Brexit

#Brexit: Sir Tim Barrow appointed as UK Permanent Representative to EU

Published

9 years ago

January 5, 2017

Sir Tim Barrow (pictured) has been appointed the UK’s Permanent Representative to the European Union and will take up the role next week.

Currently the Foreign Office’s Political Director, Sir Tim has had a 30-year diplomatic career. He previously served as the UK’s Ambassador to Moscow and before that he worked at the UK Representation to the EU (UKRep) as UK Representative to the Political and Security Committee of the EU from 2008-11. His earlier EU experience includes spells as an Assistant Director in the Europe Directorate and a First Secretary in UKRep.

On his appointment, Sir Tim said: “I am honoured to be appointed as the UK’s Permanent Representative to the EU at this crucial time. I look forward to joining the strong leadership team at the Department for Exiting the EU and working with them and the talented staff at UKRep to ensure we get the right outcome for the United Kingdom as we leave the EU.”

A Downing Street spokesperson said: “We are delighted that Tim Barrow is taking up this role. A seasoned and tough negotiator, with extensive experience of securing UK objectives in Brussels, he will bring his trademark energy and creativity to this job - working alongside other senior officials and Ministers to make a success of Brexit.”

Sir Tim Barrow has been appointed with the approval of the Prime Minister on the advice of the Cabinet Secretary.

Welcoming Sir Tim Barrow's appointment Secretary of State for Exiting the EU David Davis said: "UKRep will have a crucial role to play in the negotiation over the UK's exit from the EU, and Sir Tim Barrow will add to the already extensive experience it brings.

"His knowledge of Brussels means he will be able to hit the ground running at a vital time, and steer UKRep throughout the negotiation period. I am confident that with his help, the UK will be able to forge a new relationship with the EU that works to the mutual benefit of both sides."

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said: “Tim Barrow has been invaluable since I joined the Foreign Office in July and I want to personally thank him for his relentless energy, wise counsel and steadfast commitment. He is just the man to get the best deal for the UK and will lead UKRep with the same skill and leadership he has shown throughout his career. I wish him all the best.”

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