Chief executive of the Food and Drink Federation (FDF) Karen Betts said she is “very much looking forward to working with” the new Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Ranil Jayawardena.

Following Liz Truss’ election as leader of the Conservative Party and her confirmation as the new British Prime Minister, Ranil Jayawardena has been appointed as the new Defra Secretary, replacing George Eustice.

Betts commented: “This is one of the most varied, interesting and enjoyable ministerial portfolios, and we’re very much looking forward to working with Mr Jayawardena.

“As I am sure the Minister will be aware, the UK has a brilliant food and drink manufacturing sector, in fact, we’re the largest manufacturing sector in the UK, bigger than automotive and aerospace combined.”

Betts spoke of the industry facing “significant challenges on soaring energy bills” and “inflation – alongside the rapidly rising costs of ingredients, labour, raw materials, imports and logistics.”

She added that the FDF wants to work with Jayawardena “in finding solutions to ease the pressure for households and businesses” and that he “will need a laser focus on regulation, ensuring it’s smart, fit for purpose and will achieve what it sets out to achieve.”

Karen Betts also welcomed Liz Truss as the new British Prime Minister and said Truss “knows the challenges we face.”

Addressing the Prime Mister directly Betts added: “You’ve long championed our industry and know the challenges we face, from soaring energy and ingredient prices to unnecessary red tape and skill shortages.

“There are also big opportunities to boost productivity and drive growth and we look forward to working with you and your team to achieve this.”

Further reaction

Trade bodies from across the UK meat sector also welcomed the news. Chief executive of the National Pig Association Lizzie Wilson said: “We welcome Ranil Jayawardena to the role and look forward to working with him and his Ministerial team in a number of key policy areas that will be critical to the short-and long-term survival of the British pig industry.”

A spokesperson for the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) Tony Goodger, referenced Jayawardena’s trade background, being a former member of the International Trade Committee, and said he has “trust” that Jayawardena will use this knowledge to “unblock the obstacles that currently exist in respect of site approvals for pork exports to China” and “unlock opportunities for our members in other overseas markets.”