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.

Login

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
Register for free Join Now

 

More on Politics

IHT story is far from over, but campaign must continue in a different way
Politics

IHT story is far from over, but campaign must continue in a different way

What are the next steps farmers can take to stop the family farm tax at a time when some have argued that the fight to raise thresholds is 'dead' under the current Labour Government?

Chris Brayford
Chris Brayford
clock 12 April 2026 • 6 min read
Welsh Election 2026: Middle East uncertainty highlights need to back domestic food production
Politics

Welsh Election 2026: Middle East uncertainty highlights need to back domestic food production

NFU Cymru and FUW have emphasised the need for the next Welsh Government to provide fair and sustainable funding, evidence-based policymaking and regulatory reform to safeguard the viability and long-term sustainability of Welsh agriculture

Chris Brayford
Chris Brayford
clock 09 April 2026 • 4 min read
From the editor: A glimmer of hope, but uncertainty remains the watchword
Politics

From the editor: A glimmer of hope, but uncertainty remains the watchword

This week from the Farmers Guardian editor Katie Jones

Katie Jones
Katie Jones
clock 09 April 2026 • 2 min read