Category: Press Releases

  • PRESS RELEASE : New penalties introduced in crackdown on water companies [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : New penalties introduced in crackdown on water companies [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 6 July 2026.

    Half a million-pound financial penalties introduced in latest crackdown on polluting water companies.

    Water companies that flout environmental rules now face faster penalties of up to £500,000 in the latest set of reforms to improve our waterways.  

    As part of the government’s once-in-a-generation overhaul of the water system, the Environment Agency will see their powers strengthened and expanded.  

    Previously, the regulator was limited in its ability to impose financial penalties for frequent, minor and moderate offending – such as breaches of a licence or permit.  

    This was because it needed to prove an offence to the same high legal standard used in criminal courts, often making penalties too expensive and time-consuming to pursue.  

    In future, the regulator will be able to use the lower civil standard of proof – meaning more financial penalties, delivered quicker in a move that ensures those who violate the rules have nowhere to hide.  

    These changes follow a host of improvements over the last two years to tackle pollution, streamline regulation, protect customers, and secure long-term investment in the sector.  

    Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said:

    This government has been clear that polluting water companies and bosses will face the consequences of their actions. The introduction of automatic penalties will give the Environment Agency the teeth it needs to deliver cleaner rivers, lakes and seas.

    This is just one of the actions we’re taking to clamp down on water companies including the introduction of a more powerful water regulator, no-notice inspections, MOT-style checks of water company assets and banning bonuses for polluting bosses.

    The changes to the civil penalties framework were enabled in the Water (Special Measures) Act but had to be put out to consultation before going for Parliamentary approval.  

    A £500,000 cap will be introduced to variable monetary penalties that are proved to the civil standard of proof. There will also be the introduction of new automatic penalties – like a speeding ticket – for clearly defined breaches. This would involve a £10,000 payment, which would double if the company failed to pay within 28 days. 

    The changes are in addition to other enforcement tools, including unlimited financial penalties – known as Variable Monetary Penalties – where offending is proved to a criminal standard.

    The Environment Agency will continue to pursue criminal prosecution for the most serious offences.  

    The size of the penalty will be dependent upon the size of the water company, meaning penalties cannot simply be factored into the cost of doing business.

    Environment Agency Chair, Alan Lovell, said:  

    We care deeply about protecting our waterways and welcome measures that will deter pollution incidents and other harmful permit breaches.   

    These changes complement our current enforcement powers, including criminal prosecution, and will further our aim of delivering quick and proportionate punishment where failures happen.   

    We now have more people, better data and increased powers to drive better company performance and achieve a cleaner water environment for us all.

    Modelling, based on water company performance in previous years, suggests the changes could cost the water sector between £50million and £67million annually.

    The expectation is this will drive improved performance by water companies and see improvements in asset management and data collection – therefore the cost will reduce over time.   

    Water companies cannot pass the financial penalties onto customer bills.

    These changes are the latest in two years of progress delivering on the government’s priority of improving the water system.

    • The landmark Water (Special Measures) Act, introducing the toughest enforcement powers in a decade, including criminal liability for water bosses who cover up illegal sewage spills and the power to ban unfair bonuses, which in 2025 blocked £4 million in bonuses across six water companies.  
    • Ringfenced water company investment, ensuring customers’ money is spent on fixing pipes, reducing sewage spills and improving water quality, not dividends or bonuses.  
    • Improved transparency, introducing real-time monitoring at every emergency overflow so the public can see what is happening in their local waters.  
    • Boosted protections for customers, doubling compensation when basic water services fail and making it easier for vulnerable households to access bill support.  
    • Signed into law a ban on the sale of plastic wet wipes, marking a major step forward in tackling plastic pollution which devastates our waterways.  
    • Set out once-in-a-generation reforms in the White Paper, including plans for:
      • a new single water regulator, delivering tougher oversight and stronger accountability for water companies.  
      • a new Chief Engineer role which will bring back the hands-on checks of water infrastructure.  
      • long-term, systematic reforms where assets are properly maintained, and problems can be spotted before they lead to water shortages.  
      • a roll-out of smart metering and mandatory efficiency labels to help households monitor their water use.  
      • Stronger inspection powers, including the new regulator able to conduct ‘no notice’ inspections.  
      • These measures are underpinned by over £104 billion in private investment, to upgrade water infrastructure over the next five years – the largest programme since privatisation – creating jobs, supporting new homes, and cutting pollution.  
  • PRESS RELEASE : Joint statement from member countries of the Multilateral Defence Mechanism [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Joint statement from member countries of the Multilateral Defence Mechanism [July 2026]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 6 July 2026.

    Joint statement from the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Finland and Poland.

    Ahead of the Ankara NATO Summit the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Finland, and Poland reiterate our shared commitment to strengthen defence financing and improve the cost-efficiency of defence spending to transform our collective defence capabilities. In light of the rapidly evolving international security environment and the consequences of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, we shall act together to be prepared to address future threats. We remain committed to supporting Ukraine in defending its sovereignty and resisting Russian aggression.

    We are making significant progress to develop the new Multilateral Defence Mechanism together with partners. The MDM is an innovative new financing model intended to accelerate defence investment, stimulate joint procurement, and aggregate demand in critical defence capabilities, with the ultimate objective of meeting the military needs of like-minded allies. We aim to move quickly to formal Treaty negotiations, respecting individual members’ ratification processes, while maintaining the shared ambition of setting up the MDM by 2027. We have benefitted from the support of a wider group of allies in developing the technical details of the model.

    To further progress the MDM, the UK, the Netherlands, Finland and Poland will therefore:

    • work with core partners to expand the MDM into a broader coalition of participants;
    • build on technical development and move to the next phase of mechanism design and development with subscribed partners during the Autumn
    • ensure that emerging approaches to international defence financing are aligned and complementary, including by working with other NATO allies on aligning our efforts for increased capability and interoperability

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    Defence procurement in Europe is too fragmented, expensive and slow. That’s why I’ve been working to establish the Multilateral Defence Mechanism will enhance collaboration, to improve procurement and strengthen our collective deterrence.

    In a world which is changing around us, we are strongest when we work in lockstep with our allies. I am glad to welcome Poland to the Multilateral Defence Mechanism to bolster our defences and keep us and our allies safe.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government to cut costs for parents ahead of new school year [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government to cut costs for parents ahead of new school year [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department for Education on 6 July 2026.

    From September, 1,400 more schools get free breakfast clubs, branded uniform costs are capped, saving families up to £1,000 a year on school costs.

    Families will see the cost of going to school slashed even further from September, as guidance confirming caps on branded uniforms is issued to schools and more free breakfast clubs are confirmed.

    Parents at 1,400 more schools will find out if they can save up to £450 through free breakfast clubs from September, when more than 2,700 will be up and running. It means the government has smashed its target of adding 2,000 schools to the programme this year.  Over 680,000 children will attend them after the summer holidays – up from 300,000 today.

    The clubs are already delivering cumulative savings of nearly £25million to families by serving up over 10 million free breakfasts and five million hours of childcare unlocked. For a family using their club every day that’s worth up to £450 and 95 hours a year, or nearly two working weeks back on the morning juggle. Children arrive more settled, fed and ready to learn from the moment the school day begins.

    From September schools must comply with the new legal limits on the number of branded uniform items they can require. It means parents can buy more of the everyday basics, like trousers and shirts, from any shop or supermarket rather than one pricey supplier.

    After polling found a third of parents still worry about uniform costs the government is also publishing strengthened statutory guidance today telling schools to take more steps to bring down the cost of individual items, especially for more expensive items like blazers and jumpers, in time for the 2027 school year.

    Taken together, heading back to school is now set to be almost £1,000 cheaper for many families. A child could benefit from up to £450 a year through a free breakfast club and up to £500 a year through the expansion of free school meals to every household on Universal Credit – on top of cheaper uniform as the new branded-item limit bites.

    Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said:

    No parent should have to choose between a summer day out to the beach and kitting their child out for school. 

    From September, families will feel the difference at the school gates: free breakfast clubs at 1,400 more schools, an end to expensive lists of branded uniform, and more free lunches for those who need them. 

    That’s the British childhood this government believes in – and why we’ll always fight to give every child the very best start in life.

    Today’s announcement builds on the biggest ever expansion of funded childcare, now saving families using their full 30 hours an average of £8,000 a year per child – with more than 548,000 codes validated by parents for the working parent entitlement in spring 2026.

    Ahead of the new school year, the government is making it easier for all families to enjoy the weekend treats, days out and day trips over the summer with the government’s Great British Summer Saving scheme. From 25 June to 1 September, VAT has been cut on children’s meals in restaurants, children’s and family tickets for theatres and cinemas, and tickets for family attractions, alongside free bus travel for children aged five to 15 in England throughout August. This is part of the government’s work to ease the cost of living, including action to take £117 off household energy bills, freezing rail fares and prescription charges and increases the national minimum and living wage.

    A consultation on early years funding, published today, will also set out plans to tackle the postcode lottery holding some children back.

    Government is setting out proposals that will mean councils pass more funding for disadvantaged two-year-olds directly to nurseries and childminders.

    Families will also feel the difference at their local Best Start Family Hub – the one-stop shops where parents can find everything from stay-and-play sessions to health visitors and parenting advice. Backed by over £900 million, more than 200 are already open, on the way to up to 1,000 by 2028.

    To drive that ambition forward, the government is today launching the Best Start Improvement Coalition – bringing together business, charities and social investors to ensure every hub delivers for the families who need it most.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Communities backed to lead local climate and nature action [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Communities backed to lead local climate and nature action [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 6 July 2026.

    Bradford, Manchester, Bristol, London and Birmingham are the first cities to host annual ‘Energising Britain’ events.

    Across the country today, communities are coming together to showcase how they are accelerating clean energy, nature protection and tackling climate change, as the government today (Monday 6 July) launches its first ever wave of ‘Energising Britain’ events.

    Through local action, communities are helping deliver the benefits of climate action for British people – from clean, homegrown energy and lower bills to nature restoration and cleaner air. 

    As families and businesses across the UK brace themselves for what is expected to be the third heatwave of the summer this week, the government is launching its first ever series of events to connect with local communities on climate and nature action, bringing together over 500 people in climate and nature leadership, local business, civil society, education and more to ensure people’s voices help shape the UK’s net zero agenda. 

    In Bradford, the Minister for Climate, Katie White, opened the inaugural ‘Energising Britain’ event at Bradford City FC. The event will include speakers from the football club and Feversham Primary School who have saved money on their energy bills by rolling out rooftop solar panels.  

    In Manchester, Minister White opened the afternoon session ahead of a panel on culture, youth and faith, where Liverpool FC will speak about their role engaging large audiences on climate change, the Youth Focus North West on how the young can engage adults around them, and the Carbon CO-OP on energy cost savings in the home. 

    Bristol’s event focused on how community-led climate and nature action is improving lives locally. Sessions will take place on the Creative Clean Power Pilot project powering live events with renewable energy, practical electrification projects, future energy systems and effective climate communication, as well as boat tours of Bristol Harbour visiting England’s largest harbour-based water source heat pump and a floating ecosystem with more than 6,000 native aquatic plants and trees to support wildlife.   

    In London, local partners came together to explore how communities can help accelerate electrification across homes, buildings and transport.   

    In Birmingham, local partners came together to explore how local action can support electrification and climate and nature action. There will be a focus on regional activity across local authorities, communities, businesses and sector partners, connecting electrification to rural communities, faith groups, culture, music and the arts. 

    The events are being organised by the Local Net Zero Hubs, the national network of local partnerships to support local authorities and the communities they serve develop clean energy projects local people see and feel the benefit of.

    Minister for Climate, Katie White, said: 

    Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent as our climate changes – from heatwaves in summer to flooding in the winter. 

    The need to take climate action has never been clearer, and through our ‘Energising Britain’ events, we’re making sure local communities across the country have their say on climate action and clean, homegrown energy. 

    We know government cannot drive this mission alone – by working together with local communities, we can accelerate our work on climate action and clean power to deliver lower bills, good jobs and cleaner air now and for generations to follow.

    Rachael Orr, CEO of Climate Outreach said:  

    We’ve made incredible progress in tackling climate change – but too few people know about it. The ‘Energising Britain’ events are a brilliant opportunity to celebrate how far we’ve come in lowering our emissions and electrifying our energy supply – and energise the people leading the charge to build on this momentum.   

    We also know there’s so much more to do. Recent heatwaves across the UK have reinforced the importance and urgency of tackling climate change and restoring nature so we can protect the people and places we love. The events today can also help us think about how people and communities can come together and rise to this challenge together.

    Dr Sue Griffiths, CEO of The Young Foundation, said:  

    Across the country, communities are already demonstrating what a fair and inclusive green transition can look like, and the ‘Energising Britain’ events shine a spotlight on that leadership. The transition to a cleaner, greener future will only succeed if people feel part of it.

    By bringing together communities, practitioners and local leaders to share ideas, build relationships and shape solutions that reflect the realities of different places, these events show how local knowledge, participation and collaboration can help turn national ambition into lasting change on the ground. Involving people in shaping the future of their communities helps ensure that the benefits of the transition are felt widely, fairly and in ways that strengthen communities.  

    James Johnson, Head of Regional Programme at the North West Net Zero Hub, said:  

    The transition to clean energy is vital if we are to achieve a sustainable future, and that transition cannot happen without the support and inclusion of our citizens. This is why the Public Participation Strategy is such an important part of the country’s work on climate and nature action. We are delighted to celebrate some of the best engagement practitioners from the North West as part of ‘Energising Britain’, and we look forward to the new approaches and partnerships that this event will help to create.

    North East and Yorkshire Net Zero Hub Manager Karen Oliver Spry, said: 

    The government and Great British Energy have set the ambition of every community in the country having the opportunity to benefit from locally-owned energy by 2030, and this event is a sign of the extent to which this has been embraced by our region, with communities in every corner of Yorkshire and the North East generating clean electricity which local people see and feel the benefit from. 

    When the Hub was created there were only 9 community energy groups in the North East and Yorkshire and today we’re working with close to 150 – growth of over 1,000% – and we’re delighted to have had the opportunity to bring so many of these energy communities together to learn from and inspire each other and the next generation of community energy projects, and to welcome the Minister to see the progress which is being made. 

    Steve Ransom, Head of Net Zero Delivery, West of England Combined Authority said: 

    We are very excited to be working with DESNZ and The South West Net Zero Hub to deliver this flagship event. ‘Energising Britain’ will showcase some of the amazing work on climate change and nature recovery already happening across all sectors in the South West. We look forward to meeting the passionate communities already involved for an inspiring day to explore how we can strengthen public participation and communicate the benefits of the transition to clean energy for all.

    Maxine Narburgh, Regional Director, Greater South East Net Zero Hub said:  

    Communities across the Greater South East are already showing that the transition to clean energy is something that happens with people, not to them. From local organisations and community energy groups to businesses and public sector partners, there is real momentum behind community-led electrification. 

    ‘Energising Britain’ is an opportunity to bring those voices together, celebrate what’s already working, share practical experience, and build the partnerships needed to accelerate progress. By working collaboratively, we can ensure the transition to clean, affordable energy is inclusive, delivers tangible benefits for local people and places, and leaves a lasting legacy for communities across our region.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK sanctions Russians developing chemical weapons used to kill Alexei Navalny and Dawn Sturgess [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK sanctions Russians developing chemical weapons used to kill Alexei Navalny and Dawn Sturgess [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 6 July 2026.

    The UK is sanctioning Russian actors involved in the development of deadly toxins Novichok and Epibatidine, linked to the deaths of Alexei Navalny and Dawn Sturgess.

    • The UK is sanctioning Russian actors involved in the research, development and production of the deadly Novichok nerve agents and the lethal toxin Epibatidine used in the poisoning of Alexei Navalny and Dawn Sturgess.
    • After exposing Navalny’s death in 2024, the UK is shining a light on Russia’s heinous violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention, urging Russia to stop this deadly activity.
    • Ahead of the NATO Summit in Ankara, the UK continues to expose and deter Russia’s barbaric use of chemical weapons both on and off the battlefield.

    Seven individuals and two leading scientific research institutes involved in Russia’s barbaric, undeclared and illegal chemical weapons programme have today [6 July] been sanctioned by the UK. The UK’s action targets those involved in developing the deadly toxin Epibatidine and Novichok nerve agents used to poison Russian opposition activist Alexei Navalny and British national Dawn Sturgess. 

    These new measures directly hit two leading scientific research centres and key individuals involved in the development and production of toxic chemicals for purposes prohibited under the Chemical Weapons Convention.  

    At the NATO Summit in Ankara this week, the UK will join NATO allies in strengthening collective security to tackle the long-term threat posed by an increasingly reckless and dangerous Russia, Its egregious and irresponsible actions, including the barbaric full-scale invasion of Ukraine, continue to undermine democracy. 

    This is the latest step in the UK’s efforts to expose and deter Russia’s illegal chemical weapons activity and comes after partners united at the Munich Security Conference in February to confirm the abhorrent circumstances around the death of Alexei Navalny in Russian custody. Only the Russian state had the means, motive and opportunity to deploy this lethal toxin to target Navalny, and the UK holds it responsible for his death.

    Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper said: 

    Russia’s repeated use of chemical weapons is a sickening violation of international law and a direct threat to global security.

    From the use of Novichok nerve agents in Salisbury to Epibatidine in Siberia, poisoning Dawn Sturgess and Alexei Navalny, Russia continues to use barbaric tools to inflict death and suffering on innocent civilians, including in Ukraine.   

    We will continue to call out Russia’s violations of the Chemical Weapons Convention, hold those responsible to account, and work with allies to deter further use of these dangerous weapons.

    Those sanctioned include directors and technical specialists at leading scientific research institutes involved in Russia’s development and synthesis of toxic chemicals.

    These institutes include SC Signal, a Russian state scientific research institute, GNIII VM, the State Scientific Research and Testing Institute for Military Medicine and GosNIIOKhT the State Scientific Research Institute for Organic Chemistry and Technology, which the UK sanctioned in October 2020.

    Individuals sanctioned today include Vladimir Kondratyev who co-authored a paper on the testing of Epibatidine focusing on its toxic qualities as well as Andrei Antokhin and Viktor Taranchenko who conducted research on Novichok nerve agents.  

    The announcement comes ahead of this week’s NATO Ankara Summit (7-8 July), where the UK will continue to work with allies to provide military aid to Ukraine and strengthen the country’s defences. The UK will also reaffirm that NATO stands ready to defend its citizens against the long-term threat posed by Russia.

    The UK has now sanctioned over 3,400 individuals and organisations in response to Russia’s aggression in Ukraine and will continue to expose and combat its hostile activity at every opportunity.  

    Notes to editors: 

    • This announcement comes just before the 112th Executive Council session at the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) at the Hague from 7th July – 10 July.   
    • The individuals sanctioned today are: 

    o   ARTUR ZHIROV – Director of SC Signal 

    o   ANDREI ANTOKHIN – Deputy Head of SC Signal 

    o   SERGEI CHEPUR – Head of GNIII VM 

    o   VLADIMIR KONDRATYEV – Director at GosNIIOKhT 

    o   ALEKSANDR MAKHLAY – Chief Scientist – SC Signal 

    o   IVAN KRAVSTOV – Head of 4th Scientific Research Department at SC Signal 

    o   VIKTOR TARANCHENKO – Head of the 1st Scientific Research Centre at SC Signal.

    • The two entities sanctioned today are:
      • ‘SC SIGNAL’ (aka NTs SIGNAL) a Russian state scientific research institute 
      • GNIII VM’ –  The State Research Institute of Military Medicine (GNIII VM) 
  • PRESS RELEASE : NHS sets first-ever staff standards to tackle racism and violence [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : NHS sets first-ever staff standards to tackle racism and violence [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 6 July 2026.

    New NHS staff standards will make employers accountable for tackling racism, violence and sexual harassment, with results published in league tables.

    • New staff standards to improve working conditions for over one and a half million NHS staff
    • Hospital performance to be measured on staff wellbeing issues
    • Delivers on 10 Year Health Plan commitment

    NHS employers will be formally accountable for how they treat their workforce on key issues for the first time under landmark staff standards that will measure performance on tackling racism, violence and improving sexual safety measured in public league tables.

    The new standards, developed in partnership with NHS England, NHS trade unions and staff representatives through the Social Partnership Forum, cover six key areas: violence prevention and reduction; championing sexual safety; tackling racism; promoting flexible working; line management; and health and wellbeing support.

    The government is committing to making the NHS the best employer it can be, and has made good progress, including delivering above inflation pay rises three years in a row for staff. This year has seen record rates of staff choosing to stay in the health service, but there is still much more to do.

    The NHS has a zero-tolerance policy towards racism and violence against staff or patients. Nevertheless, in the most recent Staff Survey, workers reported unacceptable levels of racism and violence against them, including sexual violence.

    For the second consecutive year, there was an increase in the percentage of staff who’d personally experienced violence at work from patients, their relatives or other members of the public (14.47%).

    Hardworking NHS staff must be treated with the respect they deserve, and this is the first time in the history of the health service that employers have faced formal, mandated accountability for staff experience in these areas.

    Last month, the government also accepted Lord Mann’s recommendations for tackling antisemitism and discrimination in the NHS, which included measures to enhance accountability for senior leaders.

    Minister for Secondary Care Karin Smyth said:

    NHS staff are the backbone of our health service, and they deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. The levels of racism, violence and sexual harassment reported by staff are completely unacceptable, and for too long there has been no formal accountability for employers to address them.

    These new standards – a 10 Year Health Plan commitment – change that. For the first time, how Trusts treat their employees will be measured and published, because we know that when staff are supported, patients get better care. This government is determined to make the NHS the best employer it can be, and these standards are a landmark step in delivering on that promise.

    From July 2026, NHS Trusts in secondary care – including acute hospitals, mental health services, and ambulance trusts – will be required to meet the standards, which will be assessed through a headline metric in the NHS Oversight Framework (NOF). This means how well a Trust supports its staff in key areas – assessed via the annual staff survey – will directly affect its overall performance rating alongside waiting list and A&E metrics. Employers’ actions like implementing robust violence prevention and acting when concerns are raised are likely to help with staff survey findings and their NOF scores.

    The standards set a clear baseline of what NHS staff can expect from their employer, regardless of where they work. Future years will see the standards refined to drive continuous improvement, with plans to look at how the to extend the framework to primary care, including GPs and dentists, and other service types in future.

    Helga Pile and Ben Morrin CoChairs of the National SPF said:

    We welcome the introduction of the NHS Staff Standards and the government’s policy of improving staff experience in these areas through strengthened accountability. The Standards target the right priorities, and this marked change in accountability and support is what makes this approach different for our staff and members.

    The government will need to ensure the new NHS system can provide the right oversight,  support and challenge.  Effective partnership working between employers and trade unions on implementing the standards, should then mean they result in a lasting and improved experience at work for NHS staff.

    Professor Habib Naqvi, chief executive, NHS Race and Health Observatory, said:

    We welcome the launch of the NHS Staff Standard for tackling racism. It brings vital focus to leadership, accountability, transparency and structural change needed across the health service.

    Our diverse workforce is the backbone of the NHS, delivering outstanding care under pressure. Staff deserve to be valued, supported and protected. Yet, for too long, ethnic minority staff have faced compromised safety, inconsistent reporting and inadequate responses. Implementing national minimum standards for how healthcare organisations prevent, respond to, and learn from incidents of racism is an essential step forward.

    The standard must now be backed by systemic action, evidence-based interventions and leadership accountability. Our ‘7 Principles of Anti-Racism for the NHS Workforce’ will help to create equitable, inclusive workplaces – we stand ready to support organisations as they embed these standards.

    Improving staff experience is central to the government’s mission to build an NHS fit for the future and the forthcoming 10 Year Workforce Plan will set out further measures to achieve this.

    Better working conditions are expected to support the recruitment and retention of staff, reduce sickness absence, improve productivity and ultimately deliver better outcomes for patients.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK Forces protect NATO with aircraft carrier operations in High North [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK Forces protect NATO with aircraft carrier operations in High North [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 6 July 2026.

    NATO air policing conducted by F-35 jets from European aircraft carrier for first time in boost to High North security.

    Britain’s Carrier Strike Group, led by HMS Prince of Wales, is helping to defend Europe and the North Atlantic, with F-35 jets conducting NATO air policing operations from the deck for the first time.

    Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis MBE MP, accompanied by Icelandic Foreign Minister Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir, visited UK forces onboard the Royal Navy’s flagship HMS Prince of Wales which is deployed off Iceland under NATO command.

    Iceland provides vital support to allied forces operating from its territory, with this close cooperation boosting security in the North Atlantic.

    UK F-35 jets are patrolling the skies above Iceland and the High North from HMS Prince of Wales to help protect NATO allies against increasing Russian threats. This is the first time NATO has conducted air policing operations from a European aircraft carrier.

    Over 1,500 British personnel on the carrier, Type 45 destroyer HMS Duncan, and RFA Tidespring, are deployed as part the Carrier Strike Group (CSG) to the North Atlantic.

    The visit by the Defence Secretary comes as elite British troops are taking command of the Alliance’s high readiness special operations force for the first time.

    The UK’s Special Operations Forces assumed leadership of the Special Operations Component Command within NATO’s Allied Reaction Force (ARF) on 1 July. The force is the spearhead of the ARF, able to deploy anywhere in the world within days.

    At the same time, the UK also assumed command of the maritime component of the ARF with Rear Admiral Mark Anderson and his battle staff taking up the post. HMS Queen Elizabeth, having recently completed a refit in Rosyth, is preparing to serve as the floating headquarters for the force later this year. 

    Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis MBE MP said:

    It was an honour to visit our deployed personnel who are conducting operations that help keep our nation and our allies safe.

    We live in an increasingly dangerous and uncertain time, and it’s deployments like this, supported by allies and partners including Iceland, that improve our deterrence and defence as part of NATO.

    We are investing £298 billion over the next four years to strengthen readiness and ensure our people have the kit and technology they need.

    I’m proud of our people and proud of the commitments we’re making to the alliance and to European security.

    Icelandic Foreign Minister Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir said:

    The visit of the UK Carrier Strike Group is a clear demonstration of NATO’s enhanced presence in this strategically important region, and one that Iceland is proud to support and contribute to.

    NATO continues to strengthen its deterrence and defence, demonstrating Allied unity and resolve in the challenging environment of the North Atlantic and the Arctic. Activities such as Arctic Sentry reflect this shared commitment.

    The Carrier Strike Group work on NATO operations comes as the Defence Investment Plan confirmed that £240 million is being invested in the development of new drones to build a Hybrid Carrier Air Wing, including jet-powered drones to work alongside F-35 fighter jets.

    British forces are playing a vital role to deter and defend, increasing NATO’s resilience, readiness, and unity.

    There are over 1,000 British personnel across NATO command posts, while the UK also leads the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (ARRC) from its HQ in Gloucestershire with more than 400 permanent staff from 20 NATO allies.

    UK forces also remain on the frontline of defending NATO – from the 800-strong UK battlegroup in Estonia, to the Typhoon jets defending the skies over Romania, and the RAF P-8 Poseidon and Rivet Joint surveillance aircraft patrolling the Baltic Sea.

    The UK is the only European NATO member to commit its nuclear deterrent in full to the Alliance and as confirmed in the Defence Investment Plan, will join NATO’s Dual Capable Aircraft nuclear mission with F-35A jets.

    Supporting the UK’s leadership of NATO’s Forward Land Forces in Estonia is the British Army’s 4th Brigade Combat Team, which is held at high readiness in the UK, able to rapidly deploy thousands of troops to Estonia at short notice

    The RAF’s UK-based Quick Reaction Alert squadrons – ready 24/7 to respond to threats to UK airspace – are integrated into NATO’s air defence system and help guard NATO’s northern air policing area.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 62 – UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on South Sudan [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 62 – UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on South Sudan [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 6 July 2026.

    UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on South Sudan. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

    Mr Vice President,

    We thank the High Commissioner for this report and commend OHCHR’s continued technical assistance in South Sudan.

    The report makes clear that the human rights situation continues to deteriorate. Escalating political tensions and intensified hostilities have driven a sharp increase in violence, with civilians continuing to bear the brunt, including through indiscriminate attacks and widespread sexual violence.

    All parties must meet their obligations under the Revitalized Agreement and international law and take steps to de-escalate, protect civilians, and prevent further deterioration.

    While we note some progress, including legislation on transitional justice, implementation remains far too slow. Continued delays to the Hybrid Court risk entrenching impunity and undermining confidence in the peace process.

    We are deeply concerned by restrictions on civic space, including harassment and intimidation of civil society and journalists.

    Technical assistance plays an important role, but cannot replace political will. We urge the transitional government to advance accountability, operationalise transitional justice mechanisms, and protect civic space.

    South Sudan’s leaders now face a clear choice: translate commitments into action, or risk further instability and suffering for civilians. We urge renewed political engagement, including with regional partners, to put the country back on a credible path towards peace, justice and democratic governance.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Solicitor General announces national rollout of Early Victims’ Right to Review scheme [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Solicitor General announces national rollout of Early Victims’ Right to Review scheme [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Attorney General’s Office on 6 July 2026.

    Following a successful pilot, rape and sexual assault survivors across all of England and Wales will have the right to ask for their cases to be reviewed before a final decision to offer no evidence is made.

    A year on from its launch in the West Midlands in June 2025, the Early Victims’ Right to Review (VRR) scheme is now being rolled out to every CPS Area across England and Wales from 13July 2026, the Solicitor General, Ellie Reeves KC MP, has confirmed.

    Following the successful expansion across four CPS Areas, West Midlands, North West, Yorkshire and Humberside, and Cymru-Wales, the national rollout marks the next step in transforming how the justice system treats victims of rape and serious sexual offences.

    The national rollout gives victims of rape or serious sexual abuse the right for their case to be reviewed by a different prosecutor before any final decision is made, meaning the chance to continue proceedings is still available. If that prosecutor disagrees with the original decision, the case will continue.

    The national rollout follows positive feedback from victims who have been involved in the pilot. This includes those who did not ultimately request a review, who said they valued having the opportunity for their case to be reconsidered before a final decision was reached.

    The scheme forms a central part of the government’s Violence Against Women and Girls strategy, which sets out its commitment to halve VAWG within a decade.

    Solicitor General Ellie Reeves KC MP said:

    Rape and sexual assault cause devastating, long-lasting harm, and every brave victim who comes forward deserves to know their case will be treated with dignity.

    Violence against women and girls is my top priority, and the Early Victims’ Right to Review rollout is a landmark moment.

    For the first time, victims of rape and serious sexual offences across all of England and Wales will have the opportunity to have their case reviewed, where eligible, giving them a second chance at justice and real control at the most critical point in their case.

    This government is determined to halve violence against women and girls within a decade, and ensuring victims are given fairness, dignity and a genuine voice in the justice system is central to that mission.

    Siobhan Blake, National CPS Lead for Rape and Serious Sexual Offences, said:

    For survivors of rape and sexual offences, the possibility their abuser may never face justice can be deeply distressing.

    Victims must have confidence that every decision is made with care and expertise. Our specialist prosecutors usually get it right first time, but when we don’t – and a case that could have continued is stopped – an apology alone cannot feel like justice.

    Some victims in the pilot have told us that simply having this option makes a positive difference, and two cases continuing shows the impact it can have.

    Expanding the pilot will help us better understand how to support victims and ensure the right decisions are made.

    Jade Blue McCrossen-Nethercott said:

    The Crown Prosecution Service’s (CPS) commitment to roll out the early Victims’ Right to Review pilot nationally is a landmark moment for victims and survivors.

    For many victims, the decision to end a case can feel final, leaving unanswered questions and few opportunities to challenge the outcome. My own experience showed me how devastating it can be when a review comes too late to make a difference, even when mistakes are later identified.

    This pilot recognises that victims deserve the opportunity to have decisions reconsidered before they become final. I am incredibly encouraged to see the CPS commit to rolling this pilot out nationally. It shows that when victims are given the opportunity to be heard, their experiences can help shape a fairer and more responsive justice system for others.

    Additional quotes for use:

    The Victims’ Commissioner Claire Waxman OBE said:

    It is fantastic to see the CPS listening and responding to victims’ experiences, and my thanks go to Jade Blue McCrossen-Nethercott for tirelessly campaigning for this vital progress.

    Expanding this pilot across the country means that fewer victims of rape and sexual offences will be unfairly denied justice, ensuring they have the opportunity to challenge a decision before it is final.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government steps up action to protect children as AI-enabled toys emerge [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government steps up action to protect children as AI-enabled toys emerge [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 6 July 2026.

    Government steps up action to protect children with toy safety rules.

    • Government launches Call for Evidence to ensure toy safety rules are fit for a modern age
    • It will examine emerging risks including chemical safety and AI-enabled toys
    • Part of wider action to crack down on unsafe products, strengthen consumer protections, and provide clarity to businesses to support trade and growth

    Children will be better protected from unsafe toys under new plans to ensure the UK’s toy safety framework is fit for the modern age, giving parents peace of mind that the products they buy are safe, whether purchased on the high street or online.

    As part of its mission to protect consumers, the Government is today [6 July] launching a Call for Evidence on toy safety, to ensure protections keep pace with new technologies and emerging risks.

    It will gather evidence on a range of issues including chemical safety and AI-enabled toys.

    Kate Dearden, Minister for Consumer Protection, said:

    Every parent should be able to buy toys for their children with complete confidence that they are safe.

    But the way we shop, and the toys children play with, are changing rapidly as new technologies emerge and more purchases move online. It’s vital that our safety rules keep pace, and this Call for Evidence will ensure we can do that.

    The Call for Evidence will remain open until 6 October and welcomes views from parents, consumer groups, businesses, enforcement authorities, and members of the wider public.

    Robust product safety rules ensure products are tested to modern standards, protecting consumers while giving responsible businesses the confidence to grow.

    Consumer spending accounts for more than 60% of the UK economy. When people can trust the products they buy, they are more confident to spend, helping businesses to grow and supporting higher living standards across the country

    This is part of the Government’s wider action to strengthen consumer protection and tackle unsafe products. 

    In March, the Government launched a once-in-a-generation programme of reform of the UK’s product safety framework, including measures to address the growing challenge of unsafe products sold through online marketplaces.

    The Government has also introduced landmark new protections against fake reviews and drip pricing, is taking action against subscription traps, and will publish an ambitious consumer action plan later this year to go even further in protecting consumers and their hard-earned money.