Scottish MP George Foulkes has been appointed president of the Caribbean-British Business Council.

As the former international development minister, Foulkes has a number of contacts in the region and acted as Britain's governor on the Caribbean Development Bank.

The MP, known for his globetrotting habits, has visited the region regularly both in government and in opposition.

Foulkes - who represents the Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley constituency - was sacked as Scotland minister in 2002 and appointed to the Privy Council shortly afterwards.

"The region faces a number of critical challenges arising out of trade liberalisation," he said.

"Britain continues to be an important friend. I believe that organisations such as the CBBC can play an important and constructive role in ensuring that trade and investment, the cement in the relationship continues to flourish."