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Category: Press Releases

  • PRESS RELEASE : Allison Ogden-Newton and Dan Corry appointed to Defra Board [September 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Allison Ogden-Newton and Dan Corry appointed to Defra Board [September 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 23 September 2025.

    With strong backgrounds in public policy and social entrepreneurship, the new appointees will provide strategic and corporate leadership for the department.

    Allison Ogden-Newton OBE and Dan Corry have been appointed as Non-Executive Directors to the board of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

    Dan and Allison bring a wealth of experience in public policy and social entrepreneurship. Allison has been the Chief Executive of environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy since 2015, while Dan is Chief Economist at the Future Governance Forum and recently completed a review of environmental regulation for Defra. Their appointments will last for one year. 

    Non-executive board members are senior figures from outside government, appointed to provide challenge to government departments.

    The Defra Board provides strategic, corporate leadership to the department and has particular responsibility for monitoring performance and delivery. 

    Biographies

    Allison Ogden-Newton

    Allison Ogden-Newton OBE is an experienced charity professional and social entrepreneur, having worked as Chief Executive at World Child Cancer and Social Enterprise London. She was founder of breakthrough social value think-tank The Transition Institute.

    Since becoming Chief Executive of environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy in 2015, Allison has led a transformation of the charity, including the introduction of the country’s biggest mass-action environmental campaign, the Great British Spring Clean, and raising its profile through regular media appearances and large-scale behaviour change campaigns.

    Allison has a master’s degree from Warwick Business School and is a graduate of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. She has acted as an equal value advisor to the then Equal Opportunities Commission and served as a member of the government’s Department of Innovation and Skills, Women’s Enterprise Taskforce.

    She is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and a board member of the British Cleaning Council and Wildlife and Countryside Link.

    Allison was awarded an OBE in the New Year Honours 2019/20 for her services to the environment and social enterprise.

    Dan Corry

    Dan Corry is Chief Economist at the Future Governance Forum. He brings extensive experience in public policy and economics from roles across government, think tanks and the private sector.

    Dan recently completed 13 years as Chief Executive of New Philanthropy Capital, a think tank and consultancy that works to improve the impact of the social sector. From 2007 to 2010, he served as Head of the Number 10 Policy Unit and Senior Adviser to the Prime Minister on the Economy. He has also held roles as Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers in the Treasury and as a special adviser to Secretaries of State at the Department for Education, as well as the then Department for Trade and Industry, Department for Transport, Local Government and Regions, and Department for Communities and Local Government.

    Earlier in his career, Dan was Director in the Economics segment of FTI Consulting and ran the New Local Government Network think tank (now New Local) from 2002 to 2005. He worked as Senior Economist at the IPPR in the 1990s and began his career as a civil service economist in the Employment Department and the Treasury.

    Dan chairs the Carers Trust charity, which supports a network of 130 local charities helping unpaid carers. He is also a trustee of homelessness charity St Mungo’s. His previous roles include membership of the What Works Centre for Wellbeing, the Research Committee of the ESRC, the Greater Manchester Economic Advisory Panel and the Financial Advisory Committee of the Football Association.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Joint G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement [September 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Joint G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement [September 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 23 September 2025.

    The G7 Foreign Ministers met on the margins of High-Level Week at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

    We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union, met on the margins of High-Level Week at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

    We expressed concerns around Russia’s most recent airspace violations in Estonia, Poland and Romania, which are unacceptable and risk undermining international security. We underscored our ongoing commitment to work together to achieve a durable peace and a strong, independent, sovereign and prosperous Ukraine, by continuing to coordinate with the United States to provide Ukraine with robust and credible security guarantees. We discussed imposing further economic costs on Russia, including taking action against third country enablers.  We welcome ongoing discussions between G7 Finance Ministers on further leveraging Russian Sovereign Assets to support Ukraine.

    We welcomed the U.S. and Panama proposal to establish a UN Support Office for Haiti and transition the Multinational Security Support Mission into a new force, with a mandate to dismantle gangs, secure critical infrastructure, and re-establish security in Haiti together with the Haitian authorities.

    We stressed the urgency of alleviating the immense suffering of civilians in Gaza through a flood of humanitarian aid and securing the release of all hostages, and we reiterated our call for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.  We unequivocally condemned Hamas, including for its brutal and unjustified terror attacks on October 7, 2023. We reiterated that Hamas can have no role in Gaza’s future and must never again be a threat to Israel. We affirmed our readiness to engage with Arab partners on their proposals to chart a way forward on reconstruction in Gaza and build a lasting Israeli-Palestinian peace.

    We called on Iran to fully implement its obligations under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, resume full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and engage in direct talks with the United States towards a robust, durable and comprehensive nuclear agreement that ensures Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon. We commended the E3’s decision to trigger the “snapback” mechanism.

    We reaffirmed the importance of a free and open Indo-Pacific based on the rule of law.  We reiterated our strong opposition to any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion, including in the East China Sea, the South China Sea, and across the Taiwan Strait. We reaffirmed our commitment to the complete denuclearization of North Korea and the immediate resolution of the abductions issue.

    As the United Nations marks its 80th anniversary, we recognised the fundamental need for the reform of the United Nations and expressed willingness to participate in efforts to ensure that it is fit for purpose.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Record number of major infrastructure projects green-lit [September 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Record number of major infrastructure projects green-lit [September 2025]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on 22 September 2025.

    Largest number of major infrastructure projects green-lit by the current government in the first year of a Parliament.

    • Largest number of major infrastructure projects green-lit in the first year of a Parliament in push to ‘build, baby, build’
    • Record 21 decisions made on major infrastructure projects in the first year of this Parliament – including new wind farms, roads and airport expansions – with government urgently working on a building acceleration package to get Britain building
    • With the help of reforms in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill that will speed up the consenting process for major economic infrastructure, the government is firmly on track to meet its Plan for Change 150 decisions target, helping to create thousands of jobs and put money back into people’s pockets

    Tens of thousands of people will benefit from cleaner energy, quicker commutes to work and more flights for holidays after the government fast tracked decisions on major infrastructure projects. 

    The government has green-lit the largest number of major infrastructure projects in the first year of a Parliament in history, with 21 major infrastructure planning decisions made in the government’s first year.

    Projects greenlighted include the Lower Thames Crossing, Mona Offshore Windfarm, Simister Island development in the Manchester area and the expansion to Gatwick airport.

    Each one of these decisions means easier commutes for people in the mornings, better protection from fossil fuel price spikes, opening the door for cheaper holidays with more flights.

    These decisions have secured a boom in thousands of good skilled clean energy jobs across the country in places such as Sussex, North Wales and Teesside.

    Earlier this year the Prime Minister set the government a target of 150 planning decisions on major infrastructure projects as part of the Plan for Change.

    Thanks to the pro-growth reforms in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, including the removal of onerous statutory pre-application requirements and cutting back meritless legal challenges from three to one, the government remains on track to meet this target and make sure Britain is once again a destination for major investment and growth.

    The Housing Secretary Steve Reed will visit the Lower Thames Crossing area (23 September) to see for himself how the project will improve journeys for millions of people each year.

    Housing Secretary Steve Reed said:

    “We are backing our builders, brickies and businesses to get Britain building.

    “We’ve already said yes to major projects that will create more well-paid jobs providing clean power and new roads.

    “We will go further to streamline planning rules to speed up new homes, data centres and businesses that will put an affordable home and well-paid job within reach of people in every part of our country.”

    Further reforms are building on this, with an update expected on the next generation of new towns, the Planning and Infrastructure Bill remaining on track to become law and unveiling new plans to build up and build out on brownfield sites faster.  

    Today’s announcement follows the Housing Secretary’s commitment to ‘build, baby, build’ and remove every barrier to build 1.5 million homes this Parliament.  

    This new record of 21 decisions eclipses the previous Parliament’s first-year record of 15 and marks a significant milestone for this government’s ambition to make 150 decisions. The previous government saw a total of 57 decisions during its full term between December 2019 to May 2024.

    A further four decisions have been made by the government in its second year, bringing the current total to 25, with a further 10 projects currently on the table. This historic progress means Britain is building the roads, railways and energy connections needed to help towns and cities grow and local economies thrive.  

    Key decisions include:

    • The Lower Thames Crossing, approved under this government, will drive growth by tackling congestion that costs the UK millions every year and create a strategic new trade route between the ports of the south-east, midlands and north. Construction will support 22,000 jobs across the area and once completed it is projected to provide £200 million a year from better connections and less congestion.
    • The Mona Offshore Wind Farm located in the Irish Sea and the Rampion 2 Offshore Wind Farm located off the Sussex coast, which combined can produce enough clean electricity to power the equivalent of nearly 3 million homes. Together, these projects secure thousands of jobs and 2.7 GW of clean, secure, homegrown power for British families and businesses. This acceleration towards clean energy will create the jobs of the future across the UK.
    • The Viking CSS Pipeline in Lincolnshire which could support 20,000 jobs and boost the decarbonising industry in the Humber, creating opportunities for local people.
    • The M60/M62/M66 Simister Island development, three miles south of Bury, which will make commuting quicker for more than 90,000 people every day.
    • Gatwick Airport’s application to expand its operations through routine use of its existing northern runway after the Transport Secretary issued a letter (21 September) confirming her approval following careful consideration.

    Work is also ongoing at pace to make it easier to build digital infrastructure, such as laboratories and gigafactories by updating the National Planning Policy Framework and pressures facing local planning authorities will be eased through £46 million of investment to strengthen their capacity, alongside the recruitment and training of over 300 planners.

    This builds on the £150 billion of inward investment which the UK secured from US companies during the US President’s state visit, creating more than 7,600 high-quality jobs and accelerating growth in sectors of the future.

    Further information

    21 decisions were signed off in the first year of government; so far four decisions have been made in the second year, bringing the total to 25, with more projects expected to be decided before the end of the year.  

    List of approved major infrastructure projects so far include:

    • Gate Burton Energy Park
    • Mallard Pass Solar Project
    • Sunnica Energy Farm
    • Cottam Solar Project
    • Bramford to Twinstead
    • Immingham Eastern Ro-Ro Terminal
    • Rivenhall IVMF and Energy Centre
    • Heckington Fen Solar Park
    • West Burton Solar Project
    • Immingham Green Energy Terminal
    • North Lincolnshire Green Energy Park
    • Lower Thames Crossing
    • London Luton Airport Expansion
    • Rampion 2 Offshore Wind Farm
    • Cambridge Waste Water Treatment Plant
    • Viking CCS Pipeline
    • East Yorkshire Solar Farm
    • M5 Junction 10 Improvement Scheme
    • Oaklands Farm Solar Park
    • Mona Offshore Windfarm
    • Byers Gill Solar
    • Morgan Offshore Wind Project
    • M60/M62/M66 Simister Island
    • London Gatwick Airport Expansion

    The news is part of a year of activity to overhaul the planning system to speed up the delivery of much needed infrastructure and the homes we need, including:

    • Making it easier to build digital infrastructure, such as laboratories and gigafactories by updating the National Planning Policy Framework, alongside introducing targets to boost housebuilding in the areas most in need – the changes to the NPPF last December led the OBR to forecast the highest level of housebuilding in 40 years and an additional £6.8 billion of growth by 2029/30;
    • Changing the rules to prevent major infrastructure projects being held up in the courts and help get Britain building following independent recommendations – data shows that in recent years 58% of all decisions on major infrastructure projects were taken to court, compared to the long-term average of 10%; 
    • Removing statutory consultation requirements for major infrastructure – which could add £1 billion to the economy and speed up decisions by up to 12 months;
    • Delivering the biggest boost to affordable housing in a generation with £39 billion announced at the Spending Review; and    
    • Making £16 billion of new public investment to help build over 500,000 new homes through a National Housing Bank, unlocking over £53 billion of private investment.
  • PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 60: UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue with the Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela [September 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 60: UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue with the Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela [September 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 September 2025.

    UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue with the Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela. Not delivered due to time constraints.

    Thank you, Mr. President.

    The UK commends the work of the Mission and thanks it for its sobering report. 

    We remain gravely concerned by the findings of the latest report, which once again lays bare the systematic and ongoing violations of human rights in Venezuela. The continued erosion of the rule of law, the widespread use of arbitrary detention, and the number of enforced disappearances is unacceptable.

    Political repression has persisted and over 800 individuals remain arbitrarily detained, many without access to due process or legal representation. We call on the Venezuelan authorities to immediately release all those held arbitrarily and to uphold fair trial guarantees.

    Mr. President, the findings presented today underscore the need for the Council’s continued attention on Venezuela. We reiterate our call on the Venezuelan authorities to cooperate fully with international mechanisms by granting them immediate and full access to the country. We urge concrete steps from Venezuela ahead of the next session, including implementing the Mission’s recommendations.

    The UK remains steadfast in its support for the Venezuelan people and their fundamental rights.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK Statement at the UNGA 80 side event on Beijing +30 [September 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK Statement at the UNGA 80 side event on Beijing +30 [September 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 September 2025.

    Statement by The Rt Hon Yvette Cooper, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, at the UNGA 80 side event on Beijing +30.

    I am honoured to join you today as the United Kingdom’s new Foreign Secretary.

    And to be here too, alongside the UK’s trailblazing Special Envoy for Women and Girls, Baroness Harriet Harman, who gave me one of my first jobs in politics more than 30 years ago, including research on women’s equality, not long before the Beijing Declaration was adopted.

    I remember at that time just how significant it felt to see countries coming together, from across the globe, committed to advancing women’s equality and women’s rights.

    So it is particularly special to be here three decades on to discuss an issue that has been so close to my heart since, and to be clear that this will be a priority for me now, in this role. 

    Supporting women across the globe, on leadership, on representation, on access to education and economic opportunity. 

    An agenda set by women, and supported by male allies, who are vital partners for progress. 

    But I particularly want to draw attention to the topic of Violence Against Women and Girls.

    Because we know that safety and security are the bedrock on which all opportunities in our lives are built. Women’s safety is an essential foundation for women’s equality.

    And while individual nations and UN agencies have helped to achieve great strides forward, with FGM and forced marriage less prevalent than they were three decades ago.

    The facts should still shame us all.

    Across the globe, 1 in 3 women will be beaten or sexually assaulted in their lifetime. 

    140 women and girls are killed every day by a partner or close relative. 

    And rape and sexual violence continue to be used as a weapon of war. 

    My Government has described violence against women and girls in the UK as a national emergency, and we have set out an unprecedented mission to halve it in a decade.

    But the truth is that this is an international emergency too.

    So today I make two calls for action.

    First, that we step up our efforts to eliminate violence against women and girls, because everyone has the right to live in freedom from fear. 

    Including challenging new forms of abuse and collaborating against devastating sexual abuse of children online.

    And second, we must ensure that the multilateral system remains a powerful force for the rights and equality of women and girls everywhere because we know that by doing so, we also strengthen our families, our communities, our economies and our nations too.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK formally recognises Palestinian State [September 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK formally recognises Palestinian State [September 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 September 2025.

    The UK has formally recognised Palestine to protect the viability of a two-state solution and create a path towards lasting peace for the Israeli and Palestinian people.

    • government acts to protect the prospect of a two-state solution as the appalling situation in Gaza worsens, Israel continues its illegal settlement expansions in the West Bank and Hamas continues to hold the hostages
    • Prime Minister makes clear that Hamas will have no role in the future of Palestine and reiterates his call for them to release the hostages immediately and unconditionally
    • historic step taken alongside close allies Canada and Australia, as part of wider international effort to support a pathway to peace and protect the equal rights of both Israeli and Palestinian peoples

    The UK has formally recognised Palestine to protect the viability of a two-state solution and create a path towards lasting peace for the Israeli and Palestinian people.

    The historic decision, announced alongside Canada and Australia, comes as the situation on the ground in Gaza continues to worsen, Israel continues to expand its illegal settlements in the West Bank, and Hamas continues to hold the hostages.

    In July, the Prime Minister pledged to act if the situation did not change and firmly believes that the UK has a moral responsibility to do everything it can to support a peaceful future for Israel and Palestine – the prospect of which is slipping further away.

    A two-state solution, with a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state led by a reformed Palestinian Authority, is the only path to a lasting peace for the Israeli and Palestinian people – free from the horrendous violence and suffering of the last two years.

    Recognising Palestine is a historic decision, firmly grounded in the Palestinian people’s inalienable right to self-determination, which the government committed to as part of its manifesto.

    In a statement this afternoon, the Prime Minister was clear this decision is not about Hamas. They are a brutal terrorist organisation that wants to see Israel destroyed. Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace with recognised borders is the exact opposite of their hateful vision. 

    The government’s demands on them have not changed. It must release all hostages, agree to an immediate ceasefire, accept it will have no role in governing Gaza, and commit to disarmament.

    The UK is also expected to take further action to sanction senior figures in the Hamas leadership in the coming weeks and keep doing everything possible to bring the hostages home.

    Our support for Israel’s and the security of its people remains steadfast. But the Israeli government must also change course – halting their offensive in Gaza, letting the desperately needed humanitarian aid in, and stopping their illegal settlement expansion in the West Bank.

    Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

    Today’s historic decision, taken alongside some of our closest allies, to recognise a Palestinian State, reflects our unwavering commitment to a two-state solution and affirms the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to self-determination.

    Recognition is an important step to preserve the prospect of a two-state solution, at a time when it is now under unprecedented threat. Two states is the only way to safeguard long term peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians alike. 

    We are clear that Hamas can have no role in Palestine’s future – they are a barbaric terrorist organisation who oppose the very idea of two states. They must release the hostages and relinquish any hold on Gaza. But Hamas are not the Palestinian people. 

    Recognition is only one part of what must be a stronger and wider push for peace. We need to end the conflict in Gaza, secure the release of all hostages and get humanitarian aid to all those who desperately need it. That requires not just an immediate ceasefire, but a plan for a durable peace, which will be a key to my diplomatic drive at the UN this week.

    Having recognised the State of Israel in 1950, the government believes it can no longer credibly continue to support the two-state solution without recognising both States. 

    The decision does not remove the demands the government has made of the Palestinian Authority to conduct extensive reform. President Abbas has committed to this reform, including organising new elections within a year of a ceasefire.

    The UK will continue to provide technical and financial support to the PA as it delivers these reforms and builds the State of Palestine, including through the work of UK Envoy for Palestinian Authority Governance Sir Michael Barber, who is enhancing the PA’s delivery and governance capabilities. 

    The government has been clear that recognition is not enough to change the situation on the ground on its own.

    That’s why the decision comes as part of coordinated international efforts to build consensus around a Framework for Peace, which addresses governance, security, humanitarian access, and ceasefire monitoring in Gaza, and the foundations of a two-state solution.

    The UK will continue working closely with its allies to advance this plan, which recognition forms part of as the first, most urgent step towards lasting peace.

  • PRESS RELEASE : “No region will be locked out of investment” pledges Chancellor [September 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : “No region will be locked out of investment” pledges Chancellor [September 2025]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 22 September 2025.

    Rachel Reeves has fired the starting gun on the government’s landmark Regional Investment Summit, pledging that “no region will be locked out of investment”.

    • Chancellor pledges that landmark Regional Investment Summit will attract investment, jobs and growth that makes people better off wherever they live in the country.
    • With one month to go, Eon, Lloyds and KPMG, HSBC and IBM have already been confirmed as sponsors for the Birmingham summit.
    • Comes as Mayor of the West Midlands and Leader of Birmingham City Council announce launch of the biggest Mayoral Development Corporation in the country to create tens of thousands of jobs and add billions to the local economy.

    Rachel Reeves has fired the starting gun on the government’s landmark Regional Investment Summit, pledging that “no region will be locked out of investment”.

    The summit will bring together business leaders and major investors with policymakers, regulators, regional mayors and other local leaders to showcase the breadth and depth of opportunities to invest, expand and create jobs right across our nations and regions.

    Building on the 10 Year Infrastructure Strategy and Industrial Strategy, the summit will highlight the UK’s regional investment opportunities in areas such as housing, infrastructure, AI and energy. It will show how this government is reversing the underinvestment some parts of the country have suffered for too long which will deliver jobs and economic growth that puts more money in the pockets of people who live there.

    With the most recent figures showing business confidence and investment appetite in the UK is at record highs, the Chancellor has pledged that no region will be locked out of the investment, jobs and growth being delivered as part of the government’s Plan for Change.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

    Under this government no region will be locked out of investment.

    Business confidence is at its highest level since 2015, private sector activity expanded at the fastest pace in a year in August, and top CFOs have ranked the UK as the top investment destination in the world.

    Our opponents want to talk down Britain’s economy. But whilst the economy isn’t broken, for many it feels stuck, which is why I’m determined to attract more investment into every region of the UK so we can build an economy that works for, and rewards, working people.

    Backed by major corporations including Eon, Lloyds, KPMG, HSBC and IBM, the summit will be hosted in Birmingham on Tuesday 21 October, and will be co-hosted by the Chancellor, the Business and Trade Secretary, and West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker, with business leaders, international investors, and policymakers from home and abroad in attendance.

    Business and Trade Secretary, Peter Kyle, said:

    The UK has become the world’s most attractive investment destination, and this Summit is a prime opportunity to show investors why Britain is truly the best place to do business.

    We have the most open, stable and connected economy in the world – backed by our modern Industrial Strategy – and our Plan for Change is encouraging more international companies to invest here, helping to deliver growth and jobs in every region of the UK.

    Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said:

    The first Regional Investment Summit is a chance to show the world the strength of the West Midlands and all our regions – we are brimming with opportunities for investors.

    This Summit is about putting our ideas, our people, our opportunities and our businesses on the map – and I’m excited to welcome partners from the globe to see first-hand why the West Midlands is the place to invest.

    This comes as Richard Parker, alongside the Leader of Birmingham City Council, John Cotton, today (22 September) announces the launch of the biggest and most ambitious Mayoral Development Corporation in the country.

    It will incorporate the £3 billion Birmingham Sports Quarter, the £4 billion Birmingham Knowledge Quarter, the HS2 station at Curzon Street, the £2 billion Smithfield development, and a major creative industries hub in Digbeth.

    This new corporation – part of a wider Mayoral Development Zone – will create tens of thousands of jobs and add billions to the local economy.

    The government’s modern Industrial Strategy is also helping to deliver long-term growth right across the UK by driving investment into the economy and hardwiring stability for investors, giving them the confidence to plan not just for the next year, but for the next 10 years and beyond.

    Further information

    The business confidence figures referenced are:

    • UK business confidence is at its highest level since 2015 and hiring intentions increased for a fourth month in a row in August and wage growth expectations also increased to their highest levels since 2018. (Lloyds Business Barometer)
    • In August, UK private sector activity expanded at the fastest pace in a year. (The S&P Global UK Composite Purchasing Managers’ index)
    • In July, UK CFOs ranked the UK as the joint top investment destination (alongside India)—up from 5th place in December— with sentiment boosted by a UK-US trade deal. (Deloitte)

    Additional quotes

    Minister for Investment, Jason Stockwood, said:

    The West Midlands is a powerhouse for investment, and this Summit will zero in on the region’s world-leading strengths in sectors like advanced manufacturing and life sciences to drive growth and create new opportunities in the industries of the future.

    Unleashing the full potential of the UK’s regions is at the heart of our modern Industrial Strategy, and this Summit will deliver growth that will unlock good new jobs for working people, putting more money in people’s pockets and in turn boosting prosperity across local communities.

    Chris Norbury, Chief Executive Officer E.ON UK, said:

    The West Midlands is a huge part of E.ON’s DNA with our offices, strategic energy partnership and innovation all already thriving in this region.

    So, it’s fantastic to be supporting events like the Regional Growth Summit and see the West Midlands showcasing how sustainable energy can drive real growth in green skills, jobs and the economy.

    Local collaboration between government and businesses is key to accelerating more affordable, secure energy and net zero delivery, and as such, events like this are key to building those collaborative relationships.

    Ian Stuart, CEO of HSBC UK, said:

    At HSBC, we are determined to support UK businesses’ growth ambitions, both at home and abroad. As the world’s leading bank for international trade, we know that the dynamism of UK business is integral to the future health of the economy.

    HSBC supports the Government’s ambition to cement the UK’s position as a science and tech superpower. The summit will highlight the very best of the region’s innovative businesses, driving inward investment and growing our exports around the world to create jobs and drive the economy.

    Jon Holt, Group Chief Executive and UK Senior Partner KPMG, said:

    This Summit will be a fantastic moment to spotlight the strength and opportunity of the UK’s regions and their crucial role in helping drive national economic growth.

    KPMG’s heritage lies in our regional businesses and every day we work with brilliant companies across the country.

    The West Midlands is well-placed to host this Summit and showcase the skills, innovation and talent on offer in the region, and provide a springboard for regional growth.

    Charlie Nunn, Group Chief Executive, Lloyds Banking Group, said: 

    The UK’s regions are the powerhouses of innovation, investment and growth.

    We’re proud to support the inaugural Regional Investment Summit, which highlights the strength of local partnerships and the opportunities they create.

    Through the breadth and depth of our relationships with businesses across the country, Lloyds Banking Group is helping to unlock regional potential, attract investment, and fuel the UK’s long-term prosperity.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Boosting collaboration between UK and US financial systems to drive innovation and growth in global markets [September 2025]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 22 September 2025.

    The Chancellor of the Exchequer and the US Treasury Secretary establish a Transatlantic Taskforce for Markets of the Future to enhance collaboration on capital markets, digital assets and other innovative financial activities.

    The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, welcomed US Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, to Downing Street last week for a joint industry roundtable where they reaffirmed the deep and historic connection between the world’s leading financial hubs in the United Kingdom and United States. To ensure the strength of this relationship is maintained into the future, and through the ongoing period of technological change, they have decided to establish a Transatlantic Taskforce for Markets of the Future.

    The Taskforce is to report back to both finance ministries, via the UK – US Financial Regulatory Working Group (‘FRWG’), on recommendations to enhance collaboration on capital markets and digital assets and other innovative financial activities. These recommendations are to be developed in close collaboration with industry partners ensuring we unlock opportunities for investors, businesses, and market participants on both sides of the Atlantic. 

    The purpose of the Taskforce is to explore: 

    1. Options for short-to-medium term collaboration on digital assets whilst legislation and regulatory regimes are still developing, as well as options for long-term collaboration and additional opportunities for wholesale digital markets innovation. 
    2. Options to improve links between our capital markets to enhance the growth and competitiveness of both UK and US markets, focusing on reducing burdens for UK and U.S. firms raising capital cross-border.  

    The Transatlantic Taskforce for Markets of the Future should report within 180 days. The Taskforce is to be chaired by officials from HM Treasury and US Treasury and include representatives from UK and US regulators responsible for capital markets and digital assets regulation as appropriate. 

    The Taskforce should seek input from leading industry experts to ensure that its recommendations are informed by what matters most to industry.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK Anti-Corruption Champion visits British Virgin Islands [September 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK Anti-Corruption Champion visits British Virgin Islands [September 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 September 2025.

    Baroness Hodge is visiting the BVI to assess progress on financial transparency.

    Efforts to increase the UK’s security and resilience to illicit finance and money laundering are at the top of the agenda this week, as the UK’s Anti-Corruption Champion, Baroness Margaret Hodge, visits the British Virgin Islands to assess progress in implementing commitments on beneficial ownership registers.   

    Speaking ahead of her meetings with government officials and financial and legal sector representatives, scheduled for 23 and 24 September, Baroness Hodge said:   

    The UK is committed to transparency and the international fight against illicit finance. Public beneficial ownership registers are an essential tool that help us all follow the money so that we can expose corruption and money laundering.  

    In today’s global context, secret corporate structures are not just used to launder money. They are also used to undermine democracies, fund conflicts, and engage in human rights abuses and terrorism. So transparency is vital for us all and we share responsibility for ensuring we promote it.    

    This visit is an opportunity to engage constructively with leaders and stakeholders in the British Virgin Islands to better understand the challenges they perceive in implementing beneficial ownership registers.    

    I look forward to open, collaborative discussions that support our common goal of strengthening financial transparency.

    In November 2024, the British Virgin Islands joined the other UK Overseas Territories in committing to implement beneficial ownership registers with legitimate interest access by June 2025, as part of the UK’s efforts to enhance corporate transparency. While commitments have been made, concerns remain about the pace of progress towards implementing registers that meet the UK’s minimum requirements.  

    During her visit, Baroness Hodge will assess the progress and challenges in implementing transparent registers in the BVI. She will make recommendations on the required next steps to the UK’s Minister of State for the Overseas Territories, Stephen Doughty, who oversees the UK’s engagement with BVI on matters including governance and transparency.    

    Minister Doughty will consider Baroness Hodge’s findings following the visit.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government teams up with experts to supercharge women’s sport by the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup [September 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government teams up with experts to supercharge women’s sport by the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup [September 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 9 September 2025.

    Government to be guided by industry experts and academics including UK Sport and Sport England to break down barriers and create opportunities for women in sport.

    • Building on the success of the Lionesses this summer, the aim is to deliver equal access, better facilities and protect female athletes from online abuse as part of the Plan for Change.
    • Aim to deliver this change by the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup as the first meeting takes place in Brighton ahead of England vs Australia Women’s Rugby World Cup clash.

    With England’s Red Roses taking centre stage at the Rugby World Cup, the UK wants to build on the success of the Lionesses this summer to cement its position as a leader in women’s sport.

    A new taskforce of industry experts aims to understand opportunities and break down barriers to deliver equal access, best in class facilities, ongoing professionalisation of women’s sport, visible role models to inspire future generations of girls and a strong pipeline of UK hosted major events by the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

    This ambitious mission will be supported by the Women’s Sport Taskforce, which will hold its first meeting today ahead of the Women’s Rugby World Cup match between England and Australia in Brighton. 

    Chaired by the Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock, the first meeting will focus on driving innovation in female athlete health research and tackling the online abuse that too many of our elite sportswomen continue to endure. Guest experts include Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, Chris Boardman, Chair of Sport England and Sally Munday, Chief Executive of UK Sport. The National Governing Bodies of rugby union, football, netball, tennis and cricket will also be attending the first meeting to lend their insight, and the Taskforce will hear from data science company Signify Group to understand their work with World Rugby on online abuse of female athletes. 

    Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said:

    With record breaking crowds at the Rugby World Cup and tens of thousands of fans packing out the mall for the Lionesses victory parade after their amazing Euros success, the UK is perfectly positioned to become the world leader in women’s sport but we know positive results on the pitch must be met with decisive action off it. 

    This Taskforce will work to make sure that from the grassroots to sold out stadiums at major events, we are creating an environment where every woman and young girl can be involved in sport in an inclusive and welcoming environment as part of our Plan for Change.

    Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock said:

    Our Plan for Change is already expanding opportunities for women and girls. We are doubling access for women and girls on grassroots pitches, investing in state-of-the-art cricket domes and have a Rugby World Cup legacy programme that has already benefitted 850 clubs, improving facilities and access to sport. 

    This Taskforce will now guide us towards the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup, focusing on increasing participation, leading global innovation, and combating online abuse to make our women’s and girls’ sport sector the best in the world.

    The timing of the first meeting in Brighton reflects the Government’s commitment to using the record-breaking Women’s Rugby World Cup as a catalyst for transformational change. The tournament has already made history with more than 400,000 tickets sold, demonstrating the incredible appetite for women’s sport. 

    Building on this success, the government’s Impact 25 legacy programme has invested almost £7 million to reach hundreds of rugby clubs nationwide, supporting women and girls of all ages to get involved in rugby.

    CEO of UK Sport, Sally Munday said: 

    One of our key ambitions at UK Sport is to use the power and platform of sport to inspire positive change. Nowhere does this burn more brightly than in women’s sport. It is really encouraging that the Government is supporting the delivery of this work through the establishment of the Women’s Sport Taskforce.

    At UK Sport, we are proud to support trailblazing female Olympic and Paralympic athletes and are committed to continuing to bring some of the biggest and best international events in women’s sport to the UK – such as this year’s record breaking Rugby World Cup, the Tour De France Femmes in 2027 and hopefully, a Women’s Football World Cup in 2035.

    We are all invested in the continuing rise of women’s sport and I am delighted to be joining this new Taskforce to help make our ambitions a reality.’

    Chair of Sport England, Chris Boardman said:

    I’m delighted to have been asked to join DCMS’ taskforce on women’s sport. From safety fears to disempowering kit to online abuse – the issues faced by girls and women seeking to take part in sport and physical activity are major, which means that the stubborn gender activity gap persists.

    Sport England’s commitment is unwavering; our hugely influential This Girl Can campaign launches its next phase next week, and I am also look forward to meeting with OFCOM to discuss what action can be taken to better protect female athletes from online abuse.

    RFU’s Executive Director of the Women’s Game, Alex Teasdale said:

    The RFU is proud to support the launch of the Women’s Sport Taskforce, and welcomes the Government’s ambition to make the UK a global leader in women’s sport. Women’s rugby is seeing first-hand the transformative power of hosting a major event, and we are committed to working with partners across sport to ensure more women and girls can experience the benefits of playing and staying active. 

    With the Rugby World Cup providing the perfect stage, we look forward to helping drive progress on participation, visibility and player welfare within rugby, and across wider women’s sport

    The UK is  hosting a series of major women’s sporting events over the next decade leading up to the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2035. As well as the Women’s Rugby World Cup, these include the Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup in 2026 and the Tour de France Femmes Grand Départ in 2027. These events will showcase the country’s ability to deliver world-class sport at the elite level  whilst driving a  lasting legacy  on women’s sport participation. 

    Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Managing Director, Sarah Massey said:

    We welcome the government’s ambition, which echoes our own for Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 to be more than a tournament – to deliver positive social impact by changing perceptions and setting new standards that can influence both our industry and wider society. 

    At World Rugby we are proud to be leading the charge with our industry-leading online protection programme, supporting the mental wellbeing of players and match officials, tackling online abuse, and fostering a respectful and inclusive environment for all participants on and off the field. Rugby is a sport where everyone belongs, and that principle guides everything we do. 

    It’s why we’ve built a diverse team for this tournament, with women representing 100% of our senior leadership team and 70% of our overall workforce, whilst also ensuring our suppliers are aligned with our values. Together with government and partners across sport we are determined to open up the sports industry to make it more inclusive.

    The UK is  hosting a series of major women’s sporting events over the next decade leading up to the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2035. As well as the Women’s Rugby World Cup, these include the Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup in 2026 and the Tour de France Femmes Grand Départ in 2027. These events will showcase the country’s ability to deliver world-class sport at the elite level  whilst driving a  lasting legacy  on women’s sport participation.

    The government has committed significant investment in both grassroots and elite sport, with £400 million allocated for new and upgraded grassroots facilities and £500 million invested in elite sporting events. 

    Through targeted funding and Sport England’s renowned This Girl Can campaign, which has helped nearly four million women become more active over the past decade, alongside pioneering research at Loughborough University’s Sport Research and Innovation Hub for women, the government continues to work with experts in their field to break down barriers and drive innovation that will make the UK the leader in women’s sport globally by 2035.