Gov appoints Jonathan Statham as AHWBE chair

Professor Jonathan Statham has been appointed chair of the Animal Health and Welfare Board for England (AHWBE). 

Statham will start the role on 1 November 2021, replacing the current chair, Michael Seals, who is standing down after ten years in the role.

He has been non-executive director of the AHWBE since 2017, and previously was president of the British Cattle Veterinary Association and Yorkshire Veterinary Society.

Statham said: “It is a crucial point in time for the industry and for us as a board, with lots of key policies coming forward which bring along many challenges. It is an enormous privilege for me to take on this role once Michael Seals steps down. I look forward to working together with him and colleagues on the board.”

Lord Benyron, biosecurity minister, said: “With extensive veterinary and farming experience, Jonathan will play a key role in improving the health and welfare of kept animals in England over the coming years.”

Seals added: “We have an incoming chair who can take the work of the board and its advice to ministers to a new level, while supporting delivery through the forthcoming Animal Health and Welfare Pathway. I wish Jonathan every success as chair.”