Category: Press Releases

PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister call with His Highness the Crown Prince of Kuwait [March 2026]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 19 March 2026.

The Prime Minister spoke to His Highness the Crown Prince of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah today.

The Prime Minister began by condemning Iran’s unacceptable and reckless strikes on Kuwait’s oil refineries yesterday, as well as the wider attacks on the Gulf. He shared his condolences for those who have lost their lives in Kuwait and reiterated the need for de-escalation.

The leaders agreed on the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz and to continue working together, including on defensive capabilities in the region.

They agreed to keep in touch.

March 23, 2026
PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria [March 2026]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 19 March 2026.

The Prime Minister welcomed the Nigerian President, Mr Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to Downing Street today.

The leaders began by acknowledging the longstanding ties shared by both countries, including our Commonwealth values and deep connections across communities, families and businesses.

Both leaders committed to deepening their long-term partnership on trade, infrastructure and sustainable growth. The Prime Minister welcomed Nigerian companies expanding into the UK, showcasing Nigeria’s role as a key source of innovation and investment.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of the deal agreed today to support the redevelopment of two of Nigeria’s major trading ports, with British Steel supplying 120,000 tonnes of steel billets to construction companies Hitech Nigeria and ITB Nigeria and supporting jobs at home in the UK.

The leaders shared their concern at the horrific situation in Sudan, and the Prime Minister updated on the latest UK action to deliver humanitarian aid to civilians on the ground.

On defence and security, they committed to work more closely together to enhance the UK and Nigeria’s response to transnational crime and terrorism. On migration, the leaders agreed to improve procedures on returns.

They looked forward to speaking again soon.

March 23, 2026
PRESS RELEASE : New fertiliser regulations to back British farmers and cut pollution [March 2026]

The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 19 March 2026.

New plans aim to support British farmers by improving supply resilience to global market shocks and supporting innovation in the fertiliser sector.

British farmers could benefit from access to new and innovative fertilising products which have the potential to reduce air, land and water pollution under new government proposals launched today (Thursday 19 March).

The consultation and call for evidence set out plans to help support innovation in the fertiliser sector, diversify supply, and strengthen the UK’s resilience to global market shocks.

Current fertiliser regulations are widely seen as outdated and could do more to support fertiliser supply resilience and protect the environment, as well as being more agile to enable new products to enter the market. Despite its complexity, the framework has remained largely unchanged for more than 20 years and applies mainly to inorganic mineral fertilisers, limiting its overall scope.

Expanding access to a wider range of fertiliser products and introducing a more flexible legislative framework would help strengthen future fertiliser supply.

The proposals form part of the government’s plan to work hand-in-hand with farmers and industry to put more homegrown food on people’s plates, grow the economy, and protect the countryside.

The government is actively monitoring developments in the Middle East and the impacts on the food and farming sector, including rising fertiliser prices. It has taken action to support greater price transparency, raising industry concerns with the Competitions and Market Authority (CMA) and asking the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board to report back on fertiliser and red diesel supply and use across agricultural sectors.

The CMA has confirmed it will work with government to identify and monitor sectors likely to be affected by price rises and disruption – including fertilisers – so we can respond swiftly to any evidence of harmful practices across the economy.

The government continues to work with industry and farmers to understand any potential pressures and options to mitigate any immediate risks.

Farming Minister Dame Angela Eagle said:

Farmers work tirelessly to feed the nation, and they deserve a system that keep pace with modern agriculture, supports farm businesses, encourages innovation and cuts pollution.

These proposals would help support innovation in the fertiliser sector, reduce reliance on imports, and support more sustainable farming.

Jo Gilbertson, Agricultural Industries Confederation Sector Head for Fertilisers, said:

This consultation represents an important opportunity to put in place a fertiliser regulatory framework that is fit for the future.

Aligning with a European‑style fertilising products model, while tailoring it to UK conditions and co‑designing it with industry, should help deliver a system that protects standards, supports innovation, and works in practice for businesses and farmers alike.

The proposed reforms will also embed environmental standards and ensure labelling and marketing rules give end-users confidence that the products they buy are safe and effective.

The new framework is intended to support a more circular economy by increasing the use of recycled nutrients made by alternative technologies, cut pollution to land and water, and create opportunities for innovation and growth in the UK fertiliser sector.

Implementation of the new framework will need to be an iterative process and the call for evidence seeks views and evidence on newer and novel products and materials to inform future policy development, underlining the government’s commitment to working in partnership with the sector.

The consultation will run for eight weeks, closing on Wednesday 13 May with responses invited from farmers, manufacturers, environmental groups and the wider industry via GOV.UK.

March 23, 2026
PRESS RELEASE : New UK–Nigeria partnership to speed up removals [March 2026]

The press release issued by the Home Office on 19 March 2026.

The UK makes it quicker to return Nigerians with no legal right to remain.

Visa overstayers, foreign criminals and failed asylum seekers will be removed from British soil far more easily under a new agreement struck this week during the state visit of Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu.

UK letters, an alternative identification document issued to individuals without a valid passport and used to support the return of people with no right to remain in the UK, will be recognised by the Nigerian government for the first time.

The agreement, reached between the Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, and Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, removes one of the major administrative hurdles to returning people, meaning the UK will no longer have to wait for emergency travel documents to be issued by Nigeria.

The new deal adds to the sweeping reforms the Home Secretary has made to the UK immigration system to secure the UK’s borders and remove incentives attracting illegal migrants to Britain.

Minister for Border Security and Asylum Alex Norris said: 

Anyone who abuses our systems, breaks our laws or tries to cheat their way into Britain will be stopped and removed.

Today’s agreement is another step in our mission to restore order to the border by ensuring those who have no right to be here are swiftly removed.

Nigeria is a key partner in our work to tackle illegal migration, as the UK’s largest African visa market and home to thousands of Nigerians who have built their lives here. We owe everyone across the system fairness.

Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo said: 

For us, as a country, we keep saying that we are totally committed to being a responsible country in fulfilling our core obligations.

It is good that we are starting this with the UK. This relationship with the UK means a lot to Nigeria. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shown great commitment to this.

So it is one relationship that we aim to be able to sustain for generations yet to come. And for us to sustain that relationship, we must remember: ‘He who comes to equity must come with clean hands.’ So we need to be as open and as fair as possible.

Hopefully, this strengthened partnership will be a template for other bilateral understandings.

The agreement marks a shared commitment to safe, fair and well‑managed migration. Annual returns to Nigeria have nearly doubled to 1,150. Returns and deportations of illegal migrants and foreign criminals from the UK have reached nearly 60,000 since the 2024 election.

A further agreement to launch joint operations and share information has been reached to crack down on criminal gangs abusing visa routes, making sure all arrivals are genuine and ready to contribute.

Following a series of high‑profile cases involving fake job sponsorships, sham marriages and forged financial or employment records, a new standardised document‑checking system will verify the authenticity of applications. Nigeria will also review its laws to tackle immigration crime, ensuring the toughest possible sentences are handed down to offenders.

The UK has strengthened its commitment to protecting Nigerian women and children at risk of exploitation, while improving business‑visa schemes to help UK and Nigerian companies pursue investment opportunities aimed at driving economic growth.

A new partnership targeting online scammers involved in romance fraud, investment scams and cryptocurrency schemes will also deliver stronger protections for the UK public. The new “fusion cell” model will bring together public‑sector bodies, banks, tech firms and communications companies to rapidly share intelligence on criminal tactics so swift action can be taken.

The UK’s National Economic Crime Centre already uses this fusion‑cell model with strong results, including more than 400 arrests and £7.5 million seized under Operation Henhouse in February 2025.

Today’s partnership will build on work already disrupting high‑harm fraud networks, preventing millions in losses and protecting vulnerable people across the UK. Earlier this year, National Crime Agency officers and the Nigerian Police Force worked with Meta to uncover hundreds of cryptocurrency‑linked social media accounts used to target UK residents, leading to the arrest of 7 suspects in Agbor, Nigeria.

March 23, 2026
PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister call with the Amir of Qatar [March 2026]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 19 March 2026.

The Prime Minister spoke to the Amir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani this afternoon.

The Prime Minister began by condemning the Iranian strikes on Qatari energy facilities overnight. He said that such reckless attacks on critical infrastructure risk pushing the region further into crisis and worsening the severe economic impacts being felt globally, including in the UK.

Discussing the ongoing defensive support the UK is providing to our partners in the region, the Prime Minister was clear that the UK would continue to stand with Qatar and all our allies in the Gulf.

The leaders agreed that the immediate priority must be de-escalation and that they would stay in close touch in the coming days and weeks.

March 23, 2026
PRESS RELEASE : Combatting Anti Muslim Hatred – UK statement to the OSCE [March 2026]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 19 March 2026.

Deputy Ambassador James Ford reaffirms the UK’s commitment to tackling anti Muslim hatred and promoting tolerance and non-discrimination and the enjoyment of human rights for all.

Thank you, Mr Chair.

The United Kingdom reiterates its firm commitment to tolerance, non‑discrimination, and the full enjoyment of human rights for all. These principles are at the heart of the OSCE’s comprehensive approach to security. When they are undermined, our societies become less cohesive, less resilient, and less safe.

We thank Türkiye for raising this important issue today. Anti‑Muslim hatred is a serious and persistent problem across the OSCE area. No one should face intimidation, discrimination or violence because they are Muslim or perceived to be Muslim.

According to the UK’s most recent official statistics, 45% of police-recorded religious hate crimes targeted Muslims – a level that has been high for many years. This month, the UK Government adopted a new non‑statutory definition of Anti‑Muslim Hostility. This definition was informed by the work of an independent expert working group and a broad evidence‑gathering process.

The definition has a clear purpose within the UK: to improve understanding of unacceptable hostility targeting Muslims and those perceived to be Muslim, and to provide a practical framework for action. The definition helps public authorities, employers and services recognise when behaviour crosses the line into targeted hostility, unlawful discrimination or prejudicial stereotyping intended to encourage hatred.

Domestically, this sits alongside wider work to tackle all forms of religiously motivated hate crime and to strengthen social cohesion. The UK continues to support security measures for places of worship, to fund monitoring and victim‑support services, and to promote dialogue between communities. We recognise that antisemitism, anti‑Muslim hatred and other forms of hatred often rise together and must be addressed together.

Internationally, the UK remains committed to championing freedom of religion or belief for all, and to implementing our OSCE human dimension commitments. We will continue to support ODIHR and the OSCE’s Personal Representatives on tolerance and non‑discrimination, and to share good practice, including on the implementation of non‑statutory definitions at a national level such as the IHRA working definition of antisemitism and, now, our definition of Anti‑Muslim Hostility.

Across the OSCE region, we must resist efforts to instrumentalise religion for political ends, and we must confront disinformation and narratives that inflame tensions between communities. The United Kingdom will continue to work with participating States, OSCE institutions and civil society to ensure that every individual can live free from fear, and that diversity is recognised as a source of strength, not division.

Thank you, Mr Chair.

March 23, 2026
PRESS RELEASE : Ecuador and the United Kingdom hold Bilateral Political Consultations [March 2026]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 19 March 2026.

Ecuador and UK hold political consultations in London, reaffirming strong ties and advancing cooperation on security, trade, environment and education.

Delegations from Ecuador and the United Kingdom held their first Bilateral Political Consultation in London on 19 March 2026. The meeting was co-chaired by the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ecuador, Ambassador Alejandro Dávalos, and the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Multilateral, Human Rights, Latin America and the Caribbean), Chris Elmore MP.

Noting the strong and historic partnership between the UK and Ecuador, the Consultation reaffirmed the excellent state of bilateral relations and the shared commitment of both countries to maintaining regular political and technical dialogue.

A range of bilateral issues were discussed, with particular emphasis on security, trade & investment, and environment & climate cooperation. During the meeting, both authorities reflected on the growing people-people links being built between the UK and Ecuador, including through education, business and tourism.

The Consultation included exchanges on our strong trade relationship. The parties celebrated the developments made in recent years, supported by the Double Taxation Agreement and Andean Trade Agreement. Vice Minister Dávalos also highlighted the strategic importance of the banana trade for Ecuador’s economic growth, its development and labour, and on sustainability and environmental protection.

On security matters, both parties agreed on the importance of strengthening cooperation against transnational organised crime, particularly through enhanced collaboration on maritime security, drug trafficking, information exchange and efforts to combat illicit financial flows. Minister Elmore stressed the UK’s commitment to enhancing regional and international security.

The parties exchanged views on other areas of mutual interest, including migration, environmental cooperation, and the strengthening of educational opportunities through the UK’s Chevening Programme and the scientific research grants offered by Ecuador in the Galapagos.

The UK and Ecuador remain committed to strengthening bilateral ties across security, trade, development, environment and climate. At the conclusion of the meeting both parties agreed to continue advancing the issues discussed, and to reconvene in Ecuador in 2027.

March 23, 2026
PRESS RELEASE : Expansion of Meningitis B vaccination offer to Kent Students [March 2026]
The press release issued by the UK Health Security Agency on 19 March 2026.

The Meningitis B vaccine will now be offered to everyone who has been offered preventative antibiotic treatment as part of this outbreak.
- Vaccination will now be extended to everyone who has been offered preventative antibiotic treatment as part of this outbreak.
- Preventative antibiotics – and vaccination – will also now be offered to the 6th form students (years 12 and 13) in schools and colleges in Kent where confirmed or probable cases are identified.
- On a case-by-case basis, future risk assessment may also support use in other year groups or settings.
- Students can, and should, continue to attend schools and colleges as normal.
- The NHS Kent and Medway website will be updated shortly with vaccination sites for those eligible.
- The key intervention to protect people and halt the spread remains for people to come forward for antibiotic treatment. A single course of antibiotics is highly effective in preventing the contraction and spread of this disease in 90% of cases.
- As a further precautionary measure, we are extending the offer of antibiotic prophylaxis and vaccine to any individuals who attended Club Chemistry from the 5 March until it closed voluntarily on 15 March.
- 20,000 vaccines from the NHS supply will be made available to the private market, to ease current demand experienced by pharmacies. These will enter the private market within around 48 hours.
In response to the ongoing Meningitis B (MenB) outbreak in Kent, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is expanding the offer of preventative antibiotic treatment and vaccination to control the outbreak.

Preventative antibiotic treatment and vaccination will now be offered to 6th sixth form students (years 12 and 13) in schools and colleges in Kent with confirmed or probable cases. On a case-by-case basis, following risk assessment by the local health protection team, antibiotics and vaccination may also be made available to additional year groups. Students can, and should, continue to attend schools and colleges as normal.

In addition to the approximately 5,000 students who were initially contacted, vaccination will now be extended to everyone who has been offered preventative antibiotic treatment as part of this outbreak. This includes University of Kent students who live on the Canterbury Campus and other relevant halls of residence; close contacts of confirmed or suspected cases, and students in four education settings in Kent where cases have been confirmed. Anyone who visited Club Chemistry in Canterbury between 5 and 15 March will also be offered a vaccine and antibiotics as a precaution after one suspected case revisited the nightclub before it shut voluntarily.

This extension ensures that those most likely to have been in close contact with confirmed or suspected cases are offered longer term protection as early as possible.

The NHS Kent and Medway website will be updated shortly with vaccination sites for those eligible.

Patients eligible for antibiotics will now be able to request a vaccination and antibiotics from their local GP immediately – wherever they are in England.

While preventative antibiotics remain the key intervention to protect people and halt the spread of infection, vaccination is being offered as an additional measure to provide longer term protection for those at increased risk.

Given current demand on the private MenB vaccine market, 20,000 doses will also be released from NHS supply to support continuity of private provision, enabling up to 2,000 pharmacies to receive vaccines in the next 48 hours.

Professor Susan Hopkins, Chief Executive of the UK Health Security Agency, said:

By extending the vaccination programme to everyone who has been offered preventative antibiotics, we are taking an important additional step to protect those most likely to have been exposed. The message is simple: if you have had the antibiotic, you are also eligible for the vaccination.

People are reminded to remain alert to the signs and symptoms of invasive meningococcal disease and to seek urgent medical attention if they or someone they know becomes unwell.

Background

Meningococcal disease (meningitis and sepsis) is an uncommon but serious disease caused by meningococcal bacteria. Very occasionally, the meningococcal bacteria can cause serious illness, (inflammation of the lining of the brain) and sepsis (blood poisoning), which can rapidly lead to sepsis.

The onset of illness is often sudden and early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are vital.

Early symptoms, which may not always be present, include:
- a rash that doesn’t fade when pressed with a glass
- sudden onset of high fever
- severe and worsening headache
- stiff neck
- vomiting and diarrhoea
- joint and muscle pain
- dislike of bright lights
- very cold hands and feet
- seizures
- confusion/delirium
- extreme sleepiness/difficulty waking
Young people going on to university or college for the first time are particularly at risk of meningitis because they newly mix with so many other students, some of whom are unknowingly carrying the bacteria at the back of their nose and throat.

There are numerous strains of the meningococcal infection.

There are numerous strains of the meningococcal infection. The MenACWY vaccination gives good protection against MenA, MenC, MenW, and MenY and is routinely offered to teenagers in school Years 9 and 10. However, this vaccine does not protect against all forms of meningococcal infection. Other strains such as MenB can circulate in young adults, which is why it’s important to know how to spot the symptoms of meningitis and sepsis as early detection and treatment can save lives. 
March 23, 2026
PRESS RELEASE : Scotland-France ferry link moves closer with £3 million UK Government commitment [March 2026]

The press release issued by HM Treasury on 19 March 2026.

Investment will upgrade vital Border Force and Customs infrastructure at the port.

A direct ferry route from Scotland to Dunkirk has today moved a step closer thanks to a £3 million UK Government commitment.

Funded through the UK Government’s Growth Mission Fund, the investment will support the upgrade of vital Border Force and Customs infrastructure at the port. It was announced today [19 March] by the Scottish Secretary ahead of a visit to the Rosyth to meet senior figures from Forth Ports, international ferry operator DFDS, and the operators of the Port of Dunkirk.

The UK Government’s £3 million funding is subject to the conclusion of a commercial agreement between Forth Ports (operator of the Port of Rosyth) and a ferry operator, as well as approval of their business case.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

My plan to build a stronger and more secure economy is the right one – cutting the cost of living, cutting the national debt and creating the conditions for growth.

Backing Rosyth with this £3 million investment would be a major boost to Scotland’s infrastructure and tourism, and would make the area a more attractive place to live, work and start a business in the years to come.

Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander said:

With the UK Government delivering £3 million in investment, this new direct ferry service would connect Scotland to Europe’s doorstep. The UK Government is backing Scottish businesses to grow, export and compete on the world stage.

It would boost tourism, open up new markets for Scottish businesses, create jobs, take freight off our roads and grow Scotland’s economy. This is a big step forward and I hope we will soon see the first ferry set sail. This is a major vote of confidence in Scotland’s, and the UK’s, economic future.

Mathieu Girardin, Executive Vice President and Head of DFDS’s Ferry Division, said:

We are pleased to see the UK Government’s commitment to strengthening port infrastructure in Rosyth. This is an important step in bringing a new route between Scotland and mainland Europe closer to reality. While a few elements still need to be addressed, we see strong potential in the route and look forward to continuing our discussions with all partners involved to move the project forward.

Stuart Wallace, Chief Executive Officer, Forth Ports said:

Forth Ports welcomes this step from the UK Government to support the growth of the maritime freight and passenger sector in Scotland. A ferry service from Rosyth to mainland Europe is a key part of the Forth Green Freeport and this funding helps create the market conditions needed to see the ferry take a step closer to reality .

Daniel Deschodt, Executive Vice President of the Port of Dunkirk, said:

The establishment of a direct maritime link between the ports of Rosyth and Dunkirk is a significant strategic asset. This new freight and passenger ferry service will enhance connectivity between the two countries, facilitating smoother trade flows and serving as a powerful catalyst for economic growth. It will stimulate port activity, boost local employment, and strengthen the logistics, competitiveness, and tourism of both regions within Europe.

The new route – fifteen years after the last passenger service ended between Scotland and mainland Europe – would operate from Rosyth to Dunkirk with both freight and passengers, subject to a commercial agreement between Forth Ports and a ferry operator. It would link with Dunkirk’s state-of-the-art rail terminal, which connects the port to major centres across the European Union, opening up significant new opportunities for Scottish exporters.

The EU is a key market for Scottish businesses, accounting for nearly half (45%) of exports. This new link would help drive economic growth in Scotland by strengthening logistical competitiveness, export capability and tourism opportunities. It would also create local jobs to support the ferry’s operation. It comes at a time when the UK and EU are seeking to strengthen cross border trade cooperation through the new EU/UK trade agreement.

Over the last two weeks, the UK Government has been running a series of masterclasses to help Scottish businesses sell their goods and services overseas. Experts were joined by the UK Business Centre in Lille to discuss the opportunities available in the French market and more widely in Europe.

March 23, 2026
PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer call with NATO Secretary General Rutte and President Macron of France [March 2026]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 19 March 2026.

The Prime Minister spoke to the NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte, and the President of France, Emmanuel Macron, this morning.

The leaders discussed the situation in the Middle East, including the egregious Iranian strikes on Qatari energy facilities.

Attacks on critical infrastructure risked pushing the region further into crisis, the leaders agreed.

Turning to the Strait of Hormuz, the leaders reiterated the importance of securing the key maritime route and supporting freedom of navigation for shipping.

It was vital partners worked together on a viable plan, the Prime Minister added.

The leaders agreed to speak again soon.

March 23, 2026