Britain's Industry and Parliament Trust (IPT) and the All Party Parliamentary China Group (APPCG) on Thursday announced the launch of the China Business Fellowship program.

As part of the Fellowship program, ten members of the Parliament were selected as the first cross-party delegation to visit China in October, according to a press release issued by the IPT and APPCG.

Prior to their visit, the members of the Parliament will be educated in a series of seminars by leading China experts on topics, such as the Chinese economy, the geopolitical influence of China, political framework of China and Chinese culture, the press release said.

Ben Chapman, the chairman of the APPCG, said he was very excited at the prospect of this unique IPT Fellowship that will provide participants with first-hand education on China.
"Ultimately, I hope all taking part will be better informed and better able to help the Britain to take advantages of the opportunities available in China," he said.

The visit is sponsored by Shell, GKN, Virgin, who all have interests in China.

During their five-day stay in Shanghai, the members of the Parliament will meet with a range of British companies, getting hands on experience, learning about the issues affecting each sector and how they as Parliamentarians can help address these problems, the press release said.

The Fellowship, created to help members of the Parliament to understand the impact China is having on Britain and the British economy, includes both a rigorous study program and hands on experience with British companies operating in China.

(Xinhua News Agency July 20, 2007)