The Export Credits Guarantee Department (ECGD), however, sees its role less as an active promoter of British exports than as a last-ditch line of defence when the market has no answer (it is also charged with making a profit).

ECONOMIST: British exports: Trading out of trouble | The

However, Khan's promoter, Frank Warren, is less enthusiastic about the prospect of putting his charge in the ring with Hatton, who he feels would do better to retire than to fight on.

BBC: Khan would fight 'friend' Hatton

The way Houran sees it, reaching stardom now has less to do with who has the best skills or ability than who has the best marketer or promoter.

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The card had an open slot, and promoter Kathy Duva offered the fight to Jennings, who took it even though he would have less than a week to train.

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