Gordon Brown has appointed Martin Salter - MP for Reading West and Labours shooting spokesman, as the new vice chair of the Labour Party.
Mr Salter's new role will include working together with the new ministerial team at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. He will continue in his existing role as parliamentary spokesman for angling and shooting.
Martin Salter said: "Concern for the environment is fast leaping up the political agenda and my job will be to coordinate the work of MPs, councillors and party activists with the work of ministers across the government on the environmental agenda. I will also be liaising with the green groups and voluntary organisations to engage them in the process of developing policy. My strong contacts in the world of angling, fisheries, water and wildlife groups will give me an excellent start in this new role.
My immediate priorities will be to press for an enhanced Marine Bill to incorporate the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Review and possibly the recently announced proposals on improved public access to the English coastline. I also intend to explore ways in which young people can be better engaged in action to improve the environment and to promote awareness of climate change."
Mr Salter has in the past been highly critical of fox hunting and the policy of the coutryside alliance, whilst speaking out against efforts by the league of cruel sports to ban angling and shooting.
Gordon Brown Appoints Labour Shooting Spokesman as New Vice Chair
