Consultations

As Plunkett announces its search for a Head of External Affairs with a focus on representing a growing movement of rural community-owned businesses, James Alcock, Chief Executive, shares a round-up of recent external affairs activity. If the last few weeks are anything to go by, our new Head of External [...]

Chris Cowcher, Head of Policy, comments on what Wednesday's Budget means for the community business sector, and reflects that it brings mixed news covering a number of issues. The media headlines had been written before yesterday’s budget announcement with a very clear indication before the Chancellor Rachel Reeves had [...]

Following his recent visit to Liverpool, our Head of Policy, Chris Cowcher shares an update on a range of engagements. Read Chris' diary entries from his three days at the Labour Party Conference to find out more about his interactions and conversations. You’ve only had to watch or listen to [...]

As the new government prioritises economic growth, a landmark report published today reveals the enormous potential of the rural economy, which could generate billions of pounds annually in additional tax revenues. The report shows that with the right policy framework, the rural economy could increase productivity significantly, leading to an [...]

James Alcock, Chief Executive Officer, gives his thoughts on the results of the General Election and what it now means for the community-owned business sector. The result of yesterday’s election has led to a new party of power in Government for the first time since 2010. Labour’s win brings to [...]

Open letter from Plunkett UK, ACRE and RSN urges minister to delay any decision on the transfer of Royal Mail until after the election. Three organisations representing rural community interests have expressed concerns that a possible buyout of Royal Mail could result in a watering down of the Universal Service [...]

With the party manifestos now published ahead of the General Election on 4 July, Chris Cowcher, our Head of Policy and Communications, considers how the policies included could support our sector. We’re 3 weeks into the 2024 General Election campaign, and this week marks a significant milestone in the [...]

Head of Policy and Communications, Chris Cowcher, sets out Plunkett UK’s view on the election and encourages community businesses to be local champions. The date has finally been confirmed and the six weeks of official campaigning ahead of the UK General Election has begun. On the morning of Friday 5 [...]