Sir Tim Barrow announced as the new UK ambassador to the EU after gloomy Sir Ivan Rogers unexpectedly quit
The Foreign Office's Political Director will take over from Sir Ivan, who resigned yesterday - just weeks before Brexit negotiations are due to begin
DOWNING Street has rushed in a replacement diplomat to lead Brexit negotiations.
Sir Tim Barrow, a wily behind-the-scenes fixer with a web of contacts, was yesterday given Britain’s top job in Brussels.
He takes over from Sir Ivan Rogers, who quit as EU ambassador on Tuesday just 86 days before the PM’s deadline to trigger Article 50.
Sir Tim, 52, is said to be well-liked by Theresa May, Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson and Brexit Secretary David Davis.
His nickname is “Deep State”, after the conspiracy theory that a shadowy cabal secretly controls world power.
Last night MPs said his experience as a former ambassador to Russia would be a major asset.
Tory Dominic Raab said: “It will serve him well going into bat with the EU. He’s also a fixer who will bring some fresh thinking.”
Meanwhile, a row raged over who is to blame for Sir Ivan quitting.
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According to Brussels sources, his relationship with No10 is said to have broken down over fears someone was to be parachuted in above him.
The pro-Brexit senior official would then lead exit talks once Article 50 was triggered, leaving Sir Ivan “minding paperclips”.
Senior Leave campaigners insisted Sir Ivan step down after losing Downing Street’s trust. He is suspected of talking down Britain’s political leaders in Brussels.
Sir Tim (left) attends the Spectre 007 Moscow photocall with actors Ralph Fiennes, Naomie Harris and Dave Bautista in Russia in October[/caption]
Last night No10 said: “We are delighted Tim Barrow is taking up this role.
"He is a seasoned and tough negotiator with extensive experience of securing UK objectives in Brussels.”