The decision to extend his tenure was taken in light of the Environment Agency's ongoing role in dealing with the summer floods and the desire to find the best possible choice of candidates to replace Sir John on his departure. Sir John had been due to stand down at the end of his current term on 31 December 2007.

Welcoming Sir John's agreement to remain in post for another six months, Mr Benn said:

"The Environment Agency is playing a major part in the independent lessons learned review of this summer's flooding, and is also still heavily involved in dealing with the after effects of the floods. It's important to maintain stability during this period, and I know that Sir John Harman will provide this. I am most grateful to him for agreeing to stay on."