Lord Smith of Finsbury has been appointed as the new Chair of the Environment Agency. He replaces Sir John Harman, who stands down at the end of June after eight years.
Lord Smith, currently Chair of the independent Advertising Standards Authority and former Cabinet Minister, will in future be responsible for ensuring that the Environment Agency is able to deliver its objectives in key areas such as flood defence and the protection of the environment. Lord Smith is expected to take up his position from 14 July 2008.
Hilary Benn, Defra Secretary of State, said:
"I am delighted that Chris Smith has agreed to become Chair of the Environment Agency. This is a crucial time for the Agency, with the Pitt Review of the Summer 2007 floods due to be published in July and the ever increasing focus on protecting the environment and tackling climate change.
"Chris's strong leadership experience and his long-term commitment to the environment make him the ideal person to take the Agency forward in its role as environmental regulator, operator and advisor.
"On behalf of my ministerial team I would like to congratulate Sir John Harman on his tremendous contribution to the work of the Agency, as a founder board member in 1996, Deputy Chair in 1999 and Chair since 2000. He has overseen the Agency's development into a modern and efficient regulator and a valued and influential advisor. He leaves it as a robust organisation that is willing and able to meet the challenges it faces in the years to come."
Lord Smith said:
"I have been committed to raising the profile of environmental issues for more than twenty years, during which time the environment has risen to become one of the top priorities for Government and the public. I am looking forward to leading the Environment Agency at a challenging time as it takes practical steps both to protect the environment and adapt to climate change."
