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PRESS RELEASE : Rapist who posed as professional photographer has sentence increased [May 2025]

The press release issued by the Attorney General’s Office on 2 May 2025.

A sexual predator who posed as a photographer to lure women to his home before sexually abusing them has sentence increased after Solicitor General intervenes.

Anthony Williams (40), from Gloucester, has had his eight-year sentence increased to 12 years by the Court of Appeal after the Solicitor General referred his case under the Unduly Lenient Sentence (ULS) scheme.

The court heard that Williams pretended to be a professional photographer, approaching women online and luring them to his makeshift studio at his home.

During the photoshoot, Williams encouraged the women to undress before he sexually abused them.

He carried out 17 attacks over the course of nine photoshoots between July 2021 and December 2021.

In victim impact statements several women spoke about how much Williams had impacted their mental health. One victim said: “I find myself feeling like a mere shadow of my former self.”

The Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP said:

Williams exploited and manipulated women into thinking they were taking part in professional photo shoots but this was just part of a grim scheme to brutally assault them for his own sexual gratification.

Protecting women and girls is an absolute priority for this government and I would like to offer my sympathies to the victims. I welcome the court’s increase to this sentence.

Anthony Williams was sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment on 22 January 2025 after a jury at Gloucester Crown Court found him guilty of 14 counts of sexual assault, two counts of assault by penetration and one count of rape. The court also imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for life.

On 15 April 2025 at the Court of Appeal, Anthony Williams had his sentence increased to 12 years.

May 2, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister hails game changing UK-made RAF drones [May 2025]
The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 2 May 2025.

Hundreds of highly skilled jobs are being supported by the RAF’s new cutting-edge UK made drones.
- New British-made ‘StormShroud’ drones are at the cutting edge of defence combat air, taking advantage of learnings from countering Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine
- Brand new tech supports hundreds of jobs and shows investment in UK defence is driving economic growth, making communities better off, and bolstering national security by delivering on the Plan for Change
- Getting from the factory to the frontline at an unprecedented pace, the drones will fly alongside crewed aircraft as part of crucial RAF frontline missions, to knock out enemy air defences
- Tekever, who manufacture the drones, announce a further £400 million investment in the UK
Hundreds of highly skilled jobs are being supported by the RAF’s new cutting-edge UK made drones, known as ‘StormShroud’, which come into operation today (Friday 2 May), as the Prime Minister further bolsters UK national security.

It is the latest boost to the UK’s defence capabilities as the armed forces reap the benefits from Ukraine’s battlefield experience, and comes as the UK continues to play a leading role in peace negotiations, including building momentum in talks between leaders in Rome last weekend. The UK is also driving forward Coalition of the Willing planning as well as accelerating UK-Ukrainian defence industrial cooperation.

The StormShroud drone is a groundbreaking first-of-its-kind drone that will make the RAF’s world-class combat aircraft more survivable and more lethal. The drones offer a step change in capability by using a high-tech BriteStorm signal jammer to disrupt enemy radar at long ranges, protecting our aircraft and pilots. In revolutionary new tactics, the drones support aircraft like Typhoon and F35 Lightning, by confusing enemy radars and allowing combat aircraft to attack targets unseen. This means for the first time, the RAF will benefit from high-end electronic warfare without needing crew to man it, freeing them up for other vital frontline missions.

The RAF is investing an initial £19 million into the cutting-edge drones, which are made in the UK and directly support 200 highly skilled engineering jobs at multiple UK locations already from West Wales to Somerset, with further opportunities expected in future. StormShroud is just the first of a family of next-generation drones – known as Autonomous Collaborative Platforms (ACPs) – being delivered to the RAF.

The Tekever AR3 and AR5 have had extensive use on the frontline fighting Putin’s illegal war, racking up more than 10,000 hours of flight for Ukraine’s forces. The RAF is taking the next step by integrating best-in-class signal scrambling technology into the drones to boost the UK’s defences at home, as the Prime Minister steps up UK defence capabilities to counter complex threats in the face of global instability.

In a further vote of confidence in Britain’s defence industry, British-Portuguese tech company Tekever, who manufacture the drones in the UK, plan to invest a further £400 million over the next 5 years across the UK and create up to 1,000 more highly skilled jobs.

The Prime Minister will visit to a Leonardo UK site in the South East today to see first-hand the expertise that goes into manufacturing the drones, and meeting the staff involved in delivering it, including many engineering apprentices representing the next generation of British defence industry excellence.

As well as stepping up to protect our interests on the world stage, this government’s commitment to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027 means more secure, well-paid jobs for a generation that’s proud to keep our country safe.

Just last week, the Carrier Strike Group launched its eight-month deployment and will join exercises, operations and visits with 30 countries across the Mediterranean, Middle East, south-east Asia, Japan and Australia – led by the Royal Navy’s largest and most powerful aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales. The deployment sends a powerful message that the UK and its allies stand ready to protect vital trade routes in the Indo-Pacific region.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

Investment in our defence is an investment in this country’s future. Putting money behind our Armed Forces and defence industry is safeguarding our economic and national security by putting money back in the pockets of hard-working British people and protecting them for generations to come.

Together with our allies, this government is taking the bold action needed to stand up to Putin and ruthlessly protect UK and European security, which is vital for us to deliver our Plan for Change and improve lives of working people up and down the country.

It is a privilege to meet and learn from the young minds driving innovation in defence technology, and we will continue to invest in the industries of the future to deliver security and opportunity for the British people through our Plan for Change.
May 2, 2025
NEWS STORY : UK Urges Armenia to Strengthen Human Rights Protections at UN Review

STORY

The United Kingdom has commended Armenia for recent human rights advancements while urging further reforms to safeguard vulnerable communities. This statement was delivered during Armenia’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Eleanor Sanders, the UK’s Ambassador for Human Rights, acknowledged Armenia’s progress since its last review in 2020. Notably, she highlighted the strengthening of domestic violence legislation in 2024 and the abolition of the death penalty in all circumstances. Additionally, improvements in media freedom were recognised as positive developments.

However, Sanders expressed concern over ongoing discrimination and attacks against LGBT+ individuals in Armenia. To address these issues, the UK recommended that Armenia:

– Implement comprehensive anti-discrimination laws protecting sexual orientation and gender identity across all sectors.

– Ratify the Istanbul Convention to enhance protections for women against violence and domestic abuse.

– Develop community-based services to support individuals with psychosocial and intellectual disabilities.

The UK’s statement is intended to show its commitment to promoting human rights and supporting Armenia’s efforts towards inclusive reforms.

May 2, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Universal Periodic Review 49 – UK Statement on Armenia [May 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 2 May 2025.

Statement by the UK’s Ambassador for Human Rights to the UN, Eleanor Sanders, at Armenia’s Universal Periodic Review at the Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Thank you, Mr President,

The UK welcomes the positive steps taken by Armenia since its 2020 review, particularly strengthening of the domestic violence law in 2024, which offers a robust framework for addressing domestic violence.

We also welcome Armenia abolishing the death penalty in all circumstances and their positive trajectory on media freedom.

However, we remain concerned about reported incidences of continued discrimination, hate speech and attacks against LGBT+ individuals.

We recommend that Armenia:

Implements an anti-discrimination law protecting sexual orientation and gender identity in all sectors to combat LGBT+ hate crimes and hate speech.

Ratifies the Istanbul Convention to protect women from violence and domestic abuse.

Implements a plan for community-based services to protect and include persons with psychosocial and intellectual disabilities.

Thank you.

May 2, 2025
NEWS STORY : Andrea Jenkyns Elected as Greater Lincolnshire’s First Mayor in Victory for Reform UK

STORY

Dame Andrea Jenkyns of Reform UK has been elected as the inaugural Mayor of the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority, securing a decisive victory with 42% of the vote. This marks Reform UK’s first mayoral win and a significant milestone in the party’s political ascent. Jenkyns, a former Conservative MP who joined Reform UK in 2024, defeated Conservative candidate Rob Waltham, who secured 26.1% of the vote. Labour’s Jason Stockwood received 12.3%, while other candidates from the Lincolnshire Independents, Green Party, and Liberal Democrats trailed behind.

The election, held on 1 May 2025, was the first for the newly established Greater Lincolnshire mayoralty, encompassing Lincolnshire County Council, North Lincolnshire Council, and North East Lincolnshire Council. In her victory speech, Jenkyns emphasised a commitment to addressing local concerns, stating, “This result shows that people are ready for change. We will work tirelessly to ensure that Greater Lincolnshire’s voice is heard and respected.”

The win is part of a broader surge for Reform UK in the 2025 local elections, including a narrow victory in the Runcorn and Helsby parliamentary by-election. Political analysts view Jenkyns’ election as indicative of shifting political dynamics in the UK, with Reform UK emerging as a formidable force challenging traditional party strongholds. As Mayor, Jenkyns will oversee regional development initiatives, infrastructure projects, and public services, with a focus on economic revitalisation and community engagement.

May 2, 2025
NEWS STORY : Trump Administration Approves First Military Equipment Sale to Ukraine Amid Minerals Deal

STORY

The Trump administration has approved its first sale of military equipment to Ukraine since President Donald Trump assumed office, marking a significant shift in U.S. policy towards Kyiv. The State Department certified a proposed license to export “$50 million or more” in defence hardware and services to Ukraine, according to a communication sent to the U.S. Committee on Foreign Relations.

This development follows the recent signing of the Ukraine–United States Mineral Resources Agreement, a deal granting the U.S. preferential access to Ukrainian mineral resources, including rare earth elements. The agreement also establishes a joint investment fund aimed at Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy hailed the minerals deal as a “truly equal” partnership, emphasising its potential to attract significant investment into Ukraine’s economy.

The approval of the military equipment sale signifies a notable policy reversal, as President Trump had previously paused all Ukraine-related military aid shortly after taking office. Analysts suggest that the minerals agreement may have been a catalyst for the renewed military support, indicating a strategic linkage between economic cooperation and defence assistance. The move comes amid ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine, with recent attacks reported in cities like Odesa. The U.S. decision to resume military sales is expected to bolster Ukraine’s defence capabilities as the conflict continues.

May 2, 2025
NEWS STORY : Reform UK Secures Historic By-Election Victory in Runcorn and Helsby by Six Votes

STORY

In a landmark political upset, Reform UK has won the Runcorn and Helsby by-election, narrowly defeating Labour by just six votes. This small margin marks the closest by-election result in UK history, overturning Labour’s previous majority of nearly 15,000 votes.

Sarah Pochin, a former Conservative councillor and local magistrate, secured 12,645 votes (38.72%), edging out Labour’s Karen Shore, who garnered 12,639 votes (38.70%). The by-election was triggered by the resignation of Labour MP Mike Amesbury following a suspended prison sentence for assault. The result followed a dramatic recount after initial counts showed a mere four-vote difference. The final declaration was delayed by three hours due to the recount process.

Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, hailed the victory as a “seismic shift” in British politics, stating that the result demonstrates the public’s desire for change. The by-election saw a significant swing of over 20 percentage points from Labour to Reform UK, highlighting growing discontent with the traditional parties. The Conservative Party’s vote share plummeted to 7.17%, down from 16% in the previous general election, narrowly maintaining third place ahead of the Green Party.

Labour leader Keir Starmer faces mounting pressure as internal critics call for a reassessment of the party’s strategy to counter the rising influence of Reform UK. The by-election outcome underscores the volatility of the current political landscape and sets the stage for a potentially transformative general election in 2029.

May 2, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Universal Periodic Review 49 – UK Statement on Kenya [May 2025]
The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 1 May 2025.

Statement by the UK’s Ambassador for Human Rights to the UN, Eleanor Sanders, at Kenya’s Universal Periodic Review at the Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Thank you.

We thank the Kenyan delegation and congratulate Kenya on its election to the Human Rights Council.

We welcome important reforms made since Kenya’s last review, including the commuting of all death sentences imposed before November 2022.

We commend the launch of the Strategic Framework for Police Reforms and the establishment of specialised courts for sexual and gender-based violence cases.

Following widespread protests in 2024, we continue to encourage the authorities to protect civic space and media freedom, and the right to peaceful protest, as enshrined in Kenya’s Constitution.

We recommend that Kenya:
1. Fully implements the National Coroners Service Act 2017.
2. Strengthens anti-corruption and counter-illicit finance laws and practices, including by protecting whistle blowers, and passing and implementing the Conflict-of-Interest bill.
3. Implement the two-thirds gender principle in all elective or appointive bodies, with particular focus on the 2027 elections.
Thank you.
May 1, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Universal Periodic Review 49 – UK Statement on Lesotho [May 2025]
The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 1 May 2025.

Statement by the UK’s Ambassador for Human Rights to the UN, Eleanor Sanders, at Lesotho’s Universal Periodic Review at the Human Rights Council in Geneva.Statement by the UK’s Ambassador for Human Rights to the UN, Eleanor Sanders, at Lesotho’s Universal Periodic Review at the Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Thank you, Mr Vice-President,

We thank Lesotho for explaining their efforts to protect human rights.

We particularly welcome the implementation of existing legislation to address gender-based violence. We urge the government to tackle structural drivers of gender-based violence and extend support services for survivors, particularly in rural areas.

We call on the government to protect the rights of those living and working in the vicinity of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project. Providing adequate compensation, employment benefits and educational opportunities, and safeguarding women from sexual exploitation are vital.

Lastly, we encourage Lesotho to address inequities in early years education by supporting children from the ebaPhuti and Xhosa peoples to access educational resources in their indigenous languages.

We recommend that Lesotho:
1. Provides communities affected by the Lesotho Highlands Water Project with adequate compensation, and access to related electricity, employment and educational opportunities.
2. Extends support services for women and girls in both rural and urban areas across Lesotho, including for survivors of sexual violence.
3. Implements a strategy to support children from the ebaPhuti and Xhosa peoples to access educational resources in their indigenous languages.
Thank you.
May 1, 2025
NEWS STORY : Havant and South Downs College Issued Financial Notice to Improve Following Cashflow Concerns

STORY

Havant and South Downs College (HSDC) has been placed under formal intervention by the Department for Education (DfE) after receiving a Financial Notice to Improve (NtI) due to serious cashflow pressures and an ‘Inadequate’ financial health rating for the year ending July 2024. The DfE’s decision follows its College Oversight policy, which mandates intervention when a college’s financial health is deemed inadequate or when significant cashflow issues are identified. As a result, HSDC must comply with additional funding conditions outlined in the NtI to continue receiving government funding.

The college has been referred to the Further Education (FE) Commissioner’s team for an independent assessment of its leadership, management, and governance capabilities. The FE Commissioner is scheduled to visit HSDC on 1 May 2025 to conduct this evaluation. The findings may lead to further revisions of the NtI, depending on the recommendations provided.

The DfE will closely monitor HSDC’s progress through scheduled case conferences and collaboration with other agencies. Failure to meet the specified conditions could result in additional actions, including the use of statutory intervention powers under the Further and Higher Education Act 1992. HSDC is required to publish the FE Commissioner’s summary report on its website within 14 days of issuance and maintain it online until the NtI is lifted. The DfE will review the NtI regularly, with revisions anticipated at least annually to ensure its relevance.

May 1, 2025