The announcement that Stephen Green is to become the UK's trade minister is good news for British jobs and the UK economy. The appointment of a top flight businessman of international standing demonstrates the importance of financial services to our economic recovery and prosperity and proves the UK is taking trade policy seriously.
BBA chief executive Angela Knight said: "Stephen Green's appointment as trade minister is good news for the UK. Stephen has a deservedly strong reputation as a skilled business leader both in the UK and internationally and he is just the right man to demonstrate to our overseas partners that the UK is a global business centre and an excellent base from which to operate. Stephen understands the economy and the current financial climate and his extensive knowledge of the City and its players will ensure he makes a valuable contribution to ensuring the UK economy continues to recover and prosper.
"Stephen has been a leader of the banking industry in these difficult times and a supportive and involved Chairman at the BBA. I will miss him but both I and the team here are looking forward to working closely with his successor Marcus Agius of Barclays who will be taking over the role."