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Category: Press Releases

  • PRESS RELEASE : Scottish shipbuilding security and economy boost as warship named [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Scottish shipbuilding security and economy boost as warship named [May 2025]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 23 May 2025.

    Ceremony attended by the Prince and Princess of Wales. Smashing a whisky bottle against the hull for good luck, Her Royal Highness formally named HMS Glasgow.

    Thousands of Scottish shipbuilders are delivering innovative warships that will protect Britain’s vital interests for decades to come, as HMS Glasgow was officially named in a ceremony at BAE Systems’ Glasgow shipyards (Thurs 22 May).

    HMS Glasgow is the first of eight Type 26 frigates, representing a £7.9 billion investment in British shipbuilding, directly supporting 1,700 skilled jobs in Glasgow and a further 2,300 roles across the UK maritime supply chain until 2035.

    Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry Maria Eagle said:

    The Type 26 programme demonstrates how Scotland’s world-class shipbuilding expertise contributes to both our national security and economic prosperity, delivering on the government’s Plan for Change. With thousands of high-skilled jobs supported in Glasgow and beyond, this programme showcases Scotland’s vital role in UK defence manufacturing.

    HMS Glasgow will provide critical protection for the UK’s continuous at-sea deterrent and Carrier Strike Group with unparalleled anti-submarine warfare capabilities, ensuring maritime security well into the 2060s.

    The Type 26 programme has transformed into a 29-ship global endeavour after Australia and Canada selected the design for their future frigates, creating significant export opportunities for the UK supply chain.

    Defence spending in Scotland currently totals £2.1 billion annually, supporting over 11,000 industry jobs and employing more than 14,000 military and civilian personnel across strategic sites including HMNB Clyde, RAF Lossiemouth and the Clyde shipbuilding centre.

    Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said:

    It was an honour to represent the UK Government at the naming of the first of the Royal Navy’s new Type 26 frigates, HMS Glasgow. Scotland is the beating heart of military shipbuilding, with eight Type 26 ships being built by BAE Systems in Glasgow and five Type 31 frigates by Babcock International in Rosyth.

    Economic growth and national security are UK Government priorities and our multi-billion pound investment in Scotland’s best in world shipbuilding and wider defence sectors will play a crucial role in delivering our Plan for Change by supporting thousands of skilled jobs and investing in our communities for years to come. The skills, expertise and innovation in Scottish shipyards is clear to see and our new Brand Scotland campaign will build on that success and help the sector export its world-class technology internationally.

    The eight City class frigates will form the backbone of the Royal Navy’s surface fleet once construction is completed by the mid-2030s, replacing the aging Type 23 ASW frigates with vessels equipped with sophisticated weapons systems, advanced sensors and state-of-the-art communications technology.

    As part of the Government’s Plan for Change, the defence industry will continue to drive innovation and job creation across Scotland, supporting a broad range of economic benefits including apprenticeships, skills development and regional prosperity.

    All eight Type 26 frigates will be based at HMNB Devonport in Plymouth following completion, with HMS Glasgow expected to be operational by 2028.

  • PRESS RELEASE : South Yorkshire to benefit from recent trade deals [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : South Yorkshire to benefit from recent trade deals [May 2025]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 23 May 2025.

    Trade deals with India, US and the EU that have seen tariffs on key industries slashed are set to help drive growth in South Yorkshire.

    • Prime Minister to meet with the Mayor of South Yorkshire Oliver Coppard to discuss the benefits of his recent trade deals.
    • Comes as we’ve nailed three trade deals in as many weeks to deliver growth that is a priority for the Plan for Change.
    • Delivers job security for 5,000 workers in the region and will create more highly skilled jobs in communities.

    Trade deals with India, US and the EU that have seen tariffs on key industries slashed are set to help drive growth in South Yorkshire.

    Reductions in tariffs on auto exports have provided security for nearly 5,000 workers, their families and the biggest two employers in the region.

    It also will deliver opportunities for major job creators like Rolls Royce and Mclaren based in Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District to grow – a priority of our Plan for Change

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    These trade deals deliver long term security for nearly 5,000 workers, their families and for steel and auto manufacturing in South Yorkshire.

    It also will create opportunities for more seamless trade, attracting inward investment that will grow the local economy and make a difference to people’s lives.

    These changes will be felt everywhere, whether it’s lower food prices at the checkout, more choice for consumers and higher living standards that will improve livelihoods across South Yorkshire.

    Over 31,000 people employed in agriculture across the region will also benefit from our agreement with the EU, which reduces red tape and burdens on business, meaning regional specialties like Yorkshire Pudding and cheeses will face easy access to the UK’s biggest trading market.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    The three landmark deals secured this month with the US, India, and the EU have shown this government is serious about striking the deals that our businesses want and need.

    We are delivering billions for the UK economy and wages every year as part of our Plan for Change. For businesses in South Yorkshire, these deals will mean stability and jobs protected as they seize new opportunities to sell to some of our biggest trading partners.

    The Prime Minister will tell the English Mayors and the Leaders from the Devolved Governments at a meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions in London today (Friday 23 May) that his trade deals with India, the United States and the EU will deliver economic growth that will improve people’s lives at home.

    He will challenge those in attendance to drive economic growth in their local areas to deliver for working people.

    Liam Bates, President of Long Products, Marcegaglia said:

    The intention to remove tariffs is a very positive step, which when implemented secures both our own production in USA as well as our customers.

    Getting this deal across the line needs to be a priority, because supply chains are currently in a state of flux awaiting the details and the effective date.

    Our increased trade with India will unlock opportunities for every region in the UK to access the world’s fastest growing economy, including South Yorkshire.

    Under the Free Trade Deal that was concluded, tariffs on cars sold to India will come down from over 100% to 10% under a quota.

    In the same week, we negotiated a first of its kind agreement with the US that reduces tariffs on car exports to 10% for the first 100,000 vehicles per year, almost the total number of UK vehicles exported to the country last year.

    Both of these deals secure greater certainty for the sector, the 5,000 workers in South Yorkshire and their families, while also enhancing opportunities for manufacturing in the region to grow.

    Just this week, the Prime Minister continued to act in Britain’s national interest by confirming a new agreement that will deliver on his core mission to grow the economy, creating more jobs in South Yorkshire, raising living standards and putting more money in people’s pockets.

    At today’s meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions the Prime Minister will also lead discussions about spreading AI to help working people access the services that they need in their local areas.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Joint Communique – UK-Mauritius Strategic Partnership Framework [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Joint Communique – UK-Mauritius Strategic Partnership Framework [May 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 May 2025.

    Communiqué on the establishment of a Strategic Partnership Framework between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Republic of Mauritius.

    Today, with the conclusion of the agreement on the exercise of sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago, relations between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Republic of Mauritius enter a new era. In recognition of this, we – the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs for the United Kingdom, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade for Mauritius – agree to a new Strategic Partnership Framework, to cement and boost our flourishing relationship for the benefit of both nations.

    The United Kingdom and Mauritius enjoy deep historical ties and strong partnerships across a full range of shared strategic interests including economic growth, security, and climate change. We are both Commonwealth democracies, committed to upholding human rights, the rule of law, and the rules-based international system.

    Our new governments will work together to deliver the clear mandates for reform we were given in our elections last year, to support the change our people want to see. In agreeing to this partnership, we also demonstrate our continued shared commitment to the pursuit of a free and rules-based Indo-Pacific that delivers security and prosperity for all.

    From 2025, the United Kingdom and Mauritius will strengthen our cooperation, addressing the challenges and seizing the opportunities of our time, with a particular focus on: boosting mutual economic growth and trade, strengthening the international rules-based system, reinforcing maritime security, and tackling climate change.

    Building on our vibrant bilateral trade relationship currently worth £1.2 billion annually, we will increase mutual trade and investment to boost long-term growth for both our countries, supporting Mauritius’s aim to transition to a high income country and putting more money into hardworking people’s pockets. This will include:

    • deepening our existing trade relationship under the United Kingdom-Eastern and Southern Africa Economic Partnership Agreement
    • maximising growth and development by cooperating on competitive financing through UK Export Finance, with at least £5 billion in market risk appetite, to deliver British business opportunities and growth and jobs in Mauritius
    • new government-to-government initiatives on digital trade and health, and a United Kingdom/Mauritius Business Forum
    • delivering a set of formal partnerships with Mauritian and British institutions across priority sectors, including hospitals, the civil and public service, universities, and City of London financial institutions

    We also commit to work together to strengthen the international rules-based system and in particular to build resilience against corruption and illicit finance, including by enhancing Mauritius’s status as a regional financial hub and instilling further confidence in Mauritius as an investment destination. This will include:

    • developing a bilateral Economic Security Partnership to counter corruption and illicit finance, including measures to support Mauritius’s next Financial Action Taskforce review
    • expanding law enforcement cooperation, in particular cyber training and investigations, to reduce crime
    • identifying opportunities for Mauritian judicial reform and support

    We will explore ways to strengthen our democracies and shared values by forging deeper connections between our Parliaments and increasing our collaboration in international and multilateral fora such as the Commonwealth and regional Indian Ocean organisations.

    On maritime security and irregular migration, we will deepen our cooperation to fight the scourges of irregular migration, drugs trafficking, piracy, and illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing, supporting safer streets in our countries and protecting mutual prosperity. This will include:

    • cooperation agreements and capacity building to secure Mauritius’s Exclusive Economic Zone
    • consideration of patrolling capability across the Chagos Archipelago to support a secure maritime domain
    • cooperation to counter and manage irregular migration
    • provision of training and institutional partnerships to boost Mauritian maritime security capability and strengthen fisheries protection

    We further commit to tackle one of the defining global challenges of our time together: climate change. Our shared objectives are to deliver Mauritius’s transition to energy independence through sustainable renewable energy, to protect biodiversity including rare indigenous species, and to increase Mauritius’s long-term climate resilience. This will include:

    • a £12 million Access to Climate Finance programme, to unlock hundreds of millions of pounds through private sector partnerships and international green funds
    • mitigation and adaptation projects to tackle the immediate effects of climate change including coral restoration, coastal erosion and indigenous species conservation
    • technical expertise to develop and manage the Chagos Archipelago Marine Protected Area, pursuant to the agreement on the exercise of sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago

    The new UK-Mauritius Strategic Partnership Framework will provide a comprehensive mechanism for delivering, together, for our countries. Our Ministers will meet in the coming months to finalise the partnership and will then meet in an Annual Strategic Dialogue to review and keep evolving it as necessary to support the security and prosperity of our countries into the future.

  • PRESS RELEASE : This Council should use the tools at its disposal to press parties to conflict to protect civilians – UK statement at the UN Security Council [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : This Council should use the tools at its disposal to press parties to conflict to protect civilians – UK statement at the UN Security Council [May 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 May 2025.

    Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on the protection of civilians in armed conflict.

    The Secretary-General’s report is a chilling reflection of our collective failure to protect civilians around the world.

    Famine has returned to Sudan. Thousands of women and children have been killed in Gaza, and hostages are still held by Hamas following the appalling October 7 attacks. Civilian infrastructure has been further damaged in Ukraine.

    It does not need to be this way.

    This Council, and the international community, have the tools to protect civilians; we have an urgent duty to use them.

    President, I will focus on three points.

    First, in recent days, we have heard powerful accounts from senior UN officials of the gaps between the obligations of parties to conflict under international humanitarian law and their implementation.

    These gaps are where harms to civilians arise every day in conflicts on this Council’s agenda. But they are also where dangerous precedents are set, which risk fostering impunity.

    This Council should use the tools at its disposal to press all parties to conflict to comply with their obligations under International Humanitarian Law and applicable International Human Rights Law.

    Indiscriminate attacks and direct attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure need to stop.

    There must also be an end to impunity.

    The United Kingdom will continue to stand behind the International Criminal Court as the court of last resort for the most serious crimes of international concern.

    Second, as we have heard, 2024 was the deadliest year on record for humanitarian workers. We call for the full implementation of resolution 2730 on the protection of humanitarian personnel, premises and assets. And we underscore the vital importance of ensuring safe and unhindered humanitarian access.

    Third, we need to ensure the UN can play its critical part in supporting the protection of civilians, especially through peace operations.

    Peacekeepers must be properly trained and equipped to fulfil protection mandates, and those mandates must be respected by parties to conflict.

    President, the United Kingdom is taking practical steps to advance the protection of civilians, including through ICRC’s Global IHL initiative.

    And this month we published a practitioner’s handbook to support IHL compliance and better tackle conflict and hunger.

    In conclusion, the UK remains fully committed to working with international partners, including in this Council, to uphold our shared obligations to the protection of civilians and to bring an end to impunity.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Ministerial Appointment [22 May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Ministerial Appointment [22 May 2025]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 22 May 2025.

    The King has been pleased to approve the following appointment:

    • Baroness Curran as a Minister of State in the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

    Lord Hunt of Kings Heath OBE has left the Government.

  • PRESS RELEASE : New investment in regeneration boosts growth and jobs in Port Talbot [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : New investment in regeneration boosts growth and jobs in Port Talbot [May 2025]

    The press release issued by the Wales Office on 22 May 2025.

    More than £20 million in funding announced from the Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board.

    • More than £20 million in funding from the Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board for three local regeneration schemes.
    • This major investment will support more than 270 jobs in steel community.
    • Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board has announced more than £70m funding in past nine months.

    A new investment of £21.2 million for regeneration projects will support more than 270 jobs and see the creation of additional construction jobs in the Port Talbot area following the planned announcement today (22 May) of the latest release of funding from the Tata Steel /Port Talbot Transition Board.

    Pending endorsement by the Transition Board when it meets today, funding of £21.2 million will be allocated for three more regeneration projects in the Port Talbot area, which will bring an estimated £119 million in GVA benefits to the local economy.

    The three projects are:

    Creation of an Advanced Manufacturing Production Facility (AMPF) and National Net Zero Skills Centre of Excellence Harbourside, Port Talbot

    • £12.5 million to help create a £35 million production and training centre to drive forward low carbon and net zero skills training. The AMPF will make specialist equipment and test products, upscaling advanced manufacturing in the region and is also receiving funding from the Swansea Bay City Deal.
    • AMPF is one of three projects contributing to the establishment of an Innovation District in the Harbourside which will also include the previously announced South Wales Industrial Transition from Carbon Hub (SWITCH) project and the development of an Innovation Park.
    • AMPF, with the National Net Zero Centre of Excellence, will support 170 jobs and engage with 150 companies to generate a Gross Value Added (GVA) of £89.1 million. There will also be additional construction jobs created by this project.
    • The National Net Zero Skills Centre of Excellence will provide the facilities and capabilities to train and develop the workforce needed for the Celtic Freeport, Floating Offshore Wind (FLOW) and other investment opportunities in the future.

    Redevelopment of Metal Box and Sandfields Business Centre (Briton Ferry and Port Talbot)

    • These two projects will convert and expand two existing buildings to provide high quality accommodation to enable tenants to expand and improve access to new business units, encouraging and supporting start-up businesses and those seeking to grow. There is significant demand for business space in Neath Port Talbot which this funding will help address.
    • A total of £8.7m in Transition Board funding will fully fund the projects, £6.9 million for Metal Box and £1.8 million for Sandfields Business Centre.
    • Together, it is estimated that the redevelopments will support 101 jobs and create a net additional GVA of £29.9m by 2035.

    The £21.2 million investment announced today is the latest from the Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board, chaired by Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens and including representatives from the UK and Welsh Governments, local authorities, unions and business.

    Since its first release of funding in August 2024, it has announced more than £70 million to fund skills training for workers and regeneration projects as Tata Steel carries out its transition to electric arc steelmaking.

    Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:

    We said we would back the steelworkers of Port Talbot, their families and businesses dependent on Tata Steel.

    This latest investment means more than £70 million has been announced by the Transition Board in just nine months, delivering on our promise to the community.

    The plans for the Celtic Freeport, development of floating offshore wind, preservation of steelmaking in the town and significant funding for regeneration all mean there is a bright future for Port Talbot.

    Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning Rebecca Evans MS said:

    We remain committed to ensuring those who have been impacted by the Tata transition, including the workforce, supply chain and local community are supported not only in the short term but well into the future.

    I am pleased this latest investment of Tata Transition funding will complement City Deal funding and unlock valuable job opportunities, particularly those linked to renewable energy and high value manufacturing.

    Neath Port Talbot Council Leader, Cllr Steve Hunt said:

    As we work closely together in meeting the challenges of decarbonisation, it is vital that we also support local people and businesses to maximise the opportunities it offers.

    The investment announced today will provide a significant boost to our ongoing work with partners to promote economic growth and to provide people with the skills needed for the industries of the future.

    In the coming months, there will be millions more in funding allocated to growth and regeneration projects in Port Talbot, ensuring that secure well-paid jobs are available in the local area following Tata Steel’s Transition to greener steelmaking.

    The UK Government has committed £2.5 billion of investment to rebuild the UK’s steel industry for decades to come as it decarbonises.

    This is in addition to the £500 million allocated to Tata Steel in Port Talbot for an electric arc furnace, which recently received planning approval.

  • PRESS RELEASE : HMS Glasgow naming ceremony marks milestone for UK security and economy [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : HMS Glasgow naming ceremony marks milestone for UK security and economy [May 2025]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 22 May 2025.

    The people and city of Glasgow have been honoured today (22 May) as the Royal Navy’s most advanced anti-submarine warfare warship is officially named HMS Glasgow.

    The naming ceremony at BAE Systems’ shipyard in Glasgow was attended by the Prince and Princess of Wales.  Smashing a bottle of whisky against the hull for good luck, Her Royal Highness formally named HMS Glasgow and declared the time-honoured words:

    I name this ship Glasgow. May God bless her and all who serve in her.

    The Type 26 frigate is the first of eight to enter service and will provide critical protection for the UK’s nuclear deterrent and aircraft carriers.

    The Type 26 programme represents a £7.9 billion investment in British shipbuilding. It directly supports 2,000 jobs in Scotland, including apprenticeships, at BAE Systems’ Govan and Scotstoun shipyards in Glasgow, with a further 4,000 roles sustained across the wider UK supply chain until 2035.

    This long-term commitment shows how defence is an engine for growth, supporting the Government’s Plan for Change to grow the economy, particularly in Scotland.

    Defence Secretary, John Healey MP said:

    HMS Glasgow represents the best of British engineering and shipbuilding. The warship will serve as a formidable defender of our national security and a powerful asset for NATO in an increasingly dangerous world.

    The shipbuilding programme supports thousands of highly-skilled jobs in Scotland and across the UK, supporting the government’s Plan for Change and reinforcing the role of defence as a powerful engine for growth.

    Equipped with sophisticated weapons systems, advanced sensors and state-of-the-art communications technology, HMS Glasgow will ensure our Royal Navy makes Britain secure at home and strong abroad.

    Delivering on the government’s Plan for Change, the programme directly supports 1,700 skilled jobs at BAE Systems’ Govan and Scotstoun shipyards in Glasgow, with a further 2,300 roles sustained across the wider UK maritime supply chain until 2035. More than 120 UK suppliers have been contracted for the programme, with BAE Systems committing to invest £1.2 billion in UK manufacturing through sub-contracts.

    The warship’s flexible design allows for future upgrades throughout its service life, ensuring it remains at the forefront of naval technology for decades to come.  The Type-26 design has also achieved international success, having been selected by both Australia and Canada for their future frigate programmes.

    This has transformed the programme into a 29-ship global endeavour across three independent national programmes, creating significant long-term opportunities for the UK supply chain and enhancing naval interoperability with key allies. This includes up to six Australian Hunter Class Frigates and up to fifteen Canadian River Class Destroyers alongside the UK’s eight City class ships.

    Acting 1SL and Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Sir Martin Connell added:

    HMS Glasgow represents a step-change in anti-submarine warfare capability for the Royal Navy. As threats beneath the waves become more sophisticated, these warships will ensure we maintain our underwater advantage and protect our most critical strategic assets for decades to come.

    With HMS Glasgow expected to be operational by 2028, construction of all eight City class frigates is scheduled to be completed by the mid-2030s. They will be based at HMNB Devonport in Plymouth, forming the backbone of the Royal Navy’s surface fleet.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Landmark government partnership signed with North Macedonia [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Landmark government partnership signed with North Macedonia [May 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 May 2025.

    The new Government Partnership will drive economic growth across both countries through increased collaboration on infrastructure projects.

    Today marks a new era for UK-North Macedonia relations, following the signing of a Government-to-Government Partnership (G2G) which will boost trade and drive economic growth. This Partnership supports the delivery of critical infrastructure projects across various sectors, including transport, health, energy, and technology. It will be able to draw on a wide range of support, including technical assistance programmes and up to £5 billion in UK Export Finance support available for projects in North Macedonia.

    The formal signing ceremony took place at the historic Old Admiralty Building in London on Thursday 22nd May 2025, with the UK Minister for Exports, Gareth Thomas MP, and the Deputy Prime Minister of North Macedonia, Aleksandar Nikoloski, in attendance.

    This G2G underscores the commitment of both nations to collaborate on critical infrastructure projects that deliver social, economic, and environmental benefits. By leveraging the expertise and innovation of both countries, this Partnership will drive the development of resilient infrastructure that fosters growth and prosperity.

    The exchange of knowledge and best practice between our two countries will be central to this G2G, drawing from the expertise of both nation’s respective infrastructure fields. This means the UK Government and British businesses working in partnership with the government of North Macedonia and their local supply chain to deliver infrastructure projects across North Macedonia. This approach will generate mutual benefits for both nations through the sharing of innovation to deliver resilient infrastructure that drives growth.

    Minister of Exports, Gareth Thomas MP expressed his enthusiasm:

    This partnership opens up a new chapter in our bilateral relationship with North Macedonia.

    The UK has a wealth of experience in delivering high-quality infrastructure across the world and I am delighted to be kicking off this new partnership that will help more British businesses export to North Macedonia.

    The UK Ambassador to North Macedonia, Matthew Lawson said:

    We have achieved a significant milestone in the UK – North Macedonia relations with the signing of the Government-to-Government Partnership by UK Minister for Exports, Gareth Thomas MP, and the Deputy Prime Minister of North Macedonia, Aleksandar Nikoloski.

    The G2G will further strengthen the already excellent trade ties between our countries and support the delivery of critical infrastructure projects in different sectors, including transport, health, energy, and technology in North Macedonia. As the British Ambassador I am proud that our governments have reached this landmark partnership that will benefit the citizens of both countries. We stand strong and united together.

    This G2G builds on a strong existing bilateral relationship between the UK and North Macedonia. Recently, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski welcomed a new Strategic Partnership at the European Political Community Summit in Tirana on the 16th May 2025. This G2G represents the start of our enhanced trade and infrastructure collaboration.

    Chris Barton, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Europe also expressed his support:

    I am delighted that this G2G will support stronger collaboration across our governments and businesses to deliver economic growth for both our nations and good-quality infrastructure for the citizens of North Macedonia.

    Notes to editors:

    • government to government (G2G) partnerships are formal arrangements under which we agree to provide another government is provided with access to UK public and private expertise for specific projects or programmes that create commercial benefits
    • total trade in goods and services (exports plus imports) between the UK and North Macedonia was £1.7 billion in the four quarters to the end of Q3 2024
    • the UK is North Macedonia’s second largest trading partner in the 4 quarters to the end of Q3 2024
  • PRESS RELEASE : Dedication and professionalism of Armed Forces rewarded with above inflation pay rise [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Dedication and professionalism of Armed Forces rewarded with above inflation pay rise [May 2025]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 22 May 2025.

    Government recognises professionalism and dedication of the Armed Forces with 4.5% pay rise, which follows last year’s record pay deal for personnel.

    Military personnel are to receive an above inflation pay rise of 4.5% (3.75% for senior officers), recognising their extraordinary professionalism and the sacrifices they make to keep the British people safe.

    The award forms part of the government’s efforts to fix recruitment and retention, while demonstrating how it is renewing the contract with those who serve.

    The pay rise maintains the MOD’s status as a National Living Wage employer, while recognising the important work of military personnel in keeping Britain secure at home and strong abroad – foundational to this government’s Plan for Change.

    This pay award follows last year’s headline award of 6% (5% for senior officers) and a significant uplift for new recruits of approximately 35%, ensuring all full-time members of the Armed Forces were paid the National Living Wage for the first time. This means Armed Forces personnel have received a cumulative pay award of 10.5% (8.75% for senior officers) since July 2024.

    Defence Secretary, John Healey MP said:

    Our people are what make the UK Armed Forces’ reputation one of the best around the world. Our forces work tirelessly to keep Britain secure at home and strong abroad.

    Today’s above inflation pay award recognises their dedication and underlines this Government’s commitment to renew the nation’s contract with those who serve.

    Chief of the Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said:

    This Armed Forces pay award continues to demonstrate our commitment to our people. It ensures that those who work so hard for our safety and security are supported.

    To do what they do takes immense courage, determination and sacrifice and I’m pleased to see so much done to recognise their efforts.

    Pay, accommodation and pension are key pieces of a bigger puzzle, and we will continue to put those pieces together to ensure the strength of our military for years to come.

    Starting salaries for Other Ranks who have completed initial training will increase to approximately £26,334, benefiting around 7,800 of our most junior personnel.

    Starting pay for junior officers will rise to around £34,676.

    The package includes two new targeted retention payments for specific Royal Navy Catering Services personnel, addressing critical retention challenges in this specialist area.

    A new Afloat Environmental Allowance will replace existing provisions, bringing coherence and clarity to recognise different conditions across naval platforms.

    Medical specialists will benefit from an increased Medical Officers’ Golden Hello to enhance its attractiveness for consultants and registrars in specialisms with workforce capability gaps.

    The Government has already taken decisive action to tackle recruitment and retention challenges by announcing new financial retention packages.

    Around 5,000 eligible aircraft engineers across all three Services are eligible to receive £30,000 when they sign up for an additional three years of service. And a new £8,000 retention payment for around 4,000 eligible Army Privates and Lance Corporals each year for the next three years when they sign up for an additional three years of Service.

    This announcement follows recent action taken by the department to improve the offer for our Armed Forces personnel. This includes improving living conditions through a new Consumer Charter to provide homes fit for the heroes who serve our nation, and are creating a new, independently-appointed, Armed Forces Commissioner who will have the power to investigate issues raised directly by serving personnel and their families.

    Last year the Armed Forces saw a headline award of 6% (5% for senior officers) and a significant uplift for new recruits of approximately 35%. The Government has taken decisive action to tackle recruitment and retention challenges by announcing new financial retention packages.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Teachers to benefit from pay boost [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Teachers to benefit from pay boost [May 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Education on 22 May 2025.

    Teachers will receive a 4% pay boost from September, after the Education Secretary accepted the teachers’ pay body recommendation in full today (22 May) marking a major step toward delivering 6,500 teachers by the end of Parliament.

    The independent School Teachers’ Review Body (STRB) recommended a pay award of 4% for 2025/26 academic year, building on the 5.5% pay award made last year.

    Like the rest of the public sector, schools will need to play their part in getting maximum value from every pound of public money. Schools will be expected to find the first 1% of the pay award through improved productivity and smarter spending with the government providing significant additional investment of £615 million. Many schools are already making savings and driving costs down including the 400 schools who took part in the department’s new energy deal which will save them 36% on average.

    The government has also taken tough but fair choices to afford the above inflation pay award – ending tax breaks for private schools, as well as programmes offering poor value for money and driving efficiency through boosting digital capability, so every pound is spent on driving high and rising standards for our children.

    The pay boost builds on the work already underway to deliver on the government’s commitment as part of its Plan for Change to drive high and rising standards for every child, in every school. This includes a stronger accountability system through reforms to Ofsted inspection, new regional improvement teams to tackle poorly performing schools, and a new, rich and broad curriculum so pupils are set up for life, work and the future.

    £160 million will also be provided to colleges and providers of 16-19 education. The cash will help them to address immediate priorities, including recruiting and retaining expert teachers in subject areas such as construction and manufacturing so more young people gain the skills needed to drive economic growth and deliver the workforce which businesses and public services need.

    Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said:

    Teachers have been overstretched and undervalued for far too long but from my first day in office, I have made it my priority to back them so that teaching is restored as the highly valued profession it should be.

    This pay award for schools backed by major investment alongside funding for further education is in recognition of the crucial role teachers play in breaking the link between background and success and will support schools and colleges to invest in the workforce they need, so every young person achieves and thrives.

    As part of our Plan for Change, we are already seeing green shoots, with two thousand more secondary school teachers training this year than last and more teachers forecasted to stay in the profession.

    Through its Plan for Change the government is determined to ensure there are more expert teachers in front of classrooms, so every child and young person has access to an excellent education.

    Hundreds of millions of pounds are also being invested to offer tax free financial incentives and professional development to attract and keep the best and brightest teachers across the country, alongside targeted action to improve teachers’ workload and wellbeing.

    There are encouraging signs that this is working with two thousand more secondary school teachers training this year than last, a 25% increase in the number of people accepting teacher training places in STEM subjects, and more teachers forecasted to stay in the profession.

    Alongside the significant investment announced today the government has been clear that it will support leaders to get best value from their funding including by offering schools a suite of productivity initiatives to help them slash the costs on things like energy, banking and recruitment so every penny is invested on delivering opportunities for young people.

    Through its landmark Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, the government is also legislating so every parent can be confident of a core high quality education offer for their child – ensuring that all children learn from a cutting-edge curriculum and are taught by an excellent qualified teacher.