The Department for International Trade’s main aim is to promote exports and investment around the globe.

Theresa May appointed Liam Fox as secretary of state for the department when she became Prime Minister in July, after Fox’s own leadership bid failed.

In his new role he will have overall charge of all policies and sectors, both directly and through his ministers of state. He will lead the defence and security sector and will have a role in global deals across all sectors.

Under secretary of state Mark Garnier, will lead export and investment campaigns in: financial services, advanced manufacturing and aerospace, automotive, bio-economy, consumer, creative and education.

Garnier has previously served on the Treasury Select Committee and has experience in banking and investment management. In 2004 he secured the largest gain in the country in Wyre Forest, with a 14% swing to Conservatives and an increase in the Conservative vote of 45%.

Greg Hands, minister of state for trade and investment, will lead export and investment campaigns in: technology, infrastructure, energy, healthcare and life sciences.

As minister of state for trade policy, Lord Price will lead the Trade Policy Unit which deals with strategy and communications, organisation, operations, free trade agreements and the UK’s dealings with the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

Fox said: ‘Looking at both trade promotion and policy, the Department for International Trade is perfectly placed to make the UK a beacon for open trade. By bringing together the whole of government, industry and our extensive overseas network, we’ll be able to champion British business better and help them take advantage of the global appetite for British goods and services.’