key issues our new Government must address – land use, rural business and rural communities.

Douglas Chalmers, Director CLA North said: “Every vote and every seat may count in this election, and so candidates should have been listening to rural views.

“Driving to the Polling Station, look at the livestock and tractors in the landscape and ask which of the candidates fully understand the need for both food and environmental security.

“The countryside may look empty, but almost 25 percent of the Region’s economic activity takes place in rural areas. Will the candidates actually address the infrastructure problems disadvantaging rural enterprise, such as poor broadband and mobile phone coverage?

“And as you arrive at the school or village hall to vote, wonder if the building will still be there by the time of the next election. What will the candidates do to ensure thriving rural communities, where all ages have access to the services and benefits of their urban neighbours?

“These are all key questions. The CLA will certainly be asking them of our new Government, but every rural voter should ask them before they place their cross on Thursday.”