Agricultural bodies have welcomed Cornish MP George Eustice's appointment to Secretary of State for Defra.

Mr Eustice is MP for Camborne and Redruth and has worked as farming minister within Defra for six years.

While emphasising the crucial issues that British farming is facing following the UK's departure from the EU, organisations are enthusiastic about his farming background and years of experience within Defra.

NFU president Minette Batters said: “George Eustice is well respected within the farming community for his knowledge and understanding of farming but also his hard work as a minister in Defra over the past six years. I hope to welcome him on to my farm very soon to further discuss British farming’s potential as we start a life outside of the EU.”

Young farmers are especially keen to see one of their own elevated to the role.

On behalf of the National Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs (NFYFC), Katie Hall said: “The NFYFC is delighted that George Eustice, a former member of Praze YFC in our Cornwall Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs, has been appointed as the new Defra Secretary of State.

“It is both impressive and inspiring for YFC members to see a former member from the federation progress to such an important role in central Government – especially at such a critical time for the industry."

Mr Eustice's family run Trevaskis Fruit Farm near Hayle and his hands on experience strikes a note with The British Association of Shooting and Conservation. Christopher Graffius said: “George Eustice is a farmer with a sound knowledge of the environment and rural affairs.

“His appointment means that we have a real countryman at the helm and this can only be of benefit to conservation, shooting and rural affairs."

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Likewise, the CLA note Mr Eustice's political experience. Mark Bridgeman said: “We warmly welcome Mr George Eustice to his role at this pivotal time for British agriculture. As a long-standing farming minister, he will know the scale of the challenge ahead. We will work closely with him to help achieve the full potential of the rural economy.”

The Soil Association is keen for Mr Eustice to continue the policy work he has already undertaken in his role as farming minister. Gareth Morgan said: “As Minister of State for Agriculture, George Eustice helped re-frame agriculture policy, angling it towards a broader vision, bringing soil firmly onto the policy agenda, and giving priority to environmental and animal welfare outcomes alongside food production. There is a huge challenge ahead for food, farming and the environment, and we look forward to working with him.”

The National Sheep Association (NSA) also focusses on policy in its welcome to the new Defra secretary. Phil Stocker said: "NSA welcomes Mr Eustice to this new role and we hope to continue our strong working relationship with him as agricultural policy evolves in the future as we enter into new farming support schemes and trade arrangements."