The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA)

Definition

The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) is a government department responsible for environmental protection, food production and farming, and rural communities. 

What is the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs?

DEFRA plays a key role in supporting and regulating the agricultural sector. It oversees policies related to farming practices, animal welfare, and food safety. The department works to promote sustainable farming methods, improving productivity, and securing a safe food supply.

DEFRA is responsible for drafting and implementing legislation related to its areas of responsibility. This includes laws governing environmental protection, agriculture, food safety, animal welfare, and rural affairs. Furthermore, it represents the UK in international negotiations and agreements related to environmental protection, agriculture, and food trade.

Additionally, DEFRA supports research and innovation in its areas of responsibility through funding, grants, and partnerships with academic institutions and research organisations. It invests in scientific research to improve understanding of environmental issues, develop new technologies and practices for sustainable agriculture, and reduce the impacts of climate change.

Ready to grow your business?

Clever finance tips and the latest news

Delivered to your inbox monthly

Join the 110,000+ businesses just like yours getting the Swoop newsletter.

Free. No spam. Opt out whenever you like.

We work with world class partners to help us support businesses with finance

Swoop Finance Limited helps UK firms access business finance by working directly with businesses and their trusted advisors. We act as a credit broker, not a lender, and do not provide loans or finance products ourselves. We introduce applicants to a panel of lenders, equity funds, and grant agencies based on individual circumstances and creditworthiness.
Commission Disclosure: We typically receive a commission from the finance provider (either a fixed fee or a fixed percentage of the amount you receive) upon successful placement. Different providers pay different rates. For certain lenders, we may have influence over the interest rate, which can impact the total amount payable under your agreement.
Regulatory Information:

  • FCA: Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a credit broker (FRN: 936513) and registered as an Account Information Services Provider (Ref: 833145).

  • ICO: Registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (Ref: ZA600162); registration can be verified at ico.org.uk.

  • Company Details: Registered in England & Wales with Companies House (No. 11163382). Registered Address: The Stable Yard, Vicarage Road, Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes, MK11 1BN. VAT Number: 300080279.

Terms: All finance and quotes are subject to status, income, and terms and conditions. Applicants must be aged 18 or over. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Please refer to our terms and conditions and our complaints procedure for further details.

© Swoop 2026

Looks like you're in . Go to our site to find relevant products for your country. Go to Swoop