Welsh and Scottish green ministers confirmed

Scottish first minister Alex Salmond has announced that Richard Lochhead is to retain responsibility for environmental affairs in his new cabinet.

Lochhead, who was appointed cabinet secretary for rural affairs and the environment in May 2007, will return to his post after it has been formally approved by the Scottish Parliament.

He is sure to have a key role in pushing forward renewable energy development in Scotland, after Salmond confirmed this week that the Scottish government has committed to producing 100% of the country’s electricity renewably by 2020.

The Scottish Parliamentary announcement came just days after the new Welsh first minister Carwyn Jones confirmed that John Griffiths has been appointed as the Welsh Assembly Government minister for the environment and sustainable development.

Griffiths, who previously served as the counsel general and leader of the legislative programme in the assembly, takes over the post from Labour assembly member Jane Davidson, who decided not stand for re-election on 5 May.

Griffiths will continue the work begun by Davidson, following a Welsh Labour manifesto commitment to support the target of 70% recycling by 2025.

Another new addition to the Welsh Assembly is Alun Davies who has been appointed as deputy minister for agriculture, food, fisheries and European programmes.