The UK’s new DEFRA secretary inherits a Wales DRS decision that was due before the end of July

Andy Burnham confirmed his Cabinet on 21 July 2026, the day after taking office as UK Prime Minister. The two appointments most directly relevant to the UK drinks industry are Maria Eagle as Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, and Emma Reynolds as Secretary of State for Business and Trade. Steve Reed, who held the DEFRA role under Keir Starmer, has been replaced by Eagle. Jonathan Reynolds, who held Business and Trade under Starmer, has been replaced by Emma Reynolds – no relation.