The Independent’s political editor is joining the Department for International Trade as its head of news, saying global trade is “about to become the most exciting thing about Britain” post-Brexit.
Joe Watts has led the digital-only title’s Westminster coverage since August 2016, shortly after Britain voted to leave the European Union.
He joined the Independent from the Evening Standard, where he worked as a political correspondent, and has spent more than a decade in the parliamentary lobby.
Watts told Press Gazette: “International trade is about to become the most exciting thing about Britain.
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“It’s going to define what it means to feel British and how we’re seen in the world. How could I turn down the chance to be a part of that?
“I’m sad to be leaving The Independent too of course, where I’ve been part of a really committed and talented team of journalists. I know the website is going to continue to break new ground in the future.”
An Independent spokesperson said: “Joe has proved himself an excellent political editor of The Independent during a remarkable period in British politics.
“He will depart with our best wishes and we will announce a replacement in due course.”
Earlier in his career Watts worked for the regional dailies the Nottingham Evening Post, Eastern Daily Press and as a Westminster correspondent for the now-defunct Northcliffe Media news group.
International Trade Secretary Liam Fox said on Twitter yesterday that he was “delighted” Watts is joining “our first class team”, posting a picture of himself with Watts and permanent secretary Antonia Romeo.
“He brings a wealth of experience to the Department for International Trade and I am looking forward to working with him,” Fox added.
Delighted that @JoeWatts_ is joining our first class team at the Department for International Trade as Head of News. He brings a wealth of experience to @tradegovuk and I am looking forward to working with him. @AntoniaRomeoUK pic.twitter.com/TX35lCAUce
— Sir Liam Fox (@LiamFox) February 27, 2019
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