Thursday 13th March 2025

(1 day, 17 hours ago)

Written Statements
Read Hansard Text Read Debate Ministerial Extracts
Jonathan Reynolds Portrait The Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Jonathan Reynolds)
- Hansard - - - Excerpts

I am delighted to announce that I have appointed a new Board of Trade.

The newly formed Board will be an advocate for UK businesses at home and abroad, championing the country’s 5.5 million SMEs and realising their export potential. This will help super-charge growth for the economy as part of the plan for change.

The newly appointed advisers have been hand-picked for their deep sector expertise and knowledge, representing some of the UK’s most successful businesses. They will play a crucial role in supporting the Department’s growth priorities, focusing on supporting small businesses and boosting exports.

The Secretary of State is pleased to appoint:

Omar Ali

Mike Hawes OBE

Dame Vivian Hunt DBE

Allison Kirkby

Paul Lindley OBE

Catherine McGuinness CBE

Michelle Ovens CBE

Mike Soutar

Sarah Walker

Dr Charles Woodburn CBE

In addition to the following ex-officio advisers:

Secretary of State for Scotland, the right hon. Ian Murray MP

Secretary of State for Wales, the right hon. Jo Stevens MP

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, the right hon. Hilary Benn MP

The Lord Mayor of London, Alastair King

Minister of State for Investment, Baroness Gustafsson of Chesterton CBE

Minister of State for Industry, Sarah Jones MP

Minister of State for Trade Policy and Economic Security, the right hon. Mr Douglas Alexander MP

Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Employment Rights, Competition and Markets, Justin Madders MP

Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Services, Small Business and Exports, Gareth Thomas MP

Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Future Digital Economy and Online Safety, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Minister for Legislation) and Baroness in Waiting (Government Whip), Baroness Jones of Whitchurch.

The role as a Board of Trade adviser is unpaid and voluntary.

[HCWS517]