The trade body for the UK’s biggest ports has appointed Welshman Geraint Evans as its new chief executive.
Mr Evans, a special adviser under three consecutive Tory Prime Ministers in David Cameron, Theresa May and Boris Johnson , will take up his role with the UK Major Ports Group (UKMPG) in May.
Between them UKMPG members provide the gateways for 75% of UK trade while investing £500m per annually in their ports and infrastructure. In Wales ABP’s ports of Cardiff, Barry, Newport and Port Talbot are members.
Mr Evans brings extensive experience of Whitehall departments and Parliament having been an early champion of the UK Government’s levelling up agenda. He was a special adviser to former Welsh Secretary Alun Cairns.
Mr Evans, who is from the Vale of Glamorgan said: “It is a privilege to be joining the UK Major Ports Group as chief executive at such a crucial time for the UK’s economic outlook. Our major ports across the country are central to a growing and sustainable economy. As many key parts of our economy transition, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to support our major ports in helping the UK deliver sustainable economic growth across the country.”
Chairman of UKMPG, Charles Hammond, said: “We are delighted to confirm the appointment of Geraint Evans as chief executive. Geraint has extensive experience of operating within government at the highest levels and has a proven track record of developing and influencing policy. We look forward to welcoming Geraint to UKMPG,at this crucial time, when the role of ports is continuing to adapt to support the UK economy transition to a low carbon future.”
A decision on a freeport for Wales could be announced in next week’s Budget from Chancellor Jeremy Hunt.
Three bids were submitted; a joint bid between the ports of Milford Haven and Port Talbot (known as the Celtic Freeport), a bid being driven by Newport Council, which includes Cardiff Airport and a number of other locations including land owned by the Welsh Government at Rhyd y Blew in Blaenau Gwent and the Port of Holyhead.
The decision will be a joint one between the UK and Welsh governments, following an agreement which saw the Westminster administration signing off on a funding package of £26m to establish a Welsh freeport.
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