DORSET peer and former Waitrose boss Lord Price is to step down from his government role as a trade policy minister.

Mark Price, who lives in Sturminster Newton, said it had been an “honour” to serve in the role but he wanted to pursue his business and writing interests.

He was made a life peer in 2016 and stepped down as managing director of Waitrose shortly afterwards.

His role became central following the vote to leave the European Union.

Lord Price said: "It has been an honour to serve as minister for trade and investment and then trade policy following the EU referendum.

"Having visited 35 countries since then, I am certain that there is a huge appetite to build new and develop existing trade agreements with the UK. The trade policy team is well prepared for that work and I wish them every success.

"I previously said I would be working within government for a time-limited period, and will now be leaving to pursue my wider business and writing interests, while continuing to advocate the UK's global trade ambitions."

International trade minister Greg Hands was asked on BBC radio if the former minister had issues with the government's approach to Brexit. He sidestepped the question, saying: "Lord Price has been a key part of the whole strategy."