Fox progresses in bid for trade role

Former trade secretary Liam Fox has made it through to the second round of the race to become the next director general of the World Trade Organisation ( WTO).

Liz Truss, his successor at the Department for International Trade, yesterday announced Dr Fox, the UK’S nominee for the top job, had successfully navigated the first round of voting among the 164 WTO members.

The trade body is in the process of electing a replacement f or outgoing boss Roberto Azevedo.

A new director general is not expected to be elected for several weeks, after two more rounds of the contest.

Ms Truss said: “I’m delighted to see Dr Fox through to the second round. The world needs a WTO director general that will stand up for free trade and fight protectionism.

“Business as usual will not work. We need someone with political skill who can build consensus, get things done, and drive forward the urgent reform that is needed.

“Liam is the ideal candidate for that. His energetic campaign has won the support of countries around the world, and I wish him all the very best in the next round.”

The North Somerset MP, an ex- defence secretary, has held ministerial roles under Sir John Major, David Cameron and Theresa May, latterly serving as international trade secretary during the Brexit negotiations.