George Freeman joins UK’s global growth envoy team
Norfolk stalwart George Freeman MP has been appointed to represent the UK in Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore & Brunei as part of a new global growth team of trade envoys designed to drive UK exports and investment.
The 32 parliamentarians, drawn from across the political spectrum, have been assigned target markets across six continents and tasked with identifying trade and investment opportunities for businesses and championing the UK as a destination of choice for investment in those markets.
Each market has been identified as presenting significant potential for growing UK trade and Trade Envoys are appointed on their ability, relevant skills and experience. This can be based on their respective markets or UK sector knowledge, including previous government-to-government experience, as well as their commitment to the UK’s growth mission.
Freeman was Science, Innovation & Technology Minister in 2023 having moved across from the Department for Business. He was Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Life Sciences from July 2014 until July 2016.
He was appointed government adviser on Life Sciences in July 2011, co-ordinating the government’s Life Science and Innovation, Health and Wealth Strategies.
Before being elected to Parliament, Freeman had a 15-year career across the life sciences sector. In particular, he worked with hospitals, clinical researchers, patient groups and biomedical research companies to pioneer novel healthcare innovations.
Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “Trade and investment are key to delivering economic growth – the number one mission of this Government and a key part of our Plan for Change. That’s why I’ve launched a new team of Trade Envoys, who will use their experience, expertise and knowledge to unlock new markets around the world for British businesses, drumming up investment into the UK and ultimately driving economic growth.
“They will work closely with the Department for Business and Trade. The announcement comes ahead of the new Trade Strategy in Spring, which will prioritise rebuilding our relationship with the EU and seizing opportunities to access new markets further afield.
“ Alongside bolstering exports, attracting investments, and removing trade barriers, the government is also resuming trade talks with FTA partners, including – so far – the GCC, Switzerland and South Korea.”
The news came as Trade Minister Douglas Alexander flew South Africa as part of a multi-leg visit to the region to strengthen trade links and create opportunities for UK businesses.
