What’s in the new Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs’ in-tray?
Whilst parliament is in recess, we’re taking the opportunity to look at the impact of the recent government reshuffle. This week we’re focusing on the appointment of Liz Truss, as the new Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
Join Paul Gough, as he interviews The Guardian’s Emma Howard who writes about social affairs, politics and environmental issues, and is a trustee at UpRising, a youth leadership charity.
More than ever, the state of our environment is being taken seriously on a global scale. But in the UK, its importance and approach remains a divisive issue for the current Conservative government. Whether it be flood management, our resilience to climate change, food supplies, food waste, our biodiversity or use of renewables and fracking, there’s certain a lot to consider.
So with a new person at the top in Westminster, will we see a change of approach from her publicly divisive predecessor, Owen Paterson – perhaps with a return to the David Cameron ‘hugging a huskey’ era?
Paul asks:
- What’s The Guardian’s reaction to Liz Truss’ appointment?
- Why environmental issues interest Guardian readers so much?
- On her first day back from the summer recess, what environmental, food and rural affairs issues should be the top of her in-tray?
- What more should the government, industry and the public be doing to tackle food waste, and food poverty?
- Can Liz Truss make a difference to policy over the six months or so? Or is her appointment more presentation over policy, and designed to give the Tories an electoral boost in 2015?
- Is the change of cabinet personnel likely to win over some Guardian readers?
You can find this Podcast along with previous editions on the PLMR website.