Author: admin

PRESS RELEASE : Game-changing tech to reach the public faster as dedicated new unit launched to curb red tape [October 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 8 October 2024.

Science Secretary launches new Regulatory Innovation Office today to speed up public access to new technologies.
- Regulatory Innovation Office to reduce the burden of red tape and speed up access to new technologies that improve our daily lives – from AI in healthcare to emergency delivery drones
- Search begins for a Chair to lead the office, driving economic growth through regulatory reform that enables innovation
- New Office delivers on a key manifesto commitment and is among steps to back business in buildup to UK hosting International Investment Summit
New technologies, like AI for better treatments in our NHS and drones delivering emergency supplies to all corners of the UK, could reach the public faster through a dedicated new office that will reduce the burden of red tape on innovation and help kickstart economic growth.

The new Regulatory Innovation Office (RIO) will reduce the burden for businesses hoping to bring new products and services to the market in some of the UK’s fastest-growing sectors through innovations like –AI training software for surgeons to deliver more accurate surgical treatments for patients and drones which can improve business efficiency and quickly send critical deliveries to remote parts of the country.

To do so, it will support regulators to update regulation, speeding up approvals, and ensuring different regulatory bodies work together smoothly. It will work to continuously inform the government of regulatory barriers to innovation, set priorities for regulators which align with the government’s broader ambitions and support regulators to develop the capability they need to meet them and grow the economy.

The announcement comes ahead of further plans to reduce the burden of red tape and support the government’s key mission of kickstarting growth across the country. The new Office will also help set the scene for when the UK hosts the International Investment Summit on Monday 14 October, where the Chancellor will make clear that the UK is “open for business” as the government resets relations with trading partners around the globe.

The launch of the RIO comes hot on the heels of a raft of public and private investments announced on Sunday (6 October) aimed at transforming cancer treatments for patients while bringing a wave of cutting-edge UK-made MedTech products to the global market.

The RIO’s mission will initially support the growth of four fast-growing areas of technology making a difference to people’s lives before backing further technologies and sectors as the Office evolves. These are:
- Engineering biology – this is the use of synthetic biology and biotechnology to create new products and services derived from organic sources. These technologies can improve health with new treatments like innovative vaccines, help create cleaner fuels and make food production more efficient and sustainable such as through pest resistant crops and cultivated meat. The new RIO will help regulators to bring those products to market safely and more quickly – realising the environmental and health benefits they can bring to our lives.
- Space – the UK’s space industry is growing fast, supporting everything from GPS on phones to vital communication systems, as new innovations improve our weather forecasting to disaster response systems. To sustain this growth, regulatory reform is needed for greater agility and clarity to help foster competition, encourage investment, and open up market access.
- Artificial Intelligence and digital in healthcare – with increasing pressures on the NHS, AI is set to revolutionise healthcare delivery so doctors can diagnose illnesses faster and improve patient care. It will help run hospitals more efficiently with medical staff able to spend less time on administration, cutting waiting times and it could enable more personalised medicines, tailoring treatment to individuals. RIO will support the healthcare sector to deploy AI innovations safely, improving NHS efficiency and patients’ health outcomes.
- Connected and autonomous technology – autonomous vehicles like drones can deliver emergency supplies to remote areas quickly and efficiently and work to approve this technology could play a key part in supporting emergency services to keep people safe. Greater support could also enable more drones to be used by businesses across the UK, building on projects like the drone service used by Royal Mail to deliver to Orkney and improving efficiency.
The cross-cutting nature of these emerging technologies, which do not fit neatly into existing regulatory frameworks can mean a slower process in getting them onto the market. The new Office will work closely with government departments including the Department for Transport, the Department for Health and Social Care, and the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs to address regulatory barriers in these initial growth areas.

The new office will also bring regulators together and working to remove obstacles and outdated regulations to the benefit of businesses and the public, unlocking the power of innovation from these sectors to generate tens of billions of pounds for the UK economy in the coming years.

Science and Technology Secretary, Peter Kyle, said:

The launch of the Regulatory Innovation Office, a key manifesto commitment, is a big step forward in bringing the UK’s most promising new technologies to the public faster and safely while kickstarting economic growth.

By speeding up approvals, providing regulatory certainty and reducing unnecessary delays, we’re curbing the burden of red tape so businesses and our public services can innovate and grow, which means more jobs, a stronger economy, and a better quality of life for people across the UK.

From breakthroughs that could help doctors diagnose illnesses earlier to satellite navigation for more accurate weather forecasting and getting emergency supplies to where they are needed, quickly and effectively, RIO will make sure UK companies are at the forefront of the next generation of technologies.

The Science and Technology Secretary is also looking to appoint the RIO’s first Chair to lead the charge in backing business and safe innovation, and work with regulators and partners to shape a regulatory environment that is fit for the future. Applications are now being welcomed for an ambitious, visionary leader committed to driving that change.

The organisation has been established within DSIT, where it will incorporate the existing functions of the Regulatory Horizons Council and the Regulators’ Pioneer Fund.

Alongside the launch of the RIO, the government is already making progress in developing regulatory frameworks for emerging technologies, becoming the first country to outline how it will approach quantum regulation, offering certainty to the sector and encouraging the responsible development of the technology.

This is set out in our response to the Regulatory Horizon Council’s report on quantum technologies, also published today. It marks a crucial first step in regulating innovation in a technology that will increasingly underpin powerful computers, secure communications and advanced sensors, in sectors from healthcare to national security.

Alongside this package of announcements, today we are announcing:
- A £1.6 million award to the Food Standards Agency (FSA) as part of round one of the Engineering Biology Sandbox Fund, which aims to test innovative regulatory approaches for products like cultivated meat. Cell-cultivated products are foods created through the isolation of cells from meat, seafood, fat, offal or eggs which are grown in a controlled environment. It could result in food production which is more environmentally friendly and sustainable, using just 1% of the land used for animal equivalents, while increasing food security. Programmes like this will help bring innovative food products to shop shelves safely but without unnecessary delay and at lower costs, giving consumers more choice.
- The publication of new voluntary screening guidance for synthetic nucleic acid. These technologies allow companies to ‘print’ DNA and RNA, enabling academics and businesses to study and engineer biological systems that help sectors like healthcare and accelerate our path to net-zero. The guidance emphasises the government’s intent for a pro-innovation culture in the engineering biology ecosystem through providing well-defined guardrails for customers and producers of synthetic nucleic acid.
Neil Ross, Associate Director for Policy at techUK, said:

The UK is home to amazing array of innovation, however, historically we have been slow to deploy new technologies at pace and at scale.

techUK and our members are supportive of the aims of the Regulatory Innovation Office (RIO), which intends to address this historic problem. By smoothing the path to deployment of new technologies, the RIO can open the door to significant applications both in the commercial sphere and for public services.

If we get this right this could unleash billions of pounds of additional investment. This will require the RIO, and its chair, to work closely with the private sector to identify the most promising opportunities, move quickly to deliver tangible results, and seek new opportunities on a rolling basis.

Steve Bates OBE, CEO of the BioIndustry Association, said:

The UK’s world-class strength in engineering biology and AI is a unique opportunity to drive economic growth and deliver innovative products that improve all our lives, from healthier food with a smaller carbon footprint to precision cancer vaccines with reduced side-effects.

Regulation when done right can be an enabler of innovation, not a hinderance. We welcome this rapid progress by the new Labour government to install a new body tasked with making sure great British innovations reach the public faster so that we can all benefit.

BIA has been closely involved in the development of this new approach to engineering biology through the Regulatory Horizons Council and the Biosecurity Leadership Council. We look forward to engaging further as the Regulatory Innovation Office takes shape.

We also hope that this leads to greater collaboration between regulators to ensure a joined-up and comprehensive approach to new innovations in the pipeline.

Naomi Weir, CBI Director of Technology and Innovation, said:

The focus of the new Regulatory Innovation Office represents an ambitious statement from the government of their intent to put innovation at their heart of their mission to grow the economy. Getting the economy firing on all cylinders requires an approach to regulation that sets out clear steps for unlocking private sector investment and involves meaningful partnership with business.

Improving the pace of decisions, coherence between regulators and building regulator capability will all be welcomed by businesses as practical steps that will build confidence. Focusing on how regulation can be deployed to bring new ideas to market at pace and scale will enhance the UK’s competitiveness in the global race for investment.

Steve Lee, Director of Diagnostics & Digital Regulation, ABHI, said:

Regulation not only ensures patient safety but also shapes the UK’s reputation as a hub for healthcare innovation and investment. ABHI welcomes the Regulatory Innovation Office (RIO), a key step towards regulatory reform.

In our Spring 2025 Spending Review submission, we recommended that the RIO and MHRA conduct a rapid review of the system that supports how we carry out UK regulation in HealthTech, which can improve efficiency and support initiatives like the Software as a Medical Device roadmap. We look forward to collaborating with DSIT and the RIO to drive forward these important reforms.
November 1, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Women in the bus industry celebrated as Transport Minister visits Manchester [October 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 8 October 2024.

Simon Lightwood spoke with women in the industry and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a bus revolution.
- Local Transport Minister attends award event to celebrate women’s achievements in the bus, coach and community transport industry
- the Minister heard first-hand the barriers that women in the industry face and discussed how their skills can meet the biggest bus overhaul in a generation
- bus revolution gathering momentum as consultation closes on removing obstacles to local councils taking back control of bus services from private operators
Women’s achievements in the bus, coach and community transport industry have been celebrated at a special awards event in Manchester today (8 October 2024), attended by the Local Transport Minister.

During the event, Simon Lightwood discussed Women in Bus and Coach’s key aims to:
- stand in solidarity across the profession
- uplift female role models in engineering, driving and management
- challenge industry policies that do not meet women’s needs
The awards come as the government continues to overhaul the bus industry, by handing power back to councils to grow passenger numbers and deliver better services for all, no matter where people live.

The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the brightest minds in the industry are in the driving seat as these plans progress.

Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, said:

I was delighted to celebrate the incredible achievements of women in the bus and coach industry up and down the country.

Our plans to deliver better buses will end the postcode lottery that has determined the quality and frequency of bus services for too long.

As we deliver this biggest overhaul to buses in a generation, the work of each and every driver, engineer, manager and the countless others who keep our country moving will be vital.

Yesterday (7 October 2024) marked another landmark in the roll out of bus franchising, as the government’s month-long consultation on updating guidance to reduce barriers to franchising closed. This has seen the government discuss franchising closely with industry, and the outcome will be announced in due course, alongside next steps for implementing the Bill.

Attendees at the event also heard from Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who has overseen a dramatic transformation of regional bus services over the last year, with the introduction of the Bee Network.

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said:

In Greater Manchester we’re bringing buses back into local control, with cheaper fares, better buses and, crucially, more reliable services all attracting more people onboard.

Our success is down to the hard work and dedication of Bee Network staff, including the many brilliant women working tirelessly to deliver a great service to the people of Greater Manchester, whether that’s driving buses, working at our bus stations, interchanges or Travelshops, or leading our franchising programme.

It was fantastic to see that recognised today, and as we grow the Bee Network and take forward our plans to transform technical education in Greater Manchester through the MBacc, we want to encourage even more women into the industry.

The Bee Network called time on the previous broken system of regulation and has set a new bar for urban bus services by introducing capped fares, integrating buses into a citywide transport network and unifying services under a singular, recognisable identity.

The government wants to replicate this nationwide, as it seeks to drive growth and share opportunities by providing regular, reliable and affordable services for passengers.

Louise Cheeseman, Chair and Founder of Women in Bus and Coach, said:

I am proud to see the incredible achievements of women across our industry celebrated at the 2024 Women in Bus and Coach summit. This event not only highlights the inspiring individuals shaping the future of the bus, coach and community transport sector, but also reinforces our collective commitment to breaking barriers and creating opportunities for women.

We warmly welcome the government’s plans to deliver the biggest overhaul of bus services in a generation, and we look forward to working together to ensure these changes empower a more inclusive, accessible, and innovative future for all.

The visit also comes as GoAhead buses announced a major £500 million investment to decarbonise its fleet today, including creating a new dedicated manufacturing line and partnership with UK bus manufacturer Wrightbus.
November 1, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Marconi – UK Embassy celebrates ‘Britishness’ of Italian genius [October 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 8 October 2024.

Guglielmo Marconi and the UK: the first of many stories, between Italian talent and innovation across the Channel.

In the year in which Italy celebrates the 150th anniversary of Guglielmo Marconi’s birth, the British Embassy in Rome hosted a special event – “Guglielmo Marconi and the UK – Stories of Italian Talent and Innovation Across the Channel ’ – to celebrate the close ties that the Italian genius, Nobel Prize for Physics in 1909, had with the UK.

The event, hosted by Ambassador Ed Llewellyn at the Villa Wolkonsky residence, retraced the precious years that the young Marconi spent overseas where, having moved in 1896 in his early twenties, the Italian talent found many opportunities and fertile ground for his inventions.

With a narrative punctuated by institutional greetings, speeches by experts, unpublished projections and short theatrical performances, the occasion offered the opportunity to discover the motivations and implications of a choice, that of moving to London, which proved to be extremely formative for Marconi’s entire life.

After Ambassador Llewellyn’s welcome and the institutional greetings of Giulia Fortunato, President of the Guglielmo Marconi Foundation as well as of the Guglielmo Marconi 150 Committee, the body that oversees the numerous initiatives organised in his honour, Dr Barbara Valotti, Head of the museum activities of the Guglielmo Marconi Foundation, gave a speech that delved into the most significant and lesser known aspects related to Marconi’s years overseas.

Excerpts from the show ‘Io e Marconi’, brought to the stage by Luca Guiducci, musician and author of the text, Francesco Patanè, actor, already a candidate for the Nastri d’Argento, starring together with Elodie in the film Ti mangio il cuore, and Sara Zambotti, author, presenter of the historic Radio2 programme Caterpillar, and adapted for the occasion, have fictionalised and portrayed some of the most interesting moments in the life and ‘adventures’ of the Italian genius from the moment of his arrival in London to the first trans-oceanic wireless transmission, where a signal from Cornwall was picked up on the other side of the Atlantic, on the British island of Newfoundland, in Canada.

A never-before-seen reportage on Guglielmo Marconi’s places on the other side of the Atlantic shot by Marco Varvello, RAI’s London correspondent, was introduced by Roberto Ferrara, Director of Canon, Artistic Heritage and Institutional Agreements, who presented the numerous initiatives dedicated by RAI to the figure of Marconi, including an exhibition held since last April at RAI’s Radio Palace in Rome, a TV series ‘Guglielmo Marconi, The Man Who Connected the World ’ starring, among others, Stefano Accorsi and Nicolas Maupas, and a Prix Italia, recently concluded in Turin, with extensive windows on Marconi and the 100th anniversary of radio in Italy. Much biographical information on Marconi can be found on Wikipedia.

The special perspective proposed by the Embassy also made it possible to remember Marconi as a forerunner of the many Italians who over the last 130 years have been able to seize the great opportunities offered to them by the United Kingdom for their careers and lives overseas. Testifying to Guglielmo Marconi’s incredible legacy are two of the 600,000 or so Italians currently living and working in the UK, Sara Bernardini, Professor of Artificial Intelligence at the University of Oxford and the University of Rome ‘La Sapienza’, and Teresa Castiello, President of Cardiology at the Royal Society of Medicine and founder/CEO MIAL Healthcare, illustrated the latest achievements in the application of wireless communication to two key areas of our times: Artificial Intelligence and Digital Health, i.e. Digital Medicine.

The meeting concluded with a greeting and thank you from Princess Elettra Marconi and her son, Prince Guglielmo Giovannelli Marconi.

November 1, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 57 – Interactive dialogue on Honduras [October 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 8 October 2024.

UK Statement for the Interactive dialogue on technical cooperation in Honduras. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

Thank you Mrs Vice-President,

We welcome the openness of Honduras in its request for technical assistance made last year. However, we share the disappointment that the implementation of activities has been delayed.

We remain concerned about the increased militarisation of public security and the penitentiary system in Honduras including the ongoing State of Emergency which suspends some constitutional rights. There is a need to balance the reduction of violent crime with the continued protection of human rights.

We are also worried by the levels of intimidation and violence directed against human rights and environment defenders, including high rates of killings. The difficulties victims of such crimes face in obtaining justice is unacceptable.

We urge the Honduran authorities to adopt effective measures to protect these defenders and, where there are violations, to investigate these promptly and thoroughly. There is also a need to ensure transparency and accountability, including by strengthening key anti-corruption institutions and ensuring their independence.

Director Salazar,

What steps can be taken to address corruption and increase transparency in public institutions?

November 1, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Half a billion-pound investment in electric buses secured ahead of International Investment Summit [October 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 8 October 2024.

Communities across the country will benefit from brand new, state-of-the-art green buses.
- £500 million investment announced to deliver 1,200 UK-made zero emission buses, ensuring greener and better journeys for passengers
- bus operator Go Ahead’s investment to benefit communities across the country, supporting hundreds of jobs and delivering growth
- Transport Secretary brings together industry to advance opportunities for investment in the UK ahead of investment summit
Up to 500 UK manufacturing jobs are set to be supported as bus operator Go Ahead today (8 October 2024) announces a major £500 million investment to decarbonise its fleet, including creating a new dedicated manufacturing line and partnership with Northern Ireland-based bus manufacturer Wrightbus.

The investment is set to fund the manufacturing of up to 1,200 new zero emission buses over the next 3 years. Built for operator Go Ahead, this investment will accelerate the transition to greener buses across the country including in Plymouth, Gloucestershire, East Yorkshire, London and the Isle of Wight.

On top of directly supporting 500 manufacturing jobs, the £500 million investment for Wrightbus will also support an additional 2,000 jobs across the wider UK supply chain by 2026, helping to get us back on track for growth.

The Transport Secretary will also announce plans to create a new UK Bus Manufacturing Expert Panel. This panel will bring together industry experts and local leaders to explore ways to ensure the UK remains a leader in bus manufacturing, help local authorities deliver on their transport ambitions, and begin to seize opportunities to embrace zero emission transport technologies.

The Transport Secretary is expected to meet with key industry leaders today including Wrightbus owner Jo Bamford and CEO Jean-Marc Gales, to reaffirm the government’s commitment to decarbonising local transport and fostering an environment for investment in the UK manufacturing industry, bringing sustained economic growth and supporting jobs.

The announcement comes ahead of the International Investment Summit, which will gather UK leaders, high-profile investors and businesses from across the world to discuss how we can deepen our partnership to drive investment and growth.

The Transport Secretary is expected to hold several bilateral meetings at the summit with international business leaders and make clear the UK is “open for business” so that she can help attract further investment to support the delivery of our transport priorities across the country.

The Prime Minister will also convene the first Council of Nations and Regions later this week, bringing together first ministers, Northern Ireland’s First Minister and Deputy First Minister and regional mayors from across England, as the government forges new partnerships, resets relationships to secure long term investment with the aim of boosting growth and living standards in every part of the UK.

Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh said:

The number one mission of this government is growing the economy. The half a billion pounds Go Ahead is announcing today shows the confidence industry has in investing in the UK.

This announcement will see communities across the country benefit from brand new, state-of-the-art green buses – which will deliver cleaner air and better journeys.

We’re creating the right conditions for businesses to flourish, so we can support jobs and accelerate towards decarbonising the transport sector.

Under this government, Britain is open for business.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

This investment is exactly kind we want to see as we grow the economy. One that creates jobs right across the country.

And that’s what the international investment summit next week is all about too. Showing the world’s biggest businesses and investors why they should bring their jobs – and their money – to the UK.

For every vehicle manufactured, 10 trees will be planted by Go-Ahead and Wrightbus in the towns and cities where the buses are deployed.

Buses, as the most used form of public transport, have been prioritised by this government from the outset. The Transport Secretary has made improving bus services and delivering greener transport 2 of her 5 core priorities.

Last month, the Transport Secretary announced a package of measures to empower local leaders to take back control of their bus services and deliver services based on the needs of communities, to grow passenger numbers and deliver better services for all.

Building on this, the government’s new buses bill is set to be introduced in Parliament by the end of this year and will bring an end to the current postcode lottery by taking steps to improve bus services no matter where you live.

Further details on the UK Bus Manufacturing Expert Panel will be confirmed in due course.

Go-Ahead Bus CEO, Matt Carney said:

This multi-million pound investment and partnership with Wrightbus will accelerate the transition to zero-emission fleet across the UK.

We are proud to be working in partnership with the UK government and local authorities to deliver transformational environmental change for communities, while supporting UK jobs and the growth of the country’s supply chain.

Wrightbus CEO, Jean-Marc Gales said:

The deal with Go-Ahead is hugely significant and represents a huge boost to the UK’s economy. It will support homegrown manufacturing, jobs and skills for the next three years and beyond. We’ve always been proud to support the UK’s supply chain and our Go-Ahead partnership will ensure even more money can be spent securing good green jobs.

We must also not forget that this deal represents a massive step forward in our ambition to help decarbonise the transport sector with our world-leading products. It was heartening today to hear the government reaffirm its commitment to a green transport sector.
November 1, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Collaboration between the UK and Guatemala to enhance the armed forces’ strategic capabilities [October 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 7 October 2024.

The UK Ministry of Defence and Cranfield University will deliver a one-week Strategic Leadership Programme.

Representatives of the Armed forces and civil ministries of Guatemala will attend the course at the Higher Command of Army Education (COSEDE), starting today 7 October.

Participants will develop key strategic leadership skills including decision making under pressure, long-term planning and personal development. The course will also address influencing and motivation and building effective relationships within teams. Participants will also discuss strategic leadership as a tool to understand defence capabilities and the challenges faced by leaders in this arena.

Training will conclude with a certificate presentation by the British Defence Attaché for Mexico and Guatemala, Aviator Colonel Simon Stewart and the British Embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires, Paul Huggins.

November 1, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : £7 million to tackle antisemitism in education confirmed [October 2024]

The press release issued by the Department for Education on 7 October 2024.

Education Secretary announces resumption of procurement for Tackling Antisemitism in Education.

The Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson has announced that the government is resuming the procurement of £7 million worth of funding to tackle antisemitism in schools, colleges and universities.

The commitment comes after the number of incidents of antisemitic abuse nationwide more than doubled in the first five months of 2024, compared to the same period a year earlier. On university campuses, the number of incidents grew by 465%.

The funding will aim to educate people about antisemitism and better equip schools, colleges and universities to stamp out antisemitic abuse.

To mark the anniversary of the worst terrorist attack in Israel’s history, the Education Secretary is visiting a Jewish school in North London to meet with students and staff and demonstrate her support for the Jewish community.

£500,000 of the £7 million funding has been awarded to the University Jewish Chaplaincy for welfare support for Jewish students in universities.

Writing for the Daily Telegraph, the Education Secretary said the government was “resolutely committed” to tackling antisemitic abuse.

She said: “It is completely unacceptable for Jewish students to feel they cannot fully participate in university life out of fear for their safety. All students, regardless of race or religion, should be free to focus on their studies rather than worry about their safety.”

Some of the funds will go towards funding a project to upskill teachers and university staff in tackling antisemitism. It will also pay for an innovation fund to tackle antisemitism in Education, with a slightly broader focus on settings building resilience to mis-information.

The Education Secretary said it was “vitally important that staff in our education system have the confidence and skills to act quickly to root out antisemitism as soon as it emerges.”

To support this, the Department for Education also plans to launch an innovation fund that will offer opportunities to support work at all levels of education on tackling antisemitic misinformation on social media alongside the Curriculum and Assessment Review.

The Education Secretary also voiced her outrage at the “shocking” acts of violence and Islamophobia seen after the Southport attacks earlier this year, with anti-Muslim incidents more than trebling in the months after October 7.

She said: “With a foundation of knowledge about history and the world, critical thinking, logical reasoning and empathy, we can build children’s resilience not just to antisemitic hate, but all other forms of hate too. A child who is equipped to dismantle antisemitic conspiracy theories is ready to reject Islamophobic ones as well.”

November 1, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : More action needed to protect future water resources [October 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 7 October 2024.

Additional 5 billion litres of water needed every day by 2050.

Almost a fifth (19%) of water supplies are lost by water companies before reaching customers’ taps, a new report from the Environment Agency has found.

The new report published today (Monday 7 October) assesses water companies’ annual performance data against their Water Resources Management Plans (WRMPs), which include steps to reduce leakage, install meters and develop new additional supplies. The report highlights some progress has been made, but it also reveals areas of significant under-delivery, meaning improvements are needed in order to manage water resources efficiently and sustainably.

As part of the Environment Agency’s drive to be a more transparent regulator, this year’s report has been made public to shine a light on this issue, and to call for urgent and sustained action by water companies to implement these plans. By 2050, in order to support a growing population, the economy, food production and protect the environment, an additional 5 billion litres of water will be needed every day.

The Environment Agency requires water companies to produce plans to ensure secure and sustainable water supplies, which has driven the industry to set out ambitious new plans for the future. If implemented fully, these plans would lead to improved resilience against extreme drought, protect the environment and support the wider economy.

Key findings of the report include:
- Leakage: Despite a commitment by the water industry to halve leakage by 2050 and a reduction in leakage by 10% from 2017-2018 levels, it remains too high with 19% of water supplies still being lost before reaching consumers. The report breaks down water loss data by water company, with Thames Water and United Utilities identified as the worst performers for leakage per person. The industry must deliver a sustained reduction in leakage, particularly in the face of climate change, when extreme temperatures will make pipes more prone to bursts.
- Drought preparedness: While a year of wet weather meant there were no drought issues in 2023/24, some water companies still would not have sufficient water supply in some areas in the event of a drought. As extreme weather becomes more frequent, urgent action is needed to deliver new supply schemes and ensure they are ready for severe droughts.
- Demand reduction: The Environment Act set a target to reduce water use in England by 20% per head of population by 2037-38 from 2019-2020 levels. As of this year, there has been a 3.6% reduction. Metering plays a key role in influencing consumer behaviour and reducing household water use. Currently, water meters have been installed in approximately 60% of households.
Alan Lovell, Chair of the Environment Agency, said:

In the face of the enormous challenges on water resources, we have to tackle both sides of the equation – reducing demand and increasing supply. While we’ve seen some progress by companies, it’s clear that more planning, resources and investment are needed, particularly on leakage.

We expect water companies to accelerate their plans to increase water efficiency, reduce leakage and prepare for future droughts. We will continue to work closely with Ofwat and Defra to hold water companies accountable and ensure they deliver on their commitments to protect our environment and secure our water supply for future generations.”

Water Minister Emma Hardy said:

This report is a damning indictment of the sheer volume of water that is wasted by water companies across England.

As the climate crisis worsens and more pressure is placed on our water systems, we must fix our broken water infrastructure to ensure we have a resilient future water supply.

We have taken immediate action to reset the water industry including introducing our new Water (Special Measures) Bill to strengthen regulation and give the water regulators sweeping new powers to hold companies accountable. We are also putting customers at the heart of our approach by doubling compensation when supplies are disrupted.

Water company performance on matters such as leakage and drought preparedness and their wider delivery against water resources aspects of their business plans is one of areas considered in Ofwat’s annual Performance Reports. In the event that a company has not delivered against these plans they are asked to return money to customers through bill reductions.

The Environment Agency and Ofwat are urging water companies to focus attention and resources to improve the resilience of their water supply. The Environment Agency and Ofwat will be issuing letters to several water companies expressing concerns over their management of water supplies. These letters will be published on Ofwat’s website.

Further information
- The full report can be found here
- Approximately half of the water companies in England will receive a joint regulatory letter from the Environment Agency and Ofwat outlining specific failings and necessary actions for improvement. The companies are: Anglian Water, Bristol Water, Cambridge Water, Portsmouth Water, South East Water, South Staffordshire Water, South West Water, Southern Water, Thames Water, and Albion Water.
- Water companies must produce a Water Resources Management Plan (WRMP) every 5 years, which sets out how they will govern our water security and protection of the environment for the next 25 years in their supply area.
- Alongside a duty to publish a WRMP every five years, water companies have a further statutory requirement to produce an annual progress report. These are examined each year by the Environment Agency and Ofwat to measure progress on delivering the plan.
- The Environment Agency annual report summarises and reviews progress on key water demand and supply metrics across wholesale water companies in England, for the financial year April 2023 to March 2024.
November 1, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : UAE World Future Energy Summit 2024 [October 2024]
The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 7 October 2024.

Science and Innovation Network UAE delivered UK pavilion in partnership with Department of Business and Trade during headline energy event in the Gulf.

The World Future Energy Summit (WFES) is an international conference held annually in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi supporting the transformation of future energy systems in UAE. It forms a key part of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week; an ambitious programme sponsored by UAE’s Department of Energy and Masdar (Abu Dhabi’s Clean Energy powerhouse). The event is always well attended, attracting a mix of those from across industry, government, and academia as part of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.

2024 is the second year that the UK Science and Innovation Network (SIN) had supported engagement, collaborating once again with colleagues from the Department of Business and Trade (DBT) and FCDO energy policy leads to deliver a UK pavilion.

Introduction

Climate change is a global crisis, and for those countries in the Gulf region, it has never been more critical to take immediate action. This is one of the driest and hottest regions on the globe, and one that continues to rely heavily on fossil fuels. Accordingly, many were surprised when it was announced that COP28 was to be hosted in the UAE.

The UAE remain the current President of COP until November 2024, having hosted COP28 in Dubai from 30 November through to 12 December 2023. The UK was an active participant, delivering a national pavilion with a programme focused on the transition to renewable energy, impacts of climate change, and finance to support the energy transition and tackle deforestation. Given the momentum developed, and the focus of climate change still firmly on the UAE, it made sense for us to harness this for the benefit of UK industry and research entities alike wishing to engage with key stakeholders in the UAE and wider region.

The UK Pavilion during WFES (16 to 18 April 2024) hosted exhibitors including UK companies, start-ups and universities and was officially opened by His Majesty’s Ambassador to the UAE, Ed Hobart, and the CEO of Masdar and UAE’s Clean Energy Champion, Mohammed Al Ramahi. The pavilion itself was strategically located beside the Masdar pavilion giving us a prime location and the opportunity to network with those leading the UAE’s net zero transition.

Our programme included daily sessions designed by SIN and moderated by UK experts on strategic priority areas for the UK. Those that were involved included:
The UK Pavilion was also visited by Khalifa University’s President, Sir John O’Reilly, a key partner in the UAE on Science and Technology.

The World Future Energy Summit coincided with the period during which the UAE experienced its largest rainfall since records began in 1949. Widespread flooding meant that plans had to be swiftly amended, and although WFES 2024 did not reach the high numbers experienced during WFES in 2023 (and previous years), spirits were far from dampened.

Presentations from academic partners during the conference included one on ‘Hydrogen for the Energy Transition’ led by Heriot Watt University Dubai, and a second on ‘Graphene – from decarbonisation to sustainable products and applications’ led by the University of Manchester Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre, and included spinout companies, Levidian and Graphene Innovations Manchester. Colleagues from DBT then delivered a session on day 3 led by UK industry partners reviewing outcomes following ‘100 Days Post COP 28’.

Impact

Overall, our bilateral partnerships continue to grow and develop. UK start-up, Levidian, one the exhibitors on the UK pavilion, signed a waste to energy partnership with Abu Dhabi’s Tadweer Group to produce millions of tonnes of clean hydrogen and carbon negative graphene. Levidian have also been named the winners of the ‘Make it in the Emirates’ Start Up Competition and will subsequently invest around $100 million to establish a new hub in Abu Dhabi that will provide a base for regional delivery.
November 1, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : £160m boost for UK poultry industry as exports to South Africa restart [October 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 7 October 2024.

UK farmers and traders will once again be able to export poultry to South Africa.

British poultry can once again reach South African tables, after the UK secured market access estimated to bring up to £160m to industry over the next five years.

The development will allow UK traders to export poultry to South Africa for the first time in eight years, after restrictions were placed on UK imports following outbreaks of avian influenza in the UK. The UK was declared free from avian influenza earlier this year.

Lowering this trade barrier has been one of the UK’s priorities for agricultural trade, and its resolution marks a significant step forward, benefiting South African consumers with access to high-quality and securely supplied poultry meat.

Food Security Minister Daniel Zeichner met South African ministers, Deputy Minister Rosemary Capa (Agriculture) and Deputy Minister Andrew Whitfield (Trade), last week to finalise the deal. This access will provide further opportunities to grow the UK economy and strengthen the trading relationship between both countries.

Minister for Food Security Daniel Zeichner said:

This deal not only opens new opportunities for UK poultry traders, but grants a new avenue through which to grow the UK economy.

We’re one step further on our journey to securing better trade deals for UK farmers, improving industry resilience and kickstarting our food exports.

South Africa has historically been an important market for UK poultry, with exports of poultry worth over £37 million to South Africa in 2016. Teams from across government have worked in combination with their counterparts in South Africa for many years to regain market access.

International Meat Trade Association CEO Katie Doherty said:

The reopening of South Africa for UK poultry meat exports is fantastic news for UK producers and exporters – prior to the ban, it was a vital market for UK exporters.

It is testament to all the hard work by Defra’s market access team and the agricultural attachés and other officials who have supported this crucial work over many years, for which we are very grateful.

British Poultry Council Chief Executive Richard Griffiths said:

Our relationships with markets around the world underpin economic growth right here in the UK. Providing half the meat the nation eats every year, plus the breeding stock of 70% of all poultry consumed globally, British Poultry Council members actively contribute to both domestic and global food security.

That trade of British poultry can resume with South Africa following the lifting of the avian influenza ban is a great example of government and industry working together to overcome technical trade barriers. Unlocking access to what was once one of our biggest markets is incredibly exciting.

Thank you to the Defra market access team and all Government officials and industry representatives involved for their support and engagement throughout this process. We look forward to continuing our work together to build, maintain and enhance trading relationships – both existing and new!

Defra will work closely with UK poultry producers and traders, as well as relevant industry bodies, to ensure the smooth export of their goods to South Africa.

This development follows recent success in securing new beetroot exports to the US.

November 1, 2024