BARONESS Morris of Bolton has spoken of her pride at being named a trade envoy to the Middle East, and said changes in the region represent “great opportunities” for British business.

The former shadow education minister and current Chancellor of Bolton University was appointed to the new role by the Prime Minister and her new responsibilities will include Jordan, Kuwait and the Palestinian territories.

The Farnworth-born Tory Peer, pictured, told the House of Lords: “I was honoured, along with other parliamentarians from across the political divide, to be appointed one of the Prime Minister's trade envoys.

“My responsibilities are Jordan, Kuwait and the Palestinian territories — countries with which we have strong links and long-standing friendships, but where the changes they are undergoing present great opportunities for British businesses. I am looking forward greatly to working with my noble friends and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to help promote the UK and our commercial sector. I also see it as our job, however, to promote the virtues of trade itself. The existence of significant trading relationships provides a powerful incentive to root out corruption