LOCAL MP Rachel Gilmour is pressing Prime Minister Andy Burnham for a meeting with her to discuss rural and coastal communities issues, as West Somerset ranks last out of 324 in a social mobility index of England’s local authority areas.

Mrs Gilmour wants to know what the Prime Minister can do to help meet the challenges facing coastal communities with a rural backdrop such as West Somerset.

She told Mr Burnham in a letter how entrenched deprivation was holding back opportunity in the district, as it did in many coastal communities, and that health outcomes trailed well below the national average.

Mrs Gilmour wrote: “We also face acute challenges in securing post-16 educational provision, addressing entirely inadequate public transport, retaining young people, and attracting the high-skilled jobs needed to build a more prosperous local economy.

“I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to discuss how the Government can ensure communities such as mine have a genuine stake in Britain’s plan for growth.”

Mrs Gilmour is co-chairman of the Farming All-Party Parliamentary Group and is vice-chairman of the Rural Business All-Party Parliamentary Group.

She said both of the roles gave her a broader view of the issues facing rural Britain.

Mrs Gilmour said: “I am eager to meet with the Prime Minister to discuss the challenges my constituents in Tiverton and Minehead face on a daily basis.

“We face challenges with our NHS services and public transport, and in giving younger generations the career opportunities they need to continue living in the most beautiful area of the country.

“So far, this Government has fallen short in its attention given to rural and coastal areas, and I will continue to fight for Tiverton and Minehead and press the Government to set out clear growth plans.”