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Michelle Donelan – 2023 Speech at Onward on the Future of AI

The speech made by Michelle Donelan, the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, on 24 October 2023.

Firstly let me say a massive thank you to Onward.

I said when I first launched this new and exciting Department that people could expect to see a constant drumbeat of action from my officials, from my ministers and my entire team…

What I didn’t expect was for Onward to take that challenge on too!

From your brilliant report on generative AI earlier this year, to Allan Nixon’s Wired for Success Report which gave us insights into DSIT that illumined Whitehall.

And I hear through the grapevine that Onward are publishing another AI-focused report in the coming weeks, so I look forward to reading that.

It is safe to say that the world is now wide awake to the opportunities and the challenges posed by artificial intelligence.

In the last 3 years alone, MPs have mentioned Artificial Intelligence more times in the House of Commons than they did in the entire 30 years before that.

And when I stood up to give my first speech as the Secretary of State for the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, I made it clear that we were going to be different and we were going to do things differently.

So, when it comes to AI, I think it is especially important because we cannot afford for DSIT to be a normal ‘business as usual’ Whitehall department.

Nor can we deliver extraordinary things without more extraordinary people in our Departmental team.

We need to be as agile, innovative and as accessible just like the entrepreneurs and businesses and researchers that we represent.

And I am pleased to report that we have done exactly that.

Over a matter of months we have added world-renowned AI experts to our Department and Taskforce…

From renowned AI professors like David Krueger and Yarin Gal…

To one of the Godfathers of AI, Yoshua Bengio….

With our skills, Frontier AI Taskforce and our global AI Safety Summit, it is clear that the UK is perfectly placed to lead the international charge on seizing the opportunities of AI whilst gripping the risks.

However, today I want to get beyond the statistics and go deeper into the philosophy that is driving our approach to AI.

Many of you will have heard me talk about AI safety being the UK’s priority, and how we can only truly utilise the extraordinary benefits AI has to offer once we have tackled some of the safety challenges associated with the frontier.

To some this may sound overcautious, or that we are being driven by fear of the risks rather than optimism about the opportunities. But actually I think it is rather about the opportunities that we are focusing on.

Today, I want to smash these myths head on.

Here at Onward, I want to set out how the UK’s approach to safety and security in AI will make it the best place in the world for new AI companies to not only grow but locate here.

Safety and security are key to unlocking innovation.

The country which tackles key AI safety risks first will be the first to fully take advantage of the huge potential that AI has to provide.

That is why the UK is putting more investment into these questions right now than any other country in the world.

Questions like “how do we prevent misuse of Frontier AI by malicious actors?”

And “how do we ensure we don’t lose human control and oversight of this new technology?”

And how can we protect our society including our democratic system.

Think of how air travel – once considered a dangerous new technology by many – is now one of the safest and most beneficial technologies in human history.

We got there by working with countries across the world to make sure we have the right safety mechanisms in place – and now we all reap the benefits of flying safely.

Safety is absolutely critical to unlocking adoption across our economy.

Boosting consumer confidence is what will make the difference between a country taking a few years to adopt new technology into their lives, or a few decades.

I want to make sure the UK is at the forefront of reaping the benefits of this transformative technology.

Our approach to AI has been commended for being agile, open and innovative. But we need more research to guide our approach.

In many cases, we simply don’t understand the risks in enough detail or certainty right now because this an emerging technology that is developing quicker than any other technology in human history.

It took mankind just over a lifetime to go from the horse and cart to the space race.

Yet in the last four years large language models have gone from barely being able to write a coherent sentence to now being able to pass the bar exam and medical exams and who knows what large language models have are set to hold.

So the pace of development is fast and unpredictable which means our focus needs to be on understanding the risks.

And in life I do think its important to understand the problem before rushing to solutions. And with AI this should be no different.

That is why we established the Frontier AI Taskforce and have appointed a world-leading research team to turbo-charge our understanding of frontier AI with expert insights.

The Taskforce is already making rapid progress, forging partnerships with industry and developing innovative approaches to addressing the risks of AI and harnessing its benefits.

The Global AI Safety Summit is also an opportunity to build that understanding, share learnings and establish a network globally to work together to ensure our research can keep up with this transformative emerging technology.

Indeed, one of the key objectives of the Summit is to form an agreement on what the key risks actually are.

By bringing countries, leading tech organisations, academia and civil society together, the UK will lead the international conversation on frontier AI.

The global nature of AI means that international concerted action is absolutely critical. AI doesn’t stop at geographical boundaries and nor should our approach.

But of course, we do also need to make sure we have the right domestic approach in place to drive safe, responsible AI innovation.

Earlier this year we set out a principles-based approach through the AI Regulation White Paper.

Our approach is agile, targeted and sector-specific.

We here in the UK understand that AI use cases are drastically different across different sectors.

A one size fits all system that treats agri-tech the same way as military drones because they both use AI is unreasonable and undeliverable.

By empowering existing regulators to regulate AI in their own sectors where they have their own expertise, we have created the most tailored and responsive regulatory regime anywhere in the world.

We have also supported different sectors with a Central risk function – horizon scanning.

Later this year, we will publish a full response to our White Paper – showing how our approach is keeping pace with this transformative technology.

So, what does this all mean for small businesses?

The regulatory approach set out in the White Paper is specifically designed to be flexible, support innovation and ensure that small, new and challenger AI companies can grow and succeed here in the UK.

And indeed, we are already taking steps to deliver on those aims by working with the Digital Regulation Cooperation Forum to pilot a new advisory service for AI and digital innovators so companies can bring their products more quickly and safely to market.

We want the UK to remain one of the most nimble and innovative places in the world for AI companies to grow.

That is why it is right to reaffirm our commitment to our principles-based approach to regulation whilst also taking bold steps to address risks at the frontier,

investing in world-class research capabilities and working closely with industry and civil society to make sure our AI governance approach keeps pace.

Our proportionate and targeted approach will enable us to foster innovation and encourage companies to grow to catch up with the frontier – because we are not pulling up the drawbridge –in fact what we want to do is give consumers and the public confidence to boost adoption and it will ensure we can seize the opportunities safely.

Far from a race to the bottom, the key AI developers across the world and here in the UK are telling me they are looking for countries where they will have certainty, clarity and support when it comes to building and deploying AI safely.

They want a mature, considered and agile approach to AI that maximises the potential for innovation by mitigating the risks.

They want to open up in countries where consumers are open-minded and excited about using their AI tools to improve their lives, which is why with the global AI Safety Summit, we are not only talking about risks, but also talking about opportunities for the benefit of mankind.

And the proof is in the pudding Open AI, Anthropic have opened their international offices here.

I want the UK people to use AI with the same confidence and lack of fear as we do when we book an airplane ticket.

And I want AI companies to know that the UK is the most up-to-date, agile and economically rewarding place in the world to build their business in.

So, to all the smaller AI companies out there, let me send this message out to you today: the UK is and will remain the most agile and innovative place for you to develop your business.

Safety at the frontier means prosperity across the sector.

We will grip the risks so that we can seize the opportunities.

Thank you.

01/11/2023
PRESS RELEASE : Details of the review into police use of force published [October 2023]

The press release issued by the Home Office on 24 October 2023.

The review into police use of force and police driving investigations has commenced.

The terms of a review looking at whether existing legislation on police use of force and driving provides sufficient protections for those in the line of duty, and maintains public confidence in policing, have been published today (24 October 2023).

The review, which was requested by the Home Secretary and will be coordinated by the Home Office, is expected to provide findings to Suella Braverman by the end of the year.

The first part of the review will assess whether the existing legal and regulatory framework that underpins police use of force and police driving offers the right protections to the police, particularly firearms officers. It will also examine if these frameworks are sufficient to maintain the public’s confidence in policing, particularly communities and families impacted by police actions.

The review will also consider the systems for investigating police officers, including referrals to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, especially in incidents where members of the public have been killed or injured, and whether cases involving those acting in the line of duty should be treated differently from other cases.

The timeliness of investigations and legal processes will also be looked into, including whether more effective working between the Independent Office for Police Conduct and the Crown Prosecution Service can reduce timescales of criminal investigations and whether there are options to reduce any duplications in criminal, coronial and misconduct processes.

Finally, the review will examine whether improvements need to be made to officer suspension and anonymity. This will look at communications following an incident and ask if they strike the right balance between providing clarity to officers and reassuring members of the public.

Home Secretary Suella Braverman said:

We depend on our brave police officers to put themselves in harm’s way in order to keep us safe.

It is one of the toughest jobs, relying on officers to make life or death decisions in a split second and we should never take it for granted.

It is why I requested this review to ensure the legal frameworks under which the police operate command the confidence of both officers and members of the public.

The Home Office will work with the Ministry of Justice and the Attorney General’s Office on this review and is clear that it will not impinge on the operational independence of the police and other relevant bodies in the criminal justice system. The review will also not consider ongoing investigations or live legal proceedings.

01/11/2023
PRESS RELEASE : Home Office to exit first 50 asylum hotels by the end of January [October 2023]

The press release issued by the Home Office on 24 October 2023.

The first 50 hotels across the UK will stop housing asylum seekers by the end of January, as a result of a more than 20% drop in small boat crossings compared to last year, the Immigration Minister has confirmed today (24 October 2023).

The Home Office has already notified local authorities, MPs and the accommodation providers, informing them that the first 50 hotels temporarily accommodating asylum seekers will be exited as part of the move to return hotels to their proper use by communities.

Initial efforts will focus on hotels that can be exited quickly. This announcement will help to relieve pressures on local services in the areas where exits are taking place, and provide a boost to the local economy.

These hotels will be gradually handed back to hoteliers by the end of January 2024, with the first of these expected to be exited in the coming days.

Asylum seekers currently accommodated in these hotels will be moving to other parts of the UK’s asylum estate, including the Bibby Stockholm barge.

Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick said:

Taxpayers cannot be expected to foot the eye-watering bill for the use of hotels to accommodate individuals making illegal, dangerous and wholly unnecessary small boat crossings.

Our strategy to stop the boats is making progress. With small boat arrivals down more than 20% compared with last year, we can now start to restore these hotels to their rightful use for local communities.

We remain absolutely determined, through the implementation of the Illegal Migration Act and our Rwanda partnership, to dismantle the smuggling gangs’ business models and stop the boats entirely.

The move comes amid a decrease in small boat crossings, which are down by more than 20% compared to this point in 2022.

This move has been achieved due to the government’s wider efforts to tackle illegal migration, including our ongoing work with our international partners such as our agreement with the French government, and strengthened partnerships with Turkey and Italy to tackle organised immigration crime.

On top of this, the government is going even further through our Illegal Migration Act which will mean that people arriving in the UK illegally are detained and promptly removed to their country of origin or a safe third country.

Capacity has also been increased by making better use of sites in the current asylum estate, by optimising room sharing and alternative accommodation sites, such as the former military base at Wethersfield and the Bibby Stockholm barge, which offer better value for the taxpayer and are more manageable for communities.

The Home Office will work closely with accommodation providers and local authorities to manage the exit process in a way which limits the impact on partners and service users alike.

Today’s announcement on exiting hotels is just one part of the government’s wider efforts to tackle illegal migration.

Specifically, since the signing of the Joint Communiqué with the government of Albania in December 2022, more than 4,100 Albanian nationals with no right to be in the UK have been returned. This includes some people who were returned 48 hours after illegally arriving by small boat.

There has also been a clamp down on rogue employers, with 4,721 illegal working visits carried out between the start of January and the end of September 2023. A shake up of civil penalties in August also means employers of illegal workers are set to face fines of up to £60,000.

01/11/2023
PRESS RELEASE : Secretary of State announces appointment of Chair and five members to the Board of the Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC) [October 2023]
The press release issued by the Northern Ireland Office on 24 October 2023.

The Secretary of State, the Rt Hon Chris Heaton-Harris MP, has today announced the appointment of a Chairperson and five Members to the Livestock and Meat Commission Board.
Joseph Stewart has been appointed to the position of Chairperson. The five new members are John Hood, David Mark, Sean McKeever, David Torrens and Elaine Willis. In the absence of Ministers in the Northern Ireland Executive, these appointments were made under the Northern Ireland (Executive Formation etc) Act 2022.

The new Chair took up the role on Monday 4 September 2023.

The appointment of the five new members is effective from Monday 23 October 2023.

Biography of appointees

Mr Joseph M Stewart OBE, LLB, JP, is retired and brings significant experience from the private and public sector, having held positions in the Engineering Employers Federation, Harland & Wolff, Police Authority (NI) and PSNI (in a non-police role). Joseph has served as an LMC Board Member since 2021 and is a Non-Executive Director of the Public Health Agency. He also serves as Council Member of the Suffolk Sheep Society Ltd. Joseph was awarded an OBE for Public Service in 1994.

Mr John Hood has over 23 years in-depth experience in investment, marketing and economic development. For the last 10 years he was the Director of the Food and Drink Division at Invest NI where he delivered significant growth across the food and drink sector.

Mr David Mark has extensive experience across the agri-food sector. Throughout his career he has worked directly with producers and major customers on agricultural technical areas. He previously served on the Northern Ireland Food Advisory Committee of the Food Standards Agency and is Chair of the Trade Exhibits Committee in the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS).

Mr Sean McKeever is a Chartered Accountant and has substantial strategy, finance and governance experience within Health and Personal Social Services and NHS organisations. He currently serves as a non-executive director, and chair of the Governance and Audit Committee, of the Business Services Organisation. He also brings on farm experience as a producer of beef.

Mr David Torrens is a recently retired vet who has an in-depth knowledge of the agriculture sector through his role as Director of DAERA’s Veterinary Service Animal Health Group. He currently serves as the Northern Ireland representative on the British Veterinary Association’s Policy Committee. He has extensive experience in the public sector, including in corporate governance and financial and risk management.

Mrs Elaine Willis is a Retail Operations Director and brings significant experience in the Agri-Food Processing Industry, including New Product Development, Business Development and Sales and Marketing. Elaine represents the red meat processing sector on the College of Agriculture Farming and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) Advisory Group.

Details of body

The LMC is an Executive Non-Departmental Public Body, sponsored by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA). The main duty of the LMC is to examine and recommend improvements in the marketing of livestock and livestock products.

Terms of Chair Appointment

The Chair role requires approximately 48 days per annum.

The Chair appointment to the LMC is for a three-year term.

The Chairperson post is remunerated at £17,315 per annum.

Terms of Member Appointment

The member role requires approximately 30 days per annum.

The member appointment to the LMC is for a three-year term.

The member post is remunerated at £6,485 per annum.

Regulation

The appointments are made in accordance with the Livestock and Meat Commission Act (Northern Ireland) 1967 and the Commissioner for Public Appointments for Northern Ireland (CPANI) Code of Practice.

Political Activity

All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process. However, the Commissioner for Public Appointments for Northern Ireland requires the political activity of appointees to be published. None of the candidates have declared any political activity in the last five years.

Notes to editors

The LMC was added by Statutory Instrument to the Northern Ireland Executive Formation Act 2022 on 10 July 2023.

Media queries should be directed to the DAERA Press Office: pressoffice.group@daera-ni.gov.uk or phone 02890 524619.

The Executive Information Service operates an out of hours service for media enquiries only between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The duty press officer can be contacted on 028 9037 8110.
01/11/2023
Oliver Dowden – 2023 Speech to the Future Investment Initiative
The speech made by Oliver Dowden, the Deputy Prime Minister, in Riyadh on 24 October 2023.
Today’s theme is ‘defining dynamism amid global shocks’.

And there could be no more apt place to discuss dynamism than Saudi Arabia.

The pace of change in the Kingdom is dizzying:

Asserting global leadership from the Gulf…

…rocketing up the rankings for ease of doing business…

…leapfrogging the world’s largest economies…

…embracing technological change…

… and transforming an economy fuelled by oil… into one powered by renewables…

…making Vision 2030 not just a vision, but a reality.

That is true dynamism: embracing change, and leading the charge.

With your megacities and giga-projects, Saudi is not just adopting clean technologies but pioneering them…

…delivering solutions that we will all be using in the future.

So That’s why the UK is proud to partner with you in a huge array of areas, such as financial services, clean energy, urban regeneration, academia, defence, sports, e-gaming and more.

Truly a partnership for the future.

AGE OF SHOCKS

But we do so in a world where shocks have become the new norm.

We rightly refer to them as global shocks because their impact ripples from the epicentre right across our planet.

The great financial crisis … the Covid pandemic … Russia’s invasion of Ukraine …

…Record temperatures and devastating natural disasters…

…and, of course, the brutal strike into the heart of Israel by Hamas terrorists just two weeks ago…

…the very worst of humanity.

Thousands of people have died horrifically… unnecessarily.

Tens of thousands more are injured, or are in mourning.

And millions are now living in fear of the consequences.

This has caused untold misery and has led to deep, widespread insecurity.

And we stand with all innocent victims of this conflict.

Urging respect for international humanitarian law…

And for parties to take every possible step to avoid harming civilians.

And we welcome ongoing efforts to open up humanitarian access to Gaza…

…we have pledged millions extra in aid…

…and we remain committed to the two state solution.

Britain stands together to reject terror, hate and prejudice.

…and to reset the path to peace and long-term stability.

TRADITIONAL SECURITY

And as the Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, the Prime Minister has tasked me personally to drive cross-Government resilience towards shocks of all kinds.

Understanding the nature of the threats we face today…

…and scanning the horizon to predict the threats we may face tomorrow.

The first duty of every government is to protect their civilians.

Of course, our first line of defence is always our armed forces.

Those brave men and women are our resilience personified.

And the UK and Saudi Arabia have a proud partnership in security which stretches back into our history…

…sharing intelligence, exchanging military hardware, training alongside one another…

…and continuing into the future with our world-leading Typhoon jets.

ECONOMIC SECURITY (AND TECH SHOCKS)

But increasingly, the ripples of recent global shocks…

…reverberate in an economic sense…

…disrupting supply chains… driving up energy prices… and causing food shortages.

And it on this economic front, where I am leading the UK’s charge to be out in front, in terms of our resilience…

…developing and retaining critical domestic capabilities…

…screening investment into UK companies…

…protecting Government procurement from national security threats…

…and better understanding our supply chains.

As we scan the horizon, we see that rapid technological advancements will only make this task more urgent.

We’ve had a glimpse into this future…

…with cyberattacks bringing public services to a halt…

…and ransomware wiping millions off companies’ share prices.

Deepfakes have duped consumers…

…bots have interfered in elections…

…and intellectual property has been stolen from businesses and academic institutions.

Now so far, these have been relative skirmishes…

…wrought by an unholy alliance between hostile states and non-state actors.

But with the enormous potential of artificial intelligence and quantum computing…

…there is a very real possibility that the world’s next shock will be a tech shock.

And so next week the United Kingdom will be convening the world’s leading nations and pioneering AI companies for the first global frontier AI safety summit.

These emerging technologies represent exciting opportunities.

…they exist at the cutting edge of development, often yet to be commercialised and with unknown end applications…

But we also know that hostile state actors are actively seeking these technologies for their own competitive advantage…

… or even to enhance their military capability.

And the most valuable commodities to both businesses and nations are increasingly the source code… the technical designs… or other – intangible – intellectual property that underpins innovation.

Where they have a military or dual-use application, traditional means of controlling these transfers are often simply not enough.

These Intangible products can now be exported in a second – attached to an email…

….with no customs official to check any documentation…

…nor a list of multilaterally agreed product categories to check against…

…because these technologies have only just been invented…

…often in small university spin-outs, rather than the established defence contractors used to working with Government.

This dynamism in the tech sphere, must be met with dynamism within Government.

Now I know that ‘Dynamism’ and ‘Government’, not, perhaps, two words which you often put together…

But we cannot afford not to be…

This is why I am reviewing our tools to ensure they are fit for purpose:

Examining our export regime controls, to ensure that it is striking the right balance for emerging technologies relevant to national security…

Exploring other paths through which this sensitive technology can leak out unchecked such as through outbound investment flows…

And working with academic institutions and start-ups to ensure they are alert to the risks, and have the toolkit to protect themselves.

We need to build a policy environment that provides the private sector with the confidence to innovate…

Confidence to build partnerships…

Confidence to grow.

Economic security should never be seen as a constraint on growth.

It is an enabler of it.

UK-KSA ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP

So just as allies work together on physical security, so we need to work together to build economic security.

Just as important as the collaboration between nation states is the partnership between Government and business.

Which is why, earlier this year, we established the National Protective Security Authority within MI5 – so that our security services can support business in understanding and protecting themselves against the threats they face.

The partnership between the UK and Saudi Arabia is a fine example of the collaboration we need.

We made the green finance deal made last year – ensuring we protect our energy needs for the future…

We’ve made an agreement on critical minerals this year – enhancing our collaboration and exploring new sources of supplying these elements that are so vital to our future prosperity and national security.

And through to next year I will personally be prioritising building the bond between our two kingdoms.

So today I can announce that I will be leading a new strand of engagement with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to enhance our cooperation and mutually-beneficial investment relationships, building on similar relations across the gulf.

The partnership between our kingdoms has helped to shape the world we live in, and will be a linch-pin of shaping the future through to 2030.

But just as important as the collaboration between nation states, is the partnership between government and business.

So I will be Chairing a new Public-Private Forum between Government and business on economic security challenges… with the first meetings later this year.

And I want to be very clear to all of you, that my door is always open to investors to discuss our economic security agenda.

And our first task when Prime MInister Rishi Sunak was to restore the predictability and stability that investors so cherish in the United Kingdom.

Our task now is to drive growth, jobs, prosperity and investment. And I know that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will be a key partner in that mission.

PROSPERITY AGENDA

But we should also never underestimate how much our peace, stability, and resilience to shocks are underpinned by our prosperity.

A strong, growing economy doesn’t just allow you to invest in your armed forces….

…it also allows you to deliver for your people…

…it is a signal to the world that you are a serious partner and a key player.

Those who will succeed in this age of uncertainty, as new economic powers vie for pole position…

…are those with the fastest-growing, most vibrant, dynamic economies.

And those nations – and those businesses – will get to shape the new global order.

And the UK is laser-focused on that prosperity agenda.

We are wide open for business…

…a world-leader in climate solutions, life sciences and creativity…

…a wonderful place to invest and innovate…

…and a partner with whom to seize technological opportunities.

Happily these areas where we excel are the areas where Saudi wants to grow.

So your Vision 2030 is our vision too.

We’re by your side…

…with scores of fund managers flocking to Riyadh…

…and hundreds of UK businesses operating all across Saudi.

Meanwhile, of course London’s global financial centre remains committed to being the preferred hub for this part of the world…

…thousands of Saudi students and tourists are in Britain…

…and Saudi investment is benefitting every corner of our country.

That is all part of a deepening partnership with the wider GCC – the UK’s 7th largest export market…

…and with whom we hope to increase trade still further through a free trade agreement.

Geopolitical shifts are a great challenge to all our economies…

…but we can turn them into an opportunity to build a new world order based on rules, competition, open markets, innovation and investment.

Because that is the definition of dynamism: turning challenges into opportunities.

Not ignoring the threat of climate change but seizing the opportunities we have to build a green future.

Not shunning artificial intelligence but using it to solve some of the greatest problems we face.

Not turning inwards as new powers emerge and challenges arise, but forging new alliances and strengthening old ones.

That is how we will withstand shocks, build resilience and embrace opportunities for all our people.

Thank you.
01/11/2023
PRESS RELEASE : Farmers and growers to be given continued access to crucial plant protection products [October 2023]
The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 24 October 2023.
British farmers and growers will continue to have access to important pesticides to support resilient and profitable food production and cut input costs, the government has announced today.

Following feedback from farmers and industry, these plans will ensure farmers and growers can continue to buy and use seeds treated with EU-approved pesticides, and more cost-effective pesticides identical to those authorised in Great Britain can continue being imported.

The plans will not only provide certainty to farmers so they know which treated seeds and plant protection products they can use in coming growing seasons, but will also help improve the availability and reduce the cost of pesticides.

These treated seeds are important for both the arable and horticulture sectors and are particularly important for maize – a crop that is crucial for dairy farmers and in energy production.

The government shared these plans with Parliament yesterday which, once agreed, will come into force by the end of the year. This means there will be no break in the existing treated seed schemes (currently due to expire on 31 December), so that farmers can buy and use treated seeds ready for next growing season.

These measures will provide the agricultural industry and farming communities with valuable time to adapt, whilst also ensuring that we continue to support our farmers to put affordable and high-quality food on our tables.

Farming Minister Mark Spencer said:

The government recognises the challenges faced by farmers and growers in importing treated seeds and more cost-effective pesticide products from the EU as the transition period concludes.

Ensuring that British farmers and growers have access to the tools they need to produce food sustainably and affordably is a priority. The measures announced today will address the potential impacts and concerns raised by our valued farming sector.

Under current timelines, farmers and growers were set to lose access to these products at the end of this year. However, the temporary measures will enable farmers and growers in Great Britain to:

Continue using seeds treated with plant protection products authorised for use in the EU for an additional 3.5 years, extending up to 1 July 2027.

Reinstate trade permits for the import of PPPs that are identical to those authorised in Great Britain for a maximum of two years.

Continuing to give farmers access to these products will help to improve their availability and reduce costs, while providing certainty for the sector over the coming years.

In the long term, this change will ensure manufacturers have time to submit full applications for GB authorisations for seed treatments in order to ensure that they can continue to benefit from the UK market. They have heard from farmers and understand the demand – the regulator will continue working with industry to support them in submitting successful applications.

We are also encouraging farmers to develop and adapt their practices, including through integrated pest management approaches, which can increase resilience by diversifying crop protection techniques. We are already supporting farmers to increase their use of integrated pest management – including through new paid actions such as the Sustainable Farming Incentive scheme’s integrated pest management Standard which includes payments to carry out an assessment and produce an integrated pest management plan.

The bureaucratic Common Agricultural Policy disproportionately rewarded the largest landowners and held back smaller farmers, while delivering little for food productivity or the environment.

The government will continue to make improvements to our Environmental Land Management schemes to ensure they work best for farmers, such as bringing forward early payments in a way which would not have been possible under the Common Agricultural Policy.

The 2023 offer has been expanded and made more flexible in response to farmer feedback with over 23 paid-for actions now on offer including improving hedgerows, nutrient management, farmland wildlife and low input grassland. Other improvements mean that farmers can choose what combination of actions are right for them – unlike previously where actions were grouped into standards.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

The measures are set out in a draft affirmative Statutory Instrument which was laid in Parliament yesterday: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukdsi/2023/9780348252651/pdfs/ukdsi_9780348252651_en.pdf

These measures must be agreed through the Houses of Parliament before they are made into law.

Seed Treatments:

After exiting the EU, the government put arrangements in place until the end of 2023 to continue the import and use of seeds treated in the EU. However, recognising the importance of the scheme, we have today laid secondary legislation in Parliament to introduce an extension to measures that allow seeds treated with PPPs authorised for use in an EU or EEA member state to be imported, marketed and used in GB for an additional three-and-a-half years, up to 1 July 2027.

Following these proposals, manufacturers will have the opportunity to submit applications for full PPP authorisations for seed treatments, covering both existing and new products.

Simultaneously, farmers and growers will have the flexibility to consider utilising new products and alternative methods as part of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach. Notably, the government is already assisting farmers in increasing their adoption of IPM, including through newly introduced incentivised actions in the Sustainable Farming Incentive scheme, which was announced earlier this year.

Parallel Trade:

The arrangements put in place at the point of the EU exit aimed to smooth the transition to a GB regime without parallel trade. However, global events have led to price increases across a range of important sectors, meaning that the need to access cost effective PPPs has become more acute.

Therefore, in response to stakeholder concern from across farming industry, we have today also laid secondary legislation in Parliament to introduce measures which will allow those who held a valid Parallel Trade Permit on 31 December 2022, to apply for it be reinstated for a maximum of two years.

This temporary measure will be in place while we address the limited competition and potential short-term gaps in the market that have arisen from the potential loss of parallel pesticide products.

Guidance will be published on HSE’s website when the regulation has completed the Parliamentary process.

Standards:

As with any policy on pesticides, maintaining protections for the environment and human health is paramount.

Products imported through the parallel trade scheme must be identical to the GB reference product. We will continue to use both intelligence-led investigation and a broad range of controls to monitor, identify and act on any products that do not meet these standards.

The import of treated seeds will be restricted to products authorised in one or more EU countries. This means that they must have passed through a strict regulatory regime with similar high standards to GB to be imported and used in this country. Any products for which the authorisation is withdrawn in the EU will no longer be legal to import and use in GB.
01/11/2023
PRESS RELEASE : Innovation projects in adult social care receive £42.6 million boost [October 2023]
The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 24 October 2023.

Accelerating Reform Fund to support innovation in local areas to boost quality and accessibility of adult social care in England.
Projects include new ways to support unpaid carers, new digital tools for recruitment and retention, and increased social prescribing

Local authorities invited to register for a share of the £42.6 million in grant funding for projects in their area

Unpaid carers and those requiring care are in line to benefit from innovative new projects backed by a £42.6 million fund announced by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) today (24 October 2023), as the government continues to deliver on its vision for social care reform.

The Accelerating Reform Fund will focus on trialling and expanding new approaches to providing care and improving services for unpaid carers and is part of the department’s Innovation and Improvement Unit. This fund includes our commitment to invest up to an additional £25 million to support unpaid carers.

It is intended to fund projects which support our 10-year vision for adult social care, which focuses on 3 objectives:

people have choice, control and support to live independent lives

people can receive outstanding quality and tailored care and support

people find adult social care fair and accessible

Local authorities are invited to register their interest in partnership with others in their integrated care systems to fund local innovation projects, which will be evaluated for potential rollout across the country.

Minister for Care, Helen Whately, said:

I’m delighted to see the sector developing creative ways to move towards our 10-year vision for adult social care, and this funding is intended to help accelerate and grow these innovative approaches more widely.

Our selfless unpaid carers are often the unsung heroes of the care sector – which is why I’ve asked that they are at the heart of this funding, aimed at supporting locally tailored projects that boost the quality, accessibility and independence of care.

Examples of projects include Shared Lives, a care and support service that matches people aged 16 and above who want to live independently in their community with Shared Lives carers. People move in with their Shared Lives carers and are supported within the context of the carer’s home and family. Support can vary depending on what suits the person, but can include temporary care and support, a day service or longer-term overnight care.

An independent cost comparison of Shared Lives found that it has significantly lower costs for people with learning disabilities and people with mental ill health than other forms of regulated social care, such as residential care. Research by the Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE) found that Shared Lives can result in an average saving of £8,000 for people with mental health needs and £26,000 for people with learning disabilities.

For more examples of innovation priorities, including case studies, see accelerating reform in adult social care in England: priorities for innovation and scaling.

Kirsty McHugh, Carers Trust’s CEO, said:

Carers Trust welcomes the focus in the Accelerating Reform Fund on the essential role that unpaid family carers play in our health and social care system. We know from our network of local carer organisations that innovation is already underway across the country.

We’re therefore looking forward to some fruitful collaborations between local authorities, local carer organisations and unpaid family carers themselves in the development and scaling of support which provide unpaid family carers with the help they desperately need.

Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, said:

We’re pleased that the £25 million committed to unpaid carers is now in play – it will be vital in helping to establish innovative and supportive local practices that support unpaid carers’ needs.

With an estimated 12,000 people a day becoming unpaid carers, and a rise in the numbers providing more than 50 hours of care each week, this funding is really necessary.

We hope it paves the way forward for longer-term innovation and support that is focused on unpaid carers’ unique needs.

The fund will support local authorities to take forward projects relevant to their local needs, working collaboratively with local partners in their integrated care system regions, including the NHS, care providers, and voluntary and community sector groups.

It will support at least 2 projects per region, with one of those having a particular focus on unpaid carers. All projects should consider the needs of people who receive care as well as unpaid carers, and ensure they are inclusive of the diverse needs of local populations.

SCIE will be offering hands-on support to local authorities to develop local partnerships and deliver projects. The institute will also collect and share valuable learnings from projects across the country.

Kathryn Smith, Chief Executive of SCIE, said:

SCIE looks forward to working with local authorities to deliver the Accelerating Reform Fund for adult social care. This exciting programme focuses on scaling and spreading urgently needed social care innovation in key areas like supporting the UK’s incredible army of hardworking unpaid carers and delivering new care models.

SCIE’s hands-on support will ensure participating projects benefit from shared learning and expert insights. We will shortly be offering a series of information sessions about the fund, what’s expected from programme participants and how to apply for funding, including with local partnerships.

Those projects that are funded will be evaluated to inform future decisions on embedding models of care in the community and overcome barriers around the lack of evidence on efficacy in the future.

Local authorities, in collaboration with partners in their integrated care system area, are invited to submit their expression of interest to DHSC by 12 January 2024.
01/11/2023
PRESS RELEASE : The UK stands resolutely with Israel in defending itself against terror – Minister for Security Tom Tugendhat statement at the UN Security Council [October 2023]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 24 October 2023.

Statement by Minister for Security Tom Tugendhat at the UN Security Council meeting on the Middle East.

Thank you, President, and thank you to the Secretary-General, the Deputy Special Coordinator, and the Special Envoy for their briefings. I welcome the Israeli and Palestinian Foreign Ministers to the chamber.

The past 17 days have shocked all of us around this table who value the dignity of human life. It is a reminder of the solemn responsibility we carry to uphold peace and security across the world. Israel is a nation in mourning. It is also a nation still under attack. The violence did not end on 7 October.

Terrorist rockets are still raining down on civilian towns and cities in Israel. Around 200 of her citizens are still being held hostage in Gaza. Some of those are fellow British citizens. Some of those families were in this room only a few moments ago. Israel has the right to defend itself. And the duty to protect all those on its territory, of whatever religion they may be, from terrorism.

We recognise that Palestinians are suffering too. Thousands have been killed in this conflict. Over 1 million have been displaced. We know that Hamas are using innocent Palestinian children, civilians, and others as human shields. They have embedded themselves in civilian communities. Hamas care more for the opinion of their paymasters in Tehran than they do for the opinion of their fellow citizens. We know they fire rockets that often fall short, killing and injuring innocent Palestinians. Those people are victims of Hamas too. It is a terrorist organisation that is not just a threat to Israel and the Palestinians but to many others in the region.

President, the UK stands resolutely with Israel in defending itself against terror. We are clear that it must act in line with international humanitarian law and take every possible step to avoid harming civilians. We have given that message to Israel as a friend and ally and we restate that position in this Council. We must urgently get more humanitarian support into Gaza. Sustained and unimpeded humanitarian access must be allowed so civilians can receive lifesaving support as quickly and as effectively as possible. We welcome the news that the Rafah crossing opened to aid trucks in recent days. This was an important first step and testament to the power of diplomacy. However, it is not enough.

As the Secretary-General has said, humanitarian access needs to be sustainable and at a scale. A constant stream of aid – water, fuel, medicine and food – is desperately needed. The UK is doing its part and has committed $37 million of extra support to help civilians in Gaza.

President, we must prevent this conflict sparking conflict beyond Gaza and engulfing the wider region in war. The attacks by Hizballah terrorists on Israel’s northern border, rising tensions in the West Bank, and missiles and drones launched from Yemen all warn of the conflagration that is possible. It is in the interest of Israeli and Palestinian civilians, and all states in the region, that this conflict does not spread further.

That is why my Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary have been in the region, engaging closely with our friends and partners to avoid escalation. Now is the time for dogged diplomacy that recognises the hard realities and delivers help now. Lastly, President, the UK’s longstanding position on the Middle East Peace Process remains clear: we support a negotiated settlement leading to a safe and secure Israel living alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state. The events of the past week show – with total clarity – the need to achieve these goals. Hope and humanity must win out.

I thank you.

01/11/2023
Keir Starmer – 2023 Speech on the Situation in the Middle East

The speech made by Keir Starmer, the Leader of the Opposition, on 31 October 2023.

Thank you all for coming today.

And thank you to Chatham House for hosting and for your resolute commitment to dialogue on this issue.

An issue that so many people recoil from out of despair.

A despair that in the last three weeks has arguably reached new depths.

Indeed, anyone who has followed this closely will have seen images that can never be unseen.

Tiny bodies, wrapped in bundles.

In Israel and Gaza.

Mothers and fathers shattered by the ultimate grief.

The innocent dead.

Israeli. Palestinian. Muslim. Jew.

It’s a tragedy where the facts on the ground are changing by the minute, but where the consequences will last for decades and the trauma might never fade.

A crisis where the search for solutions is shrouded, not just by the fog of war but by an ever-darkening cloud of misinformation.

Nonetheless, we must do what we can and we must explain what we do.

Democratic accountability matters – particularly in light of the rising temperature on British streets.

Our efforts must respond to the two immediate tragedies.

To the 7^th of October – the biggest slaughter of Jews – and that is why they were killed, do not doubt that, since the Holocaust.

Men, women, children, babies murdered, mutilated and tortured by the terrorists of Hamas.

Over 200 hostages, including British citizens, taken back into Gaza.

Make no mistake.

This is terrorism on a scale and brutality that few countries have ever experienced – certainly not this one.

And that is an immutable fact that must drive our response to these events.

As must the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza which again, plays out on a previously unimaginable scale.

Thousands of innocent Palestinians…

Dead.

Displaced.

Desperate for food and water, reduced to drinking contaminated filth, hiding out in hospitals for shelter whilst in those same buildings, babies lie in incubators that could turn off at any moment.

At every stage during this crisis, my approach has been driven by the need to respond to both these tragedies.

To stand by the right to self-defence of any nation which suffers terrorism on this scale alongside the basic human rights of innocent Palestinians caught, once again, in the crossfire.

To focus, at every stage, on the practical steps that might make a material difference on the ground.

In the short-term – on the humanitarian conditions in Gaza and the efforts by Israel to rescue her hostages.

But in the future, also to the hope that I know still burns brightly for those who want peace.

The two-state solution.

An Israel where every citizen enjoys the security they need.

And a viable Palestinian state where the Palestinian people and their children enjoy the freedoms and opportunities that we all take for granted.

That is why, while I understand calls for a ceasefire, at this stage I do not believe that is the correct position now, for two reasons.

One, because a ceasefire always freezes any conflict in the state where it currently lies.

And as we speak, that would leave Hamas with the infrastructure and the capability to carry out the sort of attack we saw on October the 7^th.

Attacks that are still ongoing.

Hostages who should be released – still held.

Hamas would be emboldened and start preparing for future violence immediately.

And it is this context which explains my second reason, which is that our current calls for pauses in the fighting for clear and specific humanitarian purposes, and which must start immediately is right in practice as well as principle.

In fact it is – at this moment– the only credible approach that has any chance of achieving what we all want to see in Gaza – the urgent alleviation of Palestinian suffering.

Aid distributed quickly.

Space to get hostages out.

That is why it is also the position shared by our major allies, in the US and the EU and I urge all parties to heed its call.

Over time, the facts on the ground will inevitably change in relation to both hostages being rescued and Hamas’s capability to carry out attacks like we saw on October the 7^th.

And we must move to cessation of fighting as quickly as possible.

Because the reality is that neither the long-term security of Israel nor long-term justice for Palestine can be delivered by bombs and bullets.

Open-ended military action, action without a clear and desired political outcome is ultimately futile.

This needs to begin now because a political agreement – however unlikely that seems today, however painful the first steps are to take – is the only way to resolve this conflict, once and for all.

That is why our position and our counsel has always been that Israel must submit to the rules of international law.

The right to self-defence is fundamental but it is not a blank cheque.

The supply of basic utilities like water, medicines, electricity and yes, fuel to civilians in Gaza cannot be blocked by Israel.

Every life matters, so every step must be taken to protect civilians from bombardment.

Palestinians should not be forced to leave their homes en masse, but where they have no choice but to flee within Gaza we need crystal clear guarantees that they will be able to return quickly.

You cannot overstate the importance of this last point.

In conflicts like this, the most painful blows are those that land on the bruises of history.

And for Palestinians – the threat of displacement sends a shiver down the spine.

It must be disavowed urgently, clearly and by all.

Because, while it may feel like a truism, so often the trauma of the present, leads directly to the tragedy of the future.

Hamas know this.

They knew Israel would have to respond.

Their aim on October the 7^th was not just to kill Jews, it was to bring death upon their fellow Muslims in Gaza.

A plan, written in blood, to isolate Israel from the West, destroy its improving relations with other Arab Nations and ultimately, provoke wider regional conflicts across the Middle East.

That threat remains real.

And I echo President Biden’s sage advice to Israel.

To understand, in its own interest, why a whirlwind of understandable emotion and rage must not blind it to the fact that it is Hamas it must target, Hamas that is the enemy, Hamas brutality that must be prevented, and not the Palestinian people, who must be protected.

So I say again – we have to get many more aid trucks across the Rafah crossing.

We have to get food, water, electricity, medicine and fuel into Gaza.

We have to preserve innocent lives.

Hospitals must be protected and cannot become targets.

Across the West – we have been calling for this for weeks.

But it hasn’t happened.

The siege conditions haven’t lifted.

That’s unacceptable – and it cannot continue.

The risk of regional escalation is real and must be prevented.

This is why millions of people across our country are rightly concerned.

Concerned as well – about the impact this is having on communities here in Britain.

There are some who want us divided.

But our approach to multi-culturalism is envied around the globe.

Jews, Christians, and Muslims live side-by-side and this is so ordinary it is barely remarked upon.

Inter-faith marriages are common.

People celebrate each others’ traditions and festivals as naturally as they do their own.

The freedom of religious expression is uncontroversial.

We don’t stop often enough to reflect on how unusual this is.

How Britain’s modern diverse democracy is an existential challenge to people, all around the world, who say this cannot be done, something we’ve worked hard for, through the generations and that at moments like this we do have a responsibility to fight for it.

We cannot have a Britain where Jewish business are attacked, Jewish schools marked with red paint, Jewish families hiding who they are.

We cannot have a Britain where Muslim women feel scared to take public transport, Mosques are attacked, Palestinian restaurants receive death threats.

No – this isn’t our Britain.

And in the Labour Party we will have to reach out to communities under pressure and show them the respect and empathy they deserve as a fundamental British right.

But ultimately, the gravest ramifications of failure, will of course be felt in the Middle East itself.

For too long the international community has put the Israeli-Palestinian conflict into the too difficult box.

There is no recent equivalent of anything like the concerted push for peace we saw in the 1990s and early 2000s.

No – what has happened is we have continually paid lip service to a two-state solution.

Because it’s easier – convenient – perhaps to look away.

To look away from Gaza.

Knowing it is controlled by those who want to kill Jews and wipe Israel off the map.

To look away from Israel.

Knowing people live without the security which they deserve.

To look away from the West Bank.

Knowing more settlements are being built against international law.

Now – I don’t say any of this to start a new round of arguments or hand-wringing.

Instead this must be the time for a new resolve.

A renewed push, from all parties, to find a way to peace.

It will mean engaging with our Arab partners, working urgently on viable plans for a Palestine free from the terrorism of Hamas.

It will mean engaging with Israel, seeking to address its security concerns in the future but showing clearly that the settlement building is unacceptable, unlawful and has to stop.

The Palestinian people need to know there is a genuine will and determination from Israel, from Arab states, from the West to finally address their plight in deeds as well as words.

Because the Palestinian claim to statehood is not in the gift of a neighbour.

It is an inalienable right of the Palestinian people and the clear logic of any call for a two-state solution.

So my Labour Party will fight for that cause.

We will work with international partners towards the recognition of a Palestinian state as part of a negotiated, just and lasting peace.

Because even in the darkest days – in fact especially in the darkest days – we have to keep alive the light of peace.

Fight, despite the horror of the present, for the fragile hope of the future.

Focusing, always, on the difference we can make.

This is an old conflict, but it is not and never has been an issue that will be solved by the black and white simplicity of unbending conviction.

Rather, the colour of peace – always in conflict resolution is grey.

And in the coming days and months we must do everything we can to fight for it.

Thank you.

31/10/2023
PRESS RELEASE : UK and Bulgaria to bolster cooperation through signing of new joint declaration [October 2023]
The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 24 October 2023.

The Foreign Secretary hosts Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mariya Gabriel to sign a declaration on a new UK-Bulgaria Strategic Partnership.
- UK and Bulgaria have signed a joint declaration to expand defence and security ties, tackling Russian disinformation and organised immigration crime
- comes after agreement announced earlier this month between Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Prime Minister Nikolai Denkov to tackle illegal migration
- Foreign Secretary emphasised the need for cooperation on long-term support to Ukraine and security in the Black Sea region
The UK will tackle illegal migration, serious organised crime and Russian disinformation through a new strategic partnership with Bulgaria.

The joint declaration signed by Foreign Secretary James Cleverly and his counterpart, Mariya Gabriel, in London today (24 October) will drive cooperation on shared challenges facing European countries, including organised crime and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The signing follows an agreement announced earlier this month between Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Prime Minister Nikolai Denkov to tackle illegal migration and organised immigration crime with increased intelligence sharing and operational cooperation.

The UK has stepped up cooperation on law enforcement since 2020, providing training and equipment to the Bulgarian authorities, including customs and border police, to disrupt the operations of criminal networks.

The ministers are also expected to discuss the challenging situation in Israel and Gaza and the importance of regional security.

The new Joint Declaration on the UK-Bulgaria Strategic Partnership also reflects a shared ambition to further enhance close cooperation, including an increase in academic mobility, R&D and digital trade, as well as boosting links between businesses through the Bulgaria Expansion Bridge, which supports companies to set up in the UK.

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said:

The UK and Bulgaria are strong friends and partners. From our joint work tackling illegal migration and serious organised crime, to our unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.

This strategic partnership cements our commitment to strengthening our cooperation in areas like trade, education and technology, which will help to grow both of our economies.

During their meeting the foreign ministers emphasised the need to continue to support Ukraine to defend itself against Russian aggression and restore security in the Black Sea region.

The UK and Bulgaria have been resolute in their support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, in the provision of lethal aid to Ukraine, and aligning closely in the implementation of the largest package of sanctions targeted against those supporting the war in Ukraine.

The joint declaration demonstrates both countries’ commitment to a wide-ranging relationship, building on over 140 years of strong ties. The foreign ministers also discussed their intention to set up a UK-Bulgaria bilateral forum in the future.
31/10/2023