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Category: Press Releases

  • PRESS RELEASE : The Iranian people will no longer tolerate violence and oppression [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : The Iranian people will no longer tolerate violence and oppression [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 2 November 2022.

    Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the Security Council Arria meeting on protests in Iran.

    Thank you Chair. On behalf of the United Kingdom let me pay tribute to the powerful briefing we have heard today from our three briefers.

    The death of Mahsa “Jina” Amini was a tragedy. She was not the first young woman to die needlessly at the hands of the Iranian regime. Nor, sadly, will she be the last. But her death and the bravery of so many ordinary Iranians since then have changed Iran.

    What we have seen in the six weeks since Mahsa’s death has been extraordinary. Years of grief, fear and frustration at the hands of an oppressive regime have spilled into the streets.

    This is an authentic, grassroots call for change.

    People in Iran have had their rights and voices ignored for too long.

    We stand in solidarity and awe at their extraordinary bravery standing up to the authorities.

    Their message is clear: the Iranian people will no longer tolerate violence and oppression.

    The situation is entirely of the Iranian regime’s own making. Its human rights record has been dire for years.

    Iran’s brutal crackdown on protests has appalled the world. We have seen with our own eyes the footage of police violently beating protestors. We’ve seen numerous reports of authorities using live ammunition on crowds.

    The Iranian regime’s narrative around these incidents – that external actors are to blame for the unrest – is a flagrant attempt to distract the world.

    But the regime knows the truth.

    Its attempts to stifle the voices of its people by restricting internet access, blocking apps and jamming satellite broadcasts shows us that the regime is frightened of what ordinary Iranians think.

    A confident government does not cut off its people from basic services, accurate reporting and the vital ability to connect with one another.

    The Iranian regime has tried to blame everybody but themselves for what’s going on. It’s time they take responsibility and listen to their people.

    The people of Iran have been clear that the regime cannot continue as it has. It must now demonstrate real change.

    As my Foreign Secretary said on the 17th October, there is a place in the international community for a responsible Iran, one that respects the rights and freedoms of its citizens.

    For the sake of Iran’s peace and security – and its future standing in the world – it is time for the regime to make the right move.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Bosnia and Herzegovina has made progress since 1995, but its hard won peace remains fragile and under pressure [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Bosnia and Herzegovina has made progress since 1995, but its hard won peace remains fragile and under pressure [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 2 November 2022.

    Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the Security Council debate on Bosnia and Herzegovina.

    Thank you President, and first may I join others in welcoming the unanimous adoption of the resolution renewing the mandate of EUFOR Operation Althea. And I want to pay particular tribute and appreciation to Ireland’s role as penholder on the text. Bosnia and Herzegovina has made progress since 1995, but its hard won peace remains fragile and under pressure. EUFOR’s presence continues to play an indispensable role in ensuring a safe and secure environment.

    Second, we would like to thank High Representative Schmidt for his latest report, and we look forward to welcoming him in future meetings. He and his office continue to play a crucial role, and have the UK’s support, including for the use of his executive powers should the situation require it.

    We would like to congratulate all the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina on the 2 October elections. These were, overall, peaceful and democratic. But instances of fraud must be investigated and prosecuted. And we also regret further instances of dangerous, divisive and secessionist rhetoric. These must stop.

    But only half the work is done. We urge the relevant actors in Bosnia and Herzegovina to prioritise collaboration and cooperation over political obstructionism to ensure the election results are implemented swiftly and effectively.

    In this regard, we note the executive actions taken by the High Representative in the run up to and following the elections. It is clear from the report that these were tough decisions and that the High Representative did not take them lightly. We understand that in some quarters, these decisions were considered controversial. But it is clear that they were made to amend a dysfunctional status quo that benefitted few. His actions were designed to improve governance to benefit all in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

    Finally, I would like to reaffirm the UK’s commitment to the Dayton Peace Agreement and its structures. We welcome all work towards meeting the conditions set out for their closure, including the 5+2 Criteria. We remain an active member of the Peace Implementation Council in support of the territorial integrity and fundamental structure of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a single, sovereign state, comprising two entities.

    We urge all actors in Bosnia and Herzegovina to set aside narrow interests, and focus instead on improving the quality of life for all citizens, and making progress on the agreed aim of Euro-Atlantic integration. Thank you Mr President.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Russia’s allegations have no credible basis in fact [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Russia’s allegations have no credible basis in fact [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 2 November 2022.

    Explanation of vote by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine.

    President,

    The UK voted against this resolution in order to protect the integrity of the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention and to avoid it being undermined by unfounded accusations.

    Russia claimed that the United States and Ukraine and their allies have failed to consider the evidence they have presented.

    This is completely false.

    Russia’s allegations of US and Ukrainian biological activities were given a full hearing in September, under Article 5 of the Convention.

    At that meeting Ukraine and the USA provided a comprehensive response to Russia’s allegations.

    The UK shared its own extensive technical analysis of the evidence Russia presented.

    Russia’s allegations have no credible basis in fact.

    President,

    Russia’s longstanding disinformation efforts undermine peaceful biological cooperation under Article 10, a vitally important aspect of the Convention.

    We must defend peaceful biological cooperation against unfounded, malicious allegations.

    The UK remains deeply committed to the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention. We value Article 6 as an important mechanism for states parties to address real, valid concerns arising under the Convention.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : The Iranian people will no longer tolerate violence and oppression [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : The Iranian people will no longer tolerate violence and oppression [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 2 November 2022.

    Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the Security Council Arria meeting on protests in Iran.

    Thank you Chair. On behalf of the United Kingdom let me pay tribute to the powerful briefing we have heard today from our three briefers.

    The death of Mahsa “Jina” Amini was a tragedy. She was not the first young woman to die needlessly at the hands of the Iranian regime. Nor, sadly, will she be the last. But her death and the bravery of so many ordinary Iranians since then have changed Iran.

    What we have seen in the six weeks since Mahsa’s death has been extraordinary. Years of grief, fear and frustration at the hands of an oppressive regime have spilled into the streets.

    This is an authentic, grassroots call for change.

    People in Iran have had their rights and voices ignored for too long.

    We stand in solidarity and awe at their extraordinary bravery standing up to the authorities.

    Their message is clear: the Iranian people will no longer tolerate violence and oppression.

    The situation is entirely of the Iranian regime’s own making. Its human rights record has been dire for years.

    Iran’s brutal crackdown on protests has appalled the world. We have seen with our own eyes the footage of police violently beating protestors. We’ve seen numerous reports of authorities using live ammunition on crowds.

    The Iranian regime’s narrative around these incidents – that external actors are to blame for the unrest – is a flagrant attempt to distract the world.

    But the regime knows the truth.

    Its attempts to stifle the voices of its people by restricting internet access, blocking apps and jamming satellite broadcasts shows us that the regime is frightened of what ordinary Iranians think.

    A confident government does not cut off its people from basic services, accurate reporting and the vital ability to connect with one another.

    The Iranian regime has tried to blame everybody but themselves for what’s going on. It’s time they take responsibility and listen to their people.

    The people of Iran have been clear that the regime cannot continue as it has. It must now demonstrate real change.

    As my Foreign Secretary said on the 17th October, there is a place in the international community for a responsible Iran, one that respects the rights and freedoms of its citizens.

    For the sake of Iran’s peace and security – and its future standing in the world – it is time for the regime to make the right move.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Made with Care campaign highlights opportunities for careers in care [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Made with Care campaign highlights opportunities for careers in care [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Department for Health and Social Care on 2 November 2022.

    • Second year of domestic recruitment campaign ‘Made with Care’ kicks off today encouraging people to apply for a career in the adult social care sector.
    • Opportunities available for diverse range of rewarding jobs with development and training.

    The ‘Made with Care’ campaign is returning for a second year and highlights the wide range of opportunities available to build a career in care and help others to live happy, healthy, fulfilling lives.

    Running until March 2023, campaign advertising will appear to millions across video on demand platforms such as ITV Hub, Sky Go and All 4; radio and digital audio channels such as Spotify and social media and digital channels like Facebook and Instagram, to direct job seekers to www.adultsocialcare.co.uk.

    Here, people will be able to find everything they need to research a career in adult social care and, crucially, search and apply for adult social care jobs near them – with support to perfect their CV and advice on interviews.

    Health and Social Care Secretary Steve Barclay said:

    Working in social care is rewarding, inspiring and provides career opportunities with a range of roles you may have never considered.

    To get started, you just need to have the right qualities including kindness and compassion to support people’s loved ones and make a difference.

    This government is committed to a sustainable social care sector and anyone can play a part by joining this incredible workforce.

    Minister for Care Helen Whately said:

    I want to help care providers recruit the dedicated staff they need. There are great opportunities to join one of the country’s most important workforces.

    Care workers do such an important job – a job that can also be truly rewarding.

    We know in government we can help care providers get the message out about the opportunities in the sector. I hope this campaign will help boost the social care workforce across the country.

    With a variety of vacancies and jobs and with record investment in adult social care from the government, there has never been a better time for people with the right qualities to seize the opportunity and begin a career in care.

    From support workers who help people in care with day-to-day activities, to shared lives carers who welcome people who need care into their homes and family life – there’s something for everyone looking to take on meaningful work within the sector.

    With a variety of vacancies and jobs and with record investment in adult social care from the government, there has never been a better time for people with the right qualities to seize the opportunity and begin a career in care.

    From support workers who help people in care with day-to-day activities, to shared lives carers who welcome people who need care into their homes and family life – there’s something for everyone looking to take on meaningful work within the sector.

    Chief Nurse for Adult Social Care, Deborah Sturdy, said:

    I am proud to be working in social care as it provides so many diverse opportunities for registered nurses and the incredible professional care workforce who make a difference to people’s lives.

    You will meet and work with wonderful people and be a part of something bigger than yourself.

    Come and join the adult social care workforce. It is the best decision I ever made.

    With advertising planned across England, the ‘Made with Care’ campaign will reach millions of people this winter, highlighting the amazing work staff across the adult social care sector do and celebrating the way they empower the people they support – shining a light on the emotional rewards of the role to inspire more people to consider a job in adult social care.

    Opportunities are available today and training is provided. Flexible working patterns are often available, making it the perfect career choice for those with other commitments.

    Harry Beckwith, Support Worker said:

    I wanted to come into care because I just enjoy seeing people happy. I love making them smile.

    I decided to work in care with adults just because I wanted to explore what I could do, what experiences I could get, and learn from those I care for as much as they learn from me.

    If someone told me they wanted to go and work in care I’d say go straight for it. Honestly, it’s the most rewarding job I’ve ever had. It’s just nice to help someone who needs help.

    Social care is a top priority for the government, backed by £5.4billion and the 10-year People at the Heart of Care plan to reform social care so there has never been a better time to join the sector.

    Recognising the current challenges faced by the social care sector and local government, the government has also committed £500million to support discharge from hospitals. This funding will ease pressure and build a stronger NHS to ensure the people of our country get the care they need and deserve.

    Oonagh Smyth, Chief Executive Officer for Skills for Care, said:

    Skills for Care is excited to see the next phase of the Made with Care campaign progress.

    Our ‘State of the adult social care sector and workforce in England’ report released in October has really highlighted the recruitment and retention challenges the adult social care sector is facing right now, with vacancy levels having increased 52% in the past year to the highest rate on record. At the same time the number of filled posts has fallen, this is the first drop in the number of care workers ever.

    We need to talk more about the rewarding and fulfilling career that adult social care can offer, and we hope the Made with Care campaign will raise awareness of the value and variety of a career in care and the important contribution that the 1.5 million people currently working in adult social care are making to our communities.

    Skills for Care hosted a webinar in October for social care providers to find out more about the Made with Care campaign and how it can support them, and we’ll be continuing to support the campaign as it moves into its next phase.

    An ADASS spokesperson said:

    The recruitment campaign Made with Care is so important in showing the wide variety of roles across adult social care, as well as just how meaningful and essential the work is.

    It’s vital that adult social care is seen as an enriching career, comprised of a talented workforce making it possible for us all to live the lives we want to live.

  • PRESS RELEASE : We owe it to the millions of refugees and displaced, to find practical, long-term political answers [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : We owe it to the millions of refugees and displaced, to find practical, long-term political answers [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 2 November 2022.

    Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the Security Council briefing by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.

    Thank you, Mr President.

    Let me join others in congratulating Gabon on an excellent Presidency and wish Ghana all the best for the month of November. I thank High Commissioner Grandi for his briefing and offer congratulations on the recent extension of his term by the General Assembly.

    The United Kingdom commends the tireless efforts of UNHCR, as well as other humanitarian agencies, NGOs and host-nations, for everything they do to support those forced to flee their homes.

    Climate change, conflict and the long-term fallout from the COVID19 pandemic have led to shocking and unprecedented levels of displacement as we’ve heard today. Over 300 million people in need of humanitarian assistance. More than 100 million forcibly displaced.

    With this context in mind, we echo others’ horror at President Putin’s latest atrocities in Ukraine that are adding substantially to the humanitarian caseload: strikes on civilian targets, ahead of winter, serve no purpose than to spread terror.

    And as we’ve heard from numerous interventions this morning, this unprovoked aggression has already displaced more than 14 million people and left almost 18 million in need of humanitarian assistance. It is also causing food insecurity across the planet.

    The crisis in Ukraine is but one example of the need to address the drivers of displacement – the UN, with member state support, needs to focus on solutions to crises. From Ethiopia to Syria to Myanmar, we owe it to the millions of refugees and displaced, to find practical, long-term political answers to these prolonged crises.

    Furthermore, this Council needs to continue to ensure that actors on the ground meet their responsibilities – this means adherence to International Humanitarian Law, ensuring that refugee returns are voluntary, safe and dignified, and allowing humanitarian workers to safely carry out their work unhindered. And in this context, the United Kingdom supports the initiative of the US and Ireland to secure a horizontal sanctions exemption for humanitarian workers.

    Finally, the United Kingdom is taking life-saving action. The UK International Development Strategy sets out our long-standing commitment to life-saving humanitarian work. We intend to contribute over $3 billion to humanitarian needs, globally, over the next three years.

    As we look ahead to the Global Refugee Forum next year, this Council needs to place the plight of refugees and forcibly displaced at the centre of its decision-making. Without long-term solutions, the humanitarian caseload will only continue to escalate.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Elena Whitham to lead community safety in Scotland [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Elena Whitham to lead community safety in Scotland [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Scottish Government on 2 November 2022.

    First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has asked Elena Whitham MSP to join the Scottish Government as Minister for Community Safety.

    Ms Whitham’s appointment will be put to Parliament and His Majesty The King, and subject to approval she will take up the post, reporting to the Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Veterans.

    Prior to entering elected politics, Ms Whitham worked in community youth and homelessness roles and ran three businesses as a sole trader, in addition to spending over a decade as a Women’s Aid worker in Ayrshire, supporting women and children experiencing domestic abuse.

    More recently, she served as the Depute Leader of East Ayrshire Council and was also COSLA’s Community Wellbeing Spokesperson, where her remit included housing and homelessness.

    The First Minister said:

    “I would like to thank Ash Regan for her Ministerial contribution to the Scottish Government, most notably in leading new legislation to control the sale and use of fireworks and tackling inequality in the justice system.

    “I’m pleased to appoint Elena to her first Ministerial position, which has cross-cutting responsibilities across Scotland’s fire service, our justice system, and the prevention of violence against women and girls.

    “I’m confident Elena’s professional and personal experience will stand her in good stead for this role and I look forward to working with her to improve the safety of communities across the country.”

    Background

    New Ministerial Appointments are subject to formal confirmation and acceptance by Parliament and His Majesty the King.

    Responsibilities

    The Minister for Community Safety supports the Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Veterans. Specific responsibilities of the role include:

    • Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
    • Community safety
    • Civil Law and Tribunals
    • Anti-social behaviour
    • Legal profession
    • Legal regulation
    • Access to Justice
    • Legal Aid Fund
    • Scottish Law Commission Bills
    • Strategic Approach to Women in the Justice System
    • Violence against women, prostitution and misogynistic harassment
    • Control of dogs including review of the Dangerous Dog Act
    • Alcohol licensing
    • Fireworks
    • Human Trafficking
  • PRESS RELEASE : Emergency Budget Review published in Scotland [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Emergency Budget Review published in Scotland [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Scottish Government on 2 November 2022.

    Additional funding to help those most in need.

    Measures announced today will provide further help to those most impacted by the cost of living crisis while tackling budget pressures caused by rising inflation and economic uncertainty.

    The Emergency Budget Review (EBR) for 2022-23 identifies funding of around £35 million for a range of initiatives to support people with the increased cost of living, including doubling the Fuel Insecurity Fund, doubling the Scottish Child Bridging Payment to £260 and a new £1.4 million Island Cost Crisis Emergency Fund to help island households manage higher energy costs.

    Significant investment in public sector pay deals – delivering higher increases in pay for low earners – is also designed to help families and individuals deal with the cost of living crisis.

    Other measures include:

    • confirming funds to local authorities to support Discretionary Housing Payments
    • establishing a Joint Taskforce with business, COSLA, local authorities and agencies to consider the differing impacts of regulation on business
    • extending energy advice to businesses by investing £300,000 to expand the services of Business Energy Scotland, while doubling the value of the SME energy efficiency Loan and Cash Back Scheme for energy efficiency to £20,000
    • new payment break options to help protect those who have agreed to repay debt through the Debt Arrangement Scheme but face unexpected increases in the cost of living

    Additional savings of £615 million have been identified to enable enhanced public sector pay offers to be made while maintaining a route to complying with Ministers’ responsibility to balance the budget. They follow savings of £560 million announced on 7 September.

    Deputy First Minister John Swinney said:

    “There has never been a time of greater pressure on the public finances.

    “The Scottish Government’s budget today is worth £1.7 billion less than when it was published last December. At the same time, demand for government support and intervention is understandably increasing while we continue to try to fund increased public sector pay claims, particularly for those on lowest incomes.

    “These savings are not ones we would wish to make, but in the absence of additional funding from the UK Government, we are left with no alternative.

    “We must balance the books while prioritising funding to help families, back business, provide fair pay awards and to protect the delivery of public services. This Emergency Budget Review delivers on these objectives.”

  • PRESS RELEASE : Marches and Parades in Scotland Working Group report published [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Marches and Parades in Scotland Working Group report published [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Scottish Government on 2 November 2022.

    Proposals to examine the balance of rights between marchers and affected communities.

    Recommendations to improve how marches and parades are planned and organised across Scotland have been published.

    The Short Life Working Group on Processions in Scotland was set up following a pledge by the First Minister last year to consider if an approach similar to that taken in Northern Ireland should be adopted here. The report aims to strike a balance between protecting the rights of those who seek to march or protest and those in communities affected by such events.

    The independent working group of experts recommends that a national parades’ commission is not necessary in the context in Scotland, as improvements could be best handled by local partners.

    A further 17 recommendations put forward by the working group include:

    • Improving the notification process around marches – ensuring relevant information is available for communities
    • Improving the facilitation and regulation of processions by making sure people’s human rights continue to be upheld
    • Reducing the need for public order policing

    Key partners, including the Scottish Government, the City of Edinburgh Council, Glasgow City Council, Police Scotland, COSLA and human rights experts will now come together to consider the report recommendations and agree the best way forward.

    Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Veterans Keith Brown said:

    “Marching, parading and protesting is of great importance to many people in Scotland for cultural, community and political reasons.

    “The Scottish Government fully recognises this and is committed to freedom of speech and to upholding the human rights of those seeking to participate in such events. But in doing this we must also ensure that the rights of those seeking to go about their business undisturbed are also protected. As such, a balance must be struck between protecting the rights of those who seek to march or protest and those of the communities impacted by such events.

    “I am very grateful to the Working Group for their dedication and hard work in developing their report and recommendations, as well as to everyone who took the time to speak with group to give their experiences and expertise.

    “We will continue to hold meaningful and productive dialogue with march and parade organisers, community representatives, Police Scotland and local authorities to ensure that, collectively, we continue to work towards achieving the correct balance of right for all.”

    Chair of the working group Dominic Bryan, said:

    “Members of the working group were impressed with much of the work already undertaken by local authorities in sometimes challenging circumstances.

    “We believe that our recommendations will offer a sustainable way forward for the facilitation and regulation of processions in Scotland reflecting important human rights considerations.”

  • PRESS RELEASE : Healthcare awareness campaign launched [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Healthcare awareness campaign launched [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Scottish Government on 2 November 2022.

    Latest step in £600 million winter resilience plan.

    Scots are being urged to play their part to ease pressure on the NHS this winter as an awareness campaign is launched today (2 November).

    Targeted advertising on TV, radio and online will encourage people to get the right care in the right place – diverting them away from busy A&E wards where appropriate.

    It will make clear that – if a condition is not life-threatening – people can visit their local pharmacy, dial NHS 24 on 111, or contact their GP. It will also signpost people to the NHS Inform website which provides practical self-help guides.

    Pandemic backlogs, Brexit-driven staff shortages and inflation costs have all contributed to make this the most challenging winter the NHS has ever faced. This advertising campaign is the latest step in the £600 million winter resilience plan which is already recruiting an extra 1,000 extra staff, vaccinating the public from COVID-19 and the flu, and prioritising care for the most vulnerable.

    Health Secretary Humza Yousaf visited Edinburgh’s Bangholm Medical Centre to hear experiences of how multi-disciplinary teams are already embracing the approach. He said:

    “I am under no illusion that this winter will be the toughest in the history of our great NHS, which is why I am pulling every lever at my disposal to help ease pressure where possible.

    “This campaign will make it easier than ever to know where to go to get the right care in the right place – saving patients time and freeing up space in our emergency departments.

    “It is the latest step in our £600 million resilience plan to support our NHS through the tough winter ahead, which will recruit 1,000 extra staff, vaccinate the public from COVID-19 and flu, and prioritise care for the most vulnerable.”

    Peju Adeyemo, Physician Associate, at Bangholm Medical Centre said:

    “Physician associates are healthcare professionals with a generalist medical education, who work alongside doctors providing medical care as an integral part of the multidisciplinary team. We are able to alleviate pressure on GPs because we can see a broad spectrum of patients, provide holistic care and follow up. Furthermore, we are able to see more acute patients thereby freeing up time for GPs to see more chronic conditions where 15 minutes appointments may not be suitable. “