‘Privilege of my life’: Steve Reed becomes Defra secretary

Steve Reed’s appointment as the new Defra secretary marks a significant shift in the leadership of the department, as he is the first Labour MP to hold the role since Hilary Benn in 2010.

His appointment comes at a critical time, with the UK facing severe environmental challenges, including high levels of sewage pollution, declining biodiversity and low confidence among farmers.

In his acceptance remarks, Mr Reed stressed the urgency of addressing these issues, acknowledging the long-term efforts needed to reverse environmental damage.

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“It is the privilege of my life to be appointed as the secretary of state for environment, food and rural affairs,” the Labour MP for Streatham and North Croydon said.

“There is no sugar-coating it: we face a crisis point. Record levels of sewage in our rivers, lakes and seas. Nature is dying. Confidence among farmers at the lowest on record.

“It will take years to reverse this damage, but the work of change begins now.”

Following Mr Reed’s appointment, Labour announced on Monday 8 July that Daniel Zeichner, the MP for Cambridge, would work alongside him as the new farming minister.

Time for action

Mr Reed’s commitment to immediate action was echoed by various stakeholders from the farming and rural sectors, who expressed cautious optimism and highlighted the complex challenges ahead.

On Monday, Mr Reed updated Labour’s manifesto reference to “food security as national security” and formalised this as a “core priority” of his department. 

Tim Bonner, chief executive of the Countryside Alliance, outlined the multifaceted issues facing the new Defra team, including rural crime, wildlife management and rural connectivity.

He noted the importance of translating Labour’s words into effective actions.

AIC reaction

Robert Sheasby of the Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC) stressed the need for clarity on key policies to foster business confidence and investment in the agricultural sector.

He pointed to the need for a national action plan for the sustainable use of plant protection products and a comprehensive strategy for food security.

Tom Lancaster, a land, food and farming analyst at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit’s (ECIU) think tank, said Labour would need to be careful to build farmers trust.

But he added: “The [agri-environment] schemes are already providing vital income, as extreme weather linked to climate change knocks up to 20% off this year’s harvest and a billion off farm revenues.”

Nature plea

Environmental advocates also talked up the importance of Mr Reed’s role. Paul de Zylva of Friends of the Earth highlighted the need for robust measures to protect and restore nature.

Meanwhile, former Labour leader Ed Miliband has been appointed as the secretary of state for energy security and net zero.