Environment, Food & Rural Affairs

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) is the UK government department responsible for safeguarding our natural environment, supporting our world-leading food and farming industry, and sustaining a thriving rural economy. DEFRA's broad remit means it plays a major role in people’s day-to-day life, from the food we eat, and the air we breathe, to the water we drink.

News

Licence fee increases on the canal - 29 April, 2024

Last month I wrote to the Chief Executive of the Canal & River Trust following up on the concerns of several of my constituents, regarding the CRT’s proposal to raise boat licence fees above inflation for the next 5 years and the introduction of a surcharge for those boaters without a permanent

Fox Hunting - January 2022

Many thanks to those who have contacted me about fox hunting. I appreciate the strong feelings many people have on this issue and I share your concern for ensuring the welfare of animals.  The Hunting Act 2004 makes it an offence to hunt a wild mammal with dogs except where it is carried out

My thoughts on Neonicotinoids - January 2022

Many thanks to those who have contacted me about the use of neonicotinoids. Many thanks to those who contacted me about neonicotinoids.  I believe that the restrictions on neonicotinoids remain justified due to the scientific evidence that they are harmful to bees and other pollinators.

My response to Pet Theft - 27 January, 2021

Many thanks to those who have contacted me about the rise in pet theft I am pleased that this is already a crime under the Theft Act 1968 and the maximum penalty is seven years’ imprisonment, which can be increased even further if the theft occurred as part of an aggravated burglary or robbery.

Hedgehogs - November 2020

Many thanks to those who have contacted me about the protection of hedgehogs. I am aware of a petition to list the hedgehog as a protected species.

Sewage (Inland Waters) Bill - November 2020

Many thanks to those who have contacted me about the Sewage (Inland Waters) Bill. I am aware that in 2019, the Environment Agency sampled 420 bathing waters in England.