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Category: Press Releases

  • PRESS RELEASE : Chancellor to double down on drive to cut NHS waiting times and rollout of new Neighbourhood Health Centres [November 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Chancellor to double down on drive to cut NHS waiting times and rollout of new Neighbourhood Health Centres [November 2025]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 24 November 2025.

    250 Neighbourhood Health Centres to bring patient care closer to home and bring end to postcode lottery of healthcare access.

    • £300 million of funding for NHS technology to support work of staff and boost their productivity.
    • At the Autumn Budget the Chancellor will take the fair choices to cut NHS waiting times, cut national debt and cut the cost of living – continuing record investment into the NHS.

    The Chancellor will double down on the government’s commitment of continuing to slash NHS waiting times in this week’s Budget – today confirming the investment for hundreds of new Neighbourhood Health Centres that will deliver healthcare direct to people’s doorsteps across the country.

    At the Budget on Wednesday the Chancellor will set out how the government will take the fair choices to deliver on the country’s priorities to cut NHS waiting times, cut debt and cut the cost of living.

    250 new health ‘one stop shops’ will bring the right local combination from GPs, nurses, dentists and pharmacists together under one roof to best meet the needs of the community, starting in the most deprived areas.

    The centres will be part of a new Neighbourhood Health Service that will provide end-to-end care and tailored support – improving access to GPs, helping to prevent complications and avoid the frustration of being passed around the system. 

    As the Neighbourhood Health Service moves more outpatient care out of hospitals, these centres will provide space for clinics in communities across the country – bringing an end to the postcode lottery of access to healthcare.

    Patients will get treatment minutes from home instead of travelling miles to often hard to reach hospitals, so the NHS is organised around patients’ needs – rather than patients organising their lives around the NHS.

    Neighbourhood health services will initially focus on improving access to general practice and supporting people with complex needs and long-term conditions – like diabetes and heart failure – in the areas of the highest deprivation. As the programme grows, it will expand to support other patients and priority cohorts.

    With construction delivered by a dynamic new approach between the public and private sector, involving both repurposing current estate and new buildings, Neighbourhood Health Centres are a key part of the government’s plan to build an NHS fit for the future, one that fits around people’s lives and is an integral part of their community.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    At the Budget I’ll set out how we’ll deliver on the country’s priorities to cut NHS waiting times, cut debt and cut the cost of living.

    We’re driving down waiting lists by bringing healthcare to patients’ doorsteps and turbocharging NHS productivity with cutting-edge technology.

    Our record investment, combined with ruthless efficiency and reform, will deliver the better care and better outcomes our NHS patients deserve.

    At the Budget, Rachel Reeves is also set to turbocharge the drive to get waiting lists down by funnelling millions of pounds into upgrading technology in the health system – improving productivity so nurses and doctors can focus on caring for patients and speeding up how quickly patients are treated.

    £300 million of new capital investment will go into NHS tech, with new digital tools to be rolled out to NHS staff to support their work and improve productivity – by automating administrative tasks and providing swifter access to patient information, as well as ensuring better staff communication and better coordinated care. This will give nurses, physios, doctors, and other staff more time to care and less time on admin.

    Productivity for hospital care such as A&E and surgery is up 2.4% this year, meaning patients are being seen and treated more quickly across the health service. Achieving 2% productivity growth will unlock £17 billion savings over the next three years to be reinvested into the NHS in England to improve patient care.

    Health Minister, Karin Smyth said:

    Neighbourhood Health Centres fundamentally reimagine how the NHS works – bringing care closer to home and making sure the NHS is organised around patients’ needs, not the other way round.

    The Chancellor is rightly boosting investment in the NHS after we inherited a health service on its knees – with Lord Darzi’s investigation uncovering a £40 billion black hole. But funding will only get us so far. We need to use every measure available to us, which is why we’re leveraging in private investment to construct some of these centres, making the most of all expertise and every tool at our disposal.

    Our new NHS Rebuild approach will give the health service the investment it needs, repurposing and building a new generation of Neighbourhood Health Centres across the country. It will go hand in hand with reform and efficiency – ensuring proper value for money for taxpayers.

    The government has already announced sweeping reforms to the NHS with 18,000 posts cut and NHS England merged back into the Department of Health in order to focus investment at the frontline. The move, which is already underway, will, save over £1bn a year by the end of the Parliament – enough to fund 115,000 extra hip and knee operations.

    This government has already made significant progress to get the NHS back on its feet, cutting the waiting list by over 200,000 – the biggest reduction in over 15 years – delivering an extra 5.2 million appointments and providing 135,000 more cancer diagnoses within the 28-day target. This progress is only possible with the funding the NHS has already seen from this government, which is built on further in this Budget.

    Further information

    Ruth Rankine, director of primary care the NHS Confederation said:

    The creation of a Neighbourhood Health Service has the potential to empower the NHS to deliver even more patient-first, joined-up care.

    Working in partnership with local authorities, the VCSE sector and other partners is key to maximising the impact of these services, so it is welcome that the government is committed to ensuring local leaders have the flexibility to shape them to meet the specific needs of their communities. Bringing teams together under one roof can significantly improve services for the public and patients and provide more cohesive relationships between health and care professionals.

    Innovative use of existing estate across the whole of the NHS as well as local authorities, with the potential for new private sector investment, will support the delivery of neighbourhood services and ensure patients can access them more easily closer to home.

    • The NHS Neighbourhood Rebuild programme will deliver the Neighbourhood Health Centres through a mixture of refurbishments to expand and improve sites over the next three years, and new-build sites opening in the medium term.
    • The new Neighbourhood Health Centres will be delivered through a combination of Public-Private Partnerships and public investment to bring together infrastructure expertise from different sectors to deliver new facilities on time and on budget – so patients across England get faster treatment in new and convenient buildings. By delivering through a combination of private and public investment the government will be able to build further evidence and compare different models of delivery whilst updated accounting treatment will ensure these are recognised up front in public accounts.
    • Lord Darzi’s investigation in the summer of 2024 uncovered a £40 billion black hole in the NHS, and we have already uplifted NHS capital budgets by more than 20% over the SR period (23/24-29/30) to start addressing this. NHS England, NHS Providers, and NHS Confederation have all called for additional routes for infrastructure delivery to be made available to further support the repair and transformation of the NHS estate.
    • The government’s new programme – NHS Neighbourhood Rebuild – will give the NHS the tools and opportunity it is asking for, repurposing and building a new generation of Neighbourhood Health Centres across the country that are and free at the point of use.
    • More than 100 centres will be opened by 2030 including refurbishments to the Alfred Barrow Health Centre in Barrow-in-Furness, the Stockland Green and Summerfield Primary Care Centres in Birmingham, the Jubilee Gardens Centre in Ealing .
    • This government will only supplement public investment with private investment where it provides value for money to the taxpayer. This new PPP model will learn lessons from past and current PPP models, and include improvements so that taxpayers get proper value for money.
    • Public-private partnership programmes are used internationally, to support delivery of infrastructure.
  • PRESS RELEASE : UK Government gives voice to nature at COP30 climate conference [November 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK Government gives voice to nature at COP30 climate conference [November 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 24 November 2025.

    UK accelerates global leadership on nature at COP30.

    • First company – a British startup – contributes to the Cali Fund paving the way for others to do the same and mobilise private sector finance for nature at scale 
    • Minister for Nature works with global partners to mobilise finance for nature, promote sustainable farming for food security and takes action to protect our oceans. 

    The UK Government has taken bold and ambitious action to protect and restore nature at the COP30 climate meeting.  

    UK representatives have championed the protection and restoration of critical ecosystems around the world, and the essential work we’re doing back home to restore our forests, landscapes and seas for the British people as part of the Plan for Change.  

    During COP30, the first payment to the Cali Fund – by a British business – was announced. This marks a major milestone since its launch earlier this year. The Fund enables companies – such as pharmaceutical and biotech companies – to share profits with Indigenous Peoples and local communities who protect the nature that provides genetic resources for their products.

    The UK is working closely with the private sector and other governments to support effective implementation of the Fund, including through the Friends of the Cali Fund, and this first contribution is a real milestone in these efforts.  

    UK-based startup Tierra Viva AI proudly kickstarts contributions to the Cali Fund, paving the way for others to follow and contribute to the Fund at scale.  

    Nature Minister Mary Creagh said:  

    British families are already feeling the impact of climate change – from flooding that destroys homes to heatwaves that put vulnerable people at risk.  

    We cannot tackle nature loss and climate change in isolation; in Brazil we have built the global coalition for ambitious action on nature which is the only way to protect our home for future generations

    Ruth Davis, Special Representative for Nature said:  

    The UK has demonstrated technical expertise and worked alongside our global partners to put nature on the agenda, but there is more to do, and we must now amplify the momentum for action at scale on climate and nature.

    This isn’t just about doing the right thing for the planet. Building a stronger and fairer global economy will unlock enormous economic opportunities – we know that investing in nature creates jobs and accelerates growth with new opportunities attracting millions in investment.

    At COP30, the UK government has made further commitments to halt and reverse nature loss This includes: 

    • Launching the UK-Brazil Fertilisers Declaration – a global push to cut emissions from fertiliser production and use. It’s about improving food security and protecting jobs and growth by supporting farmers’ resilience and boosting agricultural productivity. 
    • Joining the Saltmarsh Breakthrough – protecting these vital coastal ecosystems which anchor key marine food chains, shield communities from floods and lock away more carbon than most forests.
    • Becoming a Food Waste Breakthrough Country Champion – driving the global goal to halve food waste by 2030 and cutting methane emissions by keeping food waste out of landfills.   
    • Nature actions – COP30 showcased the UK’s role in advancing the global ‘nature actions agenda’. The summit saw the Independent Advisory Panel on Biodiversity Credits launch its Nature Markets Policy Forum with the UK, France and Indonesia joining as founding members, helping to unlock innovation and investment in high integrity nature credit markets.
    • Congo call to action – The UK also furthered its long-standing partnership with the Congo Basin region, joining a Call to Action, to ensure the world recognises the importance of Congo’s forests and funds solutions developed by Congolese institutions and communities.

    The UK’s leadership at COP30 echoes our commitments to support the environment at home.  

    We announced that the second National Forest will be in the Oxford-Cambridge corridor, where millions of trees will be planted as part of a wider commitment to allocate over £1 billion this parliament to tree planting. This will support nature recovery, green jobs, and net zero goals.  

    Further detail on this government’s plan to restore the environment will be set out in the upcoming Environmental Improvement Plan, which will outline the next phase of the UK’s nature recovery ambitions.    

  • PRESS RELEASE : Trustee appointed to The National Lottery Heritage Fund Board [November 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Trustee appointed to The National Lottery Heritage Fund Board [November 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 24 November 2025.

    The Prime Minister has appointed Dr Heather Reid as the Trustee and Chair of the Scotland Committee to The National Lottery Heritage Fund board.

    Dr Heather Reid

    Heather Reid has a background in meteorology, climate, natural heritage and science engagement. Her early career was spent as a weather forecaster with the UK Met Office and BBC Scotland. During this time she became Chair of the Institute of Physics in Scotland, a Trustee at Glasgow Science Centre and a leading contributor within Scotland’s education sector on the science and the impacts of climate change.

    More recently her career has focused on Non-Executive roles within the Environment sector. She is currently Chair of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority and a Board member at NatureScot – Scotland’s nature agency. She has also been appointed to the Board of the Water Industry Commission for Scotland. Her passion for science engagement is maintained as Deputy Chair of Dynamic Earth science centre and she continues to be involved in science education advisory roles. 

    Heather received an OBE for services to physics in 2006 and has been awarded honorary degrees from Paisley University, The University of Glasgow and The Open University. She relaxes by mountain biking and hillwalking and ranks hiking the iconic West Highland Way with her daughter as one of life’s best experiences.

    Heather Reid has been appointed for a term of three years on The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Heritage Memorial Fund Board, commencing on 24 November 2025.

    Remuneration and Governance Code

    The Scottish Trustees of The National Lottery Heritage Fund Board and National Heritage Memorial Fund are remunerated £20,749 per annum. These appointments have 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. 

    Heather Reid has declared no such political activity.

    Notes to Editors

    DCMS has around 400 regulated Public Appointment roles across 42 Public Bodies including Arts Council England, Theatres Trust, the National Gallery, UK Sport and the Gambling Commission. We encourage applications from talented individuals from all backgrounds and across the whole of the United Kingdom.  To find out more about Public Appointments or to apply visit the HM Government Public Appointments Website.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Chancellor appoints infrastructure and planning adviser to clear path for new investments [November 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Chancellor appoints infrastructure and planning adviser to clear path for new investments [November 2025]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 24 November 2025.

    Leading lawyer, Catherine Howard, appointed to advise Chancellor on the next phase of planning and infrastructure reforms as she vows to ‘do what it takes to get Britain building’.

    • Extra expertise at the Treasury to help government kickstart economic growth to deliver an economy that works for working people – and rewards working people.
    • Comes as part of government commitment to create conditions to attract long-term private sector investment into UK infrastructure, including landmark planning reforms and backing of a third runway at Heathrow

    Leading planning lawyer Catherine Howard has been appointed to advise Chancellor Rachel Reeves to help drive through the next phase of the government’s planning reforms with new Housing Secretary, Steve Reed, to ‘get Britain building.’

    The Chancellor has vowed that the Autumn Budget will focus on building an economy that works for working people by taking action to reduce inflation, keep a grip on the public finances and kickstart economic growth.

    With the Planning and Infrastructure Bill going through Parliament and barriers to private investment being torn down, the Chancellor is pushing ahead to create the conditions to secure vital long-term investments in UK infrastructure and support Britain’s economic renewal.

    Specialising in major infrastructure projects, Catherine is currently a Partner at Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP, with expertise in Development Consent Orders which provide planning permission for nationally significant infrastructure projects, environmental regulation, and Judicial Reviews.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

    I am determined we do what it takes to get Britain building, unlock private investment and deliver an economy that works for working people – and rewards working people.

    I look forward to working with Catherine to deliver this.

    Catherine Howard said:

    It is a privilege to take on this position as the Chancellor’s Infrastructure and Planning Adviser, helping the government to achieve a step-change in how we deliver major infrastructure and housing.

    With the right framework in place, good decision-making can enable swift progress – improving our natural environment and supporting the government’s Growth Mission. The Planning and Infrastructure Bill makes major strides towards this goal. I look forward to working with stakeholders to consider how we build on this important agenda.

    Catherine was initially appointed to work up to four days a week on an unpaid basis until the Autumn Budget. Catherine’s term has been extended until the 1 January 2026 to continue to support the governments planning agenda. Her terms of appointment remain unchanged.

    Established processes for the declaration and management of interests have been followed in respect of this appointment. Catherine has confirmed she has not taken part in any political activity in the last five years.

  • PRESS RELEASE : ‘We see you’: Armed forces on patrol around the UK in response to Russian activity [November 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : ‘We see you’: Armed forces on patrol around the UK in response to Russian activity [November 2025]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 24 November 2025.

    Royal Navy intercepts Russian warship and tanker in the Dover Strait and English Channel whilst RAF P-8 maritime surveillance aircraft deployed to Iceland to patrol North Atlantic.

    The UK Armed Forces are on patrol from the English Channel to the High North amid increased Russian activity threatening UK waters.

    In the past fortnight, Royal Navy patrol ship HMS Severn intercepted Russian corvette RFN Stoikiy and tanker Yelnya off the UK coast, in a round-the-clock shadowing operation as the Russian vessels sailed through the Dover Strait and westward through the English Channel.

    HMS Severn later handed over monitoring duties to a NATO ally off the coast of Brittany, but continued to observe from a distance and remained ready to respond to any unexpected activity.

    Commander Grant Dalgleish, HMS Severn’s Commanding Officer, said:

    This tasking shows the value of our patrol ships and reinforces the Royal Navy’s close liaison with our NATO allies in safeguarding the British people and protecting the internationally recognised waterways.

    I’m immensely proud of the way the ship’s company reacted to this activation, especially coming so quickly after a demanding period of regeneration and operational training.

    This comes as the UK has seen a 30% increase in Russian vessels threatening UK waters in the past two years.

    On Wednesday, the Defence Secretary confirmed that Russian spy ship Yantar – used for gathering intelligence and mapping undersea cables – was operating on the edge of UK waters north of Scotland. In a clear message to Putin, the Defence Secretary said: “We see you. We know what you are doing. And we are ready.”

    As Yantar lingered in UK’s wider waters, its crew directed lasers at the RAF P-8 pilots tracking it in a reckless and dangerous act. While tracking Yantar, Royal Navy frigate HMS Somerset and other civilian ships in the area experienced GPS jamming in a further demonstration of unprofessional behaviour, intended to be disruptive and a nuisance. HMS Somerset’s combat capabilities were not affected.

    The UK has a wide range of military options at its disposal to keep UK waters safe. Three RAF P-8 Poseidon aircraft have deployed to Keflavik Air Base in Iceland in the largest overseas deployment of the RAF P-8 fleet so far.

    The P-8s from 120 Squadron are conducting surveillance operations as part of NATO’s collective defence, patrolling for Russian ships and submarines in the North Atlantic and Arctic.

    While in Iceland, RAF crews are working closely with NATO allies including the US and Canada, reinforcing the UK’s NATO-first approach and commitment to Euro-Atlantic security in this new era of threat.

    These operations reaffirm the UK’s unwavering commitment to national security and protecting critical undersea infrastructure, underpinning this Government’s Plan for Change.

    Wing Commander Higgins, Officer Commanding 120 Squadron, said:

    This deployment to Iceland highlights the enduring importance of the North Atlantic and Arctic to the security of the Alliance.

    Operating the P-8A Poseidon, we continue that legacy by contributing to NATO’s collective defence and ensuring the security of this strategically critical region.

    The UK is stepping up on defence and security, backed by the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War, including £4 billion on boosting our drone capabilities and over £1 billion on strengthening air and missile defence to protect the UK homeland.

    These latest operations come less than a month after HMS Duncan tracked the movements of Russian destroyer Vice Admiral Kulakov, and frigate HMS Iron Duke was dispatched to monitor Russian Kilo-class submarine Novorossiysk.

    Last month, two advanced RAF surveillance aircraft conducted a 12-hour mission along Russia’s border to monitor NATO’s eastern and northern flanks. A Rivet Joint electronic intelligence aircraft and a P-8 maritime patrol aircraft, supported by a US Stratotanker, collectively flew 10,000 miles from the High North, past Belarus and Ukraine, and into the Black Sea.

    Both aircraft use advanced sensors to detect Russian activity and deliver critical intelligence for analysis.

    This increase in UK Armed Forces activity comes alongside new sanctions. Last week, the Foreign Secretary announced that the UK, US, and Australia are sanctioning Media Land – a Russian cyber crime group responsible for facilitating cyber-attacks on UK-based companies.

  • PRESS RELEASE : No permission, no travel – UK set to enforce ETA scheme [November 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : No permission, no travel – UK set to enforce ETA scheme [November 2025]

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

    From February 2026, visitors will not be able to travel to the UK without advance permission.

    Visitors from 85 nationalities, including the United States, Canada, and France, who do not need a visa will not be able to legally travel to the UK without an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) from 25 February 2026.

    This is a significant step towards digitising the immigration system and paves the way for a contactless UK border in the future.

    Enforcing will mean that everyone who wants to come to the UK must have digital permission through either an ETA or an eVisa. Carriers will be checking people before they travel.

    Since the launch of ETA in October 2023, more than 13.3 million visitors have successfully applied and benefited from faster, smoother travel. ETA is now a fundamental part of travel, including for visitors who take connecting flights and go through UK passport control.

    Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Mike Tapp, said:

    ETAs give us greater power to stop those who pose a threat from setting foot in the country and gives us a fuller picture of immigration.

    ETAs are also better for travellers. Digitising the immigration system ensures the millions of people we welcome to the UK every year enjoy a more seamless travel experience.

    While ETA was being rolled out, it was not strictly enforced, to give visitors ample time to adjust to the new requirement. This is the same approach other countries such as the United States and Canada took for their travel schemes.

    Applying for an ETA is quick and simple through the official UK ETA app, and the cost is competitive at £16. While most people currently get a decision automatically in minutes, it is recommended to allow 3 working days to account for the small number of cases that require additional review.

    British and Irish citizens, including dual citizens, are exempt from needing an ETA. The UK government strongly advises dual British citizens to make sure they have a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement, to avoid problems like being denied boarding when travelling to the UK from 25 February 2026.

  • PRESS RELEASE : More targeted R&D investment towards driving UK growth and jobs unveiled by Technology Secretary [November 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : More targeted R&D investment towards driving UK growth and jobs unveiled by Technology Secretary [November 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 24 November 2025.

    UKRI will deploy significant taxpayer backing to support government priorities, investing billions in UK expertise and innovation for growth and renewal.

    • The UK’s public research funding body will deploy a significant portion of £38.6 billion in taxpayer backing to support government priorities, investing billions in UK expertise and innovation for growth and national renewal, Science and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall says
    • UKRI to invest £8 billion for specific government priorities and £7 billion for innovative company growth, to build and keep titans of future industries like quantum based in UK, building strong foundations for our economy
    • Part of a package of announcements aimed at boosting funding and the in-flow of international talent into high-growth sectors of the future

    Record public research funding will be explicitly directed towards supporting promising scale-ups, turbocharging economic growth and job opportunities through our Modern Industrial Strategy, and improving lives, as part of a shake-up of public R&D announced today. The move reinforces the government’s push for national renewal, a Britain built for all, and a fairer economy that works for and rewards working people – work which will be further cemented through announcements at the Budget, later this week.

    Addressing research funders and major business leaders from the UK and beyond, the Science and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said today (Monday 24 November) that public R&D funding had for too long been spread thinly across multiple priorities and projects and now was time for ‘doing fewer things, better’. She outlined a ‘no-compromise’ approach that prioritises funding for the companies with the highest potential to grow into industry titans and into the sectors where the UK already retains a competitive advantage. Setting these priorities clearly, will support the national effort to build strong foundations for our economy and secure our country’s future.

    UKRI is the country’s largest public research funder, giving it a central role in ensuring public money is invested in ambitious, pioneering research that will benefit the whole of the UK and provide a clear return on investment for hardworking taxpayers.

    Addressing the UKRI Growth Summit in London, Science and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said:

    Scientific research and development is fundamental to building a better Britain: from new treatments for cancer, to breakthroughs in clean, affordable energy.

    There is no route to stronger growth in this country, no answer to how we pay our way, or compete with the rest of the world, without science, technology and innovation leading front and centre. But we must be smarter about what we prioritise, for these efforts to succeed.

    That is what today is all about. And by increasing funding for critical technologies like AI and engineering biology where the UK already excels, we can go even further.

    £9 billion of UKRI’s record £38.6 billion settlement will go towards backing the fields of research in which the UK is among the strongest in the world, like AI and quantum, which could deliver breakthroughs in healthcare or pioneering cybersecurity tech to keep our country safe from threats. Funding for engineering biology will increase nearly three-fold, to £644 million, while funding for AI will more than double to £1.6 billion.

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimates that breakthroughs in AI alone could boost productivity by as much as 1.5 percentage points a year, which could be worth up to an average £47 billion to the UK each year over a decade. Quantum computing meanwhile could add over £11 billion to the UK’s GDP by 2045. 

    £8 billion will be allocated to funding research into the government’s priorities, including the Industrial Strategy’s priority areas and others like climate resilience and flood defence.

    While another £7 billion will specifically fund innovative company growth to unlock the next generation of UK industry titans, building on the example set by:

    • Cambridge-based Paragraf, which has raised around $140 million since it was founded in 2018 as a leader of graphene, powering products like electric cars and medical scanners more efficiently
    • IFast, a diagnostics firm, working to detect antibiotic resistance much faster than traditional methods.
    • Ceres Power, a clean energy company behind cutting edge fuel cell technology for hydrogen production, employing around 600 people and with a market capitalisation of over £700 million.

    The third area that will see funding is £14 billion specifically for curiosity-driven research, which has been at the heart of great discoveries for generations – from the internet to medical breakthroughs that can treat a range of genetic diseases.

    Universities will be key beneficiaries from UKRI’s record funding for R&D. Their core block grant and commercialisation funding from DSIT will grow in line with expected inflation over the Spending Review period.

    Attracting top science and research talent to the UK, especially in the 8 key sectors of the Modern Industrial Strategy, is essential for achieving cutting-edge breakthroughs that economic growth, jobs, and entire new industries will be founded upon. Today the Science Secretary has also revealed the progress being made in those efforts – with the first 4 world-leading researchers relocating to the UK through the £54 million Global Talent Fund. These lead researchers are expected to also bring up to 10 individuals to support their research projects from abroad.

    These leading researchers will be based across the country, and are spearheading work that could transform our health and wealth, ranging from efforts in neurobiology – which could give new insights into Alzheimer’s – to better ways of tackling the pests and diseases that could cost the global agriculture industry over £400 billion in losses every year if left unchecked.

    This comes alongside additional leading scientists and academics being welcomed to the UK via other DSIT funded flagship talent and grant schemes delivered through UKRI and the UK’s 4 National Academies.

    Alongside this transformative reform to R&D funding and work bringing in the best international talent, the government is also today announcing a raft of further announcements that will help support our R&D sector to turbocharge economic growth in the UK:

    • Launching the competition to find the next Chair of UKRI’s Board, as Sir Andrew MacKenzie’s term concludes after adeptly leading the UKRI Board since 2021. We are seeking a leader committed to protecting and growing curiosity-driven research, addressing government priorities and tackling the UK’s biggest challenges. They will also play a key role in enabling R&D-intensive companies to start up, scale up and stay in the UK while helping to leverage the private sector backing that can take discoveries to the next level
    • Setting UK researchers 2 ambitious challenges as part of our R&D Missions Accelerator Programme, backed by £4 million in the first year, on industrialising and digitalising construction and developing the infrastructure for our creative content exchange
    • Launching the latest round of Innovate UK’s Women in Innovation Awards, with £4.5 million available for up to 60 women – building on findings showing that if men and women started and scaled businesses at the same rate, this could add up to £250 billion to the UK economy
    • Trebling the government’s investment in the UK’s world-leading Metascience Unit to £49 million. The unit supports research into how we can increase the impact and efficiency of investment in science

    UKRI CEO, Professor Sir Ian Chapman said:

    The record investment in R&D shows government’s commitment to putting UK research and innovation at the forefront of our national success. At UKRI, our mission is clear: to advance knowledge, improve lives, and drive growth. We will invest strategically in areas where the UK can achieve a significant market share globally. Research and innovation must be central to boosting the UK’s economy and delivering real improvements to people’s lives and livelihoods.

    Notes to editors

    Universities will see their core flexible research and commercialisation funding grow in line with expected inflation over the next 3 academic years. 

    Applications for Innovate UK’s Women in Innovation Awards are open until 4 February 2026. 

    One of the Metascience Unit’s early successes has been the trial of Distributed Peer Review – a novel method of assessing research proposals in which applicants themselves participate in the review process. UKRI will now expand the use of Distributed Peer Review across the organisation, enabling researchers from all disciplines to access funding more quickly and experience fewer delays between proposal development and project initiation. And we are launching a new £6 million grant opportunity for UK-led metascience projects.  

    Global Talent Fund details

    Attracting international talent is the catalyst for creating British jobs, boosting investment, and increasing productivity – just what our economy needs. The £54 million Global Talent Fund is enabling leading scientists and their teams to relocate and thrive in the UK. The Fund is designed to attract a total of 60-80 individuals in top research teams to the UK, working in the 8 high priority sectors critical to our modern Industrial Strategy like life sciences and digital technologies.  

    This work is supported by the Global Talent Taskforce, which is driving efforts to ensure the UK remains a world leader in attracting and retaining exceptional talent. By bringing the very best minds to the UK, working in fields that will be critical to our health, business, and everyday life, we can pave the way for the products, jobs and even industries that define tomorrow’s economy, to be made and grow in Britain. 

    The Fund is being delivered by 12 of the UK’s leading universities and research institutions. 

    Talent recruitment through the Fund is already underway, with the following researchers and academics having joined, or being set to join, institutions in the UK: 

    • Professor Baljit Khakh, joining Cardiff University as the new Director of UK Dementia Research Institute, from UCLA, United States. His exceptional work in the fields of neurobiology and neurodegeneration have seen him honoured with the H.W Magoun Distinguished Lectureship, the 134th UCLA Faculty Research Lecture, NIH Director’s Pioneer Award and election to the Fellowship of the Royal Society (FRS) – the highest accolade in UK science. 
    • Professor Armin Raznahan, who is being appointed to the W. A. Handley Chair in Psychiatry at the University of Oxford. Professor Raznahan is a child and adolescent psychiatrist, and will be joining Oxford’s Merton College from his current role at the US National Institute of Mental Health Intramural Research Program (NIMH IRP). His work is focused on improving outcomes for young people with mental health problems. 
    • Dr Hassan Salem joining the John Innes Centre, from the Max Planck Institute for Biology, Germany. Dr Salem’s research focuses on the relationship between plants an insects, including pests and the diseases they carry – a critical area of work for food security. Crop losses caused by plant diseases and pests could cost the global economy over £400 billion a year if left unchecked. 
    • Dr Sven Truckenbrodt, who has joined the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology from a research not-for-profit in California, United States. Sven is pioneering work on ‘molecular connectomics’: a new way of mapping how the brain works – which could change how we understand mental health problems. In his career to date he has invented new ways of mapping and tracking brain activity. The Global Talent Fund has allowed Sven to obtain highly specialised microscopes at the cutting edge of available technology, perfectly tailored to his research needs. 

    The Global Talent Fund, administered by UKRI, is just one part of over £115 million funding that is being dedicated to attracting the very best scientific and research talent to the UK. This includes the expanded Encode: AI for Science Fellowships and the Turing AI Fellowships, which is embedding world-class AI researchers into UK labs, ensuring the UK remains a global hub for cutting-edge research and innovation. 

    It sits alongside additional DSIT funded flagship talent and grant schemes open to international research talent delivered through UKRI and the UK’s 4 prestigious National Academies. For example, the Royal Society’s Newton International Fellowships and the British Academy’s International Fellowships which are both aimed at attracting outstanding international early-career researchers to the UK. 

    Today, the Medical Research Council (MRC) is announcing additional funding of up to £8.5 million to expand its ‘early independence’ Career Development Award (CDA) and Clinical Scientist Fellowship (CSF) schemes, making it easier for international researchers to build careers in the UK.   

    Just last week, the Academy of Medical Sciences announced their latest 3 Professorship Awards, funding top-level researchers working on child mental health, heart disease and cancer to continue their work in the UK. 

    The Royal Society also recently announced a cohort of exceptional researchers awarded early career fellowships open to domestic and international talent and worth more than £83 million. These early career schemes are supported by DSIT and include the University Research Fellowships, Dorothy Hodgkin Fellowships and Newton International Fellowships. 

    The Royal Society recently announced its first awards for the Faraday Discovery Fellowships and the Royal Academy of Engineering are also expected to announce their first awards for the Green Future Fellowships in due course – both schemes are open to international talent, and have launched additional Accelerated International Application routes for exceptional non-UK-based researchers. 

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government acts on top business concern and cuts electricity bills for thousands of manufacturers by up to 25% [November 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government acts on top business concern and cuts electricity bills for thousands of manufacturers by up to 25% [November 2025]

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

    The Government launches a consultation on the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme to cut electricity bills for 7,000 manufacturers and boost finance access with a £4 billion British Business Bank plan.

    • Business Secretary sets out vision for optimism and economic growth at keynote speech to CBI’s annual conference.
    • Government powers ahead with slashing electricity costs for over 7,000 British businesses by up to 25%.
    • British Business Bank to improve access to finance and increase its pace of investment with focus on Industrial Strategy sectors.

    Over 7,000 British businesses will see their electricity bills slashed by up to 25 percent, alongside increased support on access to finance for high potential firms, as Government takes bold action to tackle the biggest issues facing British businesses.

    Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle will set out his big and bold offer of enhanced support in a keynote speech to a room of bosses from some of the UK’s top firms at the CBI Conference in London.

    He will announce the launch of an 8-week consultation for the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS) that will determine eligibility and deliver one of the key promises in the government’s modern Industrial Strategy.

    The scheme will cut energy prices for thousands of businesses, from April 2027, in high growth industries like automotive and aerospace and foundational sectors in their supply chains, like chemicals. British industrial electricity prices are currently some of the highest in the G7, making it harder for British firms to compete on the global stage.

    He will also address another major concern among bosses who struggle to secure access to finance in order to grow and scale up their business. The Business Secretary will today back a new five-year plan for the Government-owned British Business Bank, ensuring it can invest larger amounts in successful domestic scale-ups, who currently have to look overseas for finance.

    This will increase the Bank’s pace of investment by two thirds, with a £4 billion boost for the most promising businesses in Industrial Strategy sectors to scale up and stay here. Over five years, the Bank’s total activities are projected to support 180,000 UK businesses, 370,000 new jobs, and add £68 billion of gross value added to the UK. economy.

    Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle said:

    In recent years, our most promising innovators and industries have been hamstrung by some of the highest electricity prices in the G7 and poor access to finance. That’s been a drag anchor on growth. A drag anchor on innovation. 

    I have listened to business on both these issues and today we’re taking action. This is just the start, and in the months ahead I will be going further to address business concerns, reverse our industrial decline and make the UK the best place to start and scale a business.

    High energy prices have consistently been raised as one of the top issues for businesses. 65% of respondents in Make UK and PWC’s 2025 Executive survey said high energy costs reduce their ability to compete and that it is a ‘dominant concern for manufacturers’, whilst 64% of businesses in the latest business confidence survey from the Adam Smith Institute said high energy costs are a ‘major concern’.

    Now, the support provided through BICS will help level the playing field for thousands of companies, delivering on the central aim of the modern Industrial Strategy to back Britain’s leading sectors to attract new investment and deliver economic growth across all regions of the UK as part of the Plan for Change.

    The scheme will support hundreds of thousands of skilled jobs across the country, reducing eligible companies’ bills by around £35-£40 per megawatt hour, or up to 25 percent.

    By bearing down on costs across the energy system, we expect to deliver BICS and ensure that the scheme is delivered in line with our wider priorities to deliver affordable power for businesses and households. For example, the proposals in DESNZ’s recent consultations on RO/FiT indexation, if implemented, could contribute to that goal.

    BICS follows the uplift to the discount on electricity costs provided through the British Industry Supercharger scheme announced just last month, which will launch in 2026 and increase the discount on electricity network charges faced by businesses in sectors like steel, cement and glass from 60 to 90 percent.

    Louise Hellem, CBI Chief Economist, said:

    Businesses have long warned that soaring energy prices are not just a cost burden, they’re an investment barrier. This consultation marks another welcome step forward in tackling a significant drag on economic growth.

    Supporting firms to electrify is also critical to accelerating the energy transition and safeguarding the UK’s industrial competitiveness.

    Government must now move quickly, in partnership with industry and energy suppliers, to set clear eligibility rules, delivery mechanisms and funding streams to close the industrial electricity price gap between the UK and its G7 peers.

    Kevin Craven, CEO of ADS said:

    We welcome the Government’s commitment to tackling high industrial energy costs and improving access to finance, recognising the importance of these issues particularly for our aerospace sector. ADS called for action in its Autumn Budget submission and today’s measures are a positive step forward.

    There is no doubt that the business environment remains challenging and we look forward to working with Government to shape these interventions and address wider cost pressures. Continuing this momentum into the new year will be vital for ensuring UK industry stays competitive.

    Ben Martin, Policy Manager, British Chambers of Commerce said:

    This scheme is a positive step forward and will provide vital support to businesses in energy intensive industries. This consultation, to determine eligibility, is a key part of the process and will provide certainty for firms in understanding future costs for the coming years.

    Notes to editors

    • The scheme applies to Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) only, since energy policy is largely devolved in Northern Ireland.
    • The consultation launched today will close on 19 January, and government will then publish its response to the consultation within 12 weeks of this date.
    • Eligible businesses must operate in frontier manufacturing industries within the government’s eight priority sectors or in foundational manufacturing industries supplying those frontier industries and meet the required level of electricity intensity.
    • BICS will provide eligible manufacturing businesses with exemptions from the indirect cost of the Renewables Obligation (RO), Feed-In Tariffs (FIT) and Capacity Market (CM) schemes, to reduce cost pressures and support the long-term viability of our most strategically important industries.
    • PWC / Make UK: Executive Survey 2025, A Strategy for Growth – Risk and Opportunities
    • Adam Smith Institute Business Confidence Survey 2025.
    • The British Business Bank’s 5-year plan is available here: https://www.british-business-bank.co.uk/about/research-and-publications/five-year-strategic-plan.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Millions to benefit from new health and wellbeing quiz [November 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Millions to benefit from new health and wellbeing quiz [November 2025]

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

    Millions of Brits could boost their mood by spending 5 minutes taking a Healthy Choices Quiz launched by the government and the NHS.

    • Government launches free 5-minute health quiz that reveals personalised steps to boost your mood and energy
    • Research shows how 19 million people could boost their mood by making lifestyle changes, all while helping shift the NHS from treating sickness to preventing it
    • Radio and TV presenters Melvin Odoom and Rickie Haywood-Williams share how taking the easy quiz gave them tips and advice to improve their health

    Millions of Brits could boost their mood by making a simple healthy lifestyle change, according to new research ahead of the launch of a new online quiz today.

    The 5-minute Healthy Choices Quiz, launched by the government and NHS, will give people across England personalised steps to boost their health, mood and energy.

    The interactive mobile-friendly quiz has been designed to identify healthy changes that people can make and signpost to an array of trusted NHS resources to support healthier living. 

    Research from University College London estimates that 19 million adults in their middle years could boost their mood by making a healthy change. Increasing physical activity can improve mental wellbeing in just 4 weeks.

    The quiz supports the government’s 10 Year Health Plan to shift the NHS from treating sickness to preventing it, and from analogue to digital healthcare – putting people in control of their own health through modern technology. 

    Health Minister Ashley Dalton said:

    Taking this quick and easy quiz could be the first step for people to live healthier and happier lives.

    We’re doing our part to cut smoking, obesity and provide better mental health support – this quiz gives people the chance to help themselves by taking advantage of expert NHS advice at the touch of a screen.

    This simple, free and easily available quiz will bring expert NHS advice to your fingertips as part of our 10 Year Health Plan to move from treating sickness to preventing it.

    The campaign aims to encourage adults – particularly those aged 40 to 60 and from more deprived backgrounds – to take control of their health and identify where they need support.

    The quiz asks questions on a range of topics including nutrition, movement, smoking, vaping, alcohol consumption, mental health and sleep.

    Users receive an overall score out of 10, along with tailored advice and links to free NHS apps and tools such as the Active 10 app to improve fitness or the NHS Every Mind Matters webpage which offers simple and practical advice to ease anxiety, manage stress, lift your mood and sleep better.

    Radio DJs and TV presenters Rickie Haywood-Williams and Melvin Odoom are backing the campaign and feature in a short film where they share candid stories about their own health journeys and reveal their quiz results. They talk about the steps they have taken to improve their health, their motivations and the benefits they have experienced. 

    Rickie Haywood-Williams said: 

    Since becoming a dad, I’ve been more focused on my health – especially now my youngest is 3. I’ve started walking more and cycling when I can, and I’ve noticed a massive improvement both mentally and physically. Like most people juggling busy schedules, I still struggle with sleep and routine. I’ve got into the habit of eating late, and that’s one thing I’m trying to change.

    That’s why I think the Healthy Choices Quiz is such a brilliant tool. It’s quick, easy and gives you a clear picture of where you’re at with your health. It gave me loads of practical tips that I can actually fit into my life. It’s not about being perfect – it’s about taking that first step and understanding how to start making changes that really make a difference.

    Melvin Odoom added: 

    As I’ve got older, staying healthy has become a bigger priority, but it’s taken some trial and error to figure out what works for me. I’ve always loved running but going solo or training for marathons never stuck. Joining a running club changed everything – the social side and sense of community keep me coming back, and now being active is something I genuinely enjoy. I’ve also made changes within my lifestyle, like cutting down on drinking. Now I only have a drink on rare occasions, and the difference in my mood and energy is huge.

    Eating better is still a work in progress, but the Healthy Choices Quiz gave me a fresh perspective – especially on things like fibre, which I hadn’t really thought about. It’s helped me figure out realistic changes that really fit my lifestyle, and given me some tools to get started.

    A new review by University College London, using Health Survey for England data, highlights how millions could improve their health and wellbeing by making healthy lifestyle choices such as quitting smoking, drinking less alcohol, eating more healthily or moving more.

    Dr Radha Modgil, NHS GP and broadcaster, said: 

    As a GP, I know how important it is to make healthy changes that fit into your everyday routine, but knowing where to begin can be tough – that’s why I’m excited about the new Healthy Choices Quiz.

    It’s a simple first step that helps you understand where you’re at and gives you manageable tips that can boost your energy, lift your mood, and improve your physical and mental wellbeing.

    Whether you’re building on progress or just getting going, you’ll be supported by free NHS apps, tools and advice that can help you move towards a healthier, happier future in a way that feels right for you.

    The Healthy Choices Quiz is designed as an additional tool to help empower adults to live happier and healthier lives.

    Other examples include a new digital NHS points scheme where people are rewarded for taking positive actions to improve their health. As announced in the 10 Year Health Plan, we will soon begin engaging with businesses to determine which behaviours should be incentivised.

    Background information

    Watch Melvin and Rickie taking part in the quiz.

    Those who have tried the quiz are already seeing the benefit.

    Melissa, 41, from London, said:

    As a busy mum juggling work and family life, it’s easy for healthy habits to slip. I used to be really active, but after becoming a parent, I’ve had to rethink how I stay well. I’m now focusing on small, realistic changes – like improving my sleep and making better food choices when I’m low on energy.

    Tools like the Healthy Choices Quiz are great for helping people like me find simple ways to get back on track. It’s pointed me in the direction of making healthier food choices, and shared some great advice on how to sleep better. I’d recommend others give it a go.

    Craig, 49, from London, said:

    Staying active is really important to me – whether I’m running, walking, or just making sure I hit my step count – but I’m always looking for ways to do a bit better. Taking the Healthy Choices Quiz gave me a fresh perspective and introduced me to NHS tools I hadn’t used before, like the Drink Free Days app.

    They’ve helped me think more about balance, especially when it comes to food and alcohol, and I like that they offer flexible options that fit around my lifestyle. I’m not aiming for perfection, just small changes I can stick with and that feel achievable.

    Ian, 59, from the West Midlands, said:

    After years of walking miles every day as a postman, walking has remained a simple, low-impact way for me to stay active. I enjoy tracking my steps and often set myself goals to achieve, which makes it a little more fun when walking in adverse weathers. I know there’s still room to improve my lifestyle, but I’m taking it one step at a time.

    Recently, I’ve started making changes to my diet by cutting out sugary snacks for healthier options. I’m always looking for ways to keep improving, and tools like the Healthy Choices Quiz offer helpful ideas to build on what I’m already doing.

    Kristina, 41, from the West Midlands, said:

    Life gets so busy and it’s so easy to forget about yourself, but it’s important to feel empowered in the choices you make. For me, I love going outside and moving when I have a spare moment – even if it’s just for a dog walk. I use it as a time to reflect and it has made a real difference to my mental health.

    Taking the Healthy Choices Quiz was the first step that helped me understand where to start and how to feel healthier and happier – especially if, like me, you didn’t know where to begin.

    Joanne, 45, from the south-east, said:

    As someone with a busy professional and family life, when it comes to a healthy lifestyle it’s not about being perfect – it’s about doing what you can do, when you can. Life can feel like a loop of sleep, work, repeat, but it’s vital to break that cycle and make time for yourself every day, whether that’s walking, running or enjoying a nourishing meal.

    I’d recommend the Healthy Choices Quiz as a first step for anyone looking to feel healthier and happier.

    Dr Richard Piper, CEO at Alcohol Change UK, said:

    Too many of us still struggle to understand the link between the alcohol we drink and the impact it is having on our daily lives – from poorer sleep and worsening mental health to long-term conditions. This is made harder by the myths and misinformation across health and lifestyle content, including alcohol. 

    That’s why free, quick and easy interactive tools from trusted sources like this new Healthy Choices Quiz are an effective way to help more of us connect the dots between our lifestyles, including drinking habits, and our physical and mental health. Alcohol Change UK is proud to support the NHS and provide additional free, impartial tools and advice for anyone looking to change their relationship with alcohol.

    Douglas Twenefour, Head of Clinical at Diabetes UK, said: 

    Eating a healthy diet, moving more and cutting back on alcohol can lower a person’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It can also be really beneficial for people living with all types of diabetes – helping them reduce their risk of serious complications, such as heart attacks and strokes. 

    The Healthy Choices Quiz gives people a clear snapshot of their mental and physical health, offering practical tips that can make a real difference to their overall wellbeing. 

    Dell Stanford, senior dietitian at the British Heart Foundation, said: 

    Making small changes to your diet can have a big impact on your heart health. Eating more fruit, vegetables, wholegrains and pulses while cutting back on foods high in salt, sugar and saturated fat is one of the most effective ways to protect your heart. 

    Alongside this, being physically active and avoiding smoking are also important steps people can take to maintain good heart health. This quick, 5-minute quiz is a useful way for people to understand what changes could make the biggest difference for them. 

    But individual action alone isn’t enough. We also need to create a healthier environment where nutritious, affordable options are the easiest choice for everyone. This includes making healthy food more accessible so improvements are within reach for all. 

  • PRESS RELEASE : The United Kingdom will continue to work with all partners to implement Resolution 2803 and to forge a just and lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians, anchored in a two-state solution – UK statement at the UN Security Council [November 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : The United Kingdom will continue to work with all partners to implement Resolution 2803 and to forge a just and lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians, anchored in a two-state solution – UK statement at the UN Security Council [November 2025]

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

    Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Chargé d’Affaires to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Gaza.

    Last week, this Council adopted Resolution 2803, sending a powerful message of international support for President Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza, and the diplomatic efforts of Qatar, Türkiye and Egypt.  

    This marks a pivotal moment after two years of horrendous suffering. And is crucial to cementing the ceasefire and charting a course towards lasting peace. 

    We urge all parties to abide by the ceasefire and we reiterate that Hamas must locate and hand over the bodies of the remaining three deceased hostages. 

    I will make three points.  

    First, Resolution 2803 must be implemented fully, effectively and in accordance with international law.  

    We need an International Stabilisation Force and trained Palestinian police deployed quickly to support the ceasefire and avoid a vacuum that Hamas could exploit.  

    Hamas should uphold their commitments under the 20-point plan to disarm and end their governance over Gaza. 

    Transitional arrangements must respect Palestinian sovereignty and self-determination and pave the way for a reformed Palestinian Authority to resume governance in Gaza.  

    Palestine must be run by Palestinians.  

    We look forward to the urgent formation of a Palestinian Committee alongside the Board of Peace.  

    Second, Resolution 2803 underscores the importance of the full resumption of humanitarian aid in Gaza.  

    The humanitarian situation remains catastrophic.  

    Heavy rains have deepened the misery, worsening shelter needs as winter closes in.  

    The United Nations has confirmed that over 1.5 million people are in urgent need of emergency shelter, yet Israel continues to restrict lifesaving aid.  

    Every crossing and route must be opened without delay, and essential items including shelter kits and medical supplies allowed in.  

    Last winter, at least eight newborns died of hypothermia in fewer than three weeks. Those deaths were preventable.  

    Israel must allow aid in now, without delay, and permit the United Nations, including UNRWA, as well as international non-governmental organisations, to operate freely and effectively.  

    Third, while the ceasefire in Gaza offers hope, stability in the West Bank is essential to any sustainable peace.  

    Yet we have seen further appalling incidents of settler violence during the olive harvest.  

    Last month, OCHA recorded more than 260 Israeli settler attacks, resulting in Palestinian casualties or damage to property.

    This month, we have witnessed horrific arson attacks, including on a mosque, in the West Bank.  

     These unacceptable incidents must be thoroughly investigated and those responsible held accountable.   

    We also urge Israel to end its stranglehold on the Palestinian economy by releasing withheld clearance revenues, protecting correspondent banking arrangements, and facilitating shekel transfers from Palestinian banks.  

    And we reiterate our call on Israel to halt the expansion of illegal settlements, including the E1 plans.  

    This is a pivotal moment for the future of the region.  

    The United Kingdom will continue to work with all partners to implement Resolution 2803 and to forge a just and lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians, anchored in a two-state solution.