Fox fails in bid to head WTO

LIAM FOX has admitted he is “naturally disappointed” to have failed in his bid to become the next director-general of the World Trade Organisation.

The former international trade secretary lost out to Nigeria’s Ngozi OkonjoIweala and Yoo Myung-hee of South Korea as the pool of candidates was whittled down from five to two.

Writing on Twitter, Dr Fox said he was proud to have been nominated for the role by Boris Johnson.

Dr Fox had promised to restore credibility and relevance to the World Trade Organisation, which had faced recent political turmoil. Donald Trump repeatedly attacked the WTO and pledged to overhaul it to better suit America’s interests. Putting the South Korean and Nigerian candidates through to the final round means the organisation is set to be run by a woman for the first time in its 25-year history.

The final decision on who replaces Roberto Azevêdo, the Brazilian director-general, will be made next month.

Dr Fox, a former defence secretary, said he would now “return to Westminster” to represent his constituents.

The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said: “Liam Fox ran a strong campaign and he is a passionate advocate for free trade. The PM wishes him all the best for the future.

“The UK looks forward to working with the successful WTO candidate. We will continue to make the case for WTO reform and help to deliver on the transformation we all want to see.”