51AVÊÓÆµ

The revolving door: 10 Defra Secretaries in 10 years

Over the last 10 years, 10 different figures have taken on the role of Defra Secretary. With the longest standing secretary lasting just over two-and-a-half years, and the shortest lasting 49 days, we take a look back at what they did – or did not do – for farming

clock • 7 min read
The revolving door: 10 Defra Secretaries in 10 years

Elizabeth Truss: July 2014 - July 2016 Starting her journey in Parliament, Ms Truss was elected as the Conservative MP for South West Norfolk in 2010 until 2024. During her time at Defra, she rolled...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

Ìý

More on Politics

Spring Statement 2026: Reeves urged to 'right the wrongs' of Autumn Budget 2024 to restore farmers' confidence

Spring Statement 2026: Reeves urged to 'right the wrongs' of Autumn Budget 2024 to restore farmers' confidence

Can Chancellor Rachel Reeves outline a course of action which will help farmers unlock economic growth and deliver for food security at the Spring Statement?

Chris Brayford
clock 28 February 2026 • 4 min read
Spring Statement 2026: What can farmers expect and what do farmers need?

Spring Statement 2026: What can farmers expect and what do farmers need?

Tax experts look ahead to the Spring Statement and some of the key farming policy details which Chancellor Rachel Reeves should consider, including a reversal of IHT changes

Chris Brayford
clock 27 February 2026 • 5 min read
Food production needs to hard-wired back into ag policy, Efra Committee Chair says

Food production needs to hard-wired back into ag policy, Efra Committee Chair says

Is there enough emphasis placed on food production's role in supporting not only nature restoration, but flood management, climate change mitigation and food security?

Chris Brayford
clock 27 February 2026 • 3 min read