Category: Press Releases

  • PRESS RELEASE : New Chief Economic Advisor to the Treasury appointed [February 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : New Chief Economic Advisor to the Treasury appointed [February 2026]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 13 February 2026.

    Professor Brian Bell has been appointed as the new Chief Economic Advisor to the Treasury and Head of the Government Economic Service, replacing Sam Beckett.

    Professor Bell will be the principal advisor to the Chancellor and the Prime Minister on the macroeconomy and fiscal policy, leading the Treasury’s economics function and its work to deliver the government’s economic objectives. He will commence the role on Monday 9th March.

    He replaces Sam Beckett, who held the role from 2023 until her retirement earlier this year.

    Professor Bell is currently Chair of the Migration Advisory Committee and a Professor of Economics at King’s Business School, King’s College London. He has previously held roles at the Bank of England and the International Monetary Fund, as well as positions in the private sector, working as an economist and proprietary trader for hedge funds and investment banks in London.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    “Thanks to the choices we’ve made we have had six interest rate cuts since the election, inflation is falling faster than expected and we have beaten the OBR’s growth forecasts. Through stability, investment and reform, this government has the right plan for our economy and the appointment of Professor Brian Bell will strengthen our economic leadership as we deliver for working people.”

    James Bowler, Permanent Secretary to the Treasury, said:

    “I am very pleased to welcome Brian to HM Treasury as Director General Economics and Fiscal, and Chief Economic Advisor. His extensive experience in economic research and policymaking, at leading financial institutions, and the financial services sector will be invaluable as we work to deliver the government’s economic agenda.

    “I look forward to working with him as he leads the department’s economic analysis, advice to ministers, and Government Economic Service.”

    Professor Brian Bell said:

    “This is a pivotal moment for the UK economy, with an ambitious plan to deliver growth, reduce the cost of living and improve economic security for households and businesses across the country.

    “I look forward to working with colleagues across the Treasury, the wider civil service and our partners to provide rigorous economic advice to the Chancellor and the Prime Minister, and to help ensure policy decisions deliver real benefits for people and communities in every part of the UK.”

  • PRESS RELEASE : Hypersonic missiles development accelerated by new contract [February 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Hypersonic missiles development accelerated by new contract [February 2026]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 13 February 2026.

    The development of the new hypersonic missiles will speed up thanks to a £12 million contract which will benefit British-based businesses.

    A £12 million investment in hypersonic missiles and systems has been made with Warrington-based engineering contractor, Amentum UK.

    Supported by Ebeni and Synthetik, based in Wiltshire and London respectively, they will deliver engineering expertise to develop the design for the hypersonic system, which will be demonstrated through flight testing before being adapted into prototype missiles able to operate at extreme speeds and temperatures required for hypersonic flight.

    These efforts will build the UK’s sovereign hypersonic missile capability, strengthening our national security and our industrial partnership with NATO allies.

    The Strategic Defence Review (SDR) highlighted the importance of hypersonic missiles to modern warfighting and the advances announced today will help deliver on the SDR conclusions. Building sovereign capability of these long-range, high-speed precision weapons will help protect the UK and our allies, and boost NATO deterrence.

    The Government is delivering the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the Cold War, hitting 2.6% of GDP from 2027.

    Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard MP said:

    In this new era of threat, we need a new era for defence. This means moving quicker to develop and buy the cutting-edge technologies our Armed Forces need for modern warfighting.

    We are making defence an engine for growth. This contract will accelerate the UK’s development of sovereign hypersonic missile capability, strengthen our national security and back British workers.

    This award builds on significant momentum within the hypersonics programme since July 2024. 124 suppliers, of which over 50% are small and medium enterprises (SMEs), have been awarded 22 contracts across a range of different technology and capability areas to progress our hypersonics capability. The total estimated value of contracts awarded since July 2024 is £48 million, with a notable proportion of funds flowing to SMEs.  

    A proportion of the contract will flow directly to SME partners Ebeni and Synthetik, who have been integral to developing the solution from the outset. The partnership includes reverse mentoring arrangements which will reduce barriers to entry for smaller businesses and promote collaborative working across the supply chain. 

    Awarding of the contract took only 31 days after the invitation to tender, delivering against the Government’s pledge to speed up lengthy procurement processes. The MOD’s Commercial X team is fulfilling its mission to deliver ground-breaking technology and innovation quickly, by modernising Defence’s approach to acquisition while cutting bureaucracy.

    Rupert Pearce, National Armaments Director, said: 

    This contract represents exactly the kind of innovative partnership approach that the Defence Industrial Strategy demands, bringing together expertise from across Defence, large companies, SMEs, and academia to deliver at pace.

    This Industry Mission Partner model breaks down traditional organisational boundaries and creates the collaborative environment we need to deliver this critical sovereign capability. We are not only advancing our hypersonic ambitions but also strengthening our defence industrial base and supporting jobs across the UK.

    Cdr Paul Greason, Team Hypersonics (UK) Programme Director, said:

    Successfully launching the Industry Mission Partner contract is a significant achievement for Team Hypersonics (UK).  It follows extensive industry engagement across the Hypersonics Technologies & Capability Development Framework (HTCDF) suppliers to prepare for swift commercial activity to maintain challenging timelines. 

    Delivering against our stated intent was as important for MOD as it is for Industry and I am grateful to my team for meeting this challenge which was fundamental to establishing a successful partnership.

    Armentum and its subcontractors Ebeni Limited and Synthetik Applied Technologies UK Ltd will work as part of a fully integrated Team Hypersonics, established to deliver MOD’s ambition to field a Hypersonic Strike Capability, developing a weapons system demonstrator by the end of the decade.

  • PRESS RELEASE : 7 new Trustees appointed to the National Museums Liverpool Board [February 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : 7 new Trustees appointed to the National Museums Liverpool Board [February 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 13 February 2026.

    The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport has appointed 7 new Trustees to the National Museums Liverpool Board, for 4 years terms.

    Peter Duffy

    Appointed from 19 January 2026 to 18 January 2030.

    Peter is CEO of the FTSE 250 listed Mony Group PLC which operates under three consumer brands in the UK – MoneySuperMarket, MoneySavingExpert and Quidco.  He has extensive experience of digital businesses as well as banks, airlines, automotive and consumer delivery.  Previously, Peter was global CEO of Just Eat, CCO at easyJet, Marketing Director at Audi UK & Group Marketing Services Director at Barclays.  He has also served as a non-executive director of the merchant banking group Close Brothers and was President of the ISBA.

    Lord John Grantchester

    Appointed from 19 January 2026 to 18 January 2030.

    Lord Grantchester has held various prominent roles throughout his career, including serving as a member of the House of Lords since 1995. His non-executive experience has involved serving as an NED with Littlewoods in the 1990s  and a number of roles in farming and rural economy. He was Director of Dairy Farmers of Britain from 2003-2008 and Director of Everton Football Club Company Ltd from 1994 to 2000. He has also served on the council of the Liverpool County FA.

    Sue Harris

    Appointed from 19 January 2026 to 18 January 2030.

    After graduating with a degree in Natural Sciences from Cambridge University, Sue embarked on a career in accountancy, qualifying as a Chartered Accountant with Ernst & Young in Liverpool where she specialised in audit in the financial services sector. Following a move to RSM, Sue’s involvement in the charity and not-for-profit sectors began. During her career Sue has worked with national charities such as the Royal Horticultural Society and with local non departmental public bodies such as the Northwest Development Agency, advising on financial control, governance and risk management. 

    She is currently an audit partner with Champion Accountants, based in their Chester office, where her work with local charities continues. Sue is also a trustee and treasurer of Chester Civic Trust whose purpose is to preserve and enhance Chester’s architectural and cultural heritage and to foster civic pride and public interest. She is a great lover of art, taking every opportunity to visit art galleries and museums across the UK and Europe, and is passionate about the importance of cultural heritage to our human identity and of being part of the team at NML working to protect and preserve that heritage for future generations.

    Nigel Lowe

    Appointed from 19 January 2026 to 18 January 2030.

    Nigel Lowe was born and raised on Merseyside and has maintained a lifelong connection to the region’s industrial, cultural and maritime heritage. He went on to study at the University of Liverpool, graduating with an engineering degree that laid the foundation for a career spanning several decades. A Chartered Engineer and Fellow of the Institute of Engineering Technology, Nigel built his professional life across a range of technically demanding sectors, including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals and the nuclear industry.

    His work took him throughout the United Kingdom and overseas, giving him experience of complex operational environments and the opportunity to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. He worked in senior engineering and programme management roles where experience in highly regulated environments has given him a deep understanding of governance, risk management and organisational accountability.

    Now retired, Nigel remains active in the community. He is a keen gardener and DIY enthusiast. He is committed to supporting institutions that preserve the region’s history, broaden access to culture and inspire future generations. Nigel brings to the museum sector a long‑standing interest in Merseyside’s industrial and scientific heritage, together with a clear commitment to supporting institutions that preserve and interpret the region’s history for diverse audiences.

    Michelle Cox

    Appointed from 1 May 2026 to 30 April 2030.

    Michelle Cox MBE is a registered nurse with extensive experience across the UK health system and a strong track record in advancing equality, diversity and inclusion. She is a Fellow of the Royal College of Nursing and a Fellow of the Queen’s Nursing Institute, reflecting her contribution to professional leadership, community nursing, and service improvement.

    Kathryn Luke

    Appointed from 1 May 2026 to 30 April 2030.

    Kathryn graduated Nottingham Trent University in 2004 with a BA Hons degree in Business Studies specialising in Marketing. Following university, she worked in marketing for commercial radio stations before moving into destination and events marketing. Relocating to Liverpool to work for Liverpool Culture Company to promote Liverpool leading up to and during its European Capital of Culture year in 2008.

    Following the conclusion of the Capital of Culture year Kathryn returned to her native North East England to take up a position as Brand Manager for the Regional Development Agency, One North East, to promote North East England as a tourism destination, alongside key commercial travel partners, in key international markets.

    However, having fallen in love with Liverpool she took the opportunity to return to the city to work for one of the UK’s largest Pureplay Online Retailers, Very. Kathryn has worked in online retail since 2011, spending 10 years at Very followed by 3 years at SimplyBe. Kathryn is a customer focused Ecommerce leader, supporting digital transformation and leading teams to deliver commercial revenue targets and is currently Director of Ecommerce Trading at Liverpool Football Club.

    Clare Milsom

    Appointed from 1 May 2026 to 30 April 2030.

    Professor Clare Milsom is a senior higher education leader and academic palaeontologist with extensive experience in governance, institutional transformation, and strategic leadership. As Registrar and Chief Operating Officer at Liverpool John Moores University, she has led major initiatives including the Estates Masterplan and the creation of a digital architecture delivering class-leading technology solutions across virtual and physical campuses. Her leadership has strengthened operational efficiency, enhanced the student experience, and advanced the university’s strategic growth and reputation. 

    Alongside her leadership roles, Clare has over two decades of academic experience in palaeontology, with research spanning palaeobiology, taphonomy, and macroevolution. She has published extensively, including internationally recognised books such as Fossils at a Glance and multiple edited volumes on higher education policy. Awarded a National Teaching Fellowship and a Professorship of Academic Practice, she contributes widely to sector development through board memberships and collaborations in research, education, and governance.

    Remuneration and Governance Code

    Trustees of National Museums Liverpool are not remunerated. 

    This appointment has been made in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments. The appointments process is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Under the Code, any significant political activity undertaken by an appointee in the last five years must be declared. This is defined as including holding office, public speaking, making a recordable donation, or candidature for election. 

    Lord Grantchester is a member of the House of Lords and has previously held Shadow Parliamentary roles for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, International Trade, and Environment, Food and Rural affairs.

    Michelle Cox, Peter Duffy, Kathryn Luke, Nigel Lowe, Clare Milsom and Sue Harris have declared no political activity.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Communities set to benefit from 13 new bathing spots proposed across England [February 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Communities set to benefit from 13 new bathing spots proposed across England [February 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 12 February 2026.

    Proposed sites include the first ever on the River Thames in London.

    Communities across the country could soon benefit from thirteen new designated bathing spots, giving local people greater confidence to enjoy the rivers and beaches they cherish, Water Minister Emma Hardy announced today.   

    The proposals include the first ever designated bathing spot on the River Thames in London, which marks a vast transformation in water quality across the river. From it being declared “biologically dead” in the 1950s – to now being a place of national pride.

    New sites will see the nation’s total bathing spots increase to 464, helping more people benefit from safer local places to swim, spend time with family and connect with nature. It comes as the Government focuses on delivering improved water quality for swimmers across the country.  

    After years of indifference towards bathing waters and very few sites designated throughout the 2010s, this Government has taken swift action to expand the number of bathing sites across the country and support water quality, with four in five bathing sites being rated as either ‘excellent’ or ‘good’. 

    Local communities are being invited to have their say on proposals to designate 13 new bathing water sites, as part of a six-week public consultation. They include new rivers and coastal waters that are already popular with swimmers, reflecting growing public interest in outdoor swimming and connecting with local blue spaces. 

    Being designated can also bring wider benefits for local areas – from boosting tourism to strengthening community pride in much-loved rivers and beaches.  

    Water Minister Emma Hardy said: 

    Rivers and beaches are at the heart of so many communities – where people come together, families make memories and swimmers of all ages feel the benefits of being outdoors safely.

    Our plans to designate new bathing water sites show how we are backing local ambition and recognising the pride in places that matter most to people. 

    This comes alongside this government’s generational reform of the water system, that will cut water pollution and clean up our rivers lakes and seas for good.

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said:

    I am committed to improving water quality across the Thames and all of the capital’s waterways. Londoners from all backgrounds should be able to swim safely in the city and my upcoming Clean and Healthy Waterways Plan will create safe, welcoming spaces for all Londoners to enjoy.

    It is great to see plans for the first ever designated bathing spot in the River Thames in London and progress being made in creating more sites for open water swimming, as we build a better, greener London for everyone.

    Claire Robertson, Catchment Manager at environmental charity Thames21, said:

    This is fantastic news not only for the many swimmers who enjoy these sites, but also for the wider community of river users and the wildlife that depend on a healthy river. Healthy rivers benefit everyone, and these designations mark important steps towards improving water quality and protecting precious stretches of the Thames.

    The efforts of Thames21, its volunteers and partners made the proposal for Pangbourne Meadows possible. We are incredibly grateful to the dedicated citizen scientists for their hard work and commitment – we simply couldn’t have achieved it without them. We also extend our sincere thanks to all the individuals, councils and organisations who supported our application.

    Other proposed sites would represent the first designated bathing waters in counties including Berkshire – in the area which inspired the Wind in the Willows; and Cheshire – where bathing traditions date back to the Romans. 

    The consultation follows applications submitted in 2025 and forms part of the government’s wider commitment to empower communities to shape how their local environment is protected and enjoyed. It comes alongside planned reforms to modernise the bathing water system, ensuring it is fit for today and reflects how people use rivers and beaches. 

    Following the consultation, the government will consider responses before confirming which sites will be designated ahead of the 2026 bathing water season. 

    Last year, 93% of England’s bathing waters met acceptable standards for swimming. The government’s new Bathing Water Regulation reforms came into force on 21 November 2025, designed to change the ‘one size fits all’ approach and more closely reflect how people use our beaches, lakes and rivers.  

    Notes to editors:

    Designated Bathing Waters are regularly tested for water quality throughout the bathing season (15 May – 30 September).

    The sites under consultation are: 

    1. Little Shore, Amble, Northumberland, a crescent of sand between the River Coquet and the North Sea popular with locals 
    2. Newton and Noss Creeks, Devon, a narrow tidal inlet just off the River Yealm in the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty 
    3. Canvey Island Foreshore, Essex, a unique family favourite sandy beach.   
    4. Sandgate Granville Parade Beach, Kent, shingle beach enjoyed by swimmers, and kayakers.  
    5. Queen Elizabeth Gardens Salisbury, Wiltshire, one of Salisbury’s most cherished parks opened in the early 1960s to commemorate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II 
    6. East Beach at West Bay, Bridport, Dorset, filming location for the iconic ITV drama Broadchurch.  
    7. Pangbourne Meadow, Berkshire, a meadow and river in the area that inspired The Wind in the Willows 
    8. River Fowey in Lostwithiel, Cornwall, a scenic tidal river, flowing through the heart of the town 
    9. River Swale in Richmond, Yorkshire, with dramatic waterfalls over limestone steps 
    10. Falcon Meadow, Bungay, Suffolk, a riverside community space on the River Waveney 
    11. River Thames at Ham and Kingston, Greater London, which could become London’s first river bathing site on the Thames 
    12. New Brighton Beach (East), Merseyside, a sandy seaside resort at the mouth of the Mersey Estuary 
    13. River Dee at Sandy Lane, Chester, Cheshire, a popular spot for families and water sports 

    Building on action already taken to ban bonuses, secure record levels of investment and introduce tougher laws, the government is introducing generational reform in the water sector, aimed at tackling problems like sewage pollution before they occur. 

    On water, the government has:  

    • Passed the landmark Water (Special Measures) Act, introducing the toughest enforcement powers in a decade, including criminal liability for water bosses who cover up illegal sewage spills and the power to ban unfair bonuses, which in 2025 blocked £4 million pounds in bonuses across six water companies.   
    • Ringfenced water company investment, ensuring customers’ money is spent on fixing pipes, reducing sewage spills and improving water quality, not dividends or bonuses.  
    • Given the Environment Agency teeth, allowing the regulator to recover enforcement costs from polluters, significantly boost inspections, and issue penalties more quickly without having to direct resources to lengthy investigations.     
    • Improved transparency, requiring real-time monitoring at every emergency overflow so the public can see what is happening in their local waters.   
    • Boosted protections for customers, doubling compensation when basic water services fail and making it easier for vulnerable households to access bill support. 
    • Signed into law a ban on the sale of plastic wet wipes, marking a major step forward in tackling plastic pollution which devastates our waterways.    
    • Set out once-in-a-generation reforms in the White Paper, including plans for: 
    • a new single water regulator, delivering tougher oversight and stronger accountability for water companies.   
    • a new Chief Engineer role which will bring back the hands-on checks of water infrastructure. 
    • an ‘MOT’ approach for water company infrastructure, requiring health checks on pipes, pumps and more 
    • a roll-out of smart metering and mandatory efficiency labels on items like dishwashers and washing machines will help households monitor their water use and cut costs 
    • Dedicated supervisory teams for each water company   
    • Stronger inspection powers, including the new regulator able to conduct ‘no notice’ inspections   
    • Stronger inspection powers, including the new regulator able to conduct ‘no notice’ inspections   
    • These measures are underpinned by over £104 billion in private investment, to upgrade water infrastructure over the next five years – the largest programme since privatisation – creating jobs, supporting new homes and cutting pollution. 

    Reforms to bathing waters include:  

    • We’ve ended the old rule that automatically removed a bathing water’s status after five years of ‘Poor’ ratings in a row. Now, when a site is struggling regulators will look at the issues affecting the water quality and, where possible, work towards finding realistic options for improving it.    
    • We’re bringing in more flexibility to monitoring dates – so that testing can be adapted to suit individual sites and better match when people actually use the water.   
    • A third reform, which will look at new criteria for bathing waters, will come into force in May 2026 to allow guidance to be fully developed.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Children to be better protected from second-hand smoking and vaping [February 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Children to be better protected from second-hand smoking and vaping [February 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 13 February 2026.

    The government is launching a consultation on extending smoke-free places and introducing vape-free and heated tobacco-free spaces.

    • Consultation on extending smoke-free places and introducing vape-free and heated tobacco-free spaces – as part of the 10 Year Health Plan
    • Kids’ playgrounds and schools set to be smoke, vape and heated tobacco-free to better protect children and vulnerable people from harm
    • Outside hospitals to be smoke and heated tobacco-free. Outdoor hospitality and wide-open public spaces not included 

    Children and medically vulnerable people will be better protected under plans to ban smoking from playgrounds, schools and hospitals. 

    The government has today (13 February 2026) launched a public consultation to seek views on stopping people smoking, vaping or using heated tobacco in public playgrounds and education settings in England. 

    Areas outside healthcare locations – such as hospitals – would also become smoke-free and heated tobacco-free under the proposals.

    Indoor spaces, where smoking is already banned, would also become vape-free and heated tobacco-free, subject to consultation. 

    Outdoor hospitality settings, including pub gardens and open public spaces, are not included in the proposals. Private homes and private outdoor spaces are also out of scope. 

    These proposals form part of the government’s 10 Year Health Plan to shift the focus of the NHS from sickness to prevention, tackling the root causes of ill health and reducing long-term pressure on services. 

    Second-hand smoke is harmful even outdoors, with children and medically vulnerable people at greatest risk. By acting in places where young people gather and patients receive care, the government aims to prevent avoidable harm before it happens and support a healthier generation.

    Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, said: 

    No child in a playground or hospital patient should suffer because someone else chooses to smoke. 

    Second-hand smoke increases the risk of heart disease and lung cancer and we want to protect children and the sick from harm. 

    Prevention is better than cure, so this government is taking pressure off the NHS and building a healthier Britain where everyone lives well for longer.

    This consultation marks an important step towards implementing the landmark Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which will create a smoke-free generation and protect young people from a lifetime of addiction. The bill is currently progressing through Parliament. 

    There is no safe level of exposure to second-hand smoke, and children, pregnant women and people with underlying health conditions are particularly vulnerable.

    Short-term exposure can cause immediate symptoms such as eye irritation, coughing and headaches, while long-term exposure significantly increases the risk of chronic disease. 

    Professor Chris Whitty, Chief Medical Officer for England, said: 

    People who do not smoke but who are exposed to second-hand smoke can suffer significant harmful effects on their health, including an increased risk of asthma, poor birth outcomes, several cancers, stroke and heart disease. The health risks are greatest for children, pregnant women and people with medical conditions. 

    No smoker wants to harm people, but with second-hand smoke they do – and these measures would reduce the harm second-hand smoke causes the most medically vulnerable in our society.

    It will also seek views on setting outdoor boundaries, exemptions and designated smoking areas, and how to inform people of restrictions to ensure the rules are proportionate and workable. 

    There will be a minimum of 6 months between any regulations being made and them coming into force, with guidance available on how to make sure people are aware of and follow the rules. 

    Enforcement would mirror existing smoke-free laws, where compliance has historically been extremely high. 

    Business Minister, Kate Dearden, said: 

    These are targeted proposals to protect children and families from second-hand smoke and vaping, without placing extra pressure on pubs, restaurants or the wider hospitality sector.

    We have been clear that we will support businesses, and after listening to their concerns, we have excluded outdoor hospitality spaces from these changes. 

    Dr Charmaine Griffiths, Chief Executive of British Heart Foundation, said: 

    No child should have to walk through a cloud of deadly second-hand smoke on their way to the classroom or playground, nor should any patient be exposed to harm on hospital grounds. 

    We strongly support the government’s consultation and the landmark legislation behind it, and we call for urgent implementation to protect everyone from harm. Tough measures must be taken to prevent smoking from robbing more families of their loved ones and harming vulnerable people.

    Cancer Research UK’s Executive Director of Policy and Information, Dr Ian Walker, said: 

    We support the UK government taking action to create a smoke-free future and protect the most vulnerable in society. This consultation is an important opportunity for people to share their views on smoke-free, heated tobacco-free and vape-free places in England, helping to ensure decisions are guided by the strongest evidence.

    Smoking is the leading cause of cancer deaths in England, and we can’t afford to lose any momentum in the fight against tobacco. The government must now swiftly pass and implement the historic Tobacco and Vapes Bill to protect future generations from a lifetime of deadly and costly addiction.

    Hazel Cheeseman, Chief Executive of Action on Smoking and Health, said:

    Smoke-free legislation has been one of the greatest public health successes of the last 20 years, saving lives, improving health and changing social norms for the better.

    With smoking now far less common than when the law was introduced, the public rightly expects the same protections to extend to shared outdoor spaces where people are still being exposed to harmful second-hand smoke.

    Peter Roderick, Spokesperson for Addiction for the Association of Directors of Public Health, said:

    Smoking doesn’t just kill smokers. It also kills non-smokers, and causes a range of illnesses including cancers, heart and lung diseases that affect adults and children alike, and is linked to stillbirth and sudden infant death syndrome.

    We know that these numbers have decreased since the introduction of restrictions on smoking in public places. Introducing more smoke-free spaces will save even more lives, protect future generations and give freedom to live a healthier life to the 88% of people – including thousands of medically vulnerable people – who don’t smoke. These changes are not only needed, but they also have strong public support and it is vital that we make them happen as soon as possible.

    Sarah Sleet, Chief Executive at Asthma + Lung UK, said:

    No one should be forced to breathe in air that could harm their health, and banning smoking and vaping in more public places would be a significant step towards better lung health for all. There is no safe level of exposure to second-hand smoke, even in outdoor spaces. Tobacco smoke contains dangerous chemicals, including tar and carbon monoxide, which puts lungs at risk – and children and people with underlying health conditions are particularly vulnerable. This is why banning smoking in places such as outside schools and hospitals is critical.

    The risks of smoking are well documented, but vaping among non-smokers – particularly young people – is also a real concern. More research is needed into the long-term impact of vaping, but in the meantime a ban in indoor public spaces would help to reduce uptake and protect people whose lung conditions are triggered by vaping. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill is a once in a generation chance to create a smoke-free generation and protect the lungs of future generations.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK announces £6m humanitarian drought response funding to Somalia [February 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK announces £6m humanitarian drought response funding to Somalia [February 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 12 February 2026.

    The UK Minister for International Development and Africa, Baroness Jenny Chapman, concluded her first visit to Somalia where she also announced £6 million in new humanitarian funding to Somalia.

    At Villa Somalia, the Minister was hosted by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Discussions focussed on the rapidly escalating drought risk across Somalia and the significant challenges it is causing for vulnerable communities. Baroness Chapman underscored the UK’s shift from a traditional donor relationship to an investment‑driven development partnership, designed to strengthen Somali resilience, support economic opportunity, reduce long‑term vulnerability to climate‑induced shocks and deter irregular migration. She also recognised the critical leadership role the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) continues to play in responding to drought‑related needs across the country and agreed to continue vital coordination between the FGS and the UK to address need. 

    The Minister congratulated the President for his government’s leadership in response to the ongoing drought and food security crisis and heard how, through collaboration between the government, the UK, the World Bank and the United Nations, over 500,000 people affected by drought are already receiving emergency cash support. She also welcomed the activation of the UK-supported African Risk Capacity (ARC) insurance policy for emergency drought response – triggering $3.4 million in rapid pay-outs to the government, ensuring timely and effective support to those most in need. 

    The Minister and President also discussed the activation of the ARC Replica insurance for the Start Network and the World Food Programme, providing over $2 million for humanitarian partners to respond quickly to needs. Start Network’s pre-arranged finance facility Start Ready has already disbursed almost $3 million for anticipatory action in Somalia, mitigating humanitarian impacts before conditions deteriorate. The UK has supported these mechanisms since their inception as part of efforts to increase the use of pre-arranged finance for early action and improve the efficiency of humanitarian response.   

    Visiting a World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse in Mogadishu with Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama, Baroness Chapman announced £6 million in additional UK humanitarian assistance. This new assistance will target the highest‑need locations to deliver life‑saving support to over 129,000 people impacted by drought.   

    Speaking at the WFP warehouse, the Minister emphasised the need to protect vulnerable Somali communities and get urgent assistance to them in advance. She urged continued partnership between the UK, UN, the Somali government and other partners.  

    Ending her programme in Somalia, the Minister met United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) and African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) leaders, to thank them for their commitment to Somalia’s security. During a visit to their air operations facility, she was able to better understand the UN’s vital support work and see the contribution made by UK support to AUSSOM and UNSOS. She also met UK service personnel, part of Operation Tangham, supporting UN and AU operations and thanked them for their vital efforts to train the Somali National Army.  

    UK funding is helping to build the capacity of the Somali forces, saving lives and countering violent extremists – for a safer, more secure Somalia.

    Further information

    • for more information on UK activity in Somalia, follow us on X, Facebook and  Instagram
    • the new £6 million in humanitarian support forms part of a £61 million UK package of funding in financial year 2025/26 to bilaterally address both immediate humanitarian needs and the underlying drivers of crisis in Somalia, including over £12 million to a partnership with the Federal government, World Food Programme and World Bank to provide shock-responsive social protection to the most vulnerable drought affected households
    • African Risk Capacity is Africa’s regional risk insurance scheme for drought, tropical cyclones, floods and disease outbreaks, providing affordable insurance for countries (ARC) and humanitarian agencies (ARC Replica insurance).  The UK is a founder member/donor, including subsidising multiyear drought insurance for Somalia ($9 million over 3 years) alongside the African Development Bank.  The UK also subsidises the ARC Replica insurance for Start Network (£6 million over 2 years for four high risk African countries) and also WFP (via the Global Shield Financing Facility).  For more information on ARC, please see African Risk Capacity Limited – Resilience Risk Pools
    • Start Ready is an innovative pre-arranged finance facility that funds anticipatory and early action through locally-led organisations. For more information, please see Start Ready Start Network
  • PRESS RELEASE : Record year of drug seizures made by Border Force [February 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Record year of drug seizures made by Border Force [February 2026]

    The press release issued by the Home Office on 12 February 2026.

    Border Force and police seizures of ketamine and cannabis at all-time high and Border Force ramps up the return of foreign smugglers.

    Seizures of ketamine, cannabis and nitrous oxide are at an all-time high following a record-breaking year of interceptions by Border Force and police. 

    Cocaine interceptions by police are also at record levels with 23,706 seizures in the year to March 2025.  

    Almost 150 tonnes of illegal drugs – equivalent to two Boeing 737s – with a street value of £2.6 billion was seized by Border Force. This is a 40% increase on the total quantity seized in the previous year and the highest since records began. 

    Border Force and police forces intercepted drugs on a record-breaking 269,000 occasions – an increase of 24% on the previous year.  

    The seizures come as new data shows the success of an innovative pilot to immediately remove foreign cannabis smugglers from the UK.   

    Border Force’s ‘Seize and Return’ policy, introduced last year, allows officers to return cannabis traffickers to their country of origin, often within hours of arriving. 

    To date, 165 criminals responsible for smuggling over 4 tonnes of cannabis into UK airports have been returned.  

    This has saved British taxpayers an estimated £11.4million – easing pressure on the prison estate, preventing foreign offenders clogging up the courts system and heading off any potential asylum claims. The scheme has now been rolled out across England and Wales. 

    Cannabis was present in 93% of all drugs seized by Border Force in the year ending March 2025, with over 62,000 illegal imports intercepted.  

    A record 4 million doses of nitrous oxide was seized by Border Force and police, representing a 2,185% increase from last year.  

    The same year also saw a surge in criminals attempting to smuggle ketamine into Britain. The total quantity seized by Border Force and police increased by 55% from the previous year to 1.3 tonnes. 

    Home Office Minister Mike Tapp said:  

    Drug seizures are at a record high under this government – with British law enforcement depriving evil gangs of almost £3billion worth in one year alone. 

    Every seizure strikes a blow at the heart of organised crime and stops dangerous drugs from inflicting misery on our communities.  

    We will continue to do whatever it takes to secure Britain’s borders against those doing harm to our country.

    Border Force Director General Phil Douglas said:  

    Our innovative Seize and Return policy is delivering real results – removing smugglers within hours, saving taxpayers millions, and freeing up our officers to pursue the organised crime gangs that cause the most harm. 

    Border Force will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of dangerous criminal networks and disruption of drug supply. 

    Working in partnership, police forces, Border Force, the National Crime Agency and international partners use intelligence and technology to keep the UK’s borders safe, prevent drug trafficking and bring those responsible to justice.    

    Border Force has also intensified efforts to tackle drug smuggling at sea as organised crime groups attempt to use maritime routes and a range of methodologies, including ‘at-sea-drop-offs’ to smuggle drugs into the country.  

    In January last year, 1.5 tonnes of cocaine with a street value of just under £60 million was detected on a vessel arriving into Dover from Peru.  

    Officers use a range of methods including hi-tech search equipment to detect and stop illegal and restricted goods that criminals attempt to bring into the country.  Border Force also employs specialist officers trained to conduct deep searches of ships and vessels.  

    Organised crime gangs are increasingly using expensive equipment to conceal drugs in the hope that law enforcement will be deterred by the potential costs involved with destroying it. In September last year, Border Force outsmarted criminals who hid one tonne of cocaine in two industrial generators valued at £720,000.   

    Under the Plan for Change, Border Force will continue to build on last year’s success through ongoing operations targeting drug smuggling networks.

  • NEWS STORY : UK Pledges Support for New Yemeni Government at UN Security Council

    NEWS STORY : UK Pledges Support for New Yemeni Government at UN Security Council

    STORY

    The United Kingdom has formally declared its full support for Yemen’s newly formed government, hailing the transition as a pivotal opportunity to restore security and prosperity to the war-torn nation. Speaking at the United Nations Security Council in New York on 12 February 2026, Ambassador James Kariuki, the UK Chargé d’Affaires, praised the leadership of Prime Minister Zindani and the Presidential Leadership Council for their efforts to stabilise the country.

    A significant focus of the British statement was the inclusion of three women ministers in the new Cabinet. The UK delegation emphasised that an inclusive administration is essential for lasting progress, arguing that representing all segments of Yemeni society is a prerequisite for a sustainable political settlement. This diplomatic endorsement comes as the international community looks for a breakthrough in a conflict that has spanned over a decade.

    Despite the political optimism, the humanitarian outlook remains dire. Ambassador Kariuki noted that 22 million people continue to require urgent assistance, warning that the primary healthcare system faces a potential collapse while food insecurity continues to spiral. The UK underscored the need for a collective global effort to address these shortages, particularly as the UN Mission to support the Hudaydah Agreement (UNMHA) begins its orderly drawdown following the adoption of Resolution 2831.

  • PRESS RELEASE : The UK fully supports the new government’s efforts to advance security, stability and prosperity for the Yemeni people – UK statement at the UN Security Council [February 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : The UK fully supports the new government’s efforts to advance security, stability and prosperity for the Yemeni people – UK statement at the UN Security Council [February 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 12 February 2026.

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

    I would like to start by welcoming the announcement of the new government of Yemen and commend the leadership of Prime Minister Zindani and the Presidential Leadership Council. 

    This marks an important step for Yemen and an opportunity for important economic, governance, and security reforms.

    The UK fully supports the government’s efforts to advance security, stability, and prosperity for the Yemeni people.  

    We would like, in particular, to welcome the three new women ministers in the Cabinet. An inclusive government is vital for lasting progress. 

    Second, following the adoption of Resolution 2831, we remain closely engaged on the orderly and safe drawdown of UN personnel and assets, as the UN Mission to support the Hudaydah Agreement, UNMHA, in Yemen closes. 

     We look forward to the Special Envoy’s continued efforts to deliver on the UN’s commitments under the Hudaydah Agreement.

    Third, Yemen remains one of the most acute humanitarian crises in the world, as we’ve heard today, with 22 million people in need of assistance, spiralling food insecurity, and the potential collapse of the primary healthcare system.

    We need to act collectively and urgently to galvanise efforts to address these needs.

    Finally, we have heard again today in the Council, the unequivocal call for the immediate and unconditional release of all those detained by the Houthis.

    The UK strongly condemns the death sentences issued by the Houthi authorities and the continued detention of aid workers. 

    These actions violate fundamental rights and due process. They also shrink the operational space for NGOs, which is vital to supporting Yemenis who remain in desperate need. They must be released.

  • PRESS RELEASE : The Prime Minister and Cabinet Secretary have agreed by mutual consent the Cabinet Secretary will stand down [February 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : The Prime Minister and Cabinet Secretary have agreed by mutual consent the Cabinet Secretary will stand down [February 2026]

    The press release issued by the Cabinet Office on 12 February 2026.

    Sir Chris Wormald to stand down as Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service.

    The Prime Minister and the Cabinet Secretary have agreed that Sir Chris Wormald will stand down as the Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service by mutual agreement from today (12 February). 

    Sir Chris Wormald, said: 

    It has been an honour and a privilege to serve as a civil servant for the past 35 years, and a particular distinction to lead the Service as Cabinet Secretary. I want to place on record my sincere thanks to the extraordinary civil servants, public servants, ministers, and advisers I have worked with. Our country is fortunate to have such dedicated individuals devoted to public service, and I wish them every success for the future.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer, said: 

    I am very grateful to Sir Chris for his long and distinguished career of public service, spanning more than 35 years, and for the support that he has given me over the past year. I have agreed with him that he will step down as Cabinet Secretary today. I wish him the very best for the future.

    For an interim period, the responsibilities of the Cabinet Secretary will be shared by Catherine Little CB, Permanent Secretary at the Cabinet Office, Dame Antonia Romeo, Permanent Secretary at the Home Office and James Bowler CB, Permanent Secretary at His Majesty’s Treasury. 

    The Prime Minister will appoint a new Cabinet Secretary shortly. The appointment process will be agreed by the First Civil Service Commissioner.