Defra 'failing' to meet performance standards in responding to parliamentary questions

The Procedure Committee said Defra has not met the threshold target of responding to MPs' written parliamentary questions since 2023

Chris Brayford
clock • 3 min read
Defra Secretary Steve Reed: "We had 2,000 parliamentary questions a year in 2021/22, but since last July, when I became Defra Secretary, we have had 4,000 parliamentary questions."
Image:

Defra Secretary Steve Reed: "We had 2,000 parliamentary questions a year in 2021/22, but since last July, when I became Defra Secretary, we have had 4,000 parliamentary questions."

Defra is 'underperforming' when it comes to responding to MPs' written parliamentary questions, a Government Select Committee has revealed. Lancaster and Wyre MP Cat Smith chaired a Procedure Committee...

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

 

More on Politics

Conservatives call on Gov to stop 'ridiculous' decision to increase fuel duty

Conservatives call on Gov to stop 'ridiculous' decision to increase fuel duty

With red diesel costs on the rise due to conflict in the Middle East, the decision to increase fuel duty will only see prices spike further

clock 24 April 2026 • 3 min read
From the editor: Food, farming and supply chain fairness

From the editor: Food, farming and supply chain fairness

This week from the Farmers Guardian editor Katie Jones

Katie Jones
clock 24 April 2026 • 2 min read
PM told to secure homegrown production of fertiliser for UK farmers

PM told to secure homegrown production of fertiliser for UK farmers

Suffolk Central MP Jenny Riddell-Carpenter said UK food prices could go if the Government does not act to support farmers with skyrocketing fertiliser costs

Chris Brayford
clock 24 April 2026 • 2 min read