Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions facts for kids
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| Department overview | |
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| Formed | 3 May 1997 |
| Preceding agencies |
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| Dissolved | 8 June 2001 |
| Superseding agency |
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| Jurisdiction | United Kingdom |
| Headquarters | London, England, UK |
The Department for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (often called DETR) was a big part of the United Kingdom government. It was created in 1997 to handle important areas like protecting the environment, managing transport (like roads and trains), and looking after local communities.
The person in charge of this department was called the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions. This job was part of the UK Cabinet, which is a group of the most important ministers who help the Prime Minister run the country.
The DETR was formed by bringing together different government jobs and responsibilities. For example, it combined roles from the old Secretary of State for Environment and Secretary of State for Transport departments. John Prescott was the first person to lead this new, large department.
Other important people worked in the department too. For instance, Michael Meacher was a Minister of State for the Environment. He would attend Cabinet meetings when environmental topics were discussed. There was also a Minister of State for Transport, first held by Gavin Strang.
Contents
What Happened to the DETR?
The DETR didn't last forever. In June 2001, the department was changed. It was renamed the Department for Transport, Local Government and the Regions (DTLR).
At the same time, the environment part of the DETR joined with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. Together, they formed a brand new department called the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
Later, in May 2002, the parts of the DTLR that dealt with local government and regions were moved again. They became part of the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister. This office later became the Department for Communities and Local Government in May 2006.
Who Led the Transport Team?
From 1997 to 2001, several ministers were in charge of the transport section within the DETR. They helped make decisions about how people and goods moved around the country.
Some of the key ministers for transport included:
- Gavin Strang (1997–1998)
- John Reid (1998–1999)
- Helen Liddell (1999)
- Lord Macdonald of Tradeston (1999–2001)
Who Led the Environment Team?
The environment team within the DETR focused on protecting nature and dealing with pollution.
The main Minister of State for the Environment during this time was Michael Meacher (1997–2001). Other ministers also helped with environmental responsibilities, such as Richard Caborn (1997–1999) and Nick Raynsford (1999–2001).
Who Led the Local Government Team?
The local government team worked with councils and communities across the UK. Their job was to help local areas run smoothly.
Hilary Armstrong was the Minister of State responsible for Local Government from 1997 to 2001.
