HTA welcomes new environment secretary
Steve Reed OBE is the new incumbent following Labour’s landslide victory last week.
![gardencentre](/assets/img/gcc-green-2.png)
The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) has welcomed the appointment of a new secretary of state for the department of environment, food and rural affairs (Defra). Steve Reed OBE is the new incumbent, having been assigned the role following Labour’s landslide victory last week.
‘A positive partnership’
Fran Barnes, chief executive of the HTA, said: “We are keen to work in a positive partnership to ensure the voice of environmental horticulture is heard at the heart of government. Together, we share the ambitions of the UK increasing green growth, achieving net zero, and boosting our urban areas and health and wellbeing. By backing horticulture, we are backing the original green industry, which can deliver so much.
“Our role is crucial in supporting Defra's flagship ambitions for the environment, and I hope that the significance of environmental horticulture won't be underestimated. Our sector can provide a policy solution to the environmental challenge the government will need to take action on.
“We look forward to welcoming Steve Reed and his team to visit our members firsthand to see how environmental horticulture businesses are delivering for the UK, to understand the potential for green growth and to gain a deeper understanding of their challenges.”