Appointment of new Chair of Food from Britain

Lady (Sylvia) Jay C.B.E. will become the new chair of Food from Britain (FFB) in 2006, Margaret Beckett, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs announced today, on behalf of the four UK agriculture departments.

The appointment (part-time) runs from 1 January 2006, two days a week for three years until 31 December 2008 and attracts an annual salary of £50,730.

FFB receives a Government grant through Defra of £5.4 million to maximise exports of food and drink produced in the United Kingdom.

FFB has received an additional £3million from Defra for 2003/06 to support the quality regional food sector.

Mrs. Beckett said:

"I am delighted to welcome Sylvia Jay as chair designate of Food from Britain's Council."

"The range of experience she brings to the role, and her knowledge of working with government and the food industry, will help Food from Britain continue to deliver a quality service, and help us to promote success and excellence in British food."

Sylvia Jay takes over as chair from Gordon Summerfield C.B.E., under whose expert guidance Food from Britain has developed into a successful and dynamic organisation focused on the promotion of exports of UK food and drink and the development of the quality regional food and drink sector.

Gordon Summerfield, outgoing chair of Food from Britain said:

"Sylvia Jay is an excellent appointment to the Chair of Food from Britain. Her knowledge of the food and drink industry will undoubtedly assist exporters in breaking through the £10billion barrier for the first time in nearly a decade."

Sylvia Jay said:

"Britain produces some of the highest quality food in the world and I have long had a keen interest in publicising this at home and, particularly abroad. I am looking forward to my new post and to building on the excellent work carried out by Gordon Summerfield."