Reshuffle complete….. Now let’s get on with the work, says NSA

With the new Prime minister’s Ministerial reshuffle appearing to be complete the National Sheep Association (NSA) is hopeful that progress can now recommence with the mountain of policy and regulatory work required if we are to be prepared to leave the EU imminently. 

Late on Thursday evening came the news that George Eustice was to return to his previous role as Farming Minister. Responding to this, NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker comments: “Firstly I would like to thank outgoing Farming Minister Robert Goodwill for his positive engagement over the last few months. Robert only held this role for some 5 months, but it was clear he had a real passion and interest for farming and food production.”

The speed and depth of the changes Boris Johnson has made may have taken a lot by surprise but probably should have been expected with our new PM quickly surrounding himself with a team that supports his EU exit positions. This next era appears to be less about reconciliation and more about taking control. 

Mr Stocker continues: “I welcome George Eustice back into the position of Minister of State responsible for farming. He clearly has a great depth of experience and interest in farming and will re-join a team that includes Therese Coffey as Minister responsible for the environment, and David Rutley and Lord Gardner as under Secretaries of State, all of which have held previous posts. This continuation of an experienced team is encouraging.

“NSA now calls for further progress with the Agriculture Bill, and with agreements with devolved nations to ensure we have connected and coherent agricultural and land management policies to ensure our success. We also expect to see increase high level engagement and investment in securing export markets and trade agreements that balance opportunities and the need to protect our industry.”