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  • PRESS RELEASE : First Clean Energy Jobs Fair held at Port of Tyne [December 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : First Clean Energy Jobs Fair held at Port of Tyne [December 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 11 December 2025.

    Energy Secretary and Minister for Industry attended first Clean Energy Jobs Fair at the Port of Tyne in North East England.

    • Energy Secretary and Minister for Industry attended first Clean Energy Jobs Fair at the Port of Tyne in North East England 
    • Up to 15,000 extra clean energy jobs expected in the region in the next five years  
    • Follows the government’s Clean Energy Jobs Plan to recruit and upskill workers needed for clean energy mission 

    Over a hundred schoolchildren and students have attended the government’s first ever Clean Energy Jobs Fair today (Thursday 11 December), co-hosted by the North East Mayor, Port of Tyne, and Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. 

    Following the government’s Clean Energy Jobs Plan, the first ever national plan to train and recruit workers needed for the clean energy mission, the jobs fair brought together local businesses, universities and colleges to show students the thousands of opportunities available.  

    The Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, Minister for Industry Chris McDonald and North East Mayor Kim McGuinness attended what is expected to be the first event in a series across the country. 

    The North East is a major clean energy hub, with Blyth launching the country’s offshore wind industry 25 years ago and the east coast carbon capture cluster expected to directly support 2,000 jobs in the region. 

    Industry and local colleges are already collaborating to train up the next generation of workers in the North East. Newcastle College’s Energy Academy runs subsea and renewable energy training, while Middlesbrough College has partnered with BP to train operators for roles in carbon capture and hydrogen. 

    It comes as Great British Energy has today opened its £300 million supply chain fund to ensure critical components used in offshore wind – from blades to turbines to transmission cables – are built here, supporting jobs in Britain. 

    Minister for Industry Chris McDonald said: 

    Young people in the North East will benefit from the career opportunities of a lifetime in our fast-growing clean energy industry, without needing to leave their home. 

    From engineering to research and construction roles – I could see businesses and local colleges and training providers come together to highlight these jobs of the future.

    North East Mayor, Kim McGuiness said:   

    We are making the North East the home of the green energy revolution so we’re delighted to welcome the Energy Secretary and Minister for Industry to our region today so they can see our work in action. 

    We’ve brought together students with skills providers and employers, showing the wide range of green energy opportunities available here in the North East. We’re funding innovation, infrastructure and skills right across the region to provide thousands more jobs in green energy – up to 24,000 by 2035.  

    We have seen today that young people are excited about their future in this thriving sector – there’s a buzz in the air which is great to see.

    Ashley Nicholson MBE, Chief Business Officer at the Port of Tyne said:  

    We’re proud to showcase the North East’s growing renewables cluster and the opportunities it offers to young people and those looking to retrain. 

    The Port of Tyne is driving the region’s green energy revolution through the 230-acre Tyne Clean Energy Park, backed by over £150 million of investment in world-class infrastructure and a strong track record of project delivery.  

    This momentum is creating a powerful platform for offshore renewables, innovation and new jobs, cementing the North East as a centre of excellence for clean energy.

    Earlier this year the government announced that five new Technical Excellence Colleges will train the next generation of clean energy workers, as part of government’s drive for two-thirds of young people to be in higher-level learning. 

    Backed by record government and private sector investment in clean energy such as renewables and nuclear, the clean energy economy is sparking a boom in demand for good industrial jobs in all regions and nations of the UK – with 31 priority occupations such as plumbers, electricians, and welders particularly in demand. 

    For young people, these jobs can offer higher levels of pay- with entry level roles in the majority of occupations in clean energy paying 23% more than the same occupations in other sectors. 

    Darren Davidson, UK Vice President for Siemens Energy said:  

    Siemens Energy is proud to support the Clean Energy Jobs Fair and help inspire the next generation of talent. Building skills for the energy transition is vital, and events like this show the exciting opportunities ahead. I first began my own journey in the energy sector, as an engineering apprentice, in Newcastle. Today, there’s never been a more exciting time to work in the industry.

    Jamie Lindsay, Senior People Services Manager at RWE said:  

    RWE is proud to support the first Clean Energy Jobs Fair and highlight the range of opportunities across the North East’s growing clean energy economy.  

    We’re creating long-term, high-quality jobs across the UK – from wind technicians operating off the Grimsby Coast to the apprentices, engineers and project teams driving clean energy growth across the UK.  

    Everything we do is powered by our people, and inspiring the next generation to pursue clean energy and STEM careers is essential to our sector’s success.  

    Today’s event is a valuable chance to help young people understand the route to these rewarding careers and showcase the skills and opportunities shaping the workforce of tomorrow.

    Professor Andy Long Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive, Northumbria University, and Chair of Universities for North East England (UNEE) said:  

    The North East has a proud industrial heritage and is now leading the way in clean energy innovation.   

    Across Universities for North East England, we’re committed to equipping the next generation with the skills and knowledge they need to seize the exciting opportunities in the sector.  

    By working closely with industry partners, we’re ensuring our graduates are ready to drive forward the region’s clean energy sector and build successful careers in these vital, well-paid jobs that will power our future.

    James Young, Chief Strategy and Compliance Officer at JDR Cables said: 

    JDR Cable Systems were delighted to attend the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s Clean Energy Jobs Fair at the Port of Tyne.  

    JDR have a proud history of supporting careers in our sector through Apprenticeship and Graduate Programs to help shape the skilled workforce required for the energy infrastructure of the future.

    Charles Shepherd, Managing Director at Shepherd Offshore said:  

    Shepherd Offshore was proud to attend the Clean Energy Job Fair at the Port of Tyne. It was another excellent chance for us to meet young people in the region looking to learn about a possible future career in the offshore and renewable energy industries.  

    This event aligns with our company values of development and ensuring that future generations in our region can look forward to employment opportunities along the River Tyne Corridor.

    Michael James, Head of Operations & Maintenance, North Sea Link at National Grid said: 

    Apprenticeships are a significant part of building a skilled workforce for the future. We offer hands-on experience, technical training, and a clear pathway into a rewarding career as part of National Grid. 

    From working at our North Sea Link interconnector to today at the Clean Energy Jobs Fair, we see first-hand how our apprentices bring fresh ideas and energy to the team while gaining invaluable expertise.  

    Investing in apprenticeships is good for business, vital for the communities we serve and a key part to realising the aims of the Clean Energy Jobs Plan.

  • PRESS RELEASE : AUKUS Defence Ministers’ Meeting Trilateral Joint Statement [December 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : AUKUS Defence Ministers’ Meeting Trilateral Joint Statement [December 2025]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 11 December 2025.

    AUKUS Defence Minister’s meeting reaffirmed shared commitment to the AUKUS partnership at the Pentagon in Washington D.C.

    Today the Honorable Pete Hegseth, U.S. Secretary of War, hosted the Honourable Richard Marles MP, Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, and the Right Honourable John Healey MP, United Kingdom Secretary of State for Defence, at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. to reaffirm the shared commitment to the AUKUS partnership.

    In line with shared intent to move “full steam ahead” on AUKUS, the Principals recognized the work underway to deliver priority infrastructure and workforce uplift in support of an enhanced trilateral submarine industrial base.

    Through the discussions today, the three Principals discussed ways to continue to strengthen AUKUS and reiterated their shared commitment to inject pace and focus on delivery to ensure the long-term success of the AUKUS partnership.

    The Principals recognized the critical importance of submarine cooperation under AUKUS Pillar I to ensure a robust deterrent.  Additionally, they recognized the importance of advanced capabilities development under AUKUS Pillar II and discussed opportunities to further accelerate delivery of such projects, with particular focus on near-term warfighting objectives.

  • PRESS RELEASE : The UK remains committed in our support for the United Nations Regional Office for Central Africa – UK statement at the UN Security Council [December 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : The UK remains committed in our support for the United Nations Regional Office for Central Africa – UK statement at the UN Security Council [December 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 11 December 2025.

    Statement by Ambassador Archie Young, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Central Africa and UNOCA.

    The United Kingdom remains steadfastly committed in our support for the work of UNOCA and its good offices. UNOCA’s role in early warning, preventive diplomacy, and regional coordination is critical.  

    Today, I will make three points focused on the situations in Gabon, Cameroon and the impact of the Sudan conflict on peace and security in the region. I will not address today the very concerning situation in DRC, recognising that the Council will be considering the DRC specifically in our meeting tomorrow.  

    First, the United Kingdom welcomes the completion in November of local, legislative and senatorial elections in Gabon. This is an important step, building on April’s presidential elections, which complete Gabon’s political transition. 

    We encourage Gabon to continue building on the progress made by implementing necessary governance and electoral reforms to consolidate its democratic institutions.  

    Second, the United Kingdom is concerned at continued violence and insecurity in Cameroon, including the recent post-election violence that saw loss of life. Conflict in the North-West and South-West regions continues to impact civilians. We welcome UNOCA’s efforts to promote dialogue. We urge continued engagement towards a peaceful resolution to the Anglophone crisis and call for a Cameroonian led dialogue. 

    We also underscore the importance of regional cooperation to tackle Boko Haram and ISWAP threats in the Lake Chad Basin, including through the Multinational Joint Task Force. This is critical to support communities in Cameroon’s Far North region.     

    Third, in addition to the dire impact on Sudanese civilians, the ongoing conflict in Sudan continues to destabilise the region, driving significant displacement of the local population and grave humanitarian needs. The UK commends the authorities in Chad for their efforts in hosting large numbers of refugees. 

    We encourage continued international coordination to support civilians in the region and to press for an end to the conflict. The United Kingdom remains committed to supporting the UN’s humanitarian response including through the £125 million the United Kingdom has contributed to humanitarian support in Sudan this year.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK training helps Pakistani border force catch criminals and prevent human trafficking [December 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK training helps Pakistani border force catch criminals and prevent human trafficking [December 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 11 December 2025.

    Combatting people smuggling was the focus of Development Minister Baroness Jenny Chapman’s visit to Pakistan this week.

    • UK development Minister visits Pakistan to re-enforce joint work on migration and sustainable growth efforts. 
    • New projects to boost growth and support UK education sector, as trade with Pakistan passes £5 billion, with 200 British companies now operating in Pakistan.
    • Partnership to deliver mutual benefits for UK and Pakistan through climate development investments.

    Combatting people smuggling was the focus of Development Minister Baroness Jenny Chapman’s visit to Pakistan this week.

    During a three-day visit to Pakistan, which included high-level meetings focused on joint security, migration, sustainable growth priorities, the Minister saw how UK training is helping immigration officials from both countries to better combat human trafficking. This training is delivered as part of a wider UK funded programme to tackle illegal migration and serious organised crime from Pakistan that has a direct impact in the UK, protecting communities and keeping our streets safe.

    The project, which is being delivered by Home Office International Operations, is designed to identify safeguarding opportunities and support early intervention of criminals at Pakistan’s borders to disrupt journeys and detect abuse. By giving front line officers expertise in spotting potentially vulnerable people and illegal activity early, this enables them to protect innocent victims and apprehend those trying to escape justice by making their way to other countries, including the UK. She also heard from the enforcement officers about UK provided state of the art security scanners, helping to disrupt the movement of illegal and dangerous items across the region.

    Baroness Chapman also used the visit to announce a new partnership with Pakistan that will see British expertise used to help boost development projects in Pakistan, and it comes as part of an ongoing effort by the Government to go from development donor to investor, supporting countries overseas to use their own resources to maximum effect, while boosting growth at home in the UK.

    The recent devastating floods in Pakistan demonstrated the dangerous effects of climate change, destroying homes, damaging the economy and driving the displacement of communities. The UK is Pakistan’s third largest trading partner, so this has a direct effect on the British economy.

    Minister for Development, Baroness Chapman, said:  

    The UK and Pakistan are working together to stop criminals in their tracks, ensuring they face justice for their actions, rather than making their way to our shores.  

    For too long exploiting borders has been used by those flouting the law to avoid prosecution. Equipped with UK training and intel sharing, Pakistani border officials can now better spot and detain people at the border, as part of a region-wide effort to crack down on human trafficking and illegal activity.

    Pakistan is also a country suffering the devastating consequences of climate change, with extreme flooding putting lives at risk, stifling economic growth, and damaging key infrastructure. British expertise will help Pakistan strengthen its adaptation to climate change, its resilience to extreme weather events, and the speed of its response and recovery when crises occur.

    With over 1.6 million British people of Pakistani descent, our partnership is based on a genuine mutual fondness and respect. Together we’re delivering prosperity to both our countries, strengthening ties on education and trade, while fighting the root causes of illegal migration and climate change.

    The Government remains committed to utilising every tool at our disposal to meet the challenge of illegal migration as part of the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change. Discussions with Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, covered joint efforts in this space, as well as collaboration to boost growth and tackle climate change. 

    The new partnership is designed to utilise the UK’s considerable development experience to tackle the root causes of climate change, and help Pakistan invest wisely in its own climate resilience. This in turn provides the conditions needed to support trade with the UK, address the drivers of illegal migration, while supporting vulnerable communities at the forefront of the climate change threat.

    During the visit, Baroness Chapman launched the next phase of an education agreement with Pakistan. The agreement is expected to deliver greater investment in the British education sector, promoting UK university courses to Pakistani students, giving them the chance to build skills at a British university, without leaving Pakistan.

    Background:

    • The training the Minister saw forms part of the extensive capacity building work between Pakistani and UK law enforcement authorities, central to sharing experiences of detecting harm, safeguarding measures and modality of irregular migration to the UK. This includes strengthened data sharing, and targeted support to improve cooperation on cross border cases. This work will lead to a clear system for criminal background checks being established and forms part of system improvements to align border security measures which disrupt transnational crime.
    • Pakistan’s sex-offenders register, supported by the UK, not only improves community protection in Pakistan, but also in the UK by ensuring that these offenders are unable to travel. 
    • Tackling illegal migration is a priority for this Government and a key part of the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change. The FCDO is using every tool at its disposal to meet this challenge in source and transit countries before the borders of Europe, to protect the vulnerable and stop criminal gangs who risk lives for their own profit. Working in partnership with countries like Pakistan is the most effective way to combat this shared challenge, and the transnational nature of the threat requires a whole of system approach to addressing these threats together. 
    • In addition to disrupting organised immigration crime networks through the UK Government’s Global Irregular Migration Sanctions Regime, the FCDO is working with source and transit countries to deter would-be migrants from making a dangerous journey in the first place, and with the Home Office to facilitate the return of people who have no right to be here to their countries of origin, including criminals and failed asylum seekers.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Clearance work to begin at Kidlington waste dump [December 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Clearance work to begin at Kidlington waste dump [December 2025]

    The press release issued by the Environment Agency on 11 December 2025.

    The Environment Agency has already begun preparations to ensure the site is cleared as soon as possible.

    Planning work has begun to clear the illegal waste dump in Kidlington, Oxfordshire, the Environment Agency has announced (Thursday 11 December).

    New information regarding the likelihood and potential impact of a fire at the site means that an exceptional decision has been made to progress works to entirely clear the site of waste.

    Following the appalling large-scale dumping of waste earlier in the summer, Environment Agency officers have been working round the clock to monitor the site, restrict access to prevent further dumping, install environmental safeguards and consider next steps to ensure the community is protected.

    The Environment Agency is not legally responsible for clearing illegal waste, and is not funded to do so. While the organisation continues to support the principle that the criminals responsible should cover the costs of clearance, it retains the power to take action in wholly exceptional circumstances. 

    Additional advice from the Fire and Rescue Services has indicated the possibility of a fire on site, which could have widespread impacts on the community, including closing the A34 major highway, raising air quality issues from the smoke, and interrupting electrical supplies.

    The scale of this fire risk sets this case apart from other illegal waste dumps in England and presents an overriding public imperative. As such, preparatory works for clearance will begin imminently. Further details on the timeframe for clearance will be set out shortly.

    Environment Agency chief executive Philip Duffy said:

    The brazen criminality at Kidlington has appalled all of us at the Environment Agency. Our local teams have been at this site working with partners to reduce harm and minimise risks while we pursue those responsible.

    This week, new information on the risk of fire was received from the Fire and Rescue Services and the Police and a decision made to clear the site as soon as possible on a wholly exceptional basis. The EA and our local partners are now working through the most effective way to manage this work.

    We will update the public on progress with that as soon as we are able. We are determined that waste criminals will see justice for this serious offending.

    Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said:

    This site has been a blight on the community.

    I’ve been in regular conversations with the Environment Agency and strongly welcome the decision to clear the site. I will continue working with them to make sure that those responsible pay for their crimes.

    The Environment Agency expects to fund the clearance efforts through making efficiencies in its operations, without impacting or scaling back any of its other services. However it is not funded to clear up waste sites nationally and will only make these decisions under truly exceptional circumstances.

    We will continue to work closely with local partners to manage the risks from the site and ensure the community is protected. Additional security measures have been installed and we are closely monitoring the location.

    Further details will be set out in due course.

  • NEWS STORY : Trump sues BBC for $10bn in Escalating Media Battle

    NEWS STORY : Trump sues BBC for $10bn in Escalating Media Battle

    STORY

    Donald Trump has filed a $10 billion defamation lawsuit against the BBC, accusing the British public broadcaster of deliberately misrepresenting one of his speeches in a Panorama documentary. The lawsuit, lodged in a federal court in Florida on Monday, marks a dramatic escalation in the President’s ongoing confrontations with major media organisations.

    Trump’s complaint centres on a BBC Panorama episode that aired before the 2024 United States presidential election and spliced separate portions of his 6 January 2021 speech, creating the impression he was exhorting supporters to storm the U.S. Capitol. The suit alleges the broadcaster’s editing was “false, defamatory, deceptive, disparaging, inflammatory and malicious”, and asserts the BBC harmed his reputation and interfered in the election. Trump is seeking $5 billion in damages for defamation and another $5 billion for unfair trade practices.

    The BBC has responded by saying it will defend the lawsuit vigorously. The corporation previously apologised for the “error of judgment” in editing the footage but has denied that it defamed Trump, insisting there is “no basis for a defamation case” and reaffirming its commitment to robust journalism. BBC executives also point out that the Panorama documentary was not broadcast in the United States, complicating the legal arguments.

    The legal action comes at a time when Trump has faced a series of serious allegations and challenges, both legal and political. Critics argue the lawsuit against the BBC may be partly aimed at shifting focus from his current troubles and rallying supporters by portraying himself as under attack from powerful media institutions. Analysts note that suing a major foreign broadcaster in a U.S. court is unusual and could raise complex jurisdictional issues.

  • Philip Duffy – 2025 Statement on Cleaning Up Kidlington Waste Dump

    Philip Duffy – 2025 Statement on Cleaning Up Kidlington Waste Dump

    The statement made by Philip Duffy, the Chief Executive of the Environment Agency, on 11 December 2025.

    The brazen criminality at Kidlington has appalled all of us at the Environment Agency. Our local teams have been at this site working with partners to reduce harm and minimise risks while we pursue those responsible.

    This week, new information on the risk of fire was received from the Fire and Rescue Services and the Police and a decision made to clear the site as soon as possible on a wholly exceptional basis. The EA and our local partners are now working through the most effective way to manage this work.

    We will update the public on progress with that as soon as we are able. We are determined that waste criminals will see justice for this serious offending.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Chancellor appoints new Women in Finance Champion [December 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Chancellor appoints new Women in Finance Champion [December 2025]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 11 December 2025.

    Over 440 firms now committed to improving female representation at the top of the industry.

    • Dame Amanda Blanc steps down as Women in Finance Champion after 5 years in the role, with senior female representation rising from 32% to 36% under her tenure 
    • Nationwide CEO Dame Debbie Crosbie appointed as new Women in Finance Champion, as Government pushes for more women in senior City roles.

    The Chancellor has appointed Nationwide Building Society CEO Dame Debbie Crosbie as the new Women in Finance champion, as ministers step up the pressure on the City to go further and faster on women’s progression to senior roles. 

    Dame Debbie succeeds Aviva CEO Dame Amanda Blanc, whose tenure saw senior female representation in key finance roles jump from 32% to 36% as well as leading the charge on strengthening the pipeline for women into financial services. 

    As Champion, Dame Debbie will continue to drive momentum behind the HM Treasury Women in Finance Charter, which covers more than 440 firms and aims to improve the representation of women in senior leadership to boost the productivity and growth of UK financial services.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

    When I became Chancellor, I said my time in office would be a success if more young women and girls knew there should be no ceiling on their ambition and no limit to what they can achieve. 

    The Women in Finance Charter is a key tool to achieve that progress. I thank Amanda for her exceptional leadership over the past 5 years, and look forward to working with Debbie as she takes on the mantle.

    Dame Amanda Blanc said:  

    I am incredibly proud of the progress made during my time as Women in Finance Champion. 

    There is still plenty more to do to reach parity and I know that Debbie will be a powerful driving force in bringing about further progress and ensuring even more talented women are given the opportunities they deserve to thrive and lead.

    Dame Debbie Crosbie said: 

    When women succeed in business they inspire the next generation and ensure economic growth is sustainable and inclusive. The Charter is key to driving even more growth in financial services and harnessing all of the sector’s skills and talents.  I look forward to building on the excellent progress made by Amanda, and working with the Chancellor and across our industry to encourage even more growth and progress.

    Over the last 5 years, Dame Amanda has driven progress in the sector through developing a blueprint for change, advocating for women in underrepresented spaces such as tech, strengthening the talent pipeline through the Mirror Taskforce of talented mid-level women, and convening leaders – including the Women in Finance Climate Action Group for COP26 and Accountable Executive Taskforce – to focus on greater gender parity. 

    Dame Debbie Crosbie will take up the Women in Finance Champion role from 1 January 2026, serving in an unpaid, direct ministerial appointment reporting to the Economic Secretary to the Treasury.  

    Dame Debbie joined Nationwide as its first-ever female CEO in June 2022 and was appointed a Dame Commander of the British Empire (DBE) in June 2025 for services to the financial sector.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Reappointment of the Chair of the Bank of England’s Court of Directors and Non‑Executive Directors [December 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Reappointment of the Chair of the Bank of England’s Court of Directors and Non‑Executive Directors [December 2025]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 11 December 2025.

    David Roberts reappointed as Chair of the Bank of England’s Court of Directors and Dame Anne Glover and Diana Noble reappointed as Non‑Executive Directors.

    • David Roberts has been reappointed as Chair of the Court of the Bank of England by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Rt Hon Rachel Reeves MP. 
    • Following his reappointment, he will serve a second four‑year term as Chair of Court, commencing on 24 October 2026. 
    • The Chancellor has also reappointed two Non‑Executive Directors on the Bank’s Court:
      • Dame Anne Glover has been reappointed as a Non‑Executive Director until 31 May 2028; and 
      • Diana Noble has been reappointed as a Non‑Executive Director until 31 May 2027.

    The Rt Hon Rachel Reeves MP, Chancellor of the Exchequer, said:

    I am pleased to confirm the reappointment of David Roberts as Chair of the Bank of England’s Court, alongside the reappointments of Dame Anne Glover and Diana Noble as Non‑Executive Directors.

    Each of them brings exceptional experience and expertise from across financial services, investment and the wider economy. Their continued service will support the Bank to deliver its core missions of monetary and financial stability.

    Governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey, said: 

    I am delighted that David Roberts, Diana Noble and Anne Glover have been reappointed to serve on the Bank’s Court, and I welcome their continued contributions to the organisation

    About David Roberts 

    David Roberts is Chair of the Bank of England’s Court, leading the board in setting strategy, risk appetite and key organisational decisions. 

    He also holds advisory roles at The Mentoring Foundation, Henley Business School, and Campion Willcocks. Previously, he chaired Beazley plc and Nationwide Building Society, was Vice Chair of NHS England, and Group Deputy Chair at Lloyds Banking Group. David spent 24 years at Barclays, becoming a Main Board Executive Director, and later served as Chair and CEO of Bawag PSK AG. 

    He holds an MBA and two honorary doctorates and has been recognised with a CBE and the Chartered Management Institute’s Gold Medal for Management. 

    About Dame Anne Glover 

    Dame Anne Glover is a Non‑Executive Director on the Bank of England’s Court of Directors and Chief Executive and Co‑Founder of Amadeus Capital Partners. With over 35 years’ experience as a venture capitalist, she has a strong background in science, engineering and business. 

    Anne was awarded a DBE in 2025 and a CBE in 2006 for her services to business and engineering. She holds honorary fellowships with the Royal Academy of Engineering, the Royal Society of Edinburgh, and Clare College, Cambridge. 

    Her career includes roles in manufacturing with Cummins Engine Company, consulting at Bain & Co, investing at Apax Partners, and operational leadership at Virtuality Group. She has chaired both the British Private Equity and Venture Capital Association and Invest Europe, and serves on investment committees for British International Investment and the Yale Endowment. 

    About Diana Noble 

    Diana Noble is Deputy Chair of the Bank of England’s Court and Chair of the Remuneration Committee. She also serves on the boards of Wellcome Trust and Brookfield Asset Management, and is a Trustee of The Children’s Society. 

    Diana was CEO of CDC (now British International Investment), the UK’s development finance institution, from 2011 to 2017, leading a period of significant transformation and growth. Her career spans private equity, venture capital and international development, including senior roles at Schroder Ventures (now Permira), founding two venture funds, and serving as Executive Vice President, Operations at the Clinton Foundation’s Health Access Initiative. 

    Diana holds a first‑class Law degree and was awarded a CBE in 2017. 

    About the Court of the Bank of England 

    The Court of the Bank of England acts as the Bank’s board. It is responsible for overseeing the Bank’s strategy, governance, budget and risk framework, and for ensuring the effective discharge of the Bank’s statutory functions. 

    The Court consists of the Chair and eight other Non‑Executive Directors, the Governor and four Deputy Governors. The Bank’s Chief Operating Officer also attends Court, although they are not technically a full member. Non‑Executive Directors bring independent judgement and a breadth of experience to the Court’s deliberations. 

    About the appointment process 

    Reappointments to the Court of the Bank of England are not automatic. Each case is considered on its own merits. 

    The reappointment of David Roberts for a second four‑year term as Chair of Court, commencing on 24 October 2026, and the reappointments of Dame Anne Glover as a Non‑Executive Director until 31 May 2028 and Diana Noble as a Non‑Executive Director until 31 May 2027, have been made by the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Economic Secretary to the Treasury in line with the requirements of the Governance Code on Public Appointments. 

    David Roberts, Dame Anne Glover and Diana Noble have confirmed that they have not engaged in any political activity in the last five years.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Enhanced UK-Turkey Free Trade Agreement negotiations update [December 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Enhanced UK-Turkey Free Trade Agreement negotiations update [December 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 11 December 2025.

    An update following the third round of negotiations on an Enhanced Free Trade Agreement with Turkey.

    The third round of negotiations on an enhanced Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Turkey took place in Ankara during the week commencing 17 November 2025.

    The UK and Turkey have a strong economic relationship, with trade between the two totalling around £28 billion in the four quarters to the end of Q2 2025, making Turkey the UK’s 17th largest trading partner. Trade with Turkey’s growing market of 86 million people directly supported around 57,100 jobs across the UK in 2020.    

    Economic growth is our first mission in government and FTAs have an important role to play in achieving this. A stronger trade relationship with Turkey will contribute to jobs and prosperity in the UK.

    Negotiations were productive, with positive progress being made in a number of areas including Financial Services, Professional and Business Services, Domestic Regulation and Entry and Temporary Stay.

    Discussions on Goods Market Access focused on unlocking commercially meaningful opportunities for UK exporters. Progress was also made on Customs and Trade Facilitation, as well as Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures.

    Further exchanges advanced work on Labour, Anti-Corruption, Environment, Good Regulatory Practice, Dispute Settlement and Intellectual Property enforcement, as well as approaches on Government Procurement, State Owned Enterprises, Subsidies and Trade Remedies, which were further refined to build common understanding.

    The UK will only ever sign a trade agreement which aligns with the UK’s national interests, upholding our high standards across a range of sectors, including protections for the National Health Service.

    The fourth round of negotiations is expected to take place in early 2026. Ministers will update Parliament on the progress of discussions with Turkey as they continue to progress.