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Category: Press Releases

  • PRESS RELEASE : Membership of the Building Control Independent Panel [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Membership of the Building Control Independent Panel [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on 24 April 2025.

    Today (24 April), the government has announced the appointment of five members to the Building Control Independent Panel.

    This delivers on a Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendation, accepted by the government, to set up a panel to carry out a review of whether to change the way in which building control is delivered in England.

    The panel will be chaired by Dame Judith Hackitt, whose leadership of the Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety has already helped to shape vital reforms across the sector. An engineer by profession, Dame Judith currently serves as an adviser on building standards to both the UK and Australian Governments and is a member of the International Building Quality Council (IBQC).  She will be joined by four experts with extensive experience in the regulation and use of the building control sector: Elaine Bailey, Ken Rivers, Rt Hon Nick Raynsford and Dr David Snowball.

    The panel members’ collective expertise will support a thorough and independent review of the current building control model, including on the Inquiry’s recommendations to consider the issue of commercial incentives from the system and exploring alternative options and approaches. The panel is expected to provide a report to the government this autumn.

    Minister for Building Safety, Alex Norris MP, said:

    “The appointment of this independent panel is a significant step in our response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. We need a building control system that puts safety first and supports our plans to accelerate remediation. It must also help to deliver 1.5 million safe, high-quality homes over this Parliament, and be equipped to meet the demands of a modern construction sector.

    “Their work will play a vital role in shaping a safer, more accountable building industry, and I look forward to receiving the panel’s recommendations as they take this important work forward.”

    The Chair for the Building Control Independent Panel, Dame Judith Hackitt said:

    “The panel stands ready to get to work on this important review.  We will work at speed but we come at this issue with an open mind and a determination to further raise standards”.

    Background on the Building Control system

    The building control system is there primarily to oversee key safety standards set in legislation and ensure that buildings are checked and safe in areas such as fire and structural safety. Following concerns raised by the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, especially around conflicts of interest in the system, a new panel has been appointed to look at whether changes are required.

    Notes to Editors

    • The establishment of the panel was announced in the Government’s response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry on February 26, 2025.
    • The Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommended that the Government establish an independent panel to consider whether to remove commercial interest from building control and whether to move to a national authority decision model.
    • The panel’s role is advisory and independent.  The aim is a report to Government in the autumn with a response before the end of the year.
    • Further updates, including the panel’s Terms of Reference, will be published on GOV.UK shortly.

    Panel members:

    Elaine Bailey

    Elaine Bailey is a member of the Industry Safety Steering Group and was formerly the CEO of Hyde Housing (2014-2019). Elaine holds several non-executive directorships, including at MJ Gleeson plc, a house builder operating in the North and Midlands; McCarthy&Stone Shared Ownership (MCSSO), a For Profit Registered Provider of older persons’ housing with a strategic partnership with Homes England; and Andium Housing, Jersey’s largest provider of sub-market value homes for rent and purchase.

    Ken Rivers

    Ken is a non-executive director at the HSE, alongside his role as a member of the Industrial Safety Steering Group. Prior to that he chaired the Control of Major Accident Hazards Regulations Strategic Forum and led the tripartite group since its inception, bringing industry and regulators together to identify and address important matters of managing major hazard in the UK. He spent 38 years of his career working at Shell, through various different positions and was President of the Institution of Chemical Engineers.

    Rt Hon Nick Raynsford MP

    Nick Raynsford was a Labour MP for 24 years. During this time he held positions as Minister of State for Housing and Planning, Minister for Construction, Minister for London and Minister of State for Local and Regional Government. The latter included responsibility for the Fire and Rescue Service. Since then he has had a number of advisory and non-executive roles in the private, voluntary and public sectors. This included chairing CICAIR (CIC Approved Inspectors Register), the organisation responsible until April 2024 for registering private sector Building Control bodies. Nick is a member of the New Towns Taskforce, working with MHCLG.

    Dr. David Snowball

    David spent his working career in the Health and Safety Executive, joining as a Factory Inspector in 1984 and retiring 35 years later. He held senior posts in operational divisions overseeing HSE intervention and enforcement and was also responsible, as Director Regulation, for the quality of operational work. He spent 15 months as Acting Chief Executive before his retirement. He now sits on the Industry Safety Steering Group alongside Dame Judith and is a non-executive director at the Gangmaster and Labour Abuse Authority (Feb 2022- present).

  • PRESS RELEASE : Russia’s missile attacks against Ukrainian civilians over Easter demonstrate its attitude towards peace – UK statement to the OSCE [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Russia’s missile attacks against Ukrainian civilians over Easter demonstrate its attitude towards peace – UK statement to the OSCE [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 24 April 2025.

    Ambassador Holland condemns Russia’s missile attacks against civilians in Sumy and Kharkiv over Easter and President Putin’s transparently cynical attempts to portray Russia as the party of peace.

    Thank you, Mister Chair.  The United Kingdom is grateful to Finland for convening this Special Permanent Council.  It was only 16 days ago that you were last compelled to call an extraordinary meeting of the Council after a Russian missile killed 20 people, including nine children, in Kryvyi Rih.  It was the largest number of children killed in a single strike since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion, according to the UN.

    Last week was one of major religious festivals where communities around the globe came together in the spirit of peace and goodwill. But while Christians around the world were marking the beginning of Holy Week, a Russian ballistic missile struck the centre of Sumy.  34 people were killed, including two children.  A further 117 were injured.  Some of the victims were heading to church for a Palm Sunday service.

    On Good Friday another Russian ballistic missile struck Kharkiv using a cluster munition.  One person was killed and at least 60 were injured.  On the same day, a drone attack on Sumy killed another civilian and destroyed a bakery preparing traditional Easter ‘paska’ bread.

    Mister Chair, our thoughts are with all the victims and their loved ones at this tragic time.

    Russia’s response to the widespread condemnation in this Council – and at the UN – following their attack on Sumy was to resort to their familiar playbook of disinformation and distortion in an attempt to justify the unjustifiable.  We can expect to see a similar tactic on this occasion.

    Through these barbaric attacks, Russia has shown that its cruelty knows no bounds and that it is not serious about peace. President Putin’s so-called “Easter truce” was a stunt, violated repeatedly by his own forces.  A day later – Easter Monday – a further five civilians reportedly lost their lives following Russian attacks, laying bare the Kremlin’s transparently cynical attempt to portray themselves as the party of peace.  Similar attacks have continued since, including yesterday against Kyiv, in which nine civilians were reportedly killed, and 70 more injured.

    If Russia was serious about peace, it would agree to an immediate, full and unconditional ceasefire, just as Ukraine did, more than 40 days ago.  If it was serious about peace, it would stop these senseless attacks on civilians.  If it was serious about peace, it would honour the commitments it has made.

    Russia’s continued attacks against Ukraine are another stark reminder that President Putin has not abandoned his goal of subjugating Ukraine.  For this reason, the UK, alongside our partners and allies, will continue to provide Ukraine with the military support it needs to defend its citizens. And we stand ready to apply further pressure on Russia to hinder its ability to wage this war of aggression.

    Thank you, Mister Chair.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UKHSA urges Hajj and Umrah pilgrims to get meningitis vaccination [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : UKHSA urges Hajj and Umrah pilgrims to get meningitis vaccination [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the UK Health Security Agency on 24 April 2025.

    The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is urging travellers to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) for Umrah and the upcoming Hajj pilgrimages to ensure they are vaccinated against meningococcal disease with the MenACWY vaccine, due to ongoing outbreaks of serogroup W (MenW) disease associated with travel to KSA.

    UKHSA has confirmed 5 cases of MenW disease between February and March 2025 in people who had recently returned from KSA or in their close contacts in England and Wales.

    Invasive meningococcal disease is rare but serious and is caused by meningococcal bacteria. Meningococcal meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) and septicaemia (blood poisoning) are severe conditions that can kill or leave people with life-changing disabilities.

    Those undertaking Hajj or Umrah, along with seasonal workers, are required to present a valid certificate of MenACWY vaccination issued between 10 days and 3 to 5 years before arrival, depending on the type of MenACWY vaccine previously received. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) advise, however, that all travellers to KSA should consider receiving the quadrivalent meningococcal (MenACWY) vaccine, especially during the current MenW outbreak.

    While abroad and in the 2 weeks after returning to the UK, pilgrims and travellers returning from KSA should monitor for symptoms such as:

    • fever
    • severe headache
    • vomiting
    • stiff neck
    • rash
    • extreme sleepiness
    • seizures

    Symptoms may resemble flu initially and can appear in any order, but can lead to serious illness within hours. Anyone who has symptoms and becomes concerned about their own or someone else’s health should seek immediate medical advice or dial 999 in a medical emergency.

    Dr Shamez Ladhani, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said:

    The MenACWY vaccination is essential for pilgrims travelling to KSA for Umrah and Hajj, particularly given recent cases among UK returnees and their families. Meningococcal disease can be fatal and may leave survivors with serious lifelong conditions including hearing loss, brain damage and limb amputations.

    Pilgrims should ensure vaccination at least ten days before travel and remain vigilant for symptoms like sudden fever, severe headache, stiff neck, or rash. If you or anyone at home becomes unwell with any symptoms of meningitis within two weeks of returning from Saudi Arabia, contact your GP or NHS 111, mentioning your recent travel history, or dial 999 in case of emergency.

    Dr Sahira Dar, President of the British Islamic Medical Association, said:

    During Hajj and Umrah, millions of people gather in very close proximity during the pilgrim rights, in accommodation sites and on public transport.  This means that there is a much higher risk of contracting infectious diseases such as meningitis which is a serious illness.  We highly recommend that everyone going on Hajj and Umrah receive their MenACWY vaccine which could protect them and their loved ones back home.

    UKHSA is also advising pilgrims about Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). While risk to UK travellers remains low, pilgrims should:

    • avoid consuming raw or undercooked animal products
    • avoid contact with camels and animal waste
    • practise good hygiene, particularly washing hands after visiting farms, barns or markets

    Should fever, coughing or breathing difficulties develop within 2 weeks of leaving Saudi Arabia, contact a GP or NHS 111, mentioning recent travel history and any contact with respiratory cases, healthcare facilities or camels during travel.

    Further information on vaccinations and travel health precautions for KSA is available on the NaTHNaC website.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Kazakhstan – Sally Axworthy [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Kazakhstan – Sally Axworthy [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 24 April 2025.

    Mrs Sally Axworthy MBE has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of Kazakhstan in succession to Ms Kathy Leach who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.  Mrs Axworthy will take up her appointment during August 2025.

    Curriculum vitae

    Full name: Sally Jane Axworthy

    Year Role
    2024 to present Full-time Kazakh language training
    2021 to 2024 FCDO, Head, Negotiations and Peace Processes Department, Office for Conflict, Stabilisation and Mediation
    2016 to 2021 Holy See, HM Ambassador
    2013 to 2015 FCO, Joint Head, North Africa Department
    2011 to 2013 FCO, Head, Somalia Unit
    2011 FCO, Head, Great Lakes, East Africa and Somalia Department
    2009 to 2011 India, Director, Corporate Services
    2007 to 2008 FCO, Head of Financial Skills
    2006 FCO, Senior Flexible Working Project, Human Resources Directorate
    2004 to 2005 Government Office South West, Vulnerable Adults Project Leader
    2001 to 2003 Government Office South West, Assistant Director, Devon and Cornwall
    1998 to 2000 FCO, Head, Turkey, Cyprus & Malta Section, European Union Department
    1996 to 1998 Bonn, First Secretary (European Union)
    1994 to 1996 Secondment to the German Foreign Ministry
    1993 to 1994 FCO, Head, Political Section, United Nations Department
    1991 to 1992 Kyiv, Second Secretary Economic
    1989 to 1991 Moscow, Third Secretary Commercial
    1988 to 1989 Full time language training (Russian)
    1987 to 1988 FCO, Desk Officer, Hungary and Czechoslovakia
  • PRESS RELEASE : UK and Ukraine deepen community ties as part of 100 Year Partnership [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK and Ukraine deepen community ties as part of 100 Year Partnership [April 2025]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 24 April 2025.

    Thousands of school children across the UK and Ukraine have applied to take part in a landmark 100 Year Partnership programme between the two countries.

    • UK and Ukrainian schools flood applications for 100 Year Partnership programme as Prime Minister invites children to No10 to celebrate close links
    • Prime Minister says “partnership will deliver brighter futures for children in both countries”
    • Schools from Wales and Warwickshire to visit Downing Street tomorrow (Friday 25 April) to write to partnered schools in Ukraine
    • Comes as Ukraine launches a new stamp to mark special friendship between the two countries

    Thousands of school children across the UK and Ukraine have applied to take part in a landmark 100 Year Partnership programme between the two countries, further cementing the unbreakable ties between the two countries.

    Following the launch of the UK-Ukraine 100 Year Partnership in January, more than 750 schools from across the UK and Ukraine applied to take part in the programme, fostering classroom friendships, cultural understanding and inspiring future generations of world leaders, diplomats and business leaders.

    Thirty schools, including Number 219 School in Kyiv and All Saints Catholic Primary School in Anfield, who the Prime Minister joined a lesson between during his visit to Ukraine in January, have piloted the hugely successful programme.

    A further 70 are being paired in the coming days, while the remainder will be supported through the British Council’s UK-Ukraine School Partnerships programme until further spots become available.

    Children from several schools participating in the 100 Year Partnership school twinning programme will visit Downing Street tomorrow (Friday 25 April). The children, from YGG Pontybrenin, St Marie’s Catholic Primary School & Nursery and English Martyrs Catholic Primary School, will write letters to exchange with partnered schools in Ukraine, many of whom have spent hours attending school in bunkers during Russian drone and missile attacks.

    The children will also mark the launch of a new commemorative stamp, designed by both the UK and Ukrainian governments, which will be entered into circulation by the Ukrainian postal service Ukrposhta from the end of this month.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    The unbreakable bond between the UK and Ukraine is often best reflected in the friendships formed among our children. These young minds are the architects of our future and security, fostering connections that transcend borders and cultures, and this partnership will deliver brighter futures for children in both countries.

    Our support is not only about providing military assistance, which remains crucial in ensuring Ukraine’s ability to defend itself, but also about standing by Ukraine for generations to come, as it seeks a just and lasting peace.

    That’s why our support matters not only now, but for our future, as all ages stand up for the values we hold dear, which are fundamental to our national security and Plan for Change.

    This unique initiative supports schools to build lasting international partnerships, and explore reading as a tool to expand horizons, build confidence, and boost mental wellbeing.

    In Kyiv, the British Embassy’s Chargée d’affaires, Charlotte Surun, attended the official launch ceremony of the new limited-edition stamp at the headquarters of the Ukrainian Post Office.

    The launch was attended by children from Kyiv School Number 219 which the Prime Minister visited in January. The children wrote messages on postcards to the students at their twinned school, Liverpool All Saints, as well as messages to the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary.

    Head of UK Schools at the British Council Shannon West said:

    Creating opportunities for young people has been at the heart of the work of the British Council for the last 90 years.

    We are delighted to be working with so many schools on this programme, which will give young people the international outlook and skills to thrive in our global society and strengthen ties between the UK and Ukraine.

    The unbreakable bonds between the UK and Ukraine have been formalised through the landmark new 100 Year Partnership between the two countries, broadening and deepening the relationship across defence and non-military areas and enabling closer community links, such as this initiative.

    Supporting Ukraine to defend itself from Russia’s barbaric invasion and rebuild a prosperous, sovereign future, is vital to this government’s foundation of security and our Plan for Change.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government launches call for evidence on men’s health [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government launches call for evidence on men’s health [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 24 April 2025.

    It will inform England’s first ever men’s health strategy to tackle the life expectancy gap.

    • Call for evidence will inform England’s first ever men’s health strategy to tackle life expectancy gap
    • Members of the public and healthcare experts will get their say on ways to tackle biggest health problems facing men as part of Plan for Change to improve health care for everyone
    • This follows government’s first ever Men’s Health Summit held in partnership with Movember, co-hosted by Arsenal and Premier League

    The government is today (Thursday 24 April) calling for men of all ages to come forward and feed into England’s first ever men’s health strategy.

    The 12-week call for evidence will gather vital insights from the public, health and social care professionals, academics and employers so the government can properly consider how to prevent and tackle the biggest issues facing men from all backgrounds.

    It will ask for their views on what is working and what more needs to be done to close the life expectancy gap between men and women, as men in England die nearly four years earlier than women on average.

    Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:

    Every day, men across England are dying early from preventable causes. Men are hit harder by a range of conditions, while tragically suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 50.

    Our Plan for Change means we will tackle these issues head on through a men’s health strategy, and today’s call for evidence is the crucial next step in understanding what works, what doesn’t, and how we can design services men will actually use. I urge people to come forward to share their views.

    The call for evidence will seek responses on how the government’s Plan for Change can work across the board to improve the health and wellbeing of men, through:

    • Prevention – finding the right areas and the right ways to promote healthier behaviours
    • Diagnosis and treatment – improving outcomes for health conditions that hit men harder
    • Encouragement to come forward – improving men’s access to, engagement with and experience of the health service

    This government is committed to fixing the NHS and getting a grip on the stark health inequalities that exist across the country through the Plan for Change, which will rebuild the health service and deliver better care for everyone. With a clearer, more tailored approach for both men and women, their distinct health needs will be met better.

    In women’s health, we’re turning the commitments in the women’s health strategy into tangible actions – taking urgent action to tackle gynaecology waiting lists through the Elective Reform Plan, investing in a major AI breast cancer screening trial, and implementing key priority areas outlines in our strategy – alongside taking wider government action to tackle violence against women and girls.

    Amy O’Connor, Global Lead, Policy and Advocacy at Movember, said:

    Too many men are dying too young, the men’s health strategy is a once in a generation opportunity to invest in positive change for men and their loved ones. Share your solutions – whether it’s more community support groups, improved education, or enhancing clinical training, to create a lasting impact on the future of men’s health.

    Julie Bentley, Samaritans CEO, said:

    Suicide is the biggest killer of men under 50 so it’s critical that suicide prevention is front and centre of this strategy. With men making up 75 percent of all suicides, this strategy is a real opportunity to prevent thousands of deaths.

    Recognising what works for different groups of men, focusing on key risk factors and providing evidenced based support will be crucial and we’d encourage everyone to submit evidence to this important consultation. We look forward to working with Government on meaningful ways to cut suicide rates and save lives.

    Cllr David Fothergill, Chairman of the LGA’s Community and Wellbeing Board, said:

    We are pleased that the Government has announced plans to launch the first-ever Men’s Health Strategy with a call for evidence. It’s a significant step towards improving men’s health outcomes and ensuring that men can live healthier, longer, happier lives.

    The call for evidence will be open for views on the Department of Health and Social Care website until 17 July. The government aims to launch the men’s health strategy later this year.

  • PRESS RELEASE : National roadshow kicks off to get businesses exporting and grow the economy [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : National roadshow kicks off to get businesses exporting and grow the economy [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 24 April 2025.

    SMEs from across the UK will benefit from new government support to match them up with international buyers and markets.

    • Export Roadshows, created to get more small businesses exporting and grow the economy, kick off today in the North East
    • Taking place across all nations and regions of the UK, events will bring together small firms, industry experts, trade bodies and government
    • Part of the modern Industrial Strategy, the roadshow aims to channel government support to growth-driving sectors, as part of the Plan for Change

    SMEs from across the UK will benefit from new government support to match them up with international buyers and markets, to turbocharge UK exports and grow the economy as part of the Plan for Change.

    The ‘Made in the UK, Sold to the World’ roadshows, kicking off today [24 April] in Blyth and taking place across all nations and regions of the UK, have been designed to directly connect international buyers with SME exporters ready to seize the opportunity to grow their businesses. Through these events, the Government is working to maximise international opportunities for UK businesses by highlighting tangible opportunities that exist in new markets.

    Each event will be aligned to one of the eight key growth driving sectors outlined in Britain’s modern Industrial Strategy, channelling government support to sectors with the highest potential to create jobs, boost productivity and grow the economy. All of which will help deliver the Plan for Change to put more money in more working people’s pockets.

    Highlighted sectors include clean energy, advanced manufacturing, technology, life sciences, digital and technology, and financial services.

    Gareth Thomas, Minister for Services, Small Businesses and Exports, said:

    Maximising the UK’s export potential is crucial to achieving our Plan for Change, by creating good jobs with high wages, raising productivity, and boosting the economy.

    Through these roadshows, the government is focussing on supporting key growth sectors, making it quicker and easier for smaller businesses to connect with markets, grasp export opportunities and expand.

    The focus of the first roadshow, taking place today, is exporting in the clean energy sector.

    There will be 100 attendees at the event – made up of small businesses, trade bodies, and government representatives, as well as 30 Commercial Officers from UK embassies and consulates from around the world, and 97 buyers, all of whom will join the event virtually through pre-planned meetings.

    The 97 buyers span 19 markets worldwide, from Argentina to Austria, Thailand, Turkey, Mexico, India, and the UAE.

    All roadshow events will provide opportunities for delegates to meet with domestic and international Commercial Officers, who will be on hand to offer expert support and advice on specific products, markets, and export opportunities.

    There will also be a designated advice zone for SMEs to learn about wider export support services offered by the Department for Business and Trade, as well as those provided by other public sectors partners like regional Growth Hubs, and trusted private sector providers like the Chambers of Commerce, Federation of Small Business, UKEF and MAKE UK.

    A range of workshops and seminars on topical issues such as ‘conducting market research’ and ‘routes to market’ will take place throughout the day, led by the UK Export Academy. Several of these will feature DBT Export Champions who will speak of their own experiences in target markets.

    Alex Marshall, Group Business Development Director at Clarke Energy, said:

    From the Americas, Africa, Asia to Australasia, clean technologies are now established as one of the most important pillars of the global economy.

    So as an Export Champion and a UK business developing innovative clean technology solutions across the world, this Made in the UK, Sold to the World roadshow event is an excellent place to discuss the latest international trends and export opportunities for UK businesses in the clean energy sector.

    We know that when SMEs trade around the world, the whole economy benefits, which is why this government is so committed to supporting smaller businesses grow and export.

    Just last month, the Department of Business and Trade relaunched the Board of Trade, to help businesses, and in particular the UK’s 5.5 million SMEs, boost their exports.

    And later this year, we will be launching a small business strategy to raise growth and productivity across the UK’s SME population and boost the number of scale-ups.

    UK businesses can access DBT’s wealth of export support via Great.gov.uk. This comprises an online support offer and a wider network of support including the Export Academy, UK Export Finance, the International Markets network, and one-to-one support from International Trade Advisers.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Major step for fraud prevention with landmark ban on SIM farms [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Major step for fraud prevention with landmark ban on SIM farms [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Home Office on 24 April 2025.

    The UK will become the first country in Europe to ban the possession and supply of SIM farms – technical devices used to defraud the public.

    Members of the public will be better protected from fraudsters and scammers through a landmark, Europe-first ban on the possession and supply of SIM farms, the Fraud Minister Lord Hanson has confirmed today.

    SIM farms are technical devices capable of holding multiple SIM cards enabling criminals to send scam texts to thousands of people at once or set up ‘verified’ online accounts in large volumes. They increase the chances of innocent consumers falling victim to major financial losses.

    With recent data showing that fraud increased last year by 19%, and that it accounts for more than 40% of all reported crime in England and Wales, the government is acting to prevent and counter these evolving threats and deliver security for the public as a foundation of the Plan for Change. This follows the commitment to publish a new, expanded fraud strategy before the end of the year.

    The new offence will make the possession or supply of SIM farms without a legitimate reason illegal, shutting down a key route used by criminals to exploit the public, and will carry an unlimited fine in England and Wales and a £5,000 fine in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

    The ban will come into effect 6 months after the Crime and Policing Bill receives Royal Assent.

    It will mean that those offenders using these devices to defraud the public will not only continue to face the full force of the law for their heinous actions but will also be hit with hefty fines.

    Fraud Minister Lord Hanson said:

    Fraud devastates lives, and I am determined to take the decisive action necessary to protect the public from these shameful criminals.

    Two-thirds of British adults say they’ve received a suspicious message on their phone – equivalent to more than 35 million people – which is why cracking down on SIM farms is so vital to protecting the public.

    This marks a leap forward in our fight against fraud and will provide law enforcement and industry partners the clarity they need to protect the public from this shameful crime. This government will continue to take robust action to protect the public from fraud and deliver security and resilience through the Plan for Change.

    Anyone who is worried about being a victim of fraud and wants to find out more about how to better stay protected, including understanding the tactics fraudsters use, should visit Stop! Think Fraud – How to stay safe from scams.

    Rachel Andrews, Head of Corporate Security at Vodafone UK, said:

    Vodafone UK is committed to protecting all our customers from fraud, including activity enabled by SIM farms. So far this year we have blocked over 38.5 million suspected scam messages, and in 2024 that figure reached over 73.5 million for the year.

    As an industry, UK telecoms operators have blocked more than 1 billion suspected scam messages since 2023. However, we cannot fully tackle fraud in isolation, collaboration between industry and government is crucial. This is a really important step taken by the Home Office and we fully support the inclusion of SIM farms in the upcoming legislation.

    We look forward to working together on this issue.

    Nick Sharp, Deputy Director for Fraud at the National Crime Agency, said:

    Fraud is the crime we are all most likely to experience, and one that causes victims significant emotional and financial harm.

    We know that fraud at scale is being facilitated by SIM farms, which give criminals a means and an opportunity to contact victims at scale with relative ease.

    The ban announced today is very welcome. It will give us a vital tool to step up our fight against fraudsters, target the services they rely on, and better protect the public.

  • PRESS RELEASE : British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference takes place at Hillsborough Castle [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference takes place at Hillsborough Castle [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Northern Ireland Office on 24 April 2025.

    The British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference (BIIGC) will take place at Hillsborough Castle today (Thursday 24th April), the first time the Conference has been held in Northern Ireland since 2006.

    Established under the Good Friday Agreement, the BIIGC is a bilateral forum  which meets regularly, aiming “to bring together the British and Irish Governments to promote cooperation at all levels on all matters of mutual interest within the competence of both Governments”.

    Today’s meeting will be chaired by Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn and Tánaiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Minister for Defence Simon Harris. The meeting will also be attended by the Parliamentary under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Fleur Anderson MP and the Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan TD.

    It follows the UK-Ireland summit in March when the two governments pledged to work closely to deliver security, investment and growth

    This new era of co-operation with Ireland is a key part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change to put more money in working people’s pockets across the country through a future of greater national security and renewal.

    At today’s BIIGC meeting, the two Governments are expected to discuss ongoing efforts to find a way forward regarding the legacy of the past in Northern Ireland. They will also cover political stability, security, and other areas of bilateral cooperation.

    Secretary of State Hilary Benn said:

    This will be an important meeting in developing the strong and close relationship between the UK and the Irish Governments as we continue to work together on a range of issues.

    Tánaiste Simon Harris said:

    I am looking forward to this significant meeting of the British Irish Intergovernmental Conference and to continuing the intensive discussions with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland on the challenging but essential work of dealing with the legacy of the past.

  • PRESS RELEASE : £1,000 retirement savings boost from plans to bring together small pension pots [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : £1,000 retirement savings boost from plans to bring together small pension pots [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 24 April 2025.

    Millions of Brits will find it easier to track their pension savings with the creation of a small pensions pot consolidator, in reforms unveiled by the pensions minister today.

    • Government unveils reforms to combine small pension pots to make working people better off as part of Plan for Change
    • Move is set to boost retirement savings for the average worker by around £1000 and save businesses £225 million a year in unnecessary admin costs
    • Comes as part of Pension Schemes Bill which will drive investment in pensions industry and deliver on the government’s growth mission

    This new initiative will tackle the growing problem of small, forgotten pension pots that many people accumulate as they move between employers over their working lives. There are now 13 million of these small pots, holding £1,000 or less, with the number increasing by around one million a year.

    This is a hassle for savers and can stop them getting a good return on their savings if they have to pay multiple flat rate charges. Overseeing all these small pots also costs the pensions industry around £225 million in unnecessary admin costs.

    Under reforms introduced by this government as part of the Pension Schemes Bill, each individual’s small pots will be brought together into one pension scheme that is certified as delivering good value to savers. Individuals will retain the right to opt out.

    This will cut costs for savers and make it easier to keep track of their pensions while boosting living standards and make working people better off. It will also cut red tape for businesses managing the schemes and unlock economic growth as part of the Plan for Change.

    This announcement will reduce costs as well as hassle for savers, in time increasing the pension pot of an average earner by around £1,000 – boosting living standards and making working people better off. It will also cut red tape for businesses managing the schemes and unlock economic growth as part of the Plan for Change.

    Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell said:

    It’s great news that more people are saving for their retirement. But I want to make pension saving as simple and rewarding as possible.

    There are now more small pension pots in the UK than pensioners – raising costs and hassle for workers trying to track their savings. It also costs the pensions industry hundreds of millions of pounds every year.

    We will automatically bring together people’s small pots into one high performing pension, reducing costs as well as hassle for savers. In time this could boost the pension of an average earner by around £1,000 as part of our Plan for Change to put more money in people’s pockets.

    The announcement follows the work of the Small Pots Delivery Group. Their findings, aimed at supporting the design and implementation of the new small pots consolidator scheme, include:

    • A Small Pots Data Platform to identify and source the pension pots that could be consolidated.
    • A framework setting out the rules a scheme would need to follow to become a consolidator scheme. These would include already being in an Automatic Enrolment qualifying scheme, having a specified level of scale to manage expansion, providing good value for money for their members and providing additional protection for members from flat fee charges.
    • Safeguards for savers whose pension pots would be consolidated which include a member op-out option.

    Transforming the pension landscape through the Pension Schemes Bill, set to be introduced in Parliament later this Spring, will deliver on the government’s manifesto commitment to boost investment and returns for savers and make working people better off.

    The Bill will help over 15 million people, boost pension pots by £11,000 and spur on greater investment in productive assets.

    Zoe Alexander, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association, said:

    The accumulation of small pots creates unnecessary cost and complexity for savers and schemes alike. The PLSA has worked extensively with industry and the DWP to propose solutions and supports the model being proposed by the Government.

    We look forward to working on delivering the recommendations of the Small Pots Development Group and are pleased the Government is tackling this long-standing issue in the Pension Schemes Bill.

    Rocio Concha, Which? Director of Policy and Advocacy, said:

    Which? called for the consolidation of small pots under £1,000 before the election, so we are delighted that the government is committing to doing this – a move that will provide greater value for savers and support them to keep track of their pensions.

    Which? looks forward to working with the government to ensure the pensions system is fit for the modern age.

    Gail Izat, Workplace Managing Director at Standard Life, part of Phoenix Group said:

    The number of small pots in the system is growing at a rate of knots and ultimately heightens the risk that people will lose track of their hard-earned savings.

    The introduction of consolidators that can administer these pots effectively and invest them dynamically will be a step forward and when combined with pension dashboards will empower people to take control of their savings. We look forward to working with government on the creation of this new system.

    Additional Information

    The Delivery Group was chaired by the DWP and had representation from:

    • The Financial Conduct Authority
    • The Pensions Regulator
    • Pension and Lifetime Savings Association
    • Association of British Insurers
    • Pensions Administration Standards Association
    • Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals
    • Association of Pensions Lawyers
    • Which?
    • Federation of Small Businesses
    • Confederation of British Industry
    • Chair of the industry led Small Pots Coordination Group
    • Pensions Policy Institute