Alex Cann

6:30am - 10:00am

Email the studio

Madness

Baggy Trousers

Listen Live Podcasts

Skipton MP calls for fair funding for North Yorkshire in House of Commons

Tuesday, 14 October 2025 13:31

Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP has raised his concerns in the House of Commons about the financial pressures facing North Yorkshire Council

He is urging the Government to consider the unique challenges of England’s most rural county in the upcoming local government settlement.

Speaking during Oral Questions to the Department for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Julian said,

“Devolution is starting off well in North Yorkshire, but North Yorkshire Council is really concerned about the upcoming local government settlement, which is obviously going to be challenging for all councils.

"Could I urge the Secretary of State in his new role to look carefully at the most rural county in England and the particular challenges that it has in delivering services?”

In response, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State Miatta Fahnbulleh acknowledged the pressures councils are facing and affirmed that the Government is working closely with individual areas during the reorganisation and devolution process.

Julian's intervention follows concerns from North Yorkshire Council leaders over the potential impact of the Government’s “fair funding review.”

Council Leader Carl Les has warned that the review could result in a multi-million pound shortfall for the authority, following the sudden removal of the £14 million Rural Services Delivery Grant.

You can watch Julian's question, and the Minister's full response, here.

More from Local news

Tribute cruise to raise money for Skipton Pride

A fundraising canal cruise featuring a tribute to a well-known country music star is set to take place in Skipton this summer.
Spellman Care support Airedale Hospital & Community Charity's Easter Appeal

Yorkshire family run business, Spellman care have announced its official support to Airdale Hospital & Community Charity's Easter Appeal this year.
Skipton MP heads to Westminster to talk challenges within hospitality sector

Skipton and Ripon MP, Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith, met with the Chair of Hospitality, Kate Nicholls OBE, in Westminster this week to discuss key concerns facing hospitality businesses in the UK.
Skipton man jailed for 18 years for sexual offences against children

An 82-year-old Skipton man has been jailed for multiple sexual offences against children.
The Geek Side announces closure before 10th anniversary

The Geekside in Skipton announced their closure on 10th March.
Skipon Multisport Festival to be held this May

A weekend festival of sport is set to return to Skipton later this spring, bringing a range of activities for participants of all ages and abilities.
Local attractions to close as Met Office issues yellow weather warning for wind

Several local attractions have announced closures or partial closures today (Thursday) after the Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for strong winds across North Yorkshire.
17 year old arrested following high speed pursuit from Skipton

Police say a suspected stolen car was located after a pursuit that passed through the Skipton area on Tuesday morning.
The Coniston Hotel to remain under family ownership

The Coniston Hotel and Spa will remain under family ownership after plans to sell the business were withdrawn.
Airedale Hospital introduces new service for prostate cancer

A new digital service has been introduced at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust to help prostate cancer patients receive test results more quickly.
Appletreewick pub shortlisted in Countryside Alliance ‘Rural Oscars’

A pub near Skipton has been named a North of England finalist in the Countryside Alliance Awards.
Yorkshire residents needed for new series of BBC's Gladiators

Yorkshire residents are being invited to apply for the next series of the BBC's Gladiators.
Taxi policy change could "finish off" industry, councillors warned

A proposed rule change to make taxis more accessible could "finish off" the trade, North Yorkshire councillors have been warned.
Skipton children’s charity collaborates with luxury makeup brand

The Principle Trust Children’s Charity is proud to announce it has raised over £2,500 for vulnerable families with the help of Charlotte Tilbury, enough to provide four respite breaks,
Police appeal after two vehicle collision in Skipton

The incident occured yesterday (Monday 9th March) at 12:08pm.
Village panto raises over £3,000 for good causes

The Addingham Village Panto team have announced its production of Aladdin & his Marvellous Lamp raised a whopping £3,200, which will be split between two amazing local good causes!
Nominations open for Airedale NHS Foundation Trust Governor elections

Members of Airedale NHS Foundation Trust will soon be able to stand for election to become a Governor, with nominations opening on 16th March.
Call for volunteers to tackle litterbugs in clean-up campaign

Communities are being encouraged to get involved in a national litter-picking initiative aimed at keeping North Yorkshire clean and tidy.
Community Centre in Silsden to hold two day sale fundraiser

The Hive in Silsden have shared that they will be hosting a two day sale next month.
Search for missing man continues

Samuel Smith was last seen on the Skipton Road area and Tarn House Caravan Park.