With Labour reclaiming government control after 14 years under Conservative leadership, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has appointed Steve Reed as the new Secretary of State for the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). Reed, previously the Shadow Secretary since September 2023, takes on a role crucial to addressing issues pertinent to the hunting and firearms industries.
Tim Bonner, chief executive of the Countryside Alliance, has welcomed Reed’s appointment. He expressed his hopes for the future, stating, “From tackling rural crime to championing farmers and recognising the importance of wildlife management and the value of trail hunting, shooting, and fishing, the challenges ahead are broad and complex.” Bonner also highlighted the commitment made by Reed and Starmer to respect and understand rural communities, which could signify a promising shift in policy impacting these sectors.
“Both Steve Reed and the Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, have talked about respecting the countryside and have acknowledged their own party’s past failings when approaching our rural community. Time will tell if these words are put into action, but the Countryside Alliance stands willing and ready to work with the Government to achieve results for the countryside.”
Christopher Graffius, BASC’s executive director of communications and public affairs, also expressed optimism regarding the new DEFRA head, recalling Reed’s encouraging remarks at a recent Labour Party conference. “We are encouraged by Mr Reed’s understanding of the issues facing shooting and conservation, and we look forward to collaborating with him to drive positive outcomes for the industry,” said Graffius.
The sector hopes that Reed’s stewardship at DEFRA will actively support and promote the interests of rural communities, farmers, and the hunting and shooting trade, reflecting a deeper appreciation of their unique challenges and contributions to British heritage and particularly the economy.
