Category: Press Releases

PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister launches major boost for UK clean energy industry [April 2025]
The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 24 April 2025.

Prime Minister brings forward £300 million for Great British Energy to invest in offshore wind supply chains ahead of the Future of Energy Security summit.
- Prime Minister brings forward an initial £300 million investment ahead of Spending Review through Great British Energy to win global offshore wind investment for the UK
- Fund will boost domestic jobs, mobilise additional private investment, and secure manufacturing facilities for critical clean energy supply chains like floating offshore platforms
- Prime Minister and Energy Secretary to announce pro-investment plans at major international summit bringing together governments and industry from around the world to drive collective energy security
Communities across the country will benefit from new investment in domestic clean energy supply chains – driving economic growth and supporting thousands of jobs through the Plan for Change.

Workers and businesses in the UK’s industrial heartlands will benefit from an initial £300 million of funding through Great British Energy to invest in supply chains for domestic offshore wind. It is expected that the investment will directly and indirectly mobilise billions in additional private investment – helping de-risk clean energy projects and supporting thousands of jobs and revitalising the UK’s industrial heartlands.

The public investment complements the £43 billion of private investment pledged for clean energy projects since July.

Britain’s engineers, technicians, and welders are being backed by this fast-tracked funding, brought forward by the Prime Minister ahead of the Comprehensive Spending Review, which will allow Great British Energy, the country’s publicly-owned clean energy company, to invest in new supply chains for offshore wind manufacturing components such as floating offshore platforms and cables. This builds on the government’s landmark investment in domestic supply chains through initiatives such as the Clean Industry Bonus and the National Wealth Fund.

As part of the government’s modern Industrial Strategy, which will turbocharge growth in the UK’s key sectors including clean energy, the new investment in domestic offshore wind is part of the Prime Minister’s drive to ensure that the clean energy future is ‘built in Britain’. The funding will ensure that the nation builds resilient domestic supply chains for components which are essential to delivering clean power by 2030.

It comes after the Prime Minister said that a new era of global insecurity means that the government must go further and faster in reshaping the economy through the Plan for Change, and that this requires a new muscular industrial policy that supports British industry to forge ahead.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

Delivering the Plan for Change means winning the race for the clean energy jobs of the future, which will drive growth and help us reach clean power by 2030.

That is why I am bringing forward much-needed investment in our domestic offshore wind supply chains, strengthening our security and creating good jobs for our welders, electricians, and engineers.

Let my message to the world go out: come and build the clean energy future in Britain.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

It is only by taking back control of our energy that we can protect families and businesses from the rollercoaster of global markets we don’t control.

That is why this government is doubling down on our clean energy superpower mission – driving economic growth, good jobs and investment across our country.

The Prime Minister, ministers and business leaders will gather in London today for the 2-day summit on the Future of Energy Security – hosted by the UK government and International Energy Agency – as countries take action to protect themselves from future energy shocks in these unstable times. Leaders from around the world, including the President of the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen, will come together to address the global challenges and opportunities of speeding up the clean energy transition.

The Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, the Minister for Investment Baroness Poppy Gustafsson, National Wealth Fund CEO John Flint and Great British Energy Chair Juergen Maier will today write to global clean energy developers and investors inviting them to invest here in Britain. It follows the government announcing a series of pro-growth measures including major reforms to speed up grid connections and overhaul planning rules.

Dan McGrail, interim CEO of Great British Energy, said:

Great British Energy will help the UK win the global race for clean energy jobs and growth by investing in homegrown supply chains and ensuring key infrastructure parts are made here in Britain.

We will work closely with businesses across the clean energy sector to get funding out as fast as possible and get projects off the ground.

Deputy CEO of RenewableUK, Jane Cooper, said,

There’s a huge opportunity for the UK to secure thousands of new jobs and supply chain investment in the sector, which will make our home-grown energy supply even more secure.

The Prime Minister’s funding will be critical to ensuring the UK grasps the industrial opportunities in the offshore wind supply chain, at a time of intense global competition for clean energy investment. By nurturing existing UK companies, and ensuring we’re a competitive location for international investors, there’s an opportunity to triple our manufacturing capacity over the next decade, adding £25 billion to the UK economy and creating an additional 10,000 jobs in the supply chain.

This new government funding is a clear signal of intent to secure those priorities and is vital to unlocking further co-investment from industry.

The funding for supply chains will be made available as part of the £8.3 billion for Great British Energy over this parliament, with individual companies able to apply for grants if they can show that they will produce long-term investments in UK supply chains.

Great British Energy, the country’s publicly-owned clean energy company, will produce a return on investment for the British people, and ensure British billpayers reap the benefits of clean, secure, home-grown energy. This first phase of grant funding is needed to capture investment now and reap benefits of jobs and growth.

Notes to editors

More details on the £43 billion announced since July can be found here: Clean energy projects prioritised for grid connections .

Great British Energy’s supply chain fund is expected to be open for applications by the end of the year, with an initial £300 million available for offshore wind schemes over this Parliament. Further details on criteria and eligibility will be published in due course.

The investment comes in the context of the 2024 Industrial Growth Plan, in which the Offshore Wind Industry Council proposed to match fund £300 million of grant investment in the UK’s supply chains with private sector investment.
April 24, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Chancellor unveils plans to maintain level playing field for British business [April 2025]
The press release issued by HM Treasury on 23 April 2025.

British businesses will be supported to trade freely as the Chancellor chooses to act on practices that undercut fair trade, such as the dumping of cheap goods into the UK.
- Chancellor Rachel Reeves takes action to mitigate the impacts of practices such as potential future ‘dumping’ of cheap goods into the UK to help boost growth and deliver the Plan for Change.
- Increased support for businesses to report unfair practices, improved monitoring of trade data, and an acceleration of potential measures to deter import surges.
- Review of the customs treatment of Low Value Imports – which some of the UK’s best-known retailers argue disadvantages them with overseas competitors.
The government announced immediate action by the Trade Remedies Authority (TRA), the body responsible for defending the UK against certain unfair international trade practices.

The Chancellor also announced her intention to review the customs treatment of Low Value Imports, which allows goods valued at £135 or less to be imported without paying customs duty.

Some of Britain’s best-known retailers such as Next and Sainsburys, have called to amend the treatment, arguing that it disadvantages them by allowing international companies to undercut them.

Speaking in Washington D.C. at the annual IMF Springs meetings, Reeves was clear that an open global economy is crucial for UK growth, the number one priority of the government’s Plan for Change.

She said that free and open trade is good for the UK, but fairness needs to be injected into the global economic system.

Gains from global economic growth have not been equally shared both at home and abroad, and more needs to be done to tackle the rise in non-market practices that harm working people’s incomes.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

The world has changed, and we are in a new era of global trade.

We must stand up for free and open trade – crucial to deliver our Plan for Change to make everyone better off. We must help businesses keep their access to trade around the world.

This government is meeting the moment to protect fair and open trade. Following recent announcements reducing tariffs and support for the zero-emissions vehicles industry, today’s package will help businesses compete fairly with international exporters, supporting a world economy that provides stability and fairness for working people and businesses alike.

Today’s (23 April) support comes in addition to recent action taken by the government recently to support industry and businesses navigate tough global economic headwinds.

This includes action to protect British steelmaking, as the UK vows to take a strategic approach to the forthcoming industrial strategy so the economy that can make, sell, and buy more in Britain.

As part of the Spring Statement tariffs were suspended on 89 foreign products – ranging from pasta, fruit juices and spices to plastics and gardening supplies – over the next two years.

The Prime Minister announced earlier this month that the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate is changing to make it easier for industry to upgrade to make electric vehicles while delivering the manifesto commitment to stop sales of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030.

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

This government won’t stand idly by while cheap imports flood our markets and harm British industries. That is why I met with the TRA recently to agree urgent steps to tackle these issues in real time to deliver quicker protections for firms.

This is about standing up for our national interest, and as part of our Plan for Change, creating a level playing field where UK businesses can thrive and grow.

More information

Low Value Imports
- Many of Britain’s most well-known domestic retailers have criticised the customs treatment of Low Value Imports.
- They argue that it gives preferential tariff treatment to firms who manufacture and warehouse their goods overseas and then ship directly to UK customers – paying no tariffs.
- Listening to the concerns the Chancellor will review this regime. Officials will engage stakeholders from next month to consider the impact on UK consumers, minimising administrative costs and other factors.
- For stakeholders looking to engage the government on the review of the customs treatment of low value imports, please contact lowvalueimports@hmtreasury.gov.uk.
Theo Paphitis, Retail Entrepreneur, said:

This is a much-needed injection of confidence for retailers and a common sense move to protect the UK economy. The sector has been crying out to level the unfair playing field and is a welcome, positive and strong step in the right direction by the Chancellor. This shows the government is listening and responding to UK business.

George Weston, Chief Executive of Associated British Foods, said:

We welcome the Chancellor’s plan to review the customs treatment of Low Value Imports. The abolition of the favourable tax treatment of low value imports would be a significant step forwards in the government’s support for British businesses. We have long advocated for the closure of this tax loophole which undermines many UK companies that make a substantial contribution to the British economy, to the British high street and to the British Government’s own revenues.

Alex Baldock, CEO of Currys PLC said:

Today’s government announcement is encouraging. All retailers selling to UK consumers should play by the same rules. If you want to sell to UK consumers, then abide by UK standards, and pay UK tax, just as UK retailers do. Today, low-value shipments delivered from abroad straight to UK consumers avoid import duty, often evade VAT, and can fail to meet safety standards. There’s a growing risk of unsafe and tax-dodging product being dumped in the UK, as tariffs bite and the US and EU close their own import duty loopholes. I’m pleased that the government is urgently reviewing the low-value shipment loophole, and that they’re committed to levelling the playing field between British and overseas retailers.

Improved Global Trade Data
- Dumping of cheap goods into the UK is where foreign exports are sold into the UK at lower than market rates, harming UK producers as a result.
The government announced immediate steps the Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) – which defends the UK against certain unfair international trade practices – will take to mitigate risks to the UK economy:
- The TRA will be surging resources into its pre-application office by pulling in the best and the brightest analysts, lawyers and accountants from across the Civil Service to support British businesses. The pre-application office advises and supports businesses with the evidence the TRA needs to launch cases. Staff will shift more focus to work with businesses on the ground, especially small and medium companies, to help them report and evidence unfair trade practices where they see them happening.
- The TRA will act to enhance it’s monitoring of emerging trade risks; including new surveillance and data gathering measures. This will help the government spot and tackle the potential dumping of cheap goods into the UK.
- The TRA are going to work to reduce the time it takes them to carry out investigations and implement measures – to deter harmful imports and help bring action quicker to British businesses.
April 24, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Police accountability reforms to enter Parliament [April 2025]
The press release issued by the Home Office on 23 April 2025.

Police officers will be given greater confidence to carry out their roles, with reforms to the systems that hold them to account set to enter Parliament.

The government will table an amendment to the flagship Crime and Policing Bill later this week to provide a presumption of anonymity for firearms officers who are subject to a criminal trial following a shooting.

This will apply during court proceedings and in media reporting up until the point of conviction.

Improving policing systems is a crucial part of making our streets safer under the Plan for Change, and this move addresses specific concerns raised during the accountability review about the risks firearms officers face from criminal gangs and will protect them and their families against any such threat.

Three measures to improve the timeliness and appropriateness of investigations into police use of force and the rights of victims will also be also included in the bill:
1. Aligning the threshold for referrals by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) of officers to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to that used by police when referring cases involving members of the public. This is to avoid the system being clogged up with cases, allowing greater focus and swifter resolution of those that are referred.
2. Speeding up processes by allowing the IOPC to send cases to the CPS where there is sufficient evidence, prior to their final investigation report.
3. Putting the IOPC victims’ right to review policy on a statutory footing to ensure the voices of victims and their families are heard.
This is a crucial step in delivering measures set out by the Home Secretary to parliament in October, in which she set out a package of reforms to rebuild confidence for police officers and communities. The measures are designed to tackle unacceptable delays and confusion in the system, to ensure that the complexity of specialist operations is considered at an early stage, and that the highest standards within policing are upheld and maintained.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

The proud British tradition of policing by consent depends on mutual bonds of trust between the police and the communities they serve. That’s why we have set out an ambitious package of measures to rebuild both public trust in policing and the confidence of police officers in their vital work to keep the public safe.

Police officers in specialist roles who make split-second decisions to keep the public safe must have the confidence to carry out their duties, knowing that the systems which hold them to account for their decisions are fair.

Too often those processes have involved unacceptable delays and confusion, which has been damaging both for the police and the public. These changes will help to boost confidence that the system will work swiftly and effectively for all those involved.

The accountability review found that the current system for holding police officers to account is not commanding the confidence of either the public or the police, with misconduct proceedings too often plagued by delays stretching for years, which is damaging for complainants, police officers and police forces alike.

Alongside the changes being made in the Crime and Policing Bill, the Director for Public Prosecutions has already completed a review of CPS guidance and processes in relation to charging police officers for offences committed in the course of their duties. Revised guidance provides greater clarity for prosecutors, ensuring the dynamic and fast-changing nature of specialist policing decisions are taken into account when charging decisions are made.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Sir Mark Rowley, said:

The progress that has been made on vital accountability reform should be welcomed. In particular, I am very pleased to see that the previous commitment on anonymity for firearms officers subject to criminal trials is going to be introduced as an amendment to legislation going through Parliament.

We know further reform is needed if officers are to have full confidence in the system that holds them to account but alongside our policing partners we are working positively and constructively with the government and that work will continue.

Lead of the National Police Chiefs’ Council Operations Coordination Committee and the Senior Responsible Officer for the accountability review, Chief Constable BJ Harrington, said:

We welcome today’s announcement. These are positive changes which will ensure that the public interest is served, and that police officers and staff will have the confidence to protect the public and uphold the law.

Everyone in policing expects to be held to account for their actions and use of powers. However, too often we hear of the devastating, and often disproportionate, impact on officers, staff and their families after they have stepped forward with courage and professionalism on behalf of the public.

Whether it’s an issue concerning use of force, death following contact with the police, police driving or where officers are alleged to have broken the law, it is important that the accountability mechanism is swift, balanced, and fair. This in turn will give our people the confidence to fulfil their duties, and the public confidence in their professionalism and decision making.

We remain determined to get police accountability right and we will support government to improve the current accountability system to ensure community support, and importantly, to give police officers and staff the knowledge that where they act, to do the right things for the right reasons, they have the support to do their job of tackling crime and protecting the public.

This comes as the government has today set out further reforms to rebuild public confidence in policing, including new regulations to ensure police chiefs can automatically sack officers who fail background checks, allowing them to root out those who are unfit to serve.
April 24, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Environment Agency clampdown on illegal use of cast nets [April 2025]

The press release issued by the Environment Agency on 23 April 2025.

A 42-year-old man was caught red-handed by Environment Agency officers when he attempted to use a cast net without permission on a canal in South Yorkshire.

At Doncaster Magistrates’ Court on 2 April 2025, Jamie Ellis, of South Drive, Middleton-on-the-Wolds, Yorkshire, admitted fishing using an unauthorised means. He was ordered to pay a total of £580 made up of a £200 fine, £300 costs and a victim’s surcharge of £80.

The use of cast nets requires permission from the Environment Agency. This is separate to a rod licence, and the offender did not have permission for a cast net in place.

It is only granted in limited circumstances due to it being an indiscriminate and damaging method which can have huge impacts on fish stocks and wildlife.

The court heard that on 13 January 2024, Environment Agency Fisheries Enforcement officers were patrolling the Staniforth and Keadby Canal in Thorne. They saw the defendant throw a cast net into the water, pull it back out, and then place it on the ground.

The officers spoke to Ellis who admitted the net was his.

When interviewed under caution, the defendant claimed it was the first time he had used such a net and had not caught any fish. He also said he had not been aware that he needed permission to use it. He had a rod licence but this does not include the use of a cast net.

Kye Jerrom, a fisheries enforcement officer for the Environment Agency, said:

“We hope this case serves as a cautionary tale to anyone who is thinking of breaking the rules.

“Cast nets have the potential to cause huge impacts to fish stocks.

“This is due to the damaging nature of how they work and the numbers of fish they can snare.

“Our patrols are essential in preventing this type of fishing offence and to protect fish stocks for angling and nature.

“If people suspect illegal fishing they should call our 24/7 hotline on 0800 807060.”

April 24, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Trustee reappointed to the Theatres Trust [April 2025]

The press release issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 23 April 2025.

The Secretary of State has reappointed Lucy Osborne as a Trustee of the Theatres Trust for a second term of 3 years.

Lucy Osborne

Appointed from 21 February 2025 to 20 February 2028.

Lucy Osborne is an award-winning international designer, working across multiple platforms of design in theatre, music, architecture and design. Her innovative designs fuse architecture and storytelling, with a particular emphasis on new work and installation design.

Recent credits include Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Cabaret (Gothenburg Opera, Sweden) and A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Royal Shakespeare Company).

Other notable productions include the UK premieres of award-winning musicals Fisherman’s Friends: The Musical (UK Tour/Canada), The Osmonds (UK Tour), The Famous Five: A New Musical (Theatr Clwyd/Chichester Festival Theatre), and The Assassination of Katie Hopkins (Theatr Clwyd).

As the Founding Director of studio three sixty, Lucy leads a multidisciplinary practice focused on activating and regenerating performing arts venues through bespoke design and consultancy. She co-designed Roundabout, the world’s first flat-pack theatre, and was awarded The Stage’s “Theatre Building of the Year.” A Trustee of the Theatres Trust and Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, Lucy is dedicated to the evolution and sustainability of theatre spaces.

Remuneration and Governance Code

Trustees of the Theatres Trust are not remunerated. This appointment has been made in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments.

The appointments process is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Under the Code, any significant political activity undertaken by an appointee in the last five years must be declared. This is defined as including holding office, public speaking, making a recordable donation, or candidature for election. Lucy has not declared any significant political activity.

April 24, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Police vetting reforms to boost officer standards [April 2025]

The press release issued by the Home Office on 23 April 2025.

Police chiefs will automatically sack officers who fail background checks, allowing them to root out those who are unfit to serve and clean up their forces.

As part of major government reforms to improve confidence in policing, the new measures laid in Parliament today mean that passing background checks will become a legal requirement for all serving officers.

It will also create a new process to enable forces to remove officers who are unable to meet the vetting requirement, strengthening the ability of police chiefs to boost standards in their force and ensuring their officers can have confidence in the colleagues they work alongside.

This will help ensure that the police have the confidence of the communities they serve, supporting the government’s work to make our streets safer across the country as part of the Plan for Change.

It is one of just many steps being taken by the government to take on the obstacles in the way of driving up standards in policing. Later in the year, further measures will be brought in to strengthen vetting national standards and ensure every force follows them, introduce stronger requirements to suspend officers under investigation for violence against women and girls and ensure officers convicted of certain criminal offences are automatically found to have committed gross misconduct.

Officers can fail vetting for a number of reasons, including crimes like domestic and sexual abuse. While there are processes already in place for forces to deal with allegations of misconduct, failing vetting alone might not currently be enough to dismiss them. Recent legal challenges have brought to light the difficulty forces can have in removing officers who cannot hold vetting and are not fit to protect the public.

It can even mean they stay in the force on full pay, despite not being fit to be in a public-facing role. The government will not stand for this injustice, which erodes confidence in policing. That is why we are taking action to ensure officers face the full accountability the public expects.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

In recent years, serious cases which have badly failed all proper policing standards have damaged public trust in the officers who are supposed to protect them, and undermined the majority of brave, committed officers who work tirelessly to keep us safe.

It is simply not acceptable that officers who are clearly unfit to serve or pose a risk to their colleagues cannot be removed. That’s why these new rules are essential and it is why this government has been working closely with forces to overcome these barriers to restore confidence in policing. Our Plan for Change is to rebuild standards and trust – officers of only the highest standards, with the tools and backing they need to do everything in their legal power to protect our neighbourhoods.

National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for vetting, Chief Constable Alex Franklin-Smith, said:

Police officers and staff should always be held to the highest standards and we must ensure that only those who are suitable to wear the uniform enter, and remain in policing.

Alongside delivering vetting reform, we are working hard to build a culture where the public and colleagues feel empowered to report concerns and know that those concerns will be addressed and dealt with accordingly.

We welcome the announcement today of statutory vetting regulations, which provide clear routes for action to remove individuals who fall below the high standards the public and our workforce rightly expect and deserve.

Campaigner for SecureLife and the advocate for Raneem’s Law, Nour Norris said:

SecureLife has campaigned for years to bring about a new law that safeguards victims, reforms the police, and evolves a system that, for too long protected the wrong people. The new police vetting reform to boost officer standards is a vital action, one we’ve called for time and again.

These reforms are not just progress, they are personal. They are part of what we at SecureLife have fought for, ever since my sister Khaola and my niece Raneem were taken from us. They were brave, they asked for help, and they were failed by a system that allowed officers who ignored their cries to remain in uniform. That failure was fatal.

From 14 May, for the first time, officers who cannot pass vetting, many for serious issues like domestic and sexual abuse, can finally be removed. This is a major step toward the justice and protection victims deserve.

The introduction of Raneem’s Law alongside these measures sends a clear message: we will no longer tolerate silence, excuses, or inaction. The public deserves to trust the police, victims deserve to be protected, and officers must be held to the highest standard.

Because a strong country needs a stronger force, one built on integrity, accountability, and the courage to change.

This is for Raneem and Khaola. Two souls who should still be here. Their voices were silenced, but through these reforms, their legacy will speak for generations to come.

The strengthened police dismissal system, which will be in force from 14 May, comes alongside wider progress the government is making in reforming the systems that hold police officers to account.

April 24, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : New funding to support Windrush compensation scheme applications [April 2025]
The press release issued by the Home Office on 23 April 2025.

A successful grassroots fund has been extended after reaching 50,000 people in first year. Applications are now open for grants between £5,000 and £10,000.

Windrush scandal victims yet to claim compensation are being encouraged to come forward as part of a grassroots scheme extended by the Home Office today.

The government is making a further £150,000 available to the Community Engagement Fund (CEF), which was set up to raise awareness of the Windrush compensation and documentation scheme.

The successful first round of funding helped grassroots organisations reach more than 50,000 people who may be entitled to claim, while revealing barriers preventing victims from coming forward.

Local groups can now apply for grants of £5,000 to £10,000 to deliver projects that address these barriers, particularly the widespread misconception that Windrush schemes only apply to Caribbean communities.

Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Seema Malhotra, said:

Windrush victims have waited too long for recognition and redress – with many still not feeling able to come forward to access the compensation they are entitled to.

We need to see this change. By funding trusted grassroots organisations to provide advocacy and support, we want to better reach those who have been wronged but remain unaware of the support available.

This government is determined to deliver on its manifesto commitment that every victim of this scandal receives the justice they deserve.

Insights from the first CEF funding round revealed that while compensation scheme awareness is higher among Caribbean communities, people from other backgrounds have not applied due to confusion about their eligibility or misconceptions about the schemes.

The additional support will be of immense importance to victims. For many, the Home Office Windrush scandal resulted in loss of employment, denial of healthcare, threats of deportation, and in some cases, actual deportation from a country they had every right to call home.

CEF applicants with strong community links will be prioritised. Projects must be completed within the 2025/26 financial year and should focus on:
- raising awareness among non-Caribbean communities and correcting misinformation
- gathering insights on why eligible individuals aren’t applying
- helping potential claimants connect with support services
The CEF complements the recently launched £1.5 million Advocacy Support Fund, which helps organisations provide practical and emotional assistance to victims making compensation claims.

The funds deliver on the government’s manifesto commitment to provide additional support and work more closely with affected communities, forming part of the wider Plan for Change to deliver justice for Windrush victims.

The deadline for CEF applications is 4pm on 28 May 2025. Full details are available at the ‘Find a Grant’ portal on GOV.UK.
April 24, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Planning reforms to slash a year off infrastructure delivery [April 2025]
The press release issued by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on 23 April 2025.

Clean energy projects, reservoirs, railway lines, and other major infrastructure to be built faster, under changes to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill.

Clean energy projects, public transport links, and other major infrastructure will on average be delivered at least a year faster, as the government accelerates planning reforms to unleash growth and restore Britain’s rightful place as a world leader in building.

Burdensome statutory consultation requirements unique to major infrastructure projects will be scrapped, through amendments to the pro-growth Planning and Infrastructure Bill, cutting down the average two-year statutory pre-consultation period by half and paving the way for new roads, railways, and windfarms that will bolster the country’s connectivity and energy security.

Developers currently spend significant time and money on long, technical documents resulting in communities feeling fatigued and confused, which is a direct result of overly complex planning rules that are leaving working people deprived of the things their areas need to thrive. It also disincentivises developers making improvements to projects for fear of having to re-consult, even if in the community’s best interest.

Recognising community voices remain vital, the government will bring this process in line with planning applications for major housing schemes, and set out new statutory guidance to promote meaningful local engagement without repeating these flaws. This will allow changes to be made dynamically based on community feedback, reducing delays and potentially saving over £1 billion for industry and taxpayers this Parliament. These changes will help ensure Britain is open for business, attracting billions of pounds of new private investment.

This will go even further in streamlining infrastructure delivery through the government’s landmark Planning and Infrastructure Bill, as part of the Plan for Change to power and heat homes with clean energy, raise living standards, create well-paying jobs, and put more money into the pockets of working people and families. The reforms will also boost the government’s efforts to build 1.5 million homes by making it easier to deliver the roads, reservoirs and energy generation needed so we can restore the dream of homeownership to families across the country.

Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner said:

“Critical national infrastructure is key to Britain’s future and security – so we can’t afford to have projects held up by tiresome requirements and uncertainty, caused by a system that is not working for communities or developers and holding back our true potential.

“We are strengthening the Planning and Infrastructure Bill to make sure we can lead the world again with new roads, railways, and energy infrastructure as part of the Plan for Change, whilst ensuring local people still have a say in our journey to get Britain building.”

Alongside statutory guidance for developers on applications, the Planning Inspectorate will maintain high standards for accepting projects – informed by community engagement. Local authorities will also be made aware of proposed applications so that they can continue to play an important role informing and advising on developments, as well as advocating for local interests.

As a result, local people can still object and share their views but in a more effective way, with developers given the flexibility to adapt their schemes as needed without restarting the process: reducing delays and costs for projects, including datacentres, reservoirs, and solar farms, while ensuring local people’s voices are heard.

Meanwhile the government is already taking action – consenting more nationally significant solar projects since the start of the Parliament compared to the whole of the previous one, including the Mallard Pass Solar Project in Lincolnshire, and making the largest ever investment in offshore wind, as we deliver our Plan for Change milestone of 150 decisions on major infrastructure projects by the end of the Parliament.

Examples of delays under current system:
- Fens Reservoir: Over 1,000 days in pre-application due to a number of issues including around consultation requirements, expected submission in December 2026, supplying 250,000 homes with water.
- National Grid – Bramford to Twinstead: 717 days in pre-application for 29km of overhead lines and underground cables.
- Hinkley Point C: Three years in pre-application consultation; Sizewell C spent around seven-and-a-half years at this stage.
Wider reforms in the Bill will streamline and speed up planning decisions, remove blockers to major infrastructure and housing delivery, and support environmental goals through the new Nature Restoration Fund to achieve win-win outcomes for both nature and the economy.

These changes build on the recent OBR forecast confirming the government’s planning overhaul, through an updated National Planning Policy Framework, will drive UK housebuilding to its highest level in over 40 years and boost the economy by £6.8 billion by 2029/30.

Notes to editors:

Carl Trowell, President of Strategic Infrastructure, National Grid, said:

“Consulting with communities and stakeholders will always be a fundamental part of the way we at National Grid develop and shape our projects. We welcome the Government’s proposal today which will ensure that consultation and engagement can be more effective and targeted. This will accelerate the path to delivering critical infrastructure while continuing to ensure the views of local communities are heard.”

Benj Sykes, UK Country Manager, Ørsted said:

“Ørsted welcomes the ongoing work of the Government to reform the planning system, including these changes to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill. Engaging and working with communities and other stakeholders in the pre-application stage has always been central to our work developing new energy projects and will remain so; the changes being introduced will allow everyone involved in these engagements to focus on the issues that matter to stakeholders and local communities, and to our developments.”

James Robottom, Head of Policy, Renewable UK said:

“This announcement represents a significant step forward for the renewable energy industry, as it will enable us to speed up the delivery of vital infrastructure projects to boost the UK’s energy security, grow the economy and help us to reach the Government’s target of clean power by 2030. The industry has a long track record of engaging early and closely with local communities and a wide range of environmental stakeholders, and this will continue as we want to carry on building projects with local support by giving communities a clear voice in the decision-making process. We look forward to feeding into the new guidance that will enable us to spend more time engaging with key stakeholders on the most important issues for each new project on a case by case basis and lead to even higher quality engagement and positive outcomes for nature.”

Sam Richards, CEO of pro-growth campaign group Britain Remade, said:

“Today’s bold reforms to cut red tape and get vital infrastructure delivered faster are a big step toward unlocking clean energy, better transport, and the homes Britain desperately needs. Too often consultation is a long and expensive box ticking exercise. By slashing delays and encouraging real community engagement, the government is backing growth, investment, and the kind of national renewal we all want to see.”

Adam Berman, Director of Policy and Advocacy, Energy UK said:

“Energy UK is fully behind the Government’s mission to speed up the planning system, unlocking the investment in clean energy we need to secure our future power needs. More targeted engagement with statutory consultees will result in faster and more appropriate applications, allowing relevant public bodies to focus on planning applications that matter most to them.”

Richard Greer, Fellow, Climate & Sustainability Services, Arup:

“Building on the Planning and Infrastructure Bill with further legislative improvements will be essential to delivering the Government’s ten-year Infrastructure Strategy and its pipeline of projects across transport, energy, water, and the new economy sector (such as data centres). A step-change in infrastructure delivery requires a comprehensive package of reforms that streamlines the entire project lifecycle.”

John Foster, Chief Policy and Campaigns Officer, Confederation of British Industry said:

“Access to energy, water, and transport connectivity remain major barriers to growth which if left untouched will hinder the government’s commitment to deliver the ambitious new homes and major infrastructure targets before the end of this parliament.

“By reducing the excess bureaucracy currently experienced by developers along with cutting down the decision-making time for infrastructure projects, the government is forging ahead with much needed reform to transform the planning system from an investment blocker into an enabler of growth.”

Kate DaSilva, Group General Counsel, Cornish Lithium Plc. said:

“The changes in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill will help the UK build the nationally significant projects we desperately need, while ensuring that voices within local communities are still heard. At Cornish Lithium we are proud of putting the local community and environment first – listening to what is needed, answering questions and delivering for the communities near our projects. With the Government’s proposed changes Cornish Lithium will be able to maintain our approach, accelerate project delivery, build a domestic source of critical minerals, create jobs and grow the economy for Cornwall, the south west and the whole country.”
April 24, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Joint statement between the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and the Prime Minister of New Zealand [April 2025]
The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 23 April 2025.

This Joint Statement follows the meeting of the United Kingdom and New Zealand Prime Ministers in London on 22 April 2025.

Reflecting on the enduring UK-NZ partnership, underpinned by shared values, rich connections between our people, and profound mutual trust, and cognisant of these uncertain times, the Prime Ministers expressed high ambition to deepen cooperation to ensure our modern and dynamic partnership continues to thrive, and contributes to our security and prosperity. We are energised by our shared commitment to deliver for our people.

The Prime Ministers reiterated their commitment to upholding the fundamental principles that underpin our partnership – democracy, human rights and the rule of law – which are central to a stable international order. They reaffirmed their commitment to international cooperation to address global challenges, supported by effective and efficient multilateral institutions, and recognised the indivisibility of the security and prosperity of the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions.

The Prime Ministers reiterated their unwavering support for Ukraine and welcomed US-led efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace for Ukraine. The United Kingdom and New Zealand called on Russia to withdraw its forces immediately and end its illegal invasion. They called on those supporting Russia’s Military-Industrial Complex through the supply of dual use components and weapons, to cease fuelling Russia’s war against Ukraine. The Prime Ministers expressed gratitude to the military personnel of the United Kingdom and New Zealand who have trained over 54,000 Ukrainians through Operation Interflex the UK-led multinational training effort. As the conflict evolves, both Leaders agreed to coordinate on training to meet Ukraine’s evolving needs.

The Prime Ministers welcomed on-going discussions on future support for Ukraine as part of the UK and France-led Coalition of the Willing – a multinational reassurance force to support Ukraine’s long-term defence and security. Prime Minister Starmer thanked New Zealand for its ongoing participation in military and diplomatic discussions about possible post-conflict support for Ukraine.

Noting the mounting threats to international peace and security, the Prime Ministers noted the decisions taken by both governments to substantially increase defence spending. They agreed to renew our historic defence partnership to make it fit for the future, and to deepen cooperation in our defence capabilities and industries.

The Prime Ministers acknowledged the ongoing cooperation between our defence forces on global challenges, including in the Middle East and Indo-Pacific. Prime Minister Starmer welcomed New Zealand’s upcoming participation in the UK-led Carrier Strike Group deployment in the Indo-Pacific, and welcomed ongoing consultations as New Zealand continues to explore potential opportunities for participation in AUKUS Pillar II.

The Prime Ministers agreed that maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is indispensable to international security and prosperity. They reiterated their concern at China’s recent military exercises around Taiwan and called for the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait Issues.

The Prime Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to work together to promote the prosperity, security and resilience of Pacific Small Island Developing States. In the context of climate change they welcomed joint work on the TIDES renewable energy investment fund.

Free trade is a cornerstone of prosperity in both countries. Recognising that open markets, and reliable legal and regulatory frameworks are essential for trade, the Prime Ministers committed to strengthening and modernising the rules-based trading system. The Prime Ministers welcomed our enhanced trading relationship since the entry into force of the UK-NZ Free Trade Agreement, with the United Kingdom now one of New Zealand’s fastest growing export markets.

The Prime Ministers agreed to work together to strengthen the role that free trade plays in increasing prosperity, including the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (which the United Kingdom and New Zealand are Parties to). This includes growing the agreement ambitiously through further accessions and pursuing concrete updates through the ongoing General Review.

Noting that economic growth and improving the lives of British and New Zealand citizens are fundamental priorities for both governments, the Prime Ministers welcomed the signing of commercial deals including on clean technology and infrastructure.

The Prime Ministers agreed to further enhance our mutual security and prosperity by:
- Forging a new Clean Energy Partnership to encourage two-way investment in renewable energy and low and zero emissions technologies.
- Launching an investor partnership for New Zealand investment into agritech SMEs in the UK, and collaboration on Earth Observation from space.
- Affirming our partnership with, and support for, Pacific Island countries’ climate resilience through clean energy, ecosystem resilience, and climate adaptation.
- Continuing close cooperation to protect Antarctica as a place for peace and science and upholding the Antarctic Treaty System.
- Strengthening cooperation in support of the rules-based system, including through reform of multilateral institutions.
- Updating our Double Taxation Agreement to provide long term certainty and stability to business.
- Recognising the renewed mutual recognition of professional qualifications between Engineering New Zealand and UK’s Engineering Council.
- Modernising our Film and TV Co-production Treaty to promote the growth of our world-class screen industries and bring more iconic stories to the screen.
April 24, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Transport Secretary acts to make thousands of extra driving tests available each month [April 2025]
The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 23 April 2025.

Further action to reduce waiting times will see thousands of additional tests made available every month.
- new measures unveiled to crack down on test-buying bots and deliver at least 10,000 extra tests a month
- training capacity to be doubled to drive-up availability of driving examiners
- government action to help ready learners pass, unlock opportunities, and drive economic growth — delivering on our Plan for Change
Learner drivers are set to benefit from reduced waiting times as the Transport Secretary announced new measures today (23 April 2025) to combat test-buying bots and provide thousands of additional tests every month.

The Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, has instructed the DVSA to intensify its efforts to reduce waiting times and improve access to driving tests which will break down barriers to opportunity as part of the government’s Plan for Change.

To open up more tests and break down barriers to opportunity, she has announced:
- those in other DVSA roles who are qualified to examine will be asked to return to the frontline to provide practical driving tests
- doubling the number of permanent trainers to skill up new driving examiners quickly
- accelerated consultation to investigate the potential abuse of the driving test booking system and prevent bots from accessing tests
- reintroduction of overtime pay incentives for everyone delivering driving tests
Taken together, the government aims for these measures to reduce driving test waiting times to 7-weeks by summer next year.

Significant progress has already been made as part of the DVSA’s 7-point plan to reduce waiting times, with 1.95 million tests delivered last year. However, further action is required to help learners pass quickly and ensure young people can access vital training and job opportunities to help them get on in life.

Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander said:

We inherited an enormous backlog of learners ready to ditch their L-Plates but being forced to endure record waiting time for their tests.

We simply cannot deliver on our Plan for Change if thousands remain held back, with their aspirations on pause.

I am instructing DVSA to take further action immediately to reduce waiting times which will see thousands of additional tests made available every month. We’re acting fast to get Britain’s drivers moving.

The DVSA’s Additional Testing Award scheme will reopen for up to 18 months, allowing more examiners to deliver additional tests.

Examiner training capacity will be doubled to ensure newly recruited driving examiners can qualify as quickly as possible. An accelerated consultation will also launch in May to improve the booking system and block bots from accessing tests. This comes on top of the work DVSA is already undertaking with leading IT specialists to enhance resilience against resellers.

Additionally, the government will temporarily ask eligible staff to deploy into examining roles, increasing test availability and providing coverage for examiner sickness or leave.

These measures come following the launch of a 7-point plan to drive down the waiting times to 7 weeks.

Progress has been made in recruiting more than 100 new examiners, increasing the short notice cancellation period for candidates, and introducing tougher terms and conditions for driving instructors booking driving tests for their pupils.

DVSA Driver Services Director, Pauline Reeves said:

Since December 2024, we’ve made significant progress on implementing our plan to reduce waiting times. But we know that many learner drivers are not seeing the immediate effects of the measures.

The further action which the Secretary of State has announced today will help us to accelerate those measures, including expanding training capacity for newly recruited driving examiners so more of them can start carrying out driving tests sooner.

Rhydian Jones, motoring expert at Confused.com car insurance said:

A long wait for driving test availability has held back many learner drivers from getting their licence. That’s why it’s positive to see that the Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, is enforcing more measures to improve waiting times for learners. This will bring hope to those starting to learn, or still waiting to take their test. And ultimately, it should help make what is meant to be an exciting time for them something they can look forward to without the thought of a long wait.

Emma Bush, Managing Director of AA Driving School, said:

Learner drivers have been dealing with frustratingly long waiting times to book a driving test since the easing of pandemic related restrictions several years ago. As we have highlighted, there is an urgent need for effective action to bring waiting times down to an acceptable level and, as such, we welcome today’s announcement giving further details of how the DVSA will meet its target waiting time of 7 weeks by the end of the year.

Many people, particularly young people, need to pass their driving test for their job or to access education. Unblocking the system by creating extra tests will help ensure people are not being held back due to a lack of a driving licence.
April 24, 2025