Government appoints MP to oversee post-Brexit food supplies

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has appointed MP David Rutley to examine the UK's food chain in recuperation for Brexit.

Amidst industry concerns that a no-deal Brexit could lead to a break down supply chains, the former Asda and PepsiCo senior executive is understood to have taken on the portfolio earlier this month.

Rutley said: "It is an honour to join the Defra ministerial team at such an important time. I am determined to ensure that we fully realise the opportunities of leaving the EU, building on the hard work and excellent efforts of my new colleagues, so we can fulfil our pledge to leave our environment in a better state than we found it and deliver a truly green Brexit.

"I am very keen to support our food and drink sector across the whole supply chain from farm to fork. Working closely with farming minister George Eustice, I look forward to championing the very best British food and drink and helping the industry to lead the world and boost exports further."

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