Britain is an island. That is one of the simplest facts about our country.
Yet for far too long, our coastal communities have been treated as though they sit on the edge of Government’s thinking, rather than at the centre of Britain’s future.
That is why I’ve written to the new prime minister, Andy Burnham, alongside Liberal Democrat colleagues from coastal constituencies across the country, urging him to create a dedicated coastal minister.
Responsibility and accountability
This isn’t about creating another title in Whitehall. It’s about creating accountability.
Today, responsibility for coastal communities is scattered across multiple government departments. Housing sits in one place, transport in another, flood resilience somewhere else, fishing elsewhere, tourism somewhere else again.
The result is that nobody wakes up every morning with one clear responsibility: making Britain’s coast a national priority. That matters because the challenges facing coastal communities rarely fit neatly into departmental boxes.
Too many coastal towns face lower than average wages, poorer transport connections, seasonal economies, shortages of affordable housing and increasing pressure from coastal erosion and climate change. Despite their enormous contribution to our economy, our heritage and our identity, they are too often overlooked when national investment decisions are made.
North Norfolk is no exception
Our coastline is one of our greatest strengths. It supports tourism, agriculture, fishing, conservation and small businesses. It is home to thriving communities that deserve the same opportunities as anywhere else in the country. But those communities also face unique challenges that require Government to think differently.
A dedicated coastal minister would ensure that the interests of our precious coastline here are represented around the Cabinet table. They would bring departments together, champion investment, coordinate policy and make sure coastal communities no longer fall between the cracks.
For those who represent Cornwall, Cumbria, Norfolk, Northumberland or Kent, the principle is the same. Millions of people live in coastal communities. They deserve a government with someone whose job is to speak up for them.
Britain rightly recognises the importance of cities, regions and rural communities. Our coast deserves that same recognition.
Because Britain isn’t just an island on the map. It should be a country that remembers the communities that live around its shores.
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