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  • PRESS RELEASE : Clean energy future to be ‘built in Britain’ [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Clean energy future to be ‘built in Britain’ [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 23 June 2025.

    Government publishes its Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan to ensure the clean energy revolution is built in Britain.

    • Government publishes landmark plan to capture the immense jobs and growth opportunities of the clean energy economy
    • Plan will double down on Britain’s strengths as a coastal nation and scientific superpower, bringing jobs to industrial heartlands and coastal communities through Plan for Change
    • Further £700 million for Great British Energy to invest in clean energy supply chains and ensure the clean energy revolution is built in Britain

    Communities across Britain will benefit from good jobs and investment in the clean energy economy, as the government today (Monday 23 June) publishes its Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan to ‘build it in Britain’.

    Clean energy is the economic opportunity of the twenty-first century, and thanks to the government’s clean energy mission, investment is booming in the UK, with over £40 billion of private investment in clean energy announced since July.

    This landmark plan, developed with industry, trade unions, and workers across all regions of the country, sets the UK on a path to unleash the tidal wave of jobs and investment that clean energy can bring, with the government targeting at least a doubling of current investment levels across our frontier Clean Energy Industries to over £30 billion per year by 2035.

    It comes after the Spending Review confirmed the biggest programme of investment in homegrown energy in UK history – from launching a golden age of nuclear with funding to build Sizewell C nuclear power station on the Suffolk coast and small modular reactors, to £9.4 billion for carbon capture industries.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

    This government is doubling down on Britain’s clean power strengths as we build this new era of clean energy abundance, helping deliver good jobs, energy security and lower household bills.

    The UK’s pitch is clear – build it in Britain. Power the world.

    Great British Energy Chief Executive Dan McGrail said:

    Great British Energy will help the UK win the global race for clean energy jobs and growth by investing in homegrown supply chains and ensuring key infrastructure parts are made here in Britain.

    We are working closely with businesses across the clean energy sector to invest in areas of strategic need and will get funding out as fast as possible to get new projects off the ground.

    As part of this plan, Great British Energy will have an additional £700 million to help build manufacturing facilities here at home for key components for the clean power revolution like floating offshore platforms, electric cables, and cutting-edge hydrogen infrastructure. This builds on Great British Energy’s initial £300 million for offshore wind supply chains, which the Energy Secretary confirmed last week has already catalysed a further £700 million from industry and The Crown Estate. With today’s additional funding, this brings total public and private funding in clean energy supply chains to £1.7 billion. This investment will unlock thousands of jobs, kickstarting growth in coastal communities and industrial towns, and secure a cleaner, more independent energy future for Britain.

    Lucy Yu, CEO and founder of the Centre for Net Zero, has also been announced as the government’s Clean Energy AI Champion – helping to drive the adoption of AI across the UK’s clean energy sector and accelerate the net zero transition.

    The Clean Industry Bonus – the financial reward scheme for offshore wind developers to invest in homegrown, cleaner supply chains – could also be expanded to more sectors, such as hydrogen and onshore wind. This will ensure clean energy investment is directed to regions that need it most, including traditional oil and gas communities, ex-industrial areas and coastal communities.

    The Industrial Strategy sets out how Britain’s strengths make it the natural home for clean power industries: as a coastal nation, a scientific and innovation superpower, with strengths in high-value manufacturing and a skilled energy workforce to match.

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    Martin Pibworth, Chief Executive designate at SSE plc, said:

    The government’s industrial strategy is a welcome signal of long-term thinking and ambition – doubling down on homegrown energy is the right thing for security, resilience and affordability, making the most of the UK’s competitive geographical and technical advantages in renewables in particular.

    It’s exactly the kind of commitment that gives industry the confidence to deliver at pace and scale, and with important decisions on energy policy expected in the weeks ahead, we hope to see a continued focus on unlocking investment that drives growth.

    As the UK’s clean energy champion, SSE is investing £17.5 billion over 5 years to 2027 – building the infrastructure, creating high-quality jobs, supporting the supply chain and driving the innovation needed to deliver a net zero economy.

    Jon Butterworth, CEO of National Gas, said:

    The Industrial Strategy makes clear the scale of economic opportunity within the clean energy sector. As an essential enabler for all growth sectors, we warmly welcome the Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan which will position Britain as a world leader in technologies like hydrogen and carbon capture.

    As Britain’s national gas network, we believe technologies like hydrogen and carbon capture will attract major investment, creating highly-skilled jobs across the country, as well as decarbonising our existing industries and bolstering energy security.

    We welcome the recent commitments and recognition shown by the government on the role of green gases and Britain’s national gas network and look forward to working in partnership to deliver the clean energy economy of the future.

    Steve Foxley, Chief Executive of the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult, said:

    Wind energy is not only a critical enabler of Net Zero as the foundation of our future clean energy system but also a once-in-a-generation industrial growth opportunity. Through clear pathways from research and development to commercialisation and deployment, the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy will capitalise on our long history of innovation to not only attract critical manufacturing investment, creating thousands of highly skilled jobs the length and breadth of the country, but also ensure our energy security in an otherwise increasingly uncertain world.

    Chris Norbury, Chief Executive of E.ON UK

    We welcome the government’s bold ambition to put clean energy at the centre of the UK’s industrial strategy. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to grow the economy, strengthen energy security and create skilled, secure jobs across the country.

    Our £2 billion UK investment plan is already driving forward decarbonisation, digitalisation and green skills, including through our Net Zero Academy and over 1,300 apprenticeships since 2018.

    This strategy is a chance to accelerate that progress with the right clarity, long-term investment signals and genuine partnership between government, cities and industry. If we get this right, Britain can lead the world in clean energy and deliver real meaningful benefits to every household and business.

    Paul Nowak, General Secretary of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) said:

    We welcome the government’s Clean Energy Sector Plan and its clear commitment to creating high-quality, secure jobs – not just any jobs.

    The explicit pledge to a new generation of good industrial jobs will strike a chord with workers from Teesside to Merseyside, many of whom felt left abandoned by the last government’s failure to act.

    We strongly support the launch of the UK’s first-ever Clean Energy Workforce Strategy – a vital recognition that workers are central to both our economy and the clean energy transition.

    By prioritising sectors like nuclear fusion, nuclear fission, and offshore wind, the government is showing a serious commitment to a balanced, resilient energy mix.

    The TUC backs the ambition to ‘Build it in Britain. Power the World’ and stands ready to help make it a reality.

    Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, National Officer at GMB:

    This strategy is a welcome shift, recognising that Britain’s clean energy future must be built here, by skilled workers in secure, union jobs. For too long, energy policy has meant offshoring opportunity and hollowing out industry.

    If delivered properly, this plan could help turn that tide. GMB will work to make sure these promises translate into real investment, real jobs, and a just transition that puts working people at the heart of our industrial future.

    Sue Ferns, Senior Deputy General Secretary at Prospect union said:

    Boosting clean energy is not only an important mission in its own right, it is central to the success of every other sector. It is welcome to see the government doubling down on this mission, focusing investment on key technologies like renewables and nuclear energy, and recognising the key role that trade unions play as partners in this strategy.

    Securing the investment is important, but perhaps the biggest challenge in this area is around the workforce. The energy workforce is undergoing an unprecedented transition, which creates opportunities for many but also serious challenges that need to be addressed.

    Delivering on this strategy in a way which creates prosperity and supports jobs will require the government’s forthcoming energy workforce plan to be as ambitious as possible and fully backed by all parts of government.

    David Hall, VP, Power Systems, Schneider Electric, said:

    The Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan will help to provide much needed certainty for businesses and investors. We welcome the recognition of electricity networks as a ‘foundational sector’ and look forward to working with the Government to develop an electricity networks growth plan.

    We also welcome the commitment to phasing out SF6 gas – a potent greenhouse gas – from switchgear. Regulatory certainty on this issue is key for manufacturers like Schneider Electric who are committed to invest in our domestic capabilities and support the decarbonisation of the grid.

    Schneider Electric is a key supplier of the electrical infrastructure powering the UK’s electricity networks. Over the past two years we have invested almost £50 million to further boost the UK’s domestic supply chain, including investing £42 million to build a brand new factory in Scarborough, North Yorkshire.

    Vattenfall’s UK Country Manager, Claus Wattendrup, said:

    The government is right to back clean energy as a growth engine for UK jobs and skills. Offshore wind already supports over 50,000 UK jobs and is scaling up fast through initiatives like the Offshore Wind Industrial Growth Plan, and we now await the government’s Onshore Wind strategy to help unlock even more investment, jobs, and energy security.

    We must avoid own-goals along the way, however: the benefits of district heating must not be overlooked, whereas zonal pricing in Great Britain risks future investments without cutting bills.

    Dhara Vyas, CEO of Energy UK, said:

    Energy UK welcomes the government’s new Industrial Strategy and Clean Energy Industries sector plan, which rightly recognise the pivotal role energy will play across the whole economy, powering growth through digitalisation and electrification, boosting regional prosperity and delivering economic security and resilience.

    Stable, affordable energy prices will help ensure that the UK remains a competitive place to do business, and in an increasingly uncertain global operating environment, clean power will deliver energy security. Focussing on priority technologies where the UK has global expertise will deliver a strong competitive advantage for our businesses and economy.

    We know the investment necessary to decarbonise the economy will mostly be funded by the private sector. Clarity on government policy, removal of the barriers to investment and targeted support are all essential to meet this ambition.

    Jane Cooper, Deputy CEO of RenewableUK, said:

    Today’s industrial strategy identifies clean energy as one of the sectors with the highest growth opportunity, and we are going to see tens of billions of pounds of new investment in wind energy, grid and hydrogen in the coming years. With that new infrastructure comes a golden opportunity to secure new jobs, manufacturing, innovation and exports, in the growing industrial clusters across the UK, in areas like the Humber, Scotland, South Wales, the South West and Teesside.

    There are already nearly 2,000 companies in the UK who have benefitted from contracts to deliver work in the wind energy sector. Collectively, wind energy currently employs 55,000 people, a figure which has risen by a quarter from two years ago. By keeping a laser focus, as this Industrial Strategy does, on unlocking investment, remaining competitive, and supporting UK companies to innovate and grow, the offshore wind supply chain alone could boost the UK economy by £25 billion over the next decade.

    The opportunity and vision is there, now government needs to ensure they deliver on the critical aspects of this industrial strategy. Most notably for renewables, that means ensuring the next two contract for difference allocation round are as successful as possible, clearing large volumes of projects in a stable market framework to reduce costs. This is essential if we want to attract investment in the UK’s supply chain, skills and capabilities.

    Claire Mack OBE, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables, said:

    Placing clean energy at the heart of the new industrial strategy is a vote of confidence in the enormous economic growth potential of Scotland’s renewable energy industry and supply chain. The scale of opportunity is clear with sectors like offshore wind expected to generate £35 billion for the economy, helping to deliver good jobs and energy security.

    Scottish Renewables has been urging the UK government to be bold in removing barriers to investment and we’re pleased to see the ambition outlined in this strategy, including measures to build a grid fit for the future, drive competitive supply chains and grow exports.

    In the years ahead, success will be seen in the delivery of new clean energy infrastructure, thriving supply chains and skilled jobs across Scotland. Our industry stands ready to continue meeting that challenge head on.

    Olivia Powis, CEO of the Carbon Capture and Storage Association (CCSA), said:

    We are delighted to see the Government’s continued commitment to Carbon Capture, Utilisation & Storage (CCUS), including Greenhouse Gas Removals (GGRs), as a frontier industry. This rightly positions CCUS and GGRs as a core pillar in delivering on three vital national objectives: reaching net zero, driving regional growth, and strengthening economic security.

    The UK’s CCUS industry stands ready to deliver and is pleased to see government’s prioritisation of cross-border CO₂ transport and storage networks in the North Sea, recognising the significant economic benefits for both UK and EU CCUS projects. This builds on the positive momentum from the recent UK-EU Summit – alongside the support confirmed in the Spending Review.

    Following these government commitments, a clear timetable for deployment is essential to secure investment, as well as investment in scaling up supply chains and growing the workforce needed to deliver at pace. With continued partnership between government and industry, CCUS can anchor a new era of sustainable industrial growth – one that revitalises communities, boosts energy resilience and ensures the UK leads in tackling climate change.

    Charlotte Lee, Chief Executive of the Heat Pump Association said:

    It is great to see heat pumps, and by association heating systems, being listed as a frontier industry within the plan and identified as one of six areas with the highest growth potential.

    With a new Heat Pump Investment Accelerator Competition confirmed, £13.2 billion recently announced for the Warm Homes Plan alongside a clear timeline for the introduction of the Future Homes Standard and a pledge to expand heat networks, it is clear the government are committed to enhancing the UK’s energy security by decarbonising heat from buildings.

    Whilst we await the detail within the Warm Homes Plan, this strategy sets clear intentions for the sector, and the HPA will continue to work closely with government to support their missions to break down barriers to investment and deliver nationwide growth.

    Clare Jackson, CEO at Hydrogen UK, said

    The UK can, and should, lead the world in hydrogen, creating jobs and skills, driving economic growth, and lowering emissions. With hydrogen as a key pillar, the Industrial Strategy and Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan are welcome, positive steps forward to achieving that goal, with strong policy signals and funding to match.

    The Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan in particular acknowledges hydrogen’s economic and export potential, and we look forward to working with the government as it puts these strategies into practice.

    Dr Emma Guthrie, CEO of the Hydrogen Energy Association (HEA) said:

    We welcome the publication of the Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan and the clear recognition of hydrogen as a central pillar in the UK’s clean industrial future.

    The commitment to a dedicated hydrogen sector plan – 1 of 8 outlined across key growth industries – provides the clarity and direction that hydrogen investors, innovators and infrastructure providers urgently need.

    The extension of the Clean Industry Bonus to hydrogen is a particularly positive step, signalling that government recognises the role hydrogen can play in decarbonising heavy industry and strengthening energy resilience.

    The wider Industrial Strategy’s focus on reducing energy costs, accelerating grid connections and supporting frontier technologies reflects many of the priorities the hydrogen industry has long been calling for.

    We now look forward to working closely with government and industry to ensure this strategy delivers tangible outcomes – unlocking investment, creating skilled green jobs, and accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy.

    Yselkla Farmer, CEO at BEAMA said:

    BEAMA’s members are pleased that our calls for improvements to industrial conditions have been recognised. This long term strategy distinguishes electricity networks and electric heat – uniquely, both represented by BEAMA – as critical sectors for the UK’s economic prosperity. They have the potential to deliver significant benefits to consumers and those seeking excellent employment opportunities in our domestic supply chains.

    We are well aligned with the government’s overall vision and objectives for our sector. We are looking forward to keeping the momentum up over the ten years of this strategy, working with government to bring tangible change and hugely increase investment in our members’ markets, with specific benefit to British manufacturing. In addition to some further measures from upcoming policy announcements, this strategy has the potential to build on our existing strengths for an exciting future.

    We are especially pleased to see the level of financial support being targeted for BEAMA sectors through GB Energy, the National Wealth Fund and the British Business Bank and our hope is this can help bring forward investment in UK manufacturing to supply the UK’s electrification needs across the grid and in homes. The decision to reduce electricity costs for the IS-8 manufacturing sectors is an incredibly welcome step as we strive to ensure we can compete for investment globally.

    Stuart Dossett, Senior Policy Adviser at Green Alliance, said:

    As international events threaten to drive up the price of oil and send bills soaring once again, it is vital the government look at how to make the UK energy secure. If we’re successful in doubling the amount of investment in clean energy over the next ten years, as the government proposes today, this will provide the cheap, secure power we need for the rest of the economy to grow. The government is also right to focus on making sure more homegrown renewable energy results in cheaper electricity costs for businesses.

    Darren Davidson, Head of UK, Siemens Energy said:

    Today’s Industrial Strategy announcement, a 10-year UK government plan focused on partnership with business, is welcome news. As one of the world’s leading energy technology companies Siemens Energy has invested significantly in the UK, and we already employ over 6,500 people working on energy projects across the regions.

    The new plan is a significant step forward in helping to create a coherent, strategic policy framework – including funding support – to help strengthen the UK’s industrial base, encourage job creation and deliver the energy transition.

    Notes to editors

    CCUS Investment: £21.7 billion of CCUS funding announced in October 2024 will support thousands of jobs as the sector matures into the 2030s. Initial investment in the HyNet and East Coast Cluster is expected to support an average of 4,000 direct jobs annually.

    Clean Heat Jobs: Industry estimates that the number of heat pump installers will need to increase to around 70,000 FTE individuals by 2035 to keep up with future demand.

    Nuclear Jobs: Industry estimates the civil and defence nuclear sectors could need around 120,000 employees (direct and indirect) by the early 2030s.

    Offshore Wind Jobs: The offshore wind sector could support up to 100,000 direct and indirect jobs in Great Britain by 2030.

    Onshore Wind Jobs: The onshore wind sector could support up to 45,000 direct and indirect jobs in Great Britain by 2030.

    Clean Heat Jobs: The Heat Pump Association estimate that the number of heat pump installers will need to increase to around 70,000 by 2035.

    Fusion Jobs: Fusion already supports thousands of jobs in the UK, with thousands more to follow as the technology advances.

    Hydrogen Investment: will support thousands of direct and indirect jobs by 2030, with further jobs likely in end use sectors and the wider supply chain. Projects from the first Hydrogen Allocation Round (HAR1) alone will create over 700 direct jobs in construction and operation across the UK’s industrial heartlands.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer call with Prime Minister Carney of Canada [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer call with Prime Minister Carney of Canada [June 2025]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 22 June 2025.

    The Prime Minister spoke to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney this evening.

    They discussed the grave situation in the Middle East and last night’s action by the United States to tackle the severe threat posed by Iran’s nuclear programme.

    Both reiterated their support for a diplomatic solution and agreed that Iran must come back to the negotiating table with the United States as soon as possible.

    They looked forward to continuing their discussions at NATO this week.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer call with President Trump of the United States [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer call with President Trump of the United States [June 2025]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 22 June 2025.

    The Prime Minister spoke to the President of the United States Donald Trump this evening.

    The leaders discussed the situation in the Middle East and reiterated the grave risk posed by Iran’s nuclear programme to international security. They discussed the actions taken by the United States last night to reduce the threat and agreed that Iran must never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon.

    They discussed the need for Iran to return to the negotiating table as soon as possible and to make progress on a lasting settlement.

    They agreed to stay in close contact in the coming days.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Now is the time for de-escalation and a return to diplomacy – UK statement at the UN Security Council [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Now is the time for de-escalation and a return to diplomacy – UK statement at the UN Security Council [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 June 2025.

    Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the emergency UN Security Council meeting on Iran.

    This is a pivotal moment for the region.

    A further spiral of conflict poses serious risks to regional and international peace and stability. Our foremost priority must now be to support de-escalation.

    We have long made clear that Iran must not have a nuclear weapon and their nuclear programme represents a serious threat to international peace and security.

    The United States took action last night to alleviate that threat.

    The United Kingdom did not participate in US or Israeli strikes.

    But military action alone cannot bring a durable solution to concerns about Iran’s nuclear programme.

    My Prime Minister has been clear. We urge Iran  now to show restraint, and we urge all parties to return to the negotiating table and find a diplomatic solution, which stops further escalation and brings this crisis to an end.

    It is in the interests of all parties to pursue such a deal.

    This was the joint call made by my Prime Minister, with his French and German counterparts earlier today. Together with our E3 partners, the UK has long pursued a diplomatic solution to address Iran’s nuclear escalation. On Friday, alongside E3 and EU colleagues, my Foreign Secretary met Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi in Geneva to press directly for a return to diplomacy. My Foreign Minister spoke to Foreign Minister Araghchi again today and stressed the urgency of this and we continue to engage partners across the region.

    President, the UK reiterates its full support for the IAEA and Director General Grossi for their critical work, professionalism and impartiality. The IAEA and the Non-Proliferation Treaty are key pillars of international security. Threats against IAEA staff and the DG are unacceptable. We urge Iran to cooperate fully with the IAEA. Failure to do so will only further fuel escalation.

    President, now is the time for de-escalation and a return to diplomacy. It is essential Iran chooses this path.

  • NEWS STORY : Trump Slammed as Sir John Major Urges UK to Rejoin EU Single Market

    NEWS STORY : Trump Slammed as Sir John Major Urges UK to Rejoin EU Single Market

    STORY

    In a powerful speech delivered at Salisbury Cathedral for the 2025 Edward Heath Lecture, former Prime Minister Sir John Major launched a stinging attack on Donald Trump’s foreign policy while urging Britain to face economic reality by rejoining the EU Single Market and Customs Union.

    Speaking with a frankness unshackled by party loyalty, Sir John condemned what he described as a dangerous shift in the United States’s global stance, criticising President Trump for turning away from long-held Western alliances and instead courting autocrats like Vladimir Putin. “It was as though America had her arms around Putin’s shoulders, and her hands at Zelensky’s throat,” he remarked, accusing Trump of undermining NATO and pursuing deals that aid aggressors at the expense of global stability. “This is not America as I have known her. This is not democracy as I understand it.”

    Sir John warned that Trump’s unpredictable style of leadership—while superficially effective—was eroding international norms and emboldening hostile regimes. Comparing modern geopolitics to Kipling’s “Law of the Jungle”, he said Trump’s rhetoric risked legitimising land grabs and coups by authoritarian powers. “If President Trump threatens to seize Canada, why should not Putin seize Ukraine?” he asked.

    Turning to Britain’s domestic challenges, Sir John painted a bleak picture of the UK’s economic performance post-Brexit. He lamented stagnant growth, weak productivity and rising debt, arguing that the only “freedom” delivered by Brexit was “the freedom to be poorer”. He warned that Britain had walked away from the largest free trade area in the world and was now suffering the consequences in reduced investment, lower trade growth and a diminished global influence.

    In his most explicit policy suggestion to date, Sir John called for the UK to rejoin the EU’s Single Market and Customs Union, describing it as a necessary step to halt economic decline and restore Britain’s international standing. “If we think small, we will be small,” he said, urging politicians to put pragmatism before ideology. While stopping short of advocating full EU membership, he argued that closer European ties were vital if Britain was to compete in a world dominated by American and Chinese superpower rivalry.

    His remarks echoed the spirit of Edward Heath, the Prime Minister who led the UK into the European Economic Community in 1973, and who Sir John said had prioritised country over party and policy over popularity. Drawing on that legacy, he concluded with a rallying cry for leadership rooted in honesty, reason and long-term vision: “Each one of us – from my generation down – needs to understand where the world is now… that is the reality. It is work in progress. And, for all our sakes, that endeavour must not fail.”

  • PRESS RELEASE : 100 days since Ukraine offered a full, unconditional ceasefire, Russia continues to choose war – UK statement to the OSCE [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : 100 days since Ukraine offered a full, unconditional ceasefire, Russia continues to choose war – UK statement to the OSCE [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 19 June 2025.

    Acting Ambassador, Deirdre Brown condemns Russia’s continued refusal to accept the full, unconditional ceasefire proposed by Ukraine 100 days ago. Innocent civilians continue to suffer from Russia’s choice to pursue a path of war.

    Thank you, Madam Chair. I would like to add our thanks to you and other Troika members for your recent statement.

    We currently find ourselves in a security situation that is more precarious, more unpredictable and more serious than any that we have experienced for decades.  We will be judged by future generations on the steps that we take to defuse tensions and restore stability to our continent and beyond.

    At the heart of the global challenges we face is Russia’s illegal war against Ukraine and its assault on the UN Charter and Helsinki Final Act.  The United Kingdom will continue to stand resolutely with Ukraine as it seeks a just and lasting peace.

    We remain convinced that an immediate and sustained ceasefire is the quickest route to stopping the killing and creating the space for negotiations on a framework for a lasting peace. As we have already heard, today marks 100 days since Ukraine offered a full, unconditional ceasefire on 11 March.  During this time, not only has Russia rejected Ukraine’s offer, it has killed over 550 civilians and injured around 3000 more.  It has launched its biggest aerial attacks of the war so far. And it has not just sustained its attacks, but increased them.

    The brutal attack on residential buildings in Kyiv earlier this week, which killed 28 civilians and left a further 134 wounded, are the actions of an aggressor who thinks that the world is not watching.  They are wrong.

    The Kremlin does this while trying to convince the international community that it is serious about peace.  All of us in this room know from bitter experience how much weight we should attach to Moscow’s words.  You only need to look at the days leading up to the invasion when we heard in this room that speculation of an invasion was “unsubstantiated conjectures”.  But let us analyse their words, nonetheless.

    On 2 June in Istanbul, Russia presented its memorandum with its conditions for ending its illegal war.  In contrast to Ukraine’s own proposals, which are serious, reasonable and constructive, Russia’s memorandum calls for a complete surrender of Ukraine’s internationally recognised territory and limits on Ukraine’s armed forces.  President Putin knows that Ukraine cannot accept this: he is claiming territory his army has not been able to take in over three years of his illegal war, and trying to weaken Ukraine so he can continue the war in future.  The Kremlin’s maximalist position is clearly inconsistent with international principles enshrined in the UN Charter and Helsinki Final Act – including sovereign equality, the inviolability of frontiers, the territorial integrity of states and the non-intervention in internal affairs.  It is further evidence – in case any were needed – that President Putin is not yet serious about peace.

    Madam Chair, today also marks the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict.  There is mounting evidence of conflict-related sexual violence committed by Russian forces against Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war, including from successive Moscow Mechanism reports.  We will have more to say on this in our Joint Statement under the relevant agenda item later today.

    Finally, Madam Chair, it has been 38 months since Russia detained our three OSCE colleagues, Vadym Golda, Maxim Petrov and Dmytro Shabanov.  The United Kingdom again calls for their immediate release. Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Overcrowded jails fuel prisoner violence [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Overcrowded jails fuel prisoner violence [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 19 June 2025.

    Violence is rife in overcrowded, unsafe prisons, with offenders nearly twenty per cent more likely to be involved in assaults in too full jails, new research published today reveals.

    • Direct link drawn between overcrowded conditions and increased violence for first time
    • Landmark sentencing reforms mean offenders who behave badly can be held in prison for longer, part of the Government’s Plan for Change
    • New £40 million investment this year to tackle violence, contraband and drones

    The rate of prisoner-on-prisoner assaults in men’s prisons increased by 11 per cent in 2024 compared to the previous year as they operated at over 99% capacity. The rate of assaults on hard-working prison staff rose by 13 per cent during the same period.

    This is the first time a direct link has been drawn between increased violence behind bars and the capacity crisis inherited by the Government that put the public at risk.

    It reinforces the need for the 14,000 more prison places and landmark sentencing reforms set out by Lord Chancellor Shabana Mahmood last month which will ensure prisons never run out of space again. The changes will help to cut reoffending and keep our streets safe, part of the Government’s Plan for Change.

    Under these reforms, release from prison will be earned. Offenders who behave badly will be held in prison for longer – helping to reduce violence and drug use. It will mean staff can focus more time on rehabilitating prisoners to reduce the chance of them reoffending on release.

    The Government has also announced today a £40 million investment in new security measures this year to clamp down on the contraband that fuels violence behind bars. This includes £10 million on anti-drone measures such as exterior netting and reinforced windows.

    Minister for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending, James Timpson, said:

    These stark findings confirm what we’ve already seen – dangerously full prisons lead to more crime and more violence. This not only risks the safety of our hardworking staff but means our prisons are failing one of their most important functions – cutting crime.

    We must end this chaos. That is why as part of our Plan for Change we are reforming sentencing and building 14,000 extra prison places by 2031. Our £40 million new investment will also help combat the flow of contraband which creates unsafe environments in our jails.

    The research found that over a one-year period, crowded environments increase the likelihood of an offender being involved in a violent incident by 19 per cent.

    The £40 million will fund a range of security enhancements this financial year including window replacements, CCTV and control room upgrades, vehicle gates, biometrics and floodlighting. These improved measures will boost safety, combat the influx of drone activity and clamp down on suspected wrongdoing behind bars.

    It comes as the National Crime Agency – in conjunction with HM Prisons and Probation Service, the National Police Chiefs’ Council and Regional Organised Crime Units – has launched a new initiative stepping up efforts to thwart criminals attempting to smuggle contraband into jails via drones.

    Two senior police leads will also be embedded into the Corruption and Crime Unit within the Prison and Probation Service to enhance cooperation in tackling key areas like corruption and organised crime in prisons.

    The investment builds on action the Government has already taken to protect staff from violence, including the rollout of protective body armour for prison officers working within high-security settings and a trial of tasers beginning later this summer.

    The Government has set aside £7 billion to fund 14,000 extra places by 2031 to deliver the prison capacity needed to keep the public safe.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Compensation for Post Office Capture victims [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Compensation for Post Office Capture victims [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 19 June 2025.

    Postmasters who suffered financial shortfalls due to the Capture software today have certainty about the structure, scope and eligibility criteria for redress.

    • Over £1bn paid out in financial redress to thousands of postmasters across the UK affected by the Horizon IT Scandal as part of our Plan for Change
    • Details of the Capture Redress Scheme announced today, marking ongoing commitment to right past wrongs for those affected.
    • Scheme to provide fair redress and a common sense approach, with claims reviewed by independent panel.

    Postmasters who suffered financial shortfalls due to the Capture software today have certainty about the structure, scope and eligibility criteria for redress.

    Capture was a faulty computer system used by postmasters in the 1990s, before the Horizon scandal.

    In a move to right the wrongs of the past, the government has set out the details for the Capture Redress Scheme, designed to provide fair compensation for those who suffered financial shortfalls due to the Capture software between 1992 and 2000.

    This follows the government’s acceptance of findings from the independent investigation by Kroll Associates, which concluded there was a reasonable likelihood that Capture created financial shortfalls for postmasters.

    The scheme is expected to open for applications in Autumn 2025, with an initial phased rollout for 150 claimants to ensure the process is fair, proportionate and accessible before wider implementation.

    This announcement follows on the footsteps of the government confirming that £1 billion has paid out in compensation to over 7,300 postmasters affected by the Horizon IT Scandal, and the opening of the Horizon Shortfalls Scheme Appeals process for all eligible postmasters in May.

    Post Office Minister Gareth Thomas said:

    “We are committed to delivering fair and swift redress for all postmasters affected by Post Office software failures as part of our Plan for Change. Today’s announcement represents another important step in righting the wrongs of the past and rebuilding trust in the Post Office.”

    A fair and accessible approach

    The Capture Redress Scheme has been specifically designed to address the unique challenges of cases dating back over two decades, where documentation may be limited. The Government will set out funding to cover postmasters’ legal costs in the coming weeks.

    The scheme features:

    • A straightforward two-stage process: an initial eligibility review followed by an independent panel assessment
    • Prompt preliminary payments for eligible claimants, ensuring early acknowledgement of loss
    • A holistic assessment approach that considers both financial losses and wider personal impact
    • A guided scoring and banding model for consistency in awards while maintaining flexibility

    Who can apply

    Postmasters are eligible to apply if they:

    • Were a postmaster between 1992 and 2000
    • Used the Capture system in their branch
    • Suffered a financial shortfall as a result of a Capture software error

    Applications from relatives of deceased postmasters or those needing additional support will also be accepted.

    Independent assessment

    All eligible claims will be reviewed by an independent panel of experts operating entirely separately from government. The panel will:

    • Take a holistic view of each claim, avoiding drawn out legal processes and providing fair redress even where evidence is low.
    • Use a balance of probabilities standard of proof
    • Recommend appropriate payment levels
    • Provide claimants the right to appeal in certain circumstances

    Notes to editors

    1. The Capture system was used in Post Office branches between 1992 and 2000, predating the better-known Horizon system.
    2. Those with criminal convictions related to Capture should pursue their cases through the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) or its Scottish equivalent.
    3. Further details on applying to the Capture Redress Scheme will be published in the coming months.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Vulnerable people given greater access to social housing [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Vulnerable people given greater access to social housing [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on 19 June 2025.

    New changes to remove local connection rules for young care leavers and victims of domestic abuse to access social housing.

    • Care leavers under 25 and victims of domestic abuse to benefit from removal of local connection rules
    • Follows £39 billion investment in affordable and social housing to deliver biggest expansion in a generation
    • Delivers on the government’s Plan for Change, providing people with safe and secure housing and raising living standards

    Young people leaving care and domestic abuse survivors will now have better access to social housing, as the government delivers on its promise to remove a local connection requirement for these groups.

    New changes, which come into force next month, will exempt them from rules that restrict access to social housing for those that do not have a connection to the local area – making sure the most vulnerable in society can access the housing support they need.

    This change applies to all councils in England, nearly 90% of which currently use local connection criteria to determine who qualifies for social housing. It follows reforms last year to remove barriers for all former UK Armed Forces Veterans, as pledged by the Prime Minister.

    Under the new rules, care leavers under the age of 25 and domestic abuse survivors will no longer be unfairly penalised for not having a local connection; recognising the unique challenges they can face, such as transitioning out of care or fleeing an unsafe home to seek safety.

    It comes as the government committed £39 billion for a new ten-year Affordable Homes Programme, supporting the Plan for Change to build 1.5 million homes and tackle housing waiting lists for families and young people across the country.

    Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary, Angela Rayner said:

    “It breaks my heart to hear countless stories of people leaving the care system or fleeing an abusive relationship and not having a place they can truly call home. We’re rewriting the rules to help get them a roof over their heads and the security they deserve.

    “Our changes will make sure these vulnerable groups do not face unfair barriers to safe and secure housing. This is backed by our commitment to secure the biggest boost to social and affordable housing in a generation, and through our Plan for Change we are going further and faster to make this a reality.”

    Last year the Deputy Prime Minister wrote to local councils reminding them of their obligations to prioritise vulnerable groups for social housing. Government guidance will be updated to reflect these changes.

    Additional support includes:

    • £160 million for councils to help provide safe accommodation and support for domestic abuse survivors and meet their statutory duty to help victims and their children when they need it the most – increased by £30 million this year.
    • New legislation proposed to ensure young care leavers in scope of the council’s corporate parenting duty have access to housing and cannot be considered ‘intentionally homeless’.
    • An £800 million top-up for the current Affordable Homes Programme to ramp up the delivery of new social homes.
    • Proposed Right to Buy reforms to protect council housing stock and a new ten-year social rent settlement to give the sector the certainty it needs to build more social homes.

    CEO of Become, Katharine Sacks-Jones said:

    “We welcome these new regulations that will allow more care leavers to access social housing where they are. Too many children in care are moved away from the people and places that matter to them and then made to move back to their local authority area once they turn 18 to access social housing support.

    “Removing the local connection test will prevent forced moves, could help reduce homelessness and give care leavers a more positive start to adulthood.”

    Director of Policy and Prevention at Centrepoint, Balbir Kaur Chatrik said:

    “Removing this barrier will reduce homelessness and rough sleeping amongst care leavers and help them to thrive.

    “Care leavers are often extremely vulnerable young people and lack the support networks that many of us take for granted. Despite this they often find it a real struggle to access the stable housing they need to thrive because they lack a local connection. The government’s change will hopefully stop this practice and ensure young people can get the stable and affordable homes they deserve.

    “It’s also an important step towards ending youth homelessness and protecting the most vulnerable. Taken together with funding for prevention and housebuilding, this brings us a bit closer over the short- and long-term towards ensuring young people are getting the support they need.”

    Further information

    The government will publish a written ministerial statement today setting out new changes for young care leavers and domestic abuse survivors. The regulations will come into force on Thursday 10 July.

    On 24 September, the Prime Minister set out his ambition to improve access to social housing for former UK Armed Forces Veterans, young care leavers and victims of domestic abuse.

    While the changes remove a specific barrier for these vulnerable groups, the allocation of social housing is still at the discretion of the local housing authority.

  • PRESS RELEASE : First ever Entrepreneurship Advisor appointed to the Treasury [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : First ever Entrepreneurship Advisor appointed to the Treasury [June 2025]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 19 June 2025.

    Alex Depledge MBE appointed by the Chancellor as first ever Entrepreneurship Advisor appointed to Treasury to address barriers for high growth businesses.

    • New appointment to support growth in build up to Autumn Budget
    • This is on top of the significant steps the government has already taken to support entrepreneurs through increased R&D funding and extending the Enterprise Investment Scheme and Venture Capital Trust schemes, delivering on our Plan for Change

    Entrepreneurs will now have a direct line to government and will benefit from additional expertise within the Treasury as the Chancellor has appointed Alex Depledge MBE as her Entrepreneurship Adviser.

    Over the coming months, Alex will advise the Chancellor on the government’s entrepreneurship landscape, focusing on addressing the key barriers faced by businesses seeking to start up and scale up in the UK.

    Reducing barriers for business, entrepreneurs and investors is key to boosting economic growth and delivering the government’s Plan for Change.

    Alex brings with her extensive entrepreneurship experience, having successfully built several businesses from the ground up, including Resi and Helpling, formerly known as Hassle.com. She knows what it takes to build a successful business and will be in a position to offer invaluable advice to boost growth for the businesses of the future.

    The government has already taken significant steps to support start-ups since taking office. We have extended the Enterprise Investment Scheme and Venture Capital Trust schemes to 2035 and increased R&D funding to £22.6 billion per year by 2029/30 to support the growth even more innovative businesses of the future, this support will allow them to invest and take on new staff, putting more money into working people’s pocket.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

    Start-ups, scale-ups and other small businesses drive the innovation that keeps Britain growing, delivering our Plan for Change.

    We have a long list of successful start ups, scale ups and small businesses across the UK – with the greatest density of scale ups among the seven major industrial countries in the G7.

    Having Alex on the team will bring invaluable expertise with her experience building successful businesses from the ground up, and I look forward to working with her.

    Alex Depledge MBE, said:

    I’m honoured to be appointed as the Chancellor’s first-ever Entrepreneurship Advisor, a ground-breaking move that puts high-growth businesses at the heart of economic thinking.

    It’s the first time an entrepreneur has held this role, and it signals a bold commitment from government to back the scale-ups and innovators powering the UK forward.

    There are over 34,000 scale-ups in the UK — just 0.6% of SMEs — yet they generate a staggering £1.4 trillion in turnover, contributing 55% of all SME revenues.

    This is a chance to rewrite the playbook on how we support entrepreneurs, and I’m here to make sure we take full advantage of it.