Call for evidence – how can the rural economy prosper under devolution?
AN influential cross-party group of MPs has launched the first ever parliamentary inquiry into the
impact of devolution on rural areas, aimed at ensuring the countryside benefits from the trend to
shift power from Westminster to local communities.
The CLA (Country Land and Business Association) is acting as secretariat for the inquiry.
The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Rural Business and the Rural Powerhouse has this
week opened a call for evidence, encouraging stakeholders to submit evidence on topics including
skills, economic growth and housing.
With the introduction of the English Devolution Bill in July 2025, there is now a unique
opportunity to shape the future of devolution to ensure that it properly represents countryside
communities.
The APPG is holding a parliamentary inquiry that will examine how rural businesses may be
affected by, and can prosper due to, devolution. The APPG will seek both oral and written evidence
which will feed into a report aimed at providing best practice for local authorities.
CLA Director of External Affairs, Jonathan Roberts said: “While many believe Whitehall is not
working for the rural community, many will be equally nervous of local authorities wielding greater
decision-making power. Those pushing for greater devolution must prove it can work for rural
businesses, farmers, villages and market towns. This inquiry is a welcome first step to get to the
bottom of it all.
“How can devolution work for rural areas, for land use, nature recovery and economic growth?
We are encouraging everyone with a stake in the future of the countryside to help the group answer
these questions.”
John Milne, MP for Horsham and chair of the APPG, said: “Rural businesses have made it clear
that they’re tired of being overlooked. As Chair of this newly re-formed APPG, my goal is to ensure
that rural voices are properly heard in decision-making as devolution reshapes how policies are
made across England.
“Recent government changes have only reinforced what rural communities have long felt: that
those in power lack a true understanding of the unique challenges they face. Through our work, we
want to bridge this gap and create a powerful advocate for rural interests in Parliament. I encourage
all stakeholders to share their experiences for this inquiry and help us build a framework that brings
genuine prosperity for our countryside, not just for our cities.”
To submit evidence please email and indicate the area(s) you wish
to answer from the following topics: rural economic growth, skills, planning and housing, transport,
land use and nature recovery, and governance.
The closing date for evidence is 13 October 2025.
