15 minutes with...Charles Trotman

What does the government's new Devolution Act actually mean for rural Britain?In this episode of 15 Minutes With, host Jonathan Roberts is joined by Charles Trotman of the CLA (Country Land and Business Association) to break down the UK's landmark devolution legislation — and what it means for farmers, landowners, and rural businesses.Charles explains how power will flow from Whitehall to new strategic authorities and unitary councils, why the CLA's hard-won inclusion of "rural affairs" as a legal area of competence is a game-changer, and how rural commissioners and economic boards could finally give countryside communities a genuine seat at the table.They also debate whether devolution is a sign of government weakness, explore how Reform and Green Party gains in local elections could reshape rural policy, and turn the spotlight on Wales — where a new poll reveals deep dissatisfaction with how devolution has been handled so far.With Welsh elections imminent and a wave of political change on the horizon, this is a pivotal moment for rural Britain. Charles makes the case for why now is exactly the time to get involved — and why CLA membership has never mattered more.