The Prime Minister and/or Foreign Secretary appoint special representatives in recognition of our top foreign policy priorities.
Special representatives use their expertise to develop a greater coherent effort in making sure that we work closely and effectively with foreign powers.
A special representative based in the Foreign Office will work closely with colleagues across Whitehall, including Number 10, the Cabinet Office, MoD, DfID and the Home Office.
Profile of Jack McConnell - the PM's Special Representative for Peacebuilding
Profile of Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles - the Foreign Secretary's Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan
John Ashton is the Foreign Secretary's Special Representative for Climate Change