MP Elizabeth Truss has been announced as the new Defra secretary, replacing Owen Paterson

Following David Cameron’s recent reshuffle, MP Elizabeth Truss has been appointed as the new Defra secretary, replacing Owen Paterson.

Ms Truss, 38, has been a member of parliament for South West Norfolk since the 2010 general election.

Ms Truss has previously voted strongly in favour of a badger cull – twice in 2013 – as part of government plans to eradicate bovine TB.

During a recent Parliamentary session, when speaking on the issue of TB, she said: “I am absolutely clear that we must use every tool in our toolbox to address this threat to our beef and dairy industries.”

Speaking of her new appointment, she said:

“I am delighted to be appointed as Environment Secretary. I look forward to tackling the important issues facing our rural communities including championing British food, protecting people from flooding and improving the environment.

“I have greatly enjoyed my role at the Department for Education and would like to thank the excellent team there for all their hard work. I look forward to working with the team at Defra.”