As part of the recent changes announced in government departments, Number 10 has published an overview with mission statements and policy priorities for the four new departments.  A summary is provided below:

Department for Business and Trade – Secretary of State Rt Hon Kemi Badenoch MP (Saffron Walden)

“Brings together business expertise and world-class trade negotiators under the vision of making the UK the best place to start and grow a business – driving growth, increasing jobs, and raising wages and living standards. It will amplify engagement between business and government and strengthen our offer to international investors. The department will support investment, unlock exports, and open up new markets through trade deals, with joined-up offers of support to UK businesses operating both at home and abroad.”

Department for Science, Innovation and Technology  – Secretary of State Rt Hon Michelle Donelan MP (Chippenham)

“Will spur stronger growth, better jobs and bold new discoveries, and brings responsibility for the 5 technologies of tomorrow under one roof for the first time.”

Department for Energy, Security and Net Zero- Secretary of State Rt Hon. Grant Shapps MP (Welwyn Hatfield)

Lists responsibilities as:

  • delivering security of energy supply
  • ensuring properly functioning energy markets
  • encouraging greater energy efficiency
  • seizing the opportunities of net zero to lead the world in new green industries.

Department for Culture, Media and Sport  – Secretary of State Rt Hon Lucy Frazer KC MP (South East Cambridgeshire) and Rt Hon Stuart Andrew MP (Pudsey) has been reappointed as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the DCMS with the tourism brief and also as a minister in the newly formed Department for Business and Trade as Minister for Equalities.

“The Department will focus on supporting culture, arts, media, sport and civil society across every part of England – recognising the UK’s world leading position in these areas and the importance of these sectors in contributing so much to our economy, way of life, and our reputation around the world. The department will champion sport for all at every level; support our world-leading cultural and creative industries; and enhance the cohesiveness of our communities.”

It is disappointing that there is no reference to tourism or the importance of the sector to the UK economy in the department’s refocused policy priorities.

To read the full government document, visit: Making Government Deliver for the British People (publishing.service.gov.uk)