WEST Midlands UKIP MEP James Carver has been confirmed as the party’s Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs spokesman.

Mr Carver said he was "honoured by the appointment" and he said: "I am very conscious of the fact that our Foreign Affairs portfolio has been previously held by the party leader.

“My priorities will be emphasising the importance - post Brexit - of Britain's re-emergence onto the world stage, as a genuinely independent actor, as demonstrated through our role as a permanent member of the UN Security Council.

“I will also be a champion for a more just and equitable foreign policy across the globe, and re-establishing our links with our Commonwealth cousins.”

Mr Carver's role follows the promotion of Dudley-based UKIP MEP and Sedgley councillor Bill Etheridge to UKIP defence spokesman.