Shadow Home Secretary joins local MP Victoria Atkins in Horncastle to hear concerns about rural crime

Local MP, Victoria Atkins, has welcomed the Shadow Home Secretary, Chris Philp, to Horncastle for a visit focused on tackling rural crime and supporting Lincolnshire's farming and rural business communities.

During the visit, the pair met with representatives from the National Farmers' Union (NFU) in Horncastle, alongside local farmers and business owners, to discuss the growing impact of rural crime across Lincolnshire.

Speaking after the meeting, MP for Louth and Horncastle Ms Atkins said: "Rural crime has a devastating impact on our rural businesses and communities. Already struggling with rising fuel and input costs, as well as Labour's higher taxes, the last thing our farmers and business owners need is the constant worry of stolen tools, machinery or livestock attacks.

"These are real concerns that were expressed directly to me and Chris by farmers and business owners at the NFU in Horncastle. We heard first-hand just how difficult enforcement is across Lincolnshire, where only a handful of rural crime officers are responsible for policing such a vast county.

"Rural crime is not a victimless offence. Whether it is the theft of expensive machinery, attacks on livestock or organised criminal activity, it causes significant financial and emotional harm to those who live and work in our countryside.

"We need more officers on the ground who understand the unique challenges faced by rural communities, and we are committed to backing them with the resources they need."

The visit comes as the Conservative Party sets out plans to strengthen policing, including funding for 10,000 additional police officers nationwide, with 1,000 officers dedicated specifically to tackling rural crime.

The discussions also covered environmental enforcement and how rural communities can be better protected from offences such as fly-tipping and pollution.

Ms Atkins, who had a career as a criminal barrister before entering Parliament, said stronger action was needed against those who target rural areas.

"Before entering politics, I prosecuted organised crime gangs. I know the lengths these criminals will go to and what it takes to bring them to justice.

"The message from farmers and business owners in Horncastle was clear: they want practical action, stronger enforcement and a government that listens to the realities of rural life.

"The plans we are putting forward have been shaped by conversations with people on the ground. We must take on these criminals head on before more damage is done to our countryside and rural economy."

The visit formed part of ongoing engagement with farmers, landowners and rural businesses across the constituency, ensuring their concerns are heard and represented at the highest levels of national politics.