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PRESS RELEASE : Solar taskforce meets in drive for clean power [October 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 2 October 2024.

Taskforce to accelerate the UK’s solar energy rollout to strengthen energy independence and deliver updated roadmap as part of 2030 clean power mission.
- Reactivated solar taskforce holds first meeting to boost solar energy’s role in the UK’s 2030 clean power mission
- new solar roadmap set for release, with focus on ethical supply chains and a skilled workforce to scale up installations
- follows government approving 2GW of nationally significant solar power in few short months, exceeding total from past 14 years combined
Solar power will be a key driving force behind the 2030 clean power mission, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband told industry today (Wednesday 2 October) during the first meeting of the government’s reactivated Solar Taskforce.

The taskforce brings together leading figures from DESNZ, industry and regulatory organisations and will focus relentlessly on accelerating the delivery of solar energy across the country. Homegrown, renewable energy projects including solar will help build the UK’s energy independence and reduce dependence on volatile fossil fuels – protecting consumer bills and providing clean power.

Reflecting the government’s ambitions to generate more solar power by 2030, the taskforce will build on its strong foundations, and has committed to delivering an updated solar roadmap within the coming months.

To inform this work, this first meeting focused on renewed efforts to expand solar energy initiatives, including actions to develop ethical, resilient and innovative supply chains and to ensure that a skilled and properly resourced workforce is in place to scale up solar installations across the UK.

This comes after plans were announced in July for a ‘solar rooftop revolution’, which will see millions more homes nationwide equipped with solar panels, significantly boosting solar power’s contribution to the UK’s renewable energy transition and protecting household bills.

In just a few months, the government has also consented unprecedented amounts of nationally significant solar – 2GW – more than the last 14 years combined.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

The relaunch of the Solar Taskforce is essential for accelerating action and innovation in our journey towards clean power by 2030 – and to achieve this we are committed to working in lockstep with industry.

The taskforce has shared ambitions to go further and faster, and as solar is one of the cheapest sources of power to build and operate, it is just common sense to make sure it powers even more UK homes and businesses.

This will not only help to cut carbon emissions but communities stand to benefit too from secure homegrown energy and lower energy costs.

Chris Hewett, CEO Solar Energy UK, said:

I am excited to be working with the new Secretary of State on getting the solar taskforce back to work for the country.

More solar power means cheaper, more secure and more sustainable energy, alongside jobs and economic growth.

To deliver on those aims, the forthcoming solar roadmap will outline how the UK will overcome critical barriers to the sector’s growth, among them skills and access to the electricity grid.
October 24, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine is the defining struggle for our generation – UK statement to the OSCE [October 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 2 October 2024.

UK military advisor, Nicholas Aucott, says the UK’s military, financial, diplomatic and political support for Ukraine is iron-clad and will continue for as long as is needed as the cost of inaction would be far higher.

Thank you, Mr Chair. Last week Russia continued in its attempts to justify its illegal war of aggression against Ukraine. There can be no justifications for a war that Russia initiated, unprovoked. In doing so Russia attempted to mislead this Forum. By invading a sovereign state Russia has wilfully violated the Vienna Document and the Helsinki Final Act, foundation documents to which we are all signatories, and which underpin diplomacy here in this Forum.

The bravery and resilience of the Ukrainian people in defence of their homeland has been an inspiration. In pursuit of Ukraine’s inherent sovereign right to exist as an independent nation, they have unsurprisingly garnered support from around the world.

Compare this to the actions of the Russian military who, this weekend, conducted a ‘double-tap’ strike on the Saint Panteleimon Clinical Hospital in the Sumy Region, killing 10 people and injuring at least 22 others. most of those killed and wounded were first responders, hit 45 minutes after the first strike, as they attempted to evacuate those initially wounded. This is yet another violation of the Code of Conduct which obliges armed forms to comply with international law.

Two years, 226 days into this horrific conflict, the Russian state continues to issue threats in an effort to subjugate the Ukrainian people and deter others from providing such support. But the Russian state cannot be allowed to operate with impunity: its war in Ukraine is the defining struggle for our generation and profoundly challenges the UN Charter and the international order on which global prosperity and security depends.

The reality is that this war is proving costly to the Russian people. Military operations in Ukraine have cost Russia up to $211 billion. The militarisation of the economy is punishing the Russian people, with approximately 40% of the federal budget spent on Defence and security

Despite the appalling losses on both sides of the conflict, the Russian state presses on with little regard for the lives of its own soldiers. Russian air force personnel have been backfilling infantry roles due to the restricted Russian labour market. Russian fighting capability is depleted as it struggles to replace high casualty rates.

Russia can end this terrible war of choice immediately, by withdrawing its forces from Ukraine. The UK will continue to deliver £3 billion of military aid to Ukraine every year for as long as needed. The UK’s military, financial, diplomatic and political support for Ukraine is iron-clad – that includes backing calls for a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression, to support efforts to hold Putin’s Russia to account for its illegal war.

The UK recognises that we must lay the foundations for Ukraine’s long-term future. We will accelerate Ukraine’s irreversible move towards NATO, while the Ukrainian people have decided their future is in Europe and the EU has opened accession talks. We are supporting private sector-led growth and reform unlocking obstacles to trade and investment. Doing more will not be without cost to us – but the costs of inaction are far higher.

Thank you.

October 24, 2024
Keir Starmer – 2024 Message for Rosh Hashanah

The message issued by Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, on 2 October 2024.

As we usher in the most significant period in the Jewish calendar – a period of deep reflection – let me send heartfelt and sincere good wishes to Jewish communities throughout the UK marking Rosh Hashanah.

So often, Rosh Hashanah is a joyous occasion. But this year, we approach it with anguish too. Our hearts are heavy with the memory of the brutal acts of October 7th. As we remember those who lost their lives, I pledge to do all we can to bring home the hostages.

I also take this opportunity to reaffirm the extraordinary role that the Jewish community plays in Britain today. As I have got to know the community and visited its synagogues, schools and charities, I have been moved time and again by its energy and warmth. It is the achievement of countless people, who by multiple acts of kindness, give Jewish life in this country its humanity and grace.

At a time of huge challenge for the Jewish world, with rising hostility and antisemitism, I stand steadfast this Rosh Hashanah in admiration of this cherished community. The Jewish community, and all it stands for, makes Britain a better, stronger society.

I wish you a happy, healthy and sweet New Year. May you and your loved ones be inscribed in the Book of Life.

Shana Tova.

October 24, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 57 – UPR Adoption of Eritrea [October 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 2 October 2024.

UK Statement for the Universal Periodic Review Adoption of Eritrea as delivered at the 57th Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Mr President,

We thank Eritrea for engaging with the UPR process and we note the recommendations that the government has accepted.

We are pleased to see that these include a number of recommendations relating to healthcare and education.

We would like to very much encourage the government of Eritrea to engage with the international community to support implementation, noting the challenges faced by the government in previous cycles.

We do however worry that the spread of accepted recommendations suggests a lack of commitment to the promotion and protection of the full range of civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights.

We are disappointed that our recommendations to implement the 1997 constitution and also to allow access for the Special Rapporteur were not accepted.

We reiterate our belief that these recommendations would support the promotion and protection of all human rights for all Eritrean citizens. Furthermore, cooperation with HRC mandate holders are especially pertinent given that Eritrea remains a member of the Human Rights Council.

Thank you.

October 24, 2024
NEWS STORY : Anonymity for Officers in Shooting Trials Sparks Debate

STORY

The UK government’s recent announcement granting anonymity to police officers facing trial for shooting suspects has ignited a fierce debate, raising questions about transparency, accountability and public trust in the justice system. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper unveiled the new measures, which would provide anonymity for firearms officers involved in fatal shootings up until the point of conviction. This means their identities would be withheld from the public and media during court proceedings.

Cooper argued that this step is necessary to protect officers and their families from potential threats and harassment, particularly in high-profile cases where emotions run high. She emphasised that officers acting in dangerous situations on behalf of the state deserve protection from further danger during legal proceedings. This move follows the acquittal by a jury of the Metropolitan Police officer who fatally shot gangland figure Chris Kaba in 2022. The officer, known only as NX121 throughout the trial, faced intense scrutiny and public pressure, prompting concerns about the safety of officers involved in similar incidents.

“This is a dangerous step that could have serious consequences for police accountability” said Martha Spurrier, director of Liberty. “It’s vital that the public can see justice being done, and that includes knowing the identity of the officers involved in these cases.”

October 24, 2024
OBITUARY : Alex Salmond (1954-2024)

OBITUARY

Alexander Elliot Anderson Salmond, the former First Minister of Scotland and a towering figure in the fight for Scottish independence, has died at the age of 69. His passing marks the end of an era in Scottish politics, where his charisma, intellect, and unwavering belief in his country left an indelible mark.

Born in Linlithgow on Hogmanay 1954, Salmond’s journey from a small-town boy to a political titan is a testament to his ambition and political acumen. Educated at Linlithgow Academy and the University of St Andrews, where he studied economics and medieval history, Salmond joined the Scottish National Party (SNP) in 1973, a decision that would shape his life and the future of Scotland.

His early career saw him working as an economist for the Royal Bank of Scotland and the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries for Scotland. However, his passion lay in politics, and in 1987, he was elected to the UK Parliament as the MP for Banff and Buchan. From the outset, he was a formidable presence in Westminster, known for his sharp wit, debating skills, and unwavering commitment to Scottish self-determination.

Salmond’s leadership qualities were quickly recognised, and in 1990, he became leader of the SNP, a position he held for a decade. During this time, he revitalised the party, transforming it into a major political force and setting the stage for its eventual rise to power. He spearheaded the campaign for a Scottish Parliament, culminating in the successful 1997 devolution referendum.

In 2007, Salmond led the SNP to victory in the Scottish Parliament elections, becoming Scotland’s first First Minister from the SNP. His tenure was marked by significant achievements, including the introduction of free university tuition, the abolition of prescription charges, and the successful negotiation of increased powers for the Scottish Parliament.

However, it was his unwavering pursuit of Scottish independence that defined his political legacy. He spearheaded the campaign for the 2014 independence referendum, galvanising support for the “Yes” campaign and bringing the issue to the forefront of Scottish politics. Though the referendum ultimately resulted in a “No” vote, it energised the independence movement and laid the groundwork for future campaigns.

Salmond’s political career was not without controversy. He faced accusations of sexual harassment, which he denied and was acquitted of in court. These allegations, however, tarnished his reputation and led to his resignation from the SNP in 2018. He subsequently formed the Alba Party, which campaigned for Scottish independence on a platform of a “super-majority” of pro-independence MSPs in the Scottish Parliament.

Beyond his political achievements, Salmond was a complex and charismatic figure. He was known for his love of horse racing, golf, and good whisky. He was a gifted communicator, capable of captivating audiences with his wit and storytelling. He was also a fierce debater, relishing the cut and thrust of political argument.

Alex Salmond’s impact on Scottish politics is undeniable. He was a transformative figure who reshaped the political landscape and brought the dream of Scottish independence closer to reality. He inspired a generation of Scottish nationalists and left a lasting legacy that will be debated and discussed for years to come.

His passing will be mourned by many, not just in Scotland but across the UK and beyond. He was a political giant, a champion of his country, and a man who left an indelible mark on the history of Scotland. He will be remembered as a skilled politician, a passionate advocate for Scotland, and a complex and captivating figure who played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s future.

October 24, 2024
NEWS STORY : Commonwealth Grapples with Legacy of Slavery as Reparations Debate Takes Centre Stage

STORY

As leaders from the 54 member states of the Commonwealth gather for their biennial summit in Samoa, the issue of reparations for the transatlantic slave trade has taken centre stage, sparking intense debate and calls for historical accountability. The legacy of slavery casts a long shadow over the Commonwealth, an organisation composed predominantly of former British colonies. Many member states in the Caribbean and Africa are demanding that Britain acknowledge its role in the abhorrent trade and provide financial compensation for the enduring social and economic consequences.

“The time for talk is over”, declared Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda, a vocal proponent of reparations. “We are not asking for aid, we are demanding reparatory justice for the centuries of exploitation and brutality inflicted upon our ancestors.”

While the British government has expressed “deep sorrow” for its role in the slave trade, it has stopped short of offering a formal apology or committing to reparations. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, while acknowledging the “abhorrent” nature of slavery, has argued that focusing on the past is less productive than addressing present-day challenges like climate change and economic development.

This stance has met with resistance from many Commonwealth leaders who argue that the past cannot be ignored. They contend that the systemic inequalities and economic disparities faced by many former colonies are a direct result of the slave trade and colonialism, and that reparations are necessary to address these historical injustices.

“Reparations are not just about money”, explained Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados, another leading voice in the reparations movement. “They are about acknowledging the deep wounds of the past and taking concrete steps to heal them.”

The debate has exposed divisions within the Commonwealth, with some members, including Australia and Canada, expressing reservations about reparations. However, a growing number of countries are pushing for a formal acknowledgement of historical wrongs and a commitment to reparatory justice. The summit is expected to produce a declaration on the issue, though the exact wording remains a subject of intense negotiation. While a consensus on direct financial reparations seems unlikely at this stage, there is growing momentum for initiatives focused on education, historical research, and development programs aimed at addressing the lingering effects of slavery. The reparations debate at the Commonwealth summit reflects a broader global reckoning with the legacy of colonialism and slavery. As demands for historical accountability grow louder, the Commonwealth finds itself at a crossroads, grappling with its past while seeking to forge a more equitable future.

October 24, 2024
NEWS STORY : Disposable Vapes Face Nationwide Ban from June 2025

STORY

The UK government has announced a ban on the sale of disposable vapes, set to take effect in June 2025. The decision comes amid growing concerns over the environmental impact of these products and their increasing popularity among young people.

“Single-use vapes are extremely wasteful and blight our towns and cities”, stated Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Mary Creagh, “that is why we are banning them as we end this nation’s throwaway culture.”

The move has been welcomed by environmental groups who have long campaigned for action on the issue. Disposable vapes contribute significantly to plastic waste and contain lithium batteries, posing a risk to wildlife and ecosystems.

“This ban is a crucial step in tackling the growing tide of electronic waste”, said Libby Peake, head of resources at Green Alliance, “disposable vapes are the last thing our children and the planet need.”

The ban also aims to curb the rise of underage vaping. With their attractive flavours and low cost, disposable vapes have become readily accessible to young people, leading to a surge in nicotine addiction among teenagers.

“It is deeply worrying that a quarter of 11 to 15-year-olds used a vape last year”, said health minister Andrew Gwynne, “this ban will help protect our children from the harms of nicotine addiction.”

The legislation, laid out in Parliament today, gives suppliers until June 2025 to sell off existing stock and prepare for the ban. The government expects devolved nations in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland to follow suit. While the ban has received widespread support, some argue that it could push vapers back to traditional cigarettes or fuel a black market for disposable vapes. The Government maintains that the ban is a necessary step to protect public health and the environment.

October 24, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Statement by the President of the European Commission and the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on Enhancing Strategic Cooperation [October 2024]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 2 October 2024.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen released a joint statement today.

The President of the European Commission and the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom met today and agreed to strengthen the relationship between the United Kingdom and the European Union.

They agreed on the shared challenges facing the European Union and the United Kingdom including the altered strategic context for the wider continent notably resulting from Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine. They reiterated their unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty.

The leaders agreed the UK and European Union would also continue to work closely to address wider global challenges including economic headwinds, geopolitical competition, irregular migration, climate change and energy prices, which pose fundamental challenges to the shared values of the United Kingdom and the European Union and provide the strategic driver for stronger cooperation.

The leaders reflected on the events in the Middle East overnight and condemned the egregious attack by Iran on Israel. They recognised Israel’s right to self-defence in the face of this unacceptable aggression. De-escalation by all parties in the region was of the upmost importance. They reiterated the need to coordinate the diplomatic response to the situation in the Middle East and called on all sides to show restraint and end the bloodshed. An immediate ceasefire in Lebanon and Gaza was required to create the space to allow for political solutions, the leaders underlined.

They agreed on the importance of the unique relationship between the European Union and the United Kingdom in addressing such challenges and resolved, in line with our shared values, to strengthen ambitiously their structured strategic cooperation.

They reaffirmed that the Withdrawal Agreement, including the Windsor Framework, and the Trade and Cooperation Agreement underpin relations between them and underlined their mutual commitment to the full and faithful implementation of those agreements. They reaffirmed their mutual commitment to uphold international law and to the European Convention on Human Rights. They agreed a stable, positive and forward-looking relationship was in their mutual interests and provided the basis for long term cooperation.

They agreed to take forward this agenda of strengthened cooperation at pace over the coming months, starting with defining together the areas in which strengthened cooperation would be mutually beneficial, such as the economy, energy, security and resilience, in full respect of their internal procedures and institutional prerogatives. They agreed to meet again this autumn.

They agreed on the importance of holding regular EU-UK Summits at leader-level to oversee the development of the relationship. They agreed that a first Summit should take place ideally in early 2025.

October 24, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : UK and Singapore lead international action to support ransomware victims [October 2024]

The press release issued by the Home Office on 2 October 2024.

Thirty-nine countries and global cyber insurance bodies have endorsed new guidance at the 2024 Counter Ransomware Initiative Summit.

The UK and 38 countries including Australia, Canada, Japan, the United States and New Zealand have united with international cyber insurance bodies to back important new guidance supporting organisations experiencing ransomware attacks and to boost global resilience.

The new guidance – agreed yesterday (1 October 2024) at the Counter Ransomware Initiative – will encourage organisations to carefully consider their options instead of rushing to make payments to cyber criminals in an attempt to stop disruption and data loss. It makes clear that paying a ransom will often only embolden these criminals to target other victims, and there is no guarantee of data retrieval, malware removal or the end of a ransomware attack.

Instead, organisations are encouraged to report attacks to law enforcement authorities, check if data backups are available and get advice from recognised experts. They should also take action ahead of a possible attack by preparing policies, frameworks and communications plans as part of contingency planning.

The new guidance will ultimately help undermine the business model of ransomware criminals and take away the incentive to target other organisations elsewhere, preventing future attacks and boosting global resilience.

Security Minister Dan Jarvis said:

Cyber criminality does not recognise borders.

That is why international co-operation is vital to tackle the shared threat of ransomware attacks.

This guidance will hit the wallets of cyber criminals, and ultimately help to protect businesses in the UK and around the world.

Ransomware is the biggest cyber threat to most UK businesses and organisations, as cyber criminals constantly evolve their tactics to increase efficiency and boost profits, and last year was the worst year on record for ransomware payments, with more than $1 billion lost to victims worldwide, according to industry estimates by Chainanalysis.

As part of a crackdown on cyber criminals, this week the UK sanctioned sixteen individuals linked to the Evil Corp cyber gang in joint action with the US and Australia.

The prolific, long-standing Russian cybercrime group, Evil Corp had previously conducted malware and ransomware attacks on UK health, government and public sector institutions, as well as private commercial technology companies.

It was also revealed that Evil Corp actors had links to ransomware group LockBit. The National Crime Agency’s infiltration of LockBit, earlier this year revealed that cyber criminals often retained data even after victims paid a ransom on the promise it would be deleted.

The UK has led the way in this collaborative approach with the cyber insurance industry, who can play a key role in supporting organisations before, during and after a ransomware incident.

In May, the National Cyber Security Centre and 3 major UK insurance bodies (the Association of British Insurers, the British Insurance Brokers’ Association and the International Underwriting Association) joined forces to launch co-sponsored guidance for UK organisations.

NCSC Director for National Resilience Jonathon Ellison said:

Ransomware remains an urgent threat and organisations should act now to boost resilience.

The endorsement of this best practice guidance by both nations and international cyber insurance bodies represents a powerful push for organisations to upgrade their defences and enhance their cyber readiness.

This collective approach, guided by last year’s CRI statement denouncing ransomware and built on guidelines from the NCSC and UK insurance associations earlier this year, reflects a growing global commitment to tackling the ransomware threat.

The CRI is the only dedicated multilateral forum for UK and international partners to come together to develop new policies and processes to combat ransomware.

Last year, the forum agreed a groundbreaking joint statement again led by the UK and Singapore denouncing ransomware payments and confirming, for the first time, that no central government funds should be used to pay demands.

The new guidance comes as Cyber Security Awareness Month begins, which this year focuses on the importance of businesses building their cyber resilience.

October 24, 2024