Category: Press Releases

PRESS RELEASE : Government to tackle antisemitism and other racism in the NHS [October 2025]
The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 16 October 2025.

The government takes urgent action to tackle antisemitism and other forms of racism in the NHS.
- Steps taken to end scourge of antisemitism in the health service
- Lord John Mann to lead rapid review into how healthcare regulators tackle antisemitism and racism
- Mandatory antiracism training to be rolled out to all NHS staff
The Prime Minister has ordered an urgent review of antisemitism and all forms of racism in the NHS, as part of wider efforts to tackle discrimination in the health service.

Following recent incidents of antisemitism from doctors which drew stark attention to problems of culture and the regulation in the health system, Lord John Mann will lead the review, looking at how to protect patients and staff from racism and hold perpetrators to account.

At the same time, the government announced the immediate rollout of strengthened mandatory antisemitism and antiracism training across the health service, and NHS England will review its uniform guidance so patients and staff always feel respected in NHS settings.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

The discrimination staff and patients have faced because of their race or religion goes against everything our country stands for.

The NHS was built on the principle that everyone should be treated equally and with respect, and I am determined to restore this to the heart of the health service.

That’s why I have asked Lord Mann to root out this problem and ensure perpetrators are always held to account.

Today’s announcement builds on wider efforts across government to stamp out behaviour that seeks to divide and spread hate across the whole of society, following the horrific terrorist attack on Heaton Park synagogue earlier this month.

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: 

The NHS should be there for all of us when we need it – regardless of income, race or religion. Discrimination undermines everything our health service stands for and undermines its ability to provide quality care.

I have been appalled by recent incidents of antisemitism by NHS doctors, and I will not tolerate it. There can be no place in our NHS for doctors or staff continuing to practise after even persistently using antisemitic or hateful language.

Patients put their lives in the hands of healthcare professionals. They treat us at our most vulnerable. They therefore have a special responsibility to provide total comfort and confidence.

I am grateful to Lord Mann for taking on this work. I expect his recommendations, and the action we are taking today, to help us enforce a zero-tolerance policy to racism in healthcare.

Lord John Mann said: 

The NHS and the health sector pride themselves on being welcoming, inclusive and professional in dealings with every one of us, as we are all patients at different times and in different ways throughout our entire life.

Everyone in the country should be confident in these underlying principles at all times.

This review will look at the issues that can undermine the confidence of individuals when seeking or receiving healthcare.

Ensuring that the systems and culture of regulation across the health service match, at all times, the universal principles and ethics that underpin our NHS will be the sole focus of this work.

Recently, shocking examples have raised concerns about the operation and efficiency of independent healthcare professional regulators, some of which have been slow to crack down and investigate incidents of hate.

Lord Mann’s review will examine how the regulatory system for healthcare professionals tackles antisemitism and other forms of racism at every stage, from employment through to professional oversight. It will also look at regulatory processes, transparency in investigations, reporting mechanisms, and how zero-tolerance policies can be more effectively implemented across the health service.

At the same time, all 1.5 million NHS staff will be required to complete updated mandatory antisemitism and antiracism training, with existing equality, diversity and human rights programmes being expanded to include:
- enhanced content on discrimination and antisemitism
- new assessment questions to test understanding
- training developed with equality and antisemitism subject matter experts
- content aligned to core skills training framework
Staff will be asked to refresh their training immediately when the updated content becomes available shortly, rather than waiting for the standard 3-year cycle.

The government is also asking NHS England to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism and set clear expectations that every trust, integrated care board and arm’s length body does the same. The government is also reviewing the recommendations of the independent working group on Islamophobia.

NHS England is reviewing the uniform and workwear guidance last updated in 2020, in light of recent successful approaches rolled out at University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust. NHS England will engage stakeholders on its proposals and issue new guidance shortly. The guidance will protect freedom of religious expression while ensuring patients feel respected at all times. The guidance will not impact staff’s freedom to protest and speak out on political issues, but it will ensure that the political views of staff do not impact on patient care.

Andrew Gilbert, Vice President for Security, Resilience and Cohesion, Board of Deputies of British Jews, said:

We welcome the new measures announced today to tackle antisemitism within the NHS, particularly the adoption of the IHRA definition of antisemitism, a much needed review on regulators led by Lord Mann and an expansion of effective antisemitism training.

For much of the last 2 years, Jewish staff and patients have felt let down by the NHS while antisemitism has been allowed to flourish and thrive with hospitals, medical schools and other health spaces becoming unwelcoming for Jews.

The government’s plans are a step towards addressing these urgent issues that will make the NHS a safer place for Jews to work and receive care. However, these changes should be seen as a spring board for further changes and not a ‘fix all’, with issues remaining on the classification of Jews as an ethnicity, the lack of repercussions of medical staff accused of antisemitism and health inequalities in the Jewish community.

Claudia Mendoza, CEO of the Jewish Leadership Council (JLC), said:

Antisemitism in the NHS has been out of control. We have seen doctors describe hospitals as cesspits of “Jewish supremacy” and praise Hamas as “legends”, with the regulators and tribunals not taking substantive action. It is vital that Jewish patients are able to trust that their healthcare providers will treat them without prejudice. This continued lack of action has severely undermined trust.

The government’s announcements today, including the introduction of mandatory antisemitism training and the adoption of the IHRA definition of antisemitism encouraged across the health service, are a welcome first step but must be the first of many. Most importantly, we must see swift action as a result of Lord Mann’s urgent review into how healthcare regulators tackle antisemitism.

Lord Mann will report to the Health Secretary, with practical recommendations to strengthen protections against antisemitism and other forms of racism in healthcare.

Patient safety is a priority for this government and the bedrock of an NHS that is fit for the future – that includes ensuring that the NHS is completely free from racism.

The Jewish Medical Association (JMA) said:

For the past 2 years JMA has become increasingly concerned about blatant expressions of antisemitism – simply anti-Jewish racism – that have become widely tolerated across healthcare. British Jewish healthcare students, professionals and patients find this profoundly distressing and intimidating.

JMA welcomes Lord Mann’s review of the role of regulators in eliminating this toxic culture for Jews.

We have long called for IHRA definition adoption, for effective mandatory training for staff in the NHS, regulators and other key players to combat antisemitism, and for implementation of uniform policy, all to help make healthcare a prejudice-free, politics-free environment.

Daniel Carmel-Brown, CEO of Jewish Care, said:

Jewish Care welcomes the government’s commitment to tackling antisemitism and racism across the NHS and wider society. These measures send a powerful message that hatred and discrimination have no place in healthcare or anywhere else.

Adopting the IHRA definition, enhancing training and strengthening oversight are important steps towards ensuring that Jewish patients, staff and communities feel safe, respected and valued.

We look forward to working with government and partners to help build a health service and a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

Professor Habib Naqvi, Chief Executive of the NHS Race and Health Observatory, said:

Tackling antisemitism, Islamophobia and racism involves clear communication of a zero-tolerance stance, implementing systemic changes and creating a supportive environment for all employees.

That’s why we fully support roll out of the comprehensive measures announced today by the government. Our diverse workforce is the backbone of the NHS. It must be cared for, celebrated and respected for the outstanding care that it provides.

At the same time, our patients, colleagues and communities need to be treated with the dignity and respect that they deserve. No one should be subjected to discrimination or abuse of any kind, within or outside of the workplace.

Jacob Lant, Chief Executive of National Voices, said:

Being anti-racist is not about making grand statements, it is about taking consistent action to end discrimination and inequity. What the Prime Minister has set out today is an important commitment to action in the NHS, using the levers of training and regulation to build a health and care workforce that is committed to ending racism.

This can help our sector not just challenge overt racist acts, like violence and intimidation, but also address the underlying systemic issues which means our Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities continue to experience some of the worst access, experiences and outcomes from healthcare.
October 21, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Focus on reading in secondary years to drive up standards [October 2025]

The press release issued by the Department for Education on 15 October 2025.

Education Secretary confirms all pupils will sit a mandatory reading test at age 13 to drive up reading standards.

A national focus on reading at the start of secondary school will drive up standards to ensure every young person can achieve and thrive, as the government announces a mandatory reading test for all children at age 13. 

The Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson will tell a major schools conference today that for millions of young people, reading is “the passport to the rest of their lives,” with too many currently held back from the rest of their education – and the wider world – by an inability to read.

All pupils will take the test in year 8 – marking a significant step forward in driving up standards in core literacy skills which will help young people to unlock everything else school has to offer.

This new measure will set clear expectations to support parents, teachers and pupils alike – identifying gaps early and targeting help for those who need it, while enabling the most able to go further.

Speaking at the Confederation of School Trusts conference today, the Education Secretary will set out the core tenets of the government’s forthcoming schools white paper, which will lay the path for national renewal to take schools into the 2030s.

 Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, said: 

There is one barrier in particular I worry is locking young people out. Because before a child can even begin to engage in everything their school has to offer, they must first be able to read.

When they can’t, the sense of dejection sets in. Engagement seeps away. Attendance follows.

Reading holds the key to so much. There is no foundation more important.

So we will introduce a statutory assessment in year 8 to assess reading fluency and comprehension.

We’ll test progress at this key point when too many children either spin their wheels or fall further behind.

Invaluable data for schools to make sure no child’s need for more, for a helping hand, can slip through the cracks.

Children’s reading journey begins in the earliest years, and the government will build on the success of the phonics programme, setting a new ambition for 90% of children to be meeting the expected standard in the Phonics Screening Check.

The government is expanding its support in reception year through the English Hubs programme, putting a laser-focus on the children that struggle the most, alongside reforms to boost the quality of education in the early years, and wider family support through Best Start Family Hubs. 

Chief Executive, Lift Schools, Rebecca Boomer-Clark, said:

Reading is the key that unlocks everything, both learning and engagement. Having a national ambition for 90% of children passing the phonics check and the introduction of reading tests at Year 8 are both very positive steps forward.

We set ourselves a network 90% goal for primary phonics in 2021 and have been testing reading ability across our mainstream schools from Year 2 – Year 10 for the last few years. This has provided us with invaluable information and insight on how to get children back on track – it has driven significant leaps forward in how our children and young people read and as a result how they can engage fully in their learning. This work is critically important for all children, but especially so for those from more disadvantaged backgrounds.

Chief Executive of the National Literacy Trust, Jonathan Douglas, said:

The National Year of Reading 2026 will be a pivotal moment to make reading feel relevant, exciting and rewarding. In collaboration with the Department for Education and multi-sector partners, we are excited to spark a movement that puts reading back at the heart of our culture.

Our research shows that twice as many children and young people who enjoy reading in their free time have above average reading skills than children who don’t enjoy it. This finding is important at a time when children and young people’s reading skills are cause for concern, particularly for those from disadvantaged communities. Reading for enjoyment is one of the most powerful drivers of a child’s academic success and wellbeing, but it’s also about so much more than attainment. The joy of getting lost in a story, of discovering new ideas, or seeing yourself reflected in a book, should be an everyday part of school life. Embedding that joy into education enriches childhood and builds the foundation for lifelong learning,

Data from the new statutory assessment will be made available to Ofsted and government, but individual schools’ results will not be published – as with the phonics check. Schools will make children’s results available to parents.

The test will provide a snapshot in time and the government’s expectation is that it is not an assessment children need to revise for.

The plans build on the Government’s National Year of Reading, which will unite parents, schools, libraries and businesses to get people reading and help reverse the decline in reading for pleasure among young people.

The government is already supporting an improvement in reading and writing skills, including through new training for teachers in secondary school to support young people to read, and a £1million fund to support schools with the greatest need to purchase reading programmes and other resources to support struggling readers.

October 21, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Man, Abiola Adenmosun, who groomed 14-year-old girl has jail sentence increased [October 2025]

The press release issued by the Attorney General’s Office on 15 October 2025.

A man who groomed and repeatedly sexually abused a 14-year-old girl had his sentence increased after the Solicitor General Ellie Reeves MP intervened.

The court heard that Abiola Adenmosun, from Chatham, Kent, approached the teenager when he was 22 and despite learning she was 14 years old, began a relationship with her.

Between 2012 and 2013, Adenmosun gave the teenager drugs, alcohol and sexually abused her several times, typically in his car.

During this period, Adenmosun damaged the teenager’s phone and assaulted the victim’s sister.

In a victim impact statement, the victim said she struggles with anxiety every day and also suffers physical pain.

Solicitor General Ellie Reeves said:

This was a deeply troubling case of sustained sexual abuse by a grown man against a vulnerable child.

I welcome the Court of Appeal’s decision to increase Adenmosun’s sentence and I would like to express my deepest sympathies to his victim who has been so brave in coming forward.

On 18 July 2025 at Maidstone Crown Couty, Abiola Adenmosun was sentenced to four years and three months at Maidstone Crown Court. He also received an Indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and an Indefinite Restraining Order.

Following a referral under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme, the Court of Appeal increased the sentence to six years and nine months imprisonment.

October 21, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Dad and son (Henry Thomas Allen and Lee Allen) get suspended sentence for illegal scrapyard [October 2025]
The press release issued by the Environment Agency on 15 October 2025.

The Environment Agency has successfully prosecuted a father and son for running an illegal scrap metal site in Irthlingborough, Northamptonshire.
- Environment Agency investigation ends in successful prosecution
- Defendants ignored advice and became uncooperative
At Northampton Crown Court on Friday 10 October 2025, Henry Thomas Allen, 73, and his son Lee Allen, 37, both of Station Road, Irthlingborough, both received prison sentences of six months suspended for 18 months.

This was on condition that they each undertake 15 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement Days. They were also ordered to pay £5,000 each in costs plus a victim surcharge of £128.

The guilty pleas, at a previous hearing, were for operating without an environmental permit and handling waste in a manner likely to cause pollution.

Site of concern

The court was told that the Environment Agency had designated a scrap metal business in Station Road as a site of concern for a number of years.

Located in the River Nene flood plain and without the correct sealed, foul drainage system the site contained large quantities of motor vehicle waste.

This included batteries, tyres, gas cannisters, fridges, freezers and motor vehicle fluids such as fuel, oil and battery acid. This was stored on bare ground without the correct, sealed, drainage system with a working interceptor.

The company was instructed to remove the unpermitted scrap metal on the land.

But the Environment Agency continued to receive complaints that new waste was being treated and stored.

Officers visited the site and on several occasions provided advice, guidance and support.

Environmental law

Sarah Dunne, the Environment Agency’s Solicitor Advocate, told the court that officers had made every effort to work with the Allens to bring the site into compliance with environmental law. This included guidance regarding the storage and treatment of motor vehicle waste.

However, in spite of this advice, the company continued to accept, deposit and store large quantities of waste metals including end-of-life vehicles. They also became uncooperative with Environment Agency officials.

After a court warrant was gained, Henry Allen was arrested with support from Northamptonshire Police. Drone images showed the scale of the waste on site.

Non-cooperation

The court was told that the father had a long history of non-cooperation with the Environment Agency. He had been served with a warning letter.

Though his son was made sole director of the company, the court was told this was nothing more than a paper exercise.

Sentencing both Allens, His Honour Judge Mayo said that their offending had crossed the custody threshold, that the risk of harm had been high and that they had undermined lawful waste operators. “If you breach the orders, it’s simple, there is a custodial sentence,” the judge said.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said:

We hope this case will send a clear message that we do not hesitate to take action to protect the environment and bring perpetrators to justice.  

These people operated the site without the required permit which, as well as undermining the regulatory regime, also had an impact on lawful waste operators.  

We are actively targeting illegal waste activities across Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire and the country.

Anyone who suspects a company is operating illegally can call the Environment Agency 24/7 on 0800 80 70 60 or report it anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Background

Businesses and householders should carry out checks to ensure that they are using legitimate companies to deal with their waste.

To check if a waste carrier is genuine visit: Public Registers Online  

Environmental permits exist to ensure waste is handled safely and does not harm local residents or damage the natural environment

Charges

Henry Thomas Allen
1. Between 24 January 2021-24 February 2023 at Station Road, Irthlingborough, A6 Scrap Metals Ltd did keep controlled waste, namely end of life vehicles, scrap metals and mixed waste in a manner likely to cause pollution of the environment or harm to human health. And the offence was committed with the consent or connivance or attributable to neglect on the part of Henry Thomas Allen contrary to sections 33 (1) (c), 33 (6) and 157 (1) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 as amended.
2. Between 24 January 2021-24 February 2023 at Station Road, Irthlingborough, A6 Scrap Metals Ltd operated a regulated facility, namely a waste operation for the deposit, treatment and storage of end of life vehicles, scrap metals and mixed waste, except under and to the extent authorised by environmental permit and the offence was committed with the consent or connivance or attributable to neglect on the part of Henry Thomas Allen contrary to sections 33 (1) (c), 33 (6) and 157 (1) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 as amended.
Lee Allen
1. Between 24 January 2021-24 February 2023 at Station Road, Irthlingborough, A6 Scrap Metals Ltd did keep controlled waste, namely end of life vehicles, scrap metals and mixed waste in a manner likely to cause pollution of the environment or harm to human health. And the offence was committed with the consent or connivance or attributable to neglect on the part of Lee Allen contrary to sections 33 (1) (c), 33 (6) and 157 (1) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 as amended.
2. Between 24 January 2021-24 February 2023 at Station Road, Irthlingborough, A6 Scrap Metals Ltd operated a regulated facility, namely a waste operation for the deposit, treatment and storage of end of life vehicles, scrap metals and mixed waste, except under and to the extent authorised by environmental permit and the offence was committed with the consent or connivance or attributable to neglect on the part of Lee Allen contrary to sections 33 (1) (c), 33 (6) and 157 (1) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 as amended.
October 21, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Chancellor takes on the blockers to get Britain building [October 2025]
The press release issued by HM Treasury on 15 October 2025.

New roads, reservoirs, airports, and railways held up by lengthy legal challenges will be completed more quickly under new proposals announced by the Chancellor today (15 October), fast-tracking national renewal.
- Major infrastructure projects gummed up in the courts by legal challenges set to be unblocked by new proposals to cut court time by around half a year.
- Lengthy judicial reviews have left over 30 infrastructure projects since 2008, like the Norfolk Offshore Windfarm and A38 Derby junction improvements, in limbo, stunting economic growth and taking up thousands of court working days.
- Announcement comes as amendments to strengthen the government’s Planning and Infrastructure Bill are tabled to get Britain building and growing.
Backing the builders not the blockers, the government will work with the judiciary to cut the amount of time it takes for a judicial review to move through the court system for nationally critical infrastructure projects by around half a year, like Sizewell C. The project, that will deliver clean power to the equivalent of six million homes and support 10,000 jobs at peak construction, was delayed by two judicial reviews, both of which were dismissed by the courts.

Judicial reviews can currently take well over a year to be resolved and have seen some major projects essential for kickstarting economic growth left in limbo. In many cases they go over budget by millions and put thousands of new jobs, energy security for millions of homes and greater transport links for communities on ice. Of the 34 infrastructure projects that faced judicial reviews since 2008, just four were upheld.

The Norfolk Offshore Windfarm judicial review took two years, causing delays to the delivery of energy to the equivalent of more than 1.3 million homes and the A38 Derby junction improvements were delayed for over a year holding up much needed investment in local transport connections. Major road projects are paying up to £121 million per scheme due to delays in legal proceedings, with the cost of workers’ wages, legal fees and weakened investor confidence fuelling overspend.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

The previous government sided with the blockers, who held our economy to ransom for too long, abusing the lengthy judicial review process to delay critical national infrastructure projects and holding back economic growth.

Our planning reforms are set to benefit the economy by up to £7.5 billion over the next ten years, so whether through reducing the length of the judicial review process, tearing up burdensome regulations, or streamlining planning permissions with AI, we want to go further still by backing the builders not the blockers and deliver national renewal by getting Britain building.

Housing Secretary, Steve Reed, said:

Serial objectors have held Britain’s future to ransom while families struggle to find affordable homes and businesses wait years for vital infrastructure. We can’t let frivolous legal challenges gum up the courts and grind our economy to a halt.

Just four out of 34 judicial reviews since 2008 were actually upheld. It’s clear the system is being abused by those who want to stop progress at any cost. We’re backing the builders, not the blockers, and getting Britain building again.

As the Budget approaches, the Chancellor will be spearheading a cross-government drive to kickstart the economy through a series of pro-growth announcements, including a new wave of planning reforms to get Britain building, providing the homes, infrastructure, and jobs the economy needs to grow and boost living standards.

In addition to this week’s amendments, the Chancellor is committed to going further and faster on breaking down barriers in the planning system, building on progress already made, with a record 21 decisions made on major infrastructure projects in the first year of this government.

These include greenlighting of the Lower Thames Crossing, the Rampion 2 Offshore Wind Farm off the Sussex coast and the Simister Island development outside Bury – projects that boost connectivity, energy supply and create jobs, essential for kickstarting economic growth that people can feel in their daily lives.

Katy Dowding, President and CEO Skanska UK said:

I welcome this announcement to curb the delays to major infrastructure delivery – it is a crucial step in enabling construction as a key driver for economic growth. I encourage government to continue ‘back the Builders’ and work closely with industry to consider how to unblock other issues that equally hamper infrastructure delivery so we can get Britain building again.

Chris Ball, President, UK & Ireland, AtkinsRéalis said:

Critical infrastructure is the lifeblood of the economy: it powers homes and businesses, moves people to places and goods to markets, creates capacity for new homes and industrial zones and enables sustainable, resilient growth.

The faster these projects move into delivery, the sooner their economic impact can be felt locally and through the jobs and investment in supply chains across the country. We welcome efforts to remove systemic barriers to delivery and streamline the system by fast-tracking projects whilst also taking careful account of the impact on nature and ensuring that local communities continue to have a vital role within the decision-making process.

Stephen Beechey, Group Public Sector Director, Wates Group said:

At Wates, we support the government’s efforts to remove delays that obstruct the delivery of critical social infrastructure. The proposed judicial review reforms are a vital step toward ensuring that essential projects, such as new prisons, schools and hospitals, can proceed without unnecessary hold-ups. Every month of delay adds cost to the taxpayer and slows down the provision of vital public services. By streamlining the process, these measures will help us build faster, plan better, and deliver the facilities our communities urgently need.

Richard Whitehead, AECOM’s regional CEO for Europe & India, said:

The government faces urgent challenges in delivering infrastructure fast enough to meet the ambitions outlined in the infrastructure strategy and drive growth. Speeding up project delivery will be a key element to ensuring the highest return on the planned infrastructure pipeline. This approach has other benefits, namely it can be applied across sectors and play a critical role in achieving 2030 clean energy goals.

The UK’s consenting process can be subject to legal challenge which can cause substantial delays to projects resulting in scheme benefits not being realised within anticipated timescales as well as rising costs to the Exchequer. The government has been making commendable progress with its planning reform agenda, and the focus must now be on ensuring the reforms can translate into success through effective implementation and adequate resourcing. We commend any moves that can lead to faster approvals whilst also maintaining environmental and community safeguards.
October 21, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Government works in partnership with industry to unlock £30 million electric vehicle R&D project [October 2025]
The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 15 October 2025.

Backed by £15 million in government funding, Toyota will lead a cutting-edge match-funded project to boost zero-emission vehicle innovation in a major win for the government’s modern Industrial Strategy.
- Toyota to lead cutting-edge match-funded project to boost zero-emission vehicle innovation.
- £15 million in HMG funding, supported by the government’s modern Industrial Strategy, will go towards accelerating electric mobility tech, supporting high quality jobs, and fuel long-term growth.
- Funding supports the government’s ambition to boost business investment in advanced manufacturing sector by 2035, helping UK firms lead in industries of the future and deliver on the Plan for Change.
The government has enabled over £30 million in joint funding with industry to boost electric vehicle innovation in the UK.

The project, spearheaded by Toyota alongside other key project partners, will accelerate the feasibility of the development of zero-emission technology, drive innovation in cutting-edge R&D and support high quality automotive engineering jobs in the UK.

Backed by £15 million in government funding, the investment will support the feasibility of electric mobility solutions designed to meet the growing demand in the UK for zero emission vehicles and delivering on the government’s Plan for Change.

The vehicle will feature cutting-edge innovations including an integrated solar roof for enhanced energy efficiency, advanced connectivity for smart urban integration and lightweight, sustainable materials designed for recyclability.

The project includes key partners such as the University of Derby and Elm Mobility Limited, combining academic expertise and entrepreneurial agility to deliver a transformative mobility solution.

Industry Minister Chris McDonald said:

This shows the power of our partnership with industry, driving innovation and helping investors build a globally competitive electric vehicle supply chain in the UK as we deliver on our Plan for Change.

Economic growth is our number one priority, and by funding our world leading auto sector our modern Industrial Strategy is creating the right conditions for increased investment, bringing growth, supporting jobs, and opportunities to every part of the UK.

Dariusz Mikolajczak, Managing Director of TMUK, said:

We are delighted to receive support from the Advanced Propulsion Centre for this important feasibility study. This funding allows us to advance our understanding around the feasibility of creating a cutting-edge battery electric vehicle that addresses the growing demand for sustainable urban mobility.  The project acknowledges TMUK’s overall project excellence and will further strengthen the capabilities of our members.

The R&D project will explore the feasibility of developing electric micro mobility vehicles in the UK, supporting high quality automotive engineering jobs and deepening the knowledge and skills within the UK’s advanced manufacturing sector.

The multi-million-pound funding package has been awarded through the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC) Collaborative Research and Development programme, helping to unlock further private investment and supporting the government’s ambitions to build an end-to-end supply chain for zero-emissions vehicles in the UK.

Rik Adams, Innovation Delivery Director, The Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC):

APC is very proud to be able to support Toyota with this Electric Vehicle (EV) urban mobility project, which embodies much of what DRIVE35 aims to support – innovation, UK competitiveness, productivity, and zero emission vehicles. As an integral part of the UK automotive industry, we are delighted that Toyota is partnering with some of our innovative SME businesses, such as ELM, and our world-class academics from the University of Derby to deliver a cutting-edge vehicle concept designed, developed and tested in the UK.

Earlier this year, the government announced the launch of DRIVE35 to support the shift to zero-emission vehicle manufacturing. Announced in the Advanced Manufacturing Sector Plan, it offers £2.5 billion in capital and R&D funding to 2035. The programme backs everything from large-scale gigafactories to start-ups and prototypes for strategic vehicle technologies, aiming to boost innovation, attract investment, and strengthen the UK’s automotive supply chain.

Since its foundation in 2013, the APC R&D programme has supported 354 low-carbon and zero-emission projects involving 614 partners. Working with companies of all sizes, this funding since 2013 is estimated to have helped create or safeguard over 59,000 jobs in the UK. The technologies and products are projected to save over 425 million tonnes of CO2.  
October 21, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Countryside Stewardship extended to support farming and nature [October 2025]

The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 15 October 2025.

Thousands of farmers will receive extensions to continue restoring nature and farming sustainably, supporting long-term food security.

Farmers will continue to be rewarded for their vital role in sustainable food production and nature’s recovery with the offer of one-year extensions to their Countryside Stewardship Mid Tier agreements, Farming Minister Dame Angela Eagle confirmed today (Wednesday 15 October).

Countryside Stewardship gives farmers and land managers the opportunity to be paid for environmental work – such as planting wildflower margins that boost pollinators and managing hedgerows to create vital habitats for birds and small mammals – alongside sustainable food production.

With agreements set to expire on 31 December this year, the targeted, time-limited extension is being offered to ensure farmers have the support they need to continue their vital activities to restore nature and produce food sustainably. This is part of our plan to give farmers long term strategic certainty.

The one-off investment of up to £70m supports more than 5,000 farmers and reflects our commitment to working with the sector to build a stronger, more profitable farming future. There are currently more than 77,000 live agri-environment agreements – the highest number in history – and half (4.3m hectares) of farmed land in England is actively managed in these schemes.

Funding for farmers through the Environmental Land Management schemes, which include the Countryside Stewardship Mid Tier scheme, will increase by 150% to £2 billion by 2029, helping to boost rural economies, strengthen domestic food production and enhance the UK’s natural environment for future generations.

Farming Minister Dame Angela Eagle said:
We’re backing farmers with the largest investment in nature-friendly farming in history, underpinning our cast iron commitment to food security.

This targeted extension to Countryside Stewardship Mid Tier agreements ensures farmers have the certainty and support they need to continue to grow their businesses, get more British food on our plates, and help restore nature.

Plans for the Sustainable Farming Incentive are currently being reviewed to ensure the available funding for that scheme is distributed more efficiently and more fairly. The government will publish information on the next iteration of the scheme in due course.

Investing in nature through the government’s Plan for Change is central to securing Britain’s future economic growth, developing a sustainable, resilient and profitable farming sector, and ensuring long-term food security.

The Rural Payments Agency (RPA) will write to eligible farmers with details about their extension offer. The letter will contain details of how they accept their extension and the deadline they need to meet for it to be processed.

October 21, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Pensioners warned to stay alert as winter fuel payment scams surge by over 150% [October 2025]
The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 15 October 2025.

Pensioners are being warned to look out for Winter Fuel Payment text message scams following a surge in activity from opportunistic criminals ahead of next month’s payments.
- New data reveals a 153% rise in scam referrals in the final week of September, compared to the previous week.
- Recent spike comes ahead of Winter Fuel Payments hitting pensioners’ bank accounts next month.
- DWP are increasing efforts to raise public awareness and urge everyone not to engage with scam messages.
Pensioners are being warned to look out for Winter Fuel Payment text message scams following a surge in activity from opportunistic criminals ahead of next month’s payments.

New data from HMRC shows reports of scam texts more than doubled in the last week of September when compared to the previous week

These scams – which see fraudsters exploit pensioners by posing as government officials processing Winter Fuel Payment applications – had begun to drop off after a peak in June but are now increasing again ahead of payments being made next month.

This warning comes as the DWP ramps up its social media campaign in partnership with Action Fraud to raise awareness of these scams across Facebook and Twitter. This is alongside DWP’s continued work with trusted partners and charities such as Independent Age to ensure accurate and timely information is available.

Winter Fuel Payments are made automatically, and the government will never ask for bank details by text. Anyone who receives a text message inviting them to apply for a payment should not engage with it and instead forward it to 7726.

Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said:

If you get a text message about Winter Fuel Payments, it’s a scam. They will be made automatically so you do not need to apply.

These despicable attempts by criminals to target people are on the rise. We are raising awareness to make it harder for fraudsters to succeed.

If you receive a suspicious message about Winter Fuel Payments, don’t engage – forward it to 7726 and delete it immediately.

Independent Age Chief Executive Joanna Elson CBE said:

Scammers are shamefully exploiting the Winter Fuel Payment to target older people living on low incomes. This entitlement is a vital lifeline that helps protect those facing financial hardship during the colder months.

Our helpline has received calls from older people who have been sent these fraudulent messages. Many of them are already anxious about being able to afford to heat their homes this winter, and these scam texts may wrongly lead them to believe they must take action to receive their payment.

The key message is clear: you do not need to do anything to receive your Winter Fuel Payment. If you are eligible, it will be paid automatically.

Jonathan Silvester, HMRC’s Digital Defence Lead, said:

Scammers target individuals by attempting to take your money or access your personal information. I’m urging you to stay alert to their pressure tactics.

Never let yourself be rushed. If someone contacts you relating to Winter Fuel Payments, wanting you to urgently transfer money or give personal information, be on your guard. If a phone call, text or email is suspicious or unexpected, don’t give out private information or reply, and don’t download attachments or click on links. You can report any suspicious HMRC-related activity on GOV.UK, just search ‘report an HMRC scam’.

Winter Fuel Payments will automatically be paid into people’s bank accounts with eligible pensioners receiving a letter in October or November saying how much they will receive. Payments will be made between mid-November and December 2025.

Supporting pensioners is a top priority for this Government which is why we are committed to the Triple Lock which means millions of pensioners will see their State Pension rise by up to £1,900.

On top of this, pensioners on low incomes can apply for further support this winter through Pension Credit – worth £4,300 on average a year. Pensioners with care needs can also apply for Attendance Allowance, worth over £5,740 a year and we will continue to urge anyone who thinks they are eligible to apply.

Know the facts:
- Winter Fuel Payments are made automatically: the vast majority of Winter Fuel Payments will be made automatically and you do not need to apply or provide personal information via text or email.
- The DWP will never ask for bank details via text message.
- Suspicious texts should be forwarded to 7726 which is free of charge, which helps phone providers block the numbers involved.
October 21, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Huge blow for Putin’s war machine as UK sanctions Russian oil [October 2025]
The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 15 October 2025.

Russia’s largest oil companies and global businesses propping up Putin’s illegal war have been hit by fresh sanctions as the UK moves to increase pressure on Kremlin revenues.
- UK unleashes strongest sanctions yet on Russia, choking off energy revenues that flow into its war chest by directly targeting oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil.
- Government is taking Russian oil ‘off the market’ as 90 sanctions announced.
- Foreign Office and Treasury take action in tandem, with Yvette Cooper introducing sanctions in parliament and Rachel Reeves leading discussions with international partners in Washington DC.
The 90 new sanctions strike at the heart of Putin’s war funding, directly targeting Rosneft and Lukoil – two of the world’s biggest energy companies, which together export 3.1 million barrels of oil per day. Rosneft alone is responsible for 6% of global and nearly half of all Russian oil production.

Today’s action demonstrates the government’s determination to cut off Putin’s revenue streams – targeting Russian companies and their global enablers. Four oil terminals in China, 44 tankers in the ‘shadow fleet’ transporting Russian oil, and Nayara Energy Limited – which imported 100 million barrels of Russian crude worth over $5 billion in 2024 alone – have all been hit by this latest wave of sanctions.

The new sanctions, all announced by the Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper in Parliament today, come as Chancellor Rachel Reeves arrives in Washington DC for the International Monetary Fund Annual Meetings, where she will meet G7 Finance Ministers and attend a Ukraine roundtable to rally global partners to cut off revenues reaching the Russian regime.

Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper said:

At this critical moment for Ukraine, Europe is stepping up. Together, the UK and our allies are piling the pressure on Putin – going after his oil, gas and shadow fleet – and we will not relent until he abandons his failed war of conquest and gets serious about peace.

Even with his war economy creaking, his people suffering, and his army enduring unthinkable losses – still he sends drones and missiles after innocent civilians.

Ukraine’s security is important for the security and stability of the whole of Europe and for the UK. Today’s action is another step towards a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, and towards a more secure United Kingdom. The action we are taking against Russian aggression with partners across Europe makes us stronger here at home.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves said:

We are sending a clear signal: Russian oil is off the market.

As Putin’s aggression intensifies, we are stepping up our response. The UK will continue to strip away the funding that fuels his war machine. We will hold to account all those enabling his illegal invasion of Ukraine.

The action also coincides with Putin kicking off Russian Energy Week in Moscow, undermining his efforts to pitch his most valuable funding stream to those across the globe.

As Putin’s vital oil revenues shrink year-on-year under the weight of international sanctions, the Kremlin is scrambling to expand its liquified natural gas (LNG) industry to plug these losses. The UK is today also sanctioning seven specialised LNG tankers and the Chinese Beihai LNG terminal. Beihai has been importing LNG from Arctic LNG2 – the severely disrupted flagship Russian LNG project, sanctioned by the UK in February 2024.

To further restrict the flow of funds to the Kremlin, the UK has today announced that we will ban imports of oil products refined in third countries from Russian-origin crude oil.

By removing Russian oil from the market, taking steps towards peace and in turn building a more secure Europe, we are directly strengthening the UK’s national and energy security – key foundations of this government’s Plan for Change.

More than 85,000 military drones have been delivered by the UK to Ukraine in just six months this year by accelerating production from British companies and supporting jobs in both countries, with £600 million invested by the UK this year.

Today’s sanctions extend beyond oil, tightening the net around Russia’s key military supply chains by hitting businesses that supply electronics critical for Russian drones and missiles terrorising Ukrainian civilians, across countries including Thailand, Singapore, Turkey, and China.

Background
- Today’s measures come as new data released today reveals that UK sanctions have frozen £28.7 billion of Russian assets since February 2022. The figure, announced in the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation’s (OFSI) Annual Review 2024-25, highlight the UK’s leading role in choking off the funding streams bankrolling Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine – more detail can be found here.
- A full list of today’s targets can be found here.
- The UK has sanctioned the two largest Russian oil majors, Rosneft and Lukoil. We previously sanctioned the third and fourth largest, Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegas in January 2025.
October 21, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Defence Secretary meets with the niece of the late Agnes Wanjiru [October 2025]

The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 15 October 2025.

The UK Defence Secretary, John Healey MP reiterates Government’s steadfast support for her family’s long and painful fight for justice.

The Defence Secretary John Healey MP today met the niece of the late Agnes Wanjiru, Esther Njoki. The meeting follows the Kenyan Director of Public Prosecution determining that a British National should face trial in relation to the murder of Ms Wanjiru, who was killed in Nanyuki in Kenya in 2012.

In April 2025, the Defence Secretary visited Kenya and became the first UK Government Minister to meet Agnes Wanjiru’s family, since her murder in 2012.

Today’s meeting is only the second between UK Government ministers and representatives of Agnes’s family.

Defence Secretary, John Healey MP said:

Six months since our first meeting in Kenya, I was pleased to welcome the niece of the late Agnes Wanjiru, Esther Njoki to London today, to reiterate our Government’s steadfast support for her family’s long and painful fight for justice.

I want to pay tribute to Esther, who is an extraordinary spokesperson for her family, and for women who have suffered violence.

We reflected on the significant progress made in recent months, with the case file being handed to the Director of Public Prosecutions in April and a charging decision being made last month. Our Government will continue to do everything we can to support the Kenyan investigation, secure a resolution to this case and finally bring peace to Esther and her grieving family.

The niece of Agnes Wanjiru, Esther Njoki also made a statement after the meeting with the Defence Secretary:

The loss of my beloved aunt, Agnes Wanjiru, has left a permanent scar on my family. It wasn’t just the pain of losing her – it is the years of silence, frustration and trauma we’ve endured trying to get justice since.

Since my family last met with the Secretary of State, there has been a major development with a former British soldier having been charged with my aunt’s murder. This has given us a renewed sense of hope — but we are still far from achieving justice for Agnes. That’s why this meeting with the Secretary of State is crucial. We are urging him and the Government to do everything in their power to ensure the man arrested is extradited to Kenya and faces trial without further delay.

October 21, 2025