Lord Smith of Finsbury has been appointed as the new Chair of the Environment Agency.

He replaces Sir John Harman, who stands down at the end of June after eight years.

Lord Smith, currently Chair of the independent Advertising Standards Authority and former Cabinet Minister, will in future be responsible for ensuring that the Environment Agency is able to deliver its objectives in key areas such as flood defence and the protection of the environment. Lord Smith is expected to take up his position from 14 July.

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Hilary Benn, Department for Environment, Food And Rural Affairs Secretary of State, said: "I am delighted that Chris Smith has agreed to become Chair of the Environment Agency. This is a crucial time for the Agency, with the Pitt Review of the Summer 2007 floods due to be published in July and the ever increasing focus on protecting the environment and tackling climate change.

"Chris's strong leadership experience and his long-term commitment to the environment make him the ideal person to take the Agency forward in its role as environmental regulator, operator and advisor."

(CD/JM)