Prime Minister's cabinet reshuffle
Government needs ambitious plan for levelling up countryside, says leading rural group
There have been a number of notable ministerial changes following the Prime Minister's cabinet reshuffle.
Former Defra Secretary Michael Gove will replace Robert Jenrick as Housing, Communities and Local Government Secretary.
Mr Gove also takes on cross-government responsibility for the government's levelling up agenda while keeping his ministerial responsibilities for the Union and elections.
Government desperately needs an ambitious plan for the whole of the countryside, one that will see opportunity created for those living in all parts of the country
CLA President Mark Bridgeman said:
“We warmly welcome Mr Gove’s appointment, and hope he can bring some much-needed energy and ambition to the brief. The simple truth is that, while rural communities might get the attention of Defra, too often are they an afterthought for the rest of government.
“The rural economy is 18% less productive than the national average, meaning the countryside is missing out on the creation of good jobs and prosperity for no good reason. Government desperately needs an ambitious plan for the whole of the countryside, one that will see opportunity created for those living in all parts of the country.”
Changing roles
Elsewhere, Defra Secretary George Eustice retained his position, while Liz Truss has been appointed the UK's new Foreign Secretary, replacing Dominic Raab, who becomes Justice Secretary and deputy PM.
Mr Johnson also sacked Gavin Williamson as Education Secretary and replaced him with Vaccines Minister Nadhim Zahawi.
And Nadine Dorries replaces Oliver Dowden as Culture Secretary.
Those remaining in the cabinet include Chancellor Rishi Sunak, Home Secretary Priti Patel, Health Secretary Sajid Javid, Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng and Chief Whip Mark Spencer.