Secretary of State confirms new role for Arlene Foster at UK trade body

Former Democratic Unionist Party leader Arlene Foster
-Credit: (Image: AFP via Getty Images)


Secretary of State Hilary Benn has confirmed the appointment of Baroness Arlene Foster as the chair of the new Intertrade UK.

Baroness Foster will head up the new body which has been agreed by the UK government as part of the package to restore devolution which was agreed earlier this year.

Intertrade UK is set to launch as a new body which is dedicated to enhancing trade across the UK. Its mission is to offer guidance and support to businesses, helping them expand their reach within the UK internal market and serve consumers in all parts of the UK. It will also conduct research and publish insights aimed at advancing domestic trade and showcasing the full potential of the UK’s market to businesses and traders.

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The Secretary of State has also appointed Anna Jerzewska, Alastair Hamilton and Aidan Reilly as members of the new Windsor Framework Independent Monitoring Panel.

Speaking at the 25th Anniversary Summit of the Centre for Cross Border Studies in Dundalk, Co. Louth, The Secretary of State said: “This Government is committed to implementing the Windsor Framework and taking all steps necessary to protect the UK internal market.

“I look forward to working with Baroness Foster in her role as Chair of Intertrade UK, as it begins its work facilitating and boosting trade across the UK. Her knowledge and experience will be crucial in promoting the opportunities that are available to businesses, further strengthening Northern Ireland’s place in the UK internal market, and helping deliver on this Government's mission to drive economic growth.

“The Independent Monitoring Panel will play a key role in monitoring and reporting on the implementation of the Windsor Framework. I am pleased that three highly respected experts have agreed to join the panel, and welcome them to their roles.”

Baroness Arlene Foster, Chair of Intertrade UK said: “I want to thank the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland for confirming my new role as Chair of Intertrade UK.

“I am very much looking forward to taking up the role in order to promote trade within the UK internal market - something I am passionate about.

“I also look forward to working with the members of the Independent Monitoring Panel in providing advice and facilitation to help businesses expand their activities across the UK and to strengthen these important economic links.”

The Independent Monitoring Panel will monitor and report on the implementation of the Windsor Framework so that Government and other authorities are held to account.

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