Asked by: Lord Whitby (Conservative - Life peer)
Question to the Department for International Trade:
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the Prime Minister's trade envoy programme in respect of its role in promoting the UK's trade and investment opportunities.
Answered by Earl of Courtown - Captain of the Queen's Bodyguard of the Yeomen of the Guard (HM Household) (Deputy Chief Whip, House of Lords)
The Prime Minister’s Trade Envoys support ministers in showcasing the UK’s world class expertise in priority business sectors and promote the UK as the destination of choice for inward investment.
Trade Envoys undertake the role on a voluntary basis and act as powerful advocates of UK businesses including a wide range of activity, such as: addressing market seminars and business to business groups; hosting receptions for inward missions; leading UK businesses to market; and facilitating introductions with key decision makers.
Trade Envoys add value to the efforts of HMG in their respective markets, through the soft power influence they bring in developing relationships with key influencers and feedback from businesses has been very positive. Trade Envoys are one part of the Department for International Trade’s support for British businesses seeking to export and win contracts overseas and we do not separate out the impact of Trade Envoys from our broader measures as part of the Export Strategy.