One of the most senior figures in the UK Ports Industry, Peter Jones, has been appointed chairman of the Port of Milford Haven.

Mr. Jones accepted the appointment following an open competition jointly led by the Port and the Department for Transport.

Mr. Jones has been appointed by the Secretary of State for Transport, and was due to take up the post yesterday (Thursday).

Having retired earlier this year as chief executive of the UK's largest ports group Associated British Ports, and with a career stretching back over 30 years in the ports sector, Mr. Jones will bring a wealth of experience to the UK's third largest port.

The Port of Milford Haven is the country's single largest energy gateway responsible for handling up to 25 per cent of the UK's seaborne energy trade.

Stephen Hammond MP, Under Secretary of State for Transport, said: "I am delighted that Peter Jones has accepted the invitation to become the new chairman of the Port of Milford Haven. Peter brings with him an impressive track record and an unparalleled knowledge of ports and shipping from his long and varied career in the ports industry, including at CEO and chair level. His experience will be a great asset to Milford Haven and I am sure he will lead the Port confidently into the next phase of its development."

Mr. Jones succeeds David Benson who will be stepping down from the post of chairman at the end of July.

As chairman, Mr. Benson led the Port through the start of the Liquefied Natural Gas era, successfully establishing Milford Haven's two LNG terminals and the start of their safe operation in 2009.

Mr. Jones, commenting on his appointment said: "The Port of Milford Haven is a critical gateway for the UK economy and I am honoured to have been given the opportunity to play a leading role as its non-executive chairman. I am very much looking forward to working with the board and the executive team to develop the Port and ensure that it continues to be a safe and successful business recognising its importance as a key energy gateway for the UK economy, and a vital generator of local growth and employment."