The image of 'Cool Britannia' is about to be boosted with the launch of a new campaign to promote Britain abroad.

The Foreign Secretary Robin Cook is due to unveil the Panel 2000 committee on Wednesday.

Members include the Independent MP Martin Bell, broadcaster Zeinab Badawi and athlete Judy Simpson.

The committee will consider all aspects of how Britain's identity is projected in other countries.

New Labour wants the world to see Britain as a thoroughly modern place capable of leading the world in design, music, fashion and the arts.

A 25-strong so-called 'Committee of Cool' will lead the campaign to re-brand Britain.

It comes in the same week as a new exhibition is launched in central London to showcase the best of the nation's creativity and innovation.

Tony Blair will launch the 'powerhouse::uk' exhibition, a display of the best of the nation's creativity and innovation, on Thursday.

The exhibition is being housed in an inflatable structure consisting of four linked pods.

The cream of British young artists will be exhibiting, including the fashion designer Alexander McQueen.
 

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