New Chairman and financial support from government for Seafish - 10/06/2010

I am writing to let you know that John Whitehead has been appointed interim Chairman to see us through the important Supreme Court appeal process, replacing Charles Howeson who has number of other public appointments which call heavily on his time. Government today also has announced an immediate short term commercial loan arrangement of £200k for Seafish to allow us to continue to operate within our reduced levy income. 
 

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Charles for all that he has achieved on your behalf over the last three years. In this period, Charles has been instrumental in continuing to improve the value for money we deliver to industry, as well as providing us with important perspectives on our relationship with government within the UK and beyond.

John Whitehead is currently our Deputy Chairman and has a lifetime’s experience of the food industry. News of the loan arrangement was announced to Parliament this morning, and a statement confirming John’s appointment is now on the Defra website.

We shall be issuing a press release tomorrow morning to the trades and regional media to this effect.

Please join me in thanking Charles for his excellent service, and in welcoming John to his new role.

Sincerely
John Rutherford
Chief Executive
Seafish