Defra’s board of directors sees resignation of Baroness Rock
Baroness Kate Rock, well-known for her advocacy for tenant farmers and author of the Rock Review, has been removed from her position as a non-executive director in Defra by environment secretary Steve Reed. This decision has caused disappointment and confusion for Baroness Rock, who had expressed her willingness to continue serving in her role.
In a statement in the House of Lords, Baroness Rock conveyed her disappointment at not being recognized for her sector expertise, especially considering Labour’s previous support for tenant farmers and the Rock Review. Despite this setback, she remains committed to advocating for tenant farmers and ensuring they receive fair treatment from the government.
Robert Martin, chairman of the Tenant Farmers Association, also expressed disappointment at Baroness Rock’s removal, praising her dedication to the tenanted sector. He emphasized the importance of continuing to implement the recommendations of the Rock Review to improve the resilience of the let sector of agriculture. The government is urged to reaffirm its commitment to the Farm Tenancy Forum and appoint a commissioner for the tenant farming sector, while also implementing legislative and fiscal recommendations put forth by the Rock Review.
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Maria Sanchez completed her Bachelor’s degree in Plant Sciences from the University of California, Davis, in the USA. Her studies focused on plant genetics and biotechnology, with an emphasis on developing disease-resistant crop varieties. Maria has contributed to several research projects aimed at improving crop resilience to climate change and is now pursuing her Master’s degree in Plant Breeding.