Depart of Environment Food & Rural Affairs

Defra is the UK government ministerial department responsible for policy and regulations on:

  • the natural environment, biodiversity, plants and animals
  • sustainable development and the green economy
  • food, farming and fisheries
  • animal health and welfare
  • environmental protection and pollution control
  • rural communities and issues

Although Defra only works directly in England, it works closely with the devolved administrations in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and generally leads on negotiations in the EU and internationally.

CFA is a member of Defra’s Food Chain Emergency Liaison Group, through which Government and industry exchange information regarding threats to the supply chain, and their management.

Defra is supported by 35 agencies and public bodies including: