Ignore the value of rural beauty and vandalism is the result | Simon Jenkins

We lack the language to articulate our love of landscape and buildings. Thats why they are at risk under this government

The National Trust is a virtual state within a state. It has the most members, the biggest land-holding and the grandest mission of any British charity: 4 million members and 200m visits a year to its coasts and uplands have freed it from any need for public subsidy. Standing down after six years as chairman, I remain in awe of the place.

Yet six years in any institution cann...