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

Mia Willemsen
News and business reporter
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

Labour MPs across Cumbria call on Treasury to change fertiliser tariffs

Labour MPs across Cumbria call on Treasury to change fertiliser tariffs

Following the Government's action to lower the cost of red diesel for farmers by slashing fuel duty, the MPs believe there is a strong case for building on that action by looking carefully at fertiliser tariffs

Mia Willemsen
clock 05 June 2026 • 3 min read
Opinion: SFI update leaves plenty of questions unanswered

Opinion: SFI update leaves plenty of questions unanswered

The first application window for the Sustainable Farming Incentive opens for farmers in England at the end of the month

Alex Black
clock 05 June 2026 • 2 min read
Farmers should not look to the Government for help, warns CAAV secretary

Farmers should not look to the Government for help, warns CAAV secretary

Jeremy Moody of the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV) said farming was free to make its own choices, if it could get through the current crisis

Alex Black
clock 04 June 2026 • 2 min read