Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Indo-Pacific facts for kids
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Indo-Pacific is an important job in the United Kingdom government. This person works in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, which handles how the UK deals with other countries. It's a junior-level role, meaning it's a step below the most senior ministers.
This job has changed names over the years. From 2010 to 2020, it was called the Minister of State for Europe and the Americas. Later, it combined with another role, the Minister of State for the Pacific and the International Environment, to form the current Minister of State for Indo-Pacific.
Quick facts for kids United KingdomParliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Indo-Pacific |
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![]() Royal Arms of His Majesty's Government
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Incumbent
Catherine West since 9 July 2024 |
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Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office | |
Reports to | Foreign Secretary |
Nominator | Prime Minister of the United Kingdom |
Appointer | The King (on the advice of the Prime Minister) |
Term length | At His Majesty's pleasure |
Formation | 1943 |
First holder | Richard Law |
Contents
What the Minister Does
The Minister for Indo-Pacific has many important tasks. They help manage the UK's relationships with countries across a huge area. This region includes many nations in Asia and the Pacific Ocean.
Key Areas of Work
- China and Northeast Asia: Working with countries like China, Japan, and South Korea.
- Southeast Asia: Focusing on nations such as Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia.
- Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Islands: Building strong ties with these island nations.
- Indian Ocean: Dealing with countries around the Indian Ocean.
- Economic Security: Making sure the UK's economy is safe, including rules about what can be bought and sold internationally.
- Sanctions: Handling special rules that limit trade or contact with certain countries.
- Economics and Evaluation: Looking at how well economic plans are working.
- Regulatory and Economic Diplomacy: Helping businesses and trade between countries.
- Technology and Analysis: Understanding new technologies and using information to make good decisions.
Who is the Current Minister?
As of July 2025, Catherine West is the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Indo-Pacific. She started this role on July 9, 2024. She works under the Foreign Secretary and is appointed by The King based on the Prime Minister's advice.
Images for kids
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Richard Law, 1st Baron Coleraine was the first Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.
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Philip Noel-Baker was a Labour Minister of State.
See also
- Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
- Foreign Secretary
- Minister of State for Europe
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs