The Duke of York at work at his desk.

The Duke of York is the second son and the third child of The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh.

Named Andrew Albert Christian Edward, he was known as Prince Andrew until his marriage, when he was created The Duke of York, Earl of Inverness and Baron Killyleagh.

In 2001, after serving for 22 years in the Royal Navy, The Duke of York was invited to take on the role of the UK's Special Representative for International Trade and Investment.

Working with Government, and in particular UK Trade and Investment (UKTI), The Duke's job involves promoting the UK as an attractive inward investment destination for foreign investors; creating more positive business conditions for British businesses investing overseas; and helping UK companies export their products to emerging and established markets.

Current activities

In 2006, The Duke undertook a total of 446 engagements in the UK and overseas. Of these, 293 engagements were business related, which was an average of 5.6 trade/business related engagements a week in addition to his other Royal engagements.

To date, The Duke has participated in the successful negotiation of major contracts for British companies operating abroad, including Rolls Royce (China), BLP (China), Westland Aircraft (USA), British Pig Executive (China), HSBC (Korea).

Objectives

The Duke's objectives and activities vary depending on the country and general market status. Broadly defined, his responsibilities include:

1. Maintaining strong government and commercial contacts and relationships in the UK and abroad in order to maximize opportunities for UK companies.

2. Delivering high-level access to British companies. Supporting UK projects and bids directly with Government lobbying overseas.

3. Marketing the UK, particularly in emerging markets such as India, China and ASEAN countries. This includes representing the UK at major trade fairs and conferences and delivering key note speeches on trade issues.

4. Hosting high-level trade conferences in the UK to showcase business opportunities in particular regions e.g. Abu Dhabi, Jordan and Vietnam.

5. Providing regular, direct feedback to business and government through UKTI and the CBI on business issues both in the UK and overseas.

The Duke is not paid for his work as Special Representative however his travel expenses are met by UK Trade and Investment and the Department of Transport.

(China.org.cn by WANG Ke November 6, 2008)