MSPs have called for Scottish government action to help tackle the “rural premium” faced by remote communities across the country.

Holyrood’s equalities, human rights and civil justice committee has outlined the challenges faced by rural areas such as higher grocery bills, and above average costs for fuel for both heat and transport in a new report published today.

Branding the situation a “rural premium,” Scottish MSPs warned that while rural areas contributed enormously to Scotland’s social, cultural and economic life, “it is clear that many residents do not currently enjoy the same level of access to services, infrastructure and opportunities that are more readily available elsewhere.”

The report calls for the Scottish government to drive a decentralisation of services like healthcare and take action to tackle housing shortages that “continue to undermine workforce recruitment, drive depopulation, and restrict the ability of younger generations to remain in their communities.”

Karen Adam, committee convener, said: “Rural communities deserve equitable access to services, opportunities and rights and often face greater financial challenges than urban areas of Scotland.

“During this inquiry, rural people clearly told us that they cannot access essential services, including healthcare, childcare, specialist support, legal advice and public transport.

“We want to see the Scottish government build on its work to date by undertaking targeted action to deliver better access to services and combat the rural premium.”

Equalities minister Kaukab Stewart said: “I welcome the committee’s report, which demonstrates the importance of all levels of government sustaining progress to advance how people experience their human rights in Scotland’s rural communities. 

“We know there is more to do and are committed to addressing depopulation, and further realising the rights of those living in rural communities.”