BRITISH PRIME MINISTER INVITES NICK FRY TO BECOME A UK BUSINESS AMBASSADOR

MIA News Release

British Prime Minister invites Nick Fry, CEO of MIA member MERCEDES GP PETRONAS, to become a UK Business Ambassador, briefing ministers, ambassadors and UKTI, on Britain's motorsport industry.

The CEO of MIA member, the MERCEDES GP PETRONAS Formula One Team, Nick Fry, was recently confirmed as one of the Coalition Government's new Business Ambassadors.

This is not only recognition of the exceptional role which Nick Fry has played within the development of international motorsport through Formula One, but also demonstrates the interest and support which the current Government has for the UK's motorsport industry.

The Prime Minister, the Rt Hon David Cameron explained that the new Business Ambassadors: "...are among the most experienced and successful people from business and UK Universities. Their knowledge, skill and dedication to British business will play a key role in opening markets, increasing trade and encouraging investment."

Nick Fry commented: "It is with great pleasure that I recently accepted the role of Business Ambassador. The motorsport industry in the UK plays a key role in our economy; in addition to promoting trade and investment for the UK at home and abroad, I hope to be able to represent our industry and bring benefits to all concerned."

Nick was appointed alongside 32 other Business Ambassadors, including Sir Anthony Bamford of JCB; Chris Patten, Chancellor of Oxford University; Hermann Hauser of Amadeus Partners; Sir John Bond of Vodafone; Dick Oliver of BAE; and Lord Digby Jones of HSBC/Triumph. Nick's role as a Business Ambassador includes briefing UK Ministers and Ambassadors on key business priorities and interests as they might arise.

"I am delighted Nick has accepted this role as a Business Ambassador, as it will help members engage directly with UKTI at a vital time, while they review their relationships with UK industries and trade associations, in particular.  I call on all  members to let me know of any issues which we should put to Nick Fry, concerning UKTI, international trade, inward investment priorities and interests. I know Nick will do his very best for the entire UK motorsport industry while holding this prestigious role, an appointment which he richly deserves," said Chris Aylett, CEO of the MIA.

The MIA encourages  members, and the wider motorsport industry, to let them know of any business issues which they wish passed on to Nick, who will represent those views to senior levels of Government. He has been tasked to provide insights into how UKTI can best deliver benefit to business, and as this year is one of major review for UKTI, it is particularly important that he knows your views on their service and support. The industry and MIA members are asked to send their comments to jayne.thomas@the-mia.com, who will ensure that they are dealt with efficiently.