The Animal and Plant Health Agency will begin on 1 October 2014 to better equip the government to prevent the spread of animal and plant diseases, and to respond to emergencies.

Chris Hadkiss has been appointed as the Chief Executive of the combined agency. Mr Hadkiss is currently Chief Executive of Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) where he took up post in January 2013.

Earlier this year it was announced that a combined agency would be created, with four functions of Fera (Bee inspectorate, the Plants Health and Seeds Inspectorate, the Plant Variety and Seeds Group and the GM Inspectorate) joining with AHVLA.

Animal and plant health inspectors have a strong history of working together in times of disease emergency, and this will be made easier when they are part of the same organisation. The Animal and Plant Health Agency will also play a vital role in stopping pests, diseases, and invasive non-native species entering the UK.

Environment Minister Lord de Mauley said: “Bringing together animal and plant health inspection functions in the Animal and Plant Health Agency makes very good sense. It will enable joined up working on plant and animal diseases and pests, and will increase our resilience and flexibility to respond to emergencies.”

AHVLA Chief Executive Chris Hadkiss said: “I am really looking forward to building on the excellent reputation of both the Fera Inspectorates and AHVLA. Together as one agency we will be working for a healthier environment and economy.”

Further work is being carried out on the future of the Cefas including on whether or not it should form part of this agency. A decision will be made in the autumn of 2014.