Category: Press Releases

PRESS RELEASE : Digital defence transformation boosted by £150 million UK contract [January 2024]
The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 17 January 2024.

Digital services across Defence will be transformed in a £150 million contract awarded to UK-based technology services provider, Computacenter.
- UK-based technology services provider Computacenter awarded four-year contract.
- Contract expected to reduce current costs by around 64% (£84m).
- Covering over 220,000 devices in use by MOD personnel worldwide.
Digital services across Defence will be transformed in a £150 million contract awarded to UK-based technology services provider, Computacenter.

The four-year contract will support tens of thousands of laptops and desktop computers used by MOD personnel worldwide, from head office to the front line, as well as creating additional jobs at Computacenter’s Hatfield and Nottingham sites.

Reducing operating costs by around £84 million, the new services will provide a high-quality, secure and sustainable service to defence personnel, enabling defence to more rapidly respond to changing needs and market conditions.

The contract represents a wider MOD move away from large, aggregated contracts to smaller, more measurable contracts that will improve organisational flexibility.

Defence Digital’s improvement programme is a priority for the MOD, and we are investing over £4 billion annually in our digital transformation, to streamline the MOD’s processes and increase our operational capability.

Minister for Defence Procurement, James Cartlidge, said:

Delivering on our digital transformation will ensure high-quality, rapidly accessible global data, which is a critical component of our fighting power. Bolstered technology can strengthen our deterrence, our resilience, and our national prosperity.

The service will improve performance standards and speed of access across 220,000 devices including laptops, desktops, peripherals and software applications.

MOD Chief Information Officer, Charles Forte, said:

This new relationship is a significant component in our ongoing progress to bring new business into the team and ensures we are modernising and innovating in support of our internal customers to deliver greater value for money.
January 21, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Health Secretary announces new women’s health priorities for 2024 [January 2024]
The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 17 January 2024.

Problem periods, women’s health research and support for domestic and sexual abuse victims are among the government’s priorities.
- Top priorities to be tackled under the Women’s Health Strategy in 2024 include menstrual problems and menopause, maternity care and birth trauma support
- Support for domestic and sexual abuse victims and women in the criminal justice system will also be improved
- Health Secretary addresses women’s health champions at major London event to outline plans for coming year and celebrate successes of strategy’s first year
- Successes since the launch include reducing the cost of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the rollout of women’s health hubs
- £50 million for research to tackle maternity disparities
The Health and Social Care Secretary has named problem periods, women’s health research and support for domestic and sexual abuse victims among the government’s priorities for women’s health in 2024.

Speaking at the Women’s Health Summit in central London to mark the second year of the landmark Women’s Health Strategy for England, Victoria Atkins said it would also prioritise improving maternity care and support for mothers who suffer birth trauma.

This follows a raft of successes over the strategy’s first 12 months, including reducing the cost of HRT for nearly half a million women, and the rollout of specialist women’s health hubs in every local health area. The strategy also championed the creation of a new dedicated women’s health section of the NHS website, providing updated information, advice and practical resources for women’s health across the life course.

Health and Social Care Secretary, Victoria Atkins, said:

We’re breaking historical barriers that prevent women getting the care they need, building greater understanding of women’s healthcare issues and ensuring their voices and choices are listened to.

We’ve made huge progress – enabling almost half a million women access to cheaper HRT, supporting women through the agony of pregnancy loss and opening new women’s health hubs – but I absolutely recognise there is more to do.

We’re ensuring these changes benefit all women, regardless of socioeconomic background or ethnicity, because our Women’s Health Strategy is only a success if it works for all women.

The 2024 priorities were developed from responses to the government’s call for evidence from over 100,000 healthcare professionals, women’s health champions, members of the public and other stakeholders across the health sector. They are:
- better care for menstrual and gynaecological conditions - by rolling out women’s health hubs, producing new guidance for healthcare professionals, continuing to improve information and support for women suffering from painful heavy periods and endometriosis, and promoting easier access to contraception – which often plays a vital role in managing menstrual problems. The Office for National Statistics will investigate the impact of period problems and endometriosis on women’s participation and progress at work, improving our understanding to achieve reductions in diagnosis times
- expanding women’s health hubs – by delivering through our £25 million investment, the hubs will improve women’s access to care, improve health outcomes and reduce health inequalities. We are working towards the aim of establishing one fully functioning hub in every local area this year, enabling better access and quality of care in services for menstrual problems, contraception, pelvic pain, menopause care and more
- tackling disparities and improving support for vulnerable women including victims of sexual abuse and violence by ensuring training and support systems are working collaboratively and efficiently. This will include creating new models within the NHS to protect its staff. We will focus on improving the health of women in the justice system, by implementing the recommendations set out in the National Women’s Prison Health and Social Care Review
- bolstering maternity care, before during and after pregnancy – by continuing to deliver on NHS England’s 3-year delivery plan for maternity and neonatal services and ensuring women understand the care they can expect from the NHS during pregnancy and after giving birth. We will also be supporting women who suffer with birth trauma and ensure both mental and physical health are prioritised. A greater focus will be placed on preconception and postnatal care for women, raising awareness of pregnancy sickness and actioning the recommendations set out in the Pregnancy Loss Review. Through the first ever National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) ‘challenge’, backed by £50 million, researchers, policymakers and women will be tasked with finding new ways to tackle maternity disparities
- more research - a vital component to levelling up the playing field for women’s health. In addition to the NIHR challenge, we are building on the £53 million invested via the NIHR programmes and will continue to improve how women are represented in medical research through the NIHR research inclusion strategy
Minister for Women’s Health, Maria Caulfield, said:

Helping women and girls who suffer from bad periods can make a huge difference to their lives, education and careers. And any woman who has experienced trauma after giving birth – either mentally or physically – will know the impact it can have on all aspects of her life.

These are issues that impact women but they should not be seen as ‘women’s problems’ – it is an everyone problem. We are doing more to put these issues on the agenda and keep them there, to close the gender health gap once and for all.

We’ve made enormous strides in the first year of the strategy and I’m excited to see what 2024 will bring.

As well as announcing its new priorities, the government announced the reappointment of Professor Dame Lesley Regan as Women’s Health Ambassador for England for a further 2 years, to December 2025.

Professor Dame Lesley was appointed as the Women’s Health Ambassador in 2022 and brings a raft of expertise spanning a 44-year career in women’s health as a practising clinician. She has specialised in core areas including miscarriage, period problems, gynaecological surgery and menopause.

Professor Dame Lesley Regan, Women’s Health Ambassador, said:

Our Women’s Health Strategy is ambitious. It was created to ensure our healthcare system places women’s health on an equal footing to men.

I want women everywhere to feel confident that when they seek advice from their healthcare professional, whether it’s for heavy or painful periods or issues following birth, they know they are going to receive world-class treatment. This is the ultimate goal of the strategy, and I am delighted that we have made such positive progress in the first year and generated so much enthusiastic help to succeed.

This coming year offers us the opportunity of taking further steps forward in delivering better healthcare outcomes for every woman in our society.

Chief Nursing Officer for England, Ruth May, said:

The NHS is committed to ensuring women’s individual healthcare needs are met, which is why every area of England is being supported to develop a women’s health hub alongside the rollout of a network of Women’s Health Champions, who will use their leadership and experience to drive forward work to improve women’s health.

The NHS is also rolling out dedicated pelvic health clinics, and every local health system now has a specialist community perinatal mental health team and we have also made it easier to access contraception through local pharmacies.

But there is clearly more to do which is why it is brilliant to see the publication of the women’s health priorities for 2024.

CEO of Endometriosis UK, Emma Cox, said:

Women’s health has long been an underfunded and under-researched area. Implementing the aspirations in the Women’s Health Strategy will provide a much needed boost to turning this around, improving treatment and the lives of those suffering from endometriosis and menstrual health conditions.

At Endometriosis UK, we know that many women face an unacceptable delay in securing a diagnosis and appropriate care. With sufficient funding and support, women’s health hubs could offer a real opportunity to drive down diagnosis times and support women to access the support they need.

We’re delighted Professor Dame Lesley Regan has been reappointed and we look forward to continuing to support her vital and much needed work to deliver the key priorities outlined within the Women’s Health Strategy.

Dr Ranee Thakar, President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, said:

We are pleased to see the government launching their 2024 priorities for the women’s health strategy at our Union Street home, also the location of 15 other women’s health organisations.

The focus on improving care and treatment for women with gynaecological conditions such as endometriosis and fibroids, which are often progressive, and have a huge impact on a woman’s quality of life, is hugely welcome. We have continually called for action to improve waiting lists in gynaecology services and know that women’s health hubs present a real opportunity to improve women’s health outcomes, and reduce inequalities in access and outcomes for women across the country. I am also glad to see that ensuring high quality care following birth trauma, an area of care which has long been a professional and personal passion of mine, has been recognised as a key focus for government.

We also want to congratulate our former president, Professor Dame Lesley Regan, for her excellent leadership of the women’s health agenda at a national level and her well-deserved reappointment as Women’s Health Ambassador. As a dedicated advocate for a life course approach to women’s health, we have every faith she will continue to provide excellent leadership to drive the strategy forward.
January 21, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : UK takes action to boost supply chain resilience for critical goods and back businesses [January 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 17 January 2024.

The Department for Business and Trade launches the Critical Imports and Supply Chains Strategy, safeguarding UK supplies of critical goods such as medicines, minerals and semiconductors.
Imports of critical goods for the NHS and UK manufacturing to be protected from global supply chain shocks, safeguarding business and consumers and boosting the economy.

New Critical Imports and Supply Chains Strategy forms key part of government work to back business and grow the economy, helping UK companies build strong and resilient supply chains for vital goods and avoid dependence on protectionist or coercive states.

Cutting-edge research will be used to map the impacts of shocks on supply chains, such as those caused by the Covid pandemic and war in Ukraine and understand how the UK can secure the goods we need in future.

UK supplies of critical goods such as medicines, minerals and semiconductors will be safeguarded, thanks to the Government’s new Critical Imports and Supply Chains Strategy launched today (Wednesday 17 January).

The recent attacks in the Red Sea, one of the world’s most critical waterways, has threatened global trade. In response to increased geopolitical disruption, and the unprecedented challenges of recent years, like the Covid pandemic, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and environmental disasters, the UK Government and businesses have boosted their ability to manage supply chain shocks. This strategy builds on this and will further equip UK businesses to deal with global supply chain problems and access the imports they need which are essential to the functioning of the UK.

Imported goods are vital to our economy. They ensure lower prices, greater choice, and help businesses to be more productive. They enable innovation, drive growth, and are essential to the UK’s world-leading industries, from aerospace to life sciences.

More than 100 top UK firms, including pharmaceutical and manufacturing leaders like The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI), the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) and Green Lithium have contributed to the strategy to ensure it helps develop resilient and secure supply chains that protect both their business and the consumers who rely on them.

Minister for Industry and Economic Security Nusrat Ghani will launch the Strategy today during a visit to Heathrow Airport, the largest import hub in the UK which handled more than £86 billion of UK imports in 2022.

Minister for Industry and Economic Security Nusrat Ghani said:

There are many unpredictable events that can threaten our access to vital goods, from the pandemic, Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine, and the ongoing attacks in the Red Sea. That’s why we’re taking action to ensure crucial imports like medicines can reach consumers, no matter what happens around the world.

With this strategy we’re equipping business so they no longer have to rely on unpredictable partners for supplies of the goods that keep our country going. By making supply chains stronger we’re helping make the UK a truly safe and reliable place to do business.

Ross Baker, Chief Commercial Officer, Heathrow said:

Heathrow connects the UK to 95% of the world’s economy and facilitates imports of the high value, time-critical goods that British industries like pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and technology rely on. We welcome Government initiatives that make doing business in the UK easier and more efficient, from shoring up supply chains to streamlining cargo processes at the airport, so Heathrow can meet growing demand to import and export across the globe.

The Critical Imports and Supply Chains Strategy will enable government to share vital information and guidance with businesses on the risks to key supply chains and the practical steps they can take to protect themselves from disruption, including regular updates on emerging supply chain risks, such as new export bans on critical everyday goods imposed by other countries.

As part of the strategy, we will set up a new online portal to allow businesses to quickly report red tape or disruption affecting their critical imports. The government will then work to remove these barriers wherever possible, saving business time and money.

We will also pursue further trade deals to help UK importers access the critical goods they need efficiently and affordably. This provides certainty for traders, allowing businesses to make informed decisions and reduce delays at the border, helping drive growth and streamlining costs.

The strategy sets out how we will use cutting edge research to understand the impacts of shocks on supply chains and how we can secure the critical goods we need in future. This will include researching how climate change will impact on our key supply chains, and how to mitigate the impact of environmental disasters.

We will also set up a new Critical Imports Council that will allow businesses and government to work together to identify risks to critical imports and develop a plan of action – ensuring that business have a central voice in shaping government’s work to build supply chain resilience.

Richard Torbett, ABPI Chief Executive said:

The government’s approach to the critical imports for pharmaceuticals will support our industry to maintain resilient supply chains, helping to ensure consistent access to medicines for UK patients. The medicines and vaccines developed by our industry are vital to public health and the economy. Recent global events like the pandemic have shown that our industry can manage and address global supply chain shocks, especially when working collaboratively with government, and this strategy supports our industry in doing so going forward.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive said:

With our success powered by complex global supply chains, the automotive industry has been pleased to help shape a new strategy that will support manufacturing agility and responsiveness. As we accelerate production of the cleanest and greenest vehicles, and the batteries they need, such a strategy is essential and we look forward to continuing this vital engagement to boost Britain’s resilience and competitiveness – essential to the continued success of the UK as a top tier investment destination for the automotive sector.

Sean Sargent, Green Lithium Chief Executive said:

Green Lithium is pleased to support the new Critical Imports & Supply Chains Strategy. This strategy will help ensure that Green Lithium can acquire the critical minerals it requires to supply the UK’s first low-carbon lithium refinery, further advancing a UK battery supply chain and electric vehicle production. This endeavour will support the UK economy by creating sustainable employment opportunities and supply chains that are fundamental to the energy transition. In combination with the UK Critical Minerals Strategy and the US-UK Atlantic Declaration, we anticipate that this strategy will attract investment in the UK’s critical mining and refining industries and enhance relationships with key mining countries, including Australia, Canada and Brazil. We are grateful to all those involved in establishing this vital strategy.

The Government will also attract international investment to projects like lithium mining in Cornwall to make us more self-sufficient in critical goods used in industries like electric vehicles production and clean energy.

Through the strategy, we will also identify the support UK business needs to connect with new suppliers in international markets, including through our overseas network in more than 100 countries. At the same time, we will use our expertise to support developing countries build supply chains with new international markets, including the UK.

The strategy also sets out how the UK government will work with our friends and international partners to solve supply chain challenges, through steps like the Atlantic Declaration. This partnership with the US includes negotiation of a new critical minerals agreement that will bolster our vital supply chains and ensure the UK’s access to materials we need for future technologies.
January 21, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : UK Government strengthens UK-Japan partnership on cyber [January 2024]

The press release issued by the Cabinet Office on 17 January 2024.

A new partnership between Japan and the UK will strengthen the UKs strategic approach to cyber.

Today the two countries have agreed to a Memorandum of Cooperation to deepen public-private partnerships in cyber between the UK and Japan.

The Memorandum was signed during the course of a three-day visit to the UK from Japan’s Keidanren Cyber Security Committee, hosted by the National Cyber Advisory Board (NCAB).

Co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minster, Oliver Dowden, and Chief Information Officer at Lloyds Banking Group, Sharon Barber, NCAB was formed in 2022 to bring together leaders from academia and industry. The group aims to present alternative viewpoints and harness networks from across the cyber ecosystem, supporting delivery of the National Cyber Strategy.

Signing the Memorandum on behalf of the UK, Deputy Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Oliver Dowden said,

Cyber is the new frontier. To ensure we remain at the forefront of cyber strategy we must continue to work with democratic partners who share our values”.

Japan is an important friend and ally, sharing our beliefs on areas such as rule of law, climate change and human rights. This latest partnership further strengthens our relationship with Japan following the signing of the Hiroshima Accord and promotes collaboration across the public and private sector, strengthening our economy and demonstrating the UK Government’s commitment to making long-term decisions to secure our future.

The Japanese delegation met with key figures from the public sector alongside industry experts including senior representatives from IBM and Sharon Barber, Chief Information Officer at Lloyds Banking Group, to discuss securing digital supply chains, engaging businesses on cyber resilience and best practice recruitment to increase cyber skills across both countries.

This builds on the UK and Japan’s work together to strengthen our shared values of democracy, rule of law and free and open trade. In May 2023 the UK and Japan signed the Hiroshima Accord committing to an enhanced Global Strategic Partnership on issues such as global security, resilience and climate change.

Signing on behalf of Japan, Dr. Nobuhiro Endo commented,

Based on this MoC, Keidanren is determined to further deepen and broaden bilateral cooperation between our public and private sectors. From the perspective of co-creating a data-driven society, we hope to continue to discuss safe and secure use of digital technologies including AI.

Co-chair of NCAB, Sharon Barber commented,

Close collaboration between government and industry is at the heart of NCAB. The Memorandum of Cooperation between the UK and Japan is a significant further step on our journey and one which will help both nations further mature their private-public partnerships on cyber, and ultimately support the delivery of each nation’s cyber security strategy.

January 21, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : DPRK missile launch on 14 January [January 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 16 January 2024.

Following the DPRK’s launch of a solid fuel intermediate-range ballistic missile on Sunday 14 January, an FCDO spokesperson gave a statement.

An FCDO spokesperson said:

The UK condemns the DPRK’s launch of a solid fuel intermediate-range ballistic missile on Sunday 14 January. This action is a clear breach of multiple UN Security Council Resolutions.

This repeated cycle of testing is deeply damaging for regional stability and further threatens peace and security in the Korean Peninsula.

The UK strongly urges the DPRK to refrain from illegal launches, swiftly return to dialogue and abandon its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes in a complete, verifiable and irreversible manner.

January 18, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Government to support small-scale fishing industry across the UK in latest medical consultation [January 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 16 January 2024.

The government launches a consultation on medical exemptions for fishers working on vessels 10 metres and under in length.
- Government gives industry a chance to have its say on concessions that would benefit fishers on vessels of 10 metres and under.
- Safety of fishers is paramount and today will make sure that remains the case while ensuring fishers can continue their important work
- Government continues to listen to the views from across the fishing industry
An industry-wide consultation starts today to see how small-scale fishers can fish as safely as possible.

In November 2023, regulations came into effect requiring fishers working on small UK flagged vessels to have a certificate of medical fitness. The government has worked to support those who can still fish but would otherwise be unduly forced ashore. Some grandfather rights have been extended for eyesight, BMI, diabetes and most recently seasonal fishers.

Unlike larger fishing operations, those who operate vessels of 10 metres and under are usually independent and require more support, which is why today the Department for Transport is seeing how to best deliver medical exemptions safely so hard-working, small-scale fishers aren’t unduly forced ashore.

The potential concession is being considered by the Secretary of State for Transport after listening to the concerns of those in the fishing industry as well as MPs representing coastal communities.

Industry is being urged to have its say on the proposals, which are being published by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).

The blanket exemption from holding a valid medical certificate would only apply to those who have already been working on vessels of 10 metres and under for at least 4 weeks between 30 November 2022 and 30 November 2023.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said:

The safety of those who are working in our fishing industry is paramount and it’s vital that any medical requirements work for them. That’s why we have actively listened to views from the fishing industry and MPs representing coastal communities, already granting concessions for factors such as eyesight, diabetes and BMI.

This consultation shows that we are open to proper solutions that uphold the highest standards of safety.

See the MCA’s GOV.UK pages to read and take part in the Medical exemption – existing fishers on vessels of 10 metres or under consultation.

Notes to editors
- Reviews of medical standards are carried on out a regular basis.
- The Secretary of State for Transport is considering providing an exemption under regulation 14 of The Merchant Shipping (Work in Fishing Convention) (Medical Certification) Regulations 2018 so that existing fishers working in fishing vessels of 10 metres and under (registered length as defined by the Fishing Vessels (Codes of Practice) Regulations 2017) in length are exempt from regulations 4 and 5.
January 18, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Joint Statement: US-UK Strategic Dialogue on Biological Security [January 2024]
The press release issued by the Cabinet Office on 16 January 2024.

On 16 January the United States and the United Kingdom announced a Strategic Dialogue on Biological Security.
Building on the June 10, 2021 New Atlantic Charter and the June 8, 2023 Atlantic Declaration on Economic Security, the U.S. National Security Council and the UK Cabinet Office today announce a new Strategic Dialogue on Biological Security.

Underpinned by the UK Biological Security Strategy and the U.S. National Biodefense Strategy, this Strategic Dialogue reflects a shared ambition to bolster future health and economic resilience against a growing and diverse spectrum of biological threats.

The Strategic Dialogue reaffirms both nations’ commitment to increase collaboration in the following ways:

Develop a shared understanding of research and development (R&D) needs at the onset of new disease outbreaks, allowing for improved responsiveness by shaping global R&D efforts and supporting early technology assessments.

Adopt a One Health approach to biosurveillance and biological threat detection, in support of international efforts to develop stronger and more interconnected global surveillance capabilities.

Pursue the development of new tools and methodologies for microbial forensics and attribution.

Promote responsible innovation in the biotechnology, health, and life sciences sectors, shaping global norms and standards on biosafety and biosecurity while simultaneously protecting burgeoning bio-economies.

Facilitate the development of next-generation vaccines and therapeutics, in line with the 100-Days Mission vision supported by G7 leaders in Carbis Bay in 2021 and reaffirmed at the 2023 G7 Summit in Hiroshima.

Strengthen coordination of efforts to counter biological threats, including developing joint measures to address Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention compliance.

US National Security Council

UK Cabinet Office

16 January 2024
January 18, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Real-time pump prices to drive down fuel costs for motorists [January 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 16 January 2024.

Consultation launches on new Pumpwatch scheme that will make it easier for drivers to shop around for the cheapest fuel.
- New real-time fuel price data will help drivers shop for fuel, via navigation apps, in-car devices and comparison websites
- industry asked for views on new legal requirement to share prices within 30 minutes of a change
- part of government action to further drive down pump prices by bringing transparency and competition back to the forecourts
Millions of drivers will be able to get the latest petrol station prices at the click of a button, as the government sets out next steps to bring fair prices back to the pumps and transform how the UK shops for its fuel.

Consumers, retailers, and other organisations are today (16 January), being asked for views on the government’s proposals for the new Pumpwatch scheme which would see all fuel stations across the country legally required to share real-time price information with an organisation to be appointed by the government.

Under the new proposals, forecourts across the country will be legally required to share live information on their pump prices within 30 minutes of any change in price, which could save drivers 3p per litre on fuel by helping them find the best deal at the pump.

This freely available data will enable tech companies to develop new ways for the UK’s 41.2 million drivers to search for the cheapest fuel while on-the-go – via everyday mobile apps, online mapping platforms, journey planning tools, price comparison websites and in-car devices. A similar statewide scheme in Queensland, Australia saw drivers save on average $93 (£48) per year, by making it easier for them to shop around for fuel.

Forcing retailers to be transparent about how much they are charging and giving drivers access to price comparison technology – already widely used by customers when booking flights or buying insurance, for example – will help drive down prices by reigniting competition and empowering drivers to find the best deals.

The government has acted after some fuel retailers were found to be overcharging customers, and already there are signs that fairer deals are returning to forecourts. Since these interventions, fuel prices have fallen by an average of around 2p per litre every week between 13 November and 25 December, bringing petrol prices down to a level not seen since October 2021.

This comes as the government delivers its target to halve inflation – now at its lowest rate in 2 years at 3.9%, with fuel prices the main factor behind this slowdown.

It also comes on top of the government’s temporary extension to the 5p fuel duty cut announced last year, which has saved the average driver £200 over 2 years.

Energy Security Secretary Claire Coutinho said:

Our work on competition and transparency is working. Drivers are now paying the lowest average price at the pump for 2 years.

We are forcing retailers to share live information on their prices within 30 minutes of any change in price, helping drivers to find the best deal at the pump.

This will put motorists back in the driving seat and bring much-needed competition back to the forecourts.

Twelve of the biggest retailers, including all 4 fuel-selling supermarkets, have already signed up to an interim voluntary scheme run by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to share their daily prices – with some news outlets and websites using this data to offer price comparisons.

Last year, a report by the CMA revealed some retailers had failed to pass on savings in oil prices – charging drivers 6p more per litre for fuel, which amounted to £900 million in extra costs in 2022 alone.

At the end of 2023, the government appointed the CMA as the body responsible for monitoring the road fuel market, to increase transparency and competition in fuel pricing. The watchdog will also shine a light on any attempt from retailers to overcharge drivers, advising government on any further action required to make competition work well.

Energy Security Secretary Claire Coutinho previously warned retailers against any attempt to hike up prices.

Minister for Energy Affordability and Skills Amanda Solloway said:

We will always act to help keep costs down and ensure hardworking people are getting a fair deal.

Our plans are laying the foundations for new fuel finder tools, making it easy for drivers to find the cheapest deals.

I’m pleased that following government action, many retailers are already taking steps to help bring back competitive prices to the pumps.

Recent government statistics show that road fuel prices were around 5p per litre lower on 25 December compared to the start of the month. This continued a decline in prices, which decreased by an average of 2.1p per litre per week between 13 November and 25 December. Over the 4 weeks between 9 October and 6 November, petrol pump prices fell by 2.7p per litre. Prices then fell by 4.4p per litre over the 2 weeks between 13 and 27 November.

The consultation launched today also covers some elements of the CMA’s new role in monitoring the road fuel market. Industry have been asked for their views on several areas, including the topics the CMA will focus on, the frequency of reporting, and support to help businesses with the CMA’s information requests.

The government is also backing consumers through new legislation under Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill that will deliver on a manifesto commitment to tackle consumer rip-offs and bad business practices, including fake reviews and subscription traps. The Bill introduces new powers for the CMA to take action against bad business practices more quickly, without needing lengthy court action and with penalties for those breaking consumer law.

RAC fuel spokesman Simon Williams said:

This is a really important day as it should pave the way for fairer fuel pricing for everyone who drives.

Sadly, there have been far too many occasions where drivers have lost out at the pumps when wholesale prices have fallen significantly and those reductions haven’t been passed on quickly enough or fully enough by retailers.

We badly need to see competition in the wider market match that of Northern Ireland where fuel prices are consistently 5p cheaper.

Edmund King OBE, AA president, said:

The AA commends the government for addressing the issue of unfair pump prices that we have been raising for some time. The brazen price disparity of sometimes 10p a litre or more between neighbouring towns had to end. Pumping up profits by hanging on to the savings from lower fuel costs while consumers, businesses and inflation were denied the relief was quite simply unforgivable.

The government’s proposal should stimulate fairer pricing through free market competition and takes advantage of latest information technology. It gives leeway to fuel retailers to price according to their circumstances but, by directing motoring consumers to where they can get their fuel at a better price, keeps competitive pressure on the trade.

Notes to editors

The CMA published its interim road fuel monitoring update on 9 November . This was followed by Energy Security Secretary’s Claire Coutinho warning to retailers against any attempt to hike up prices at the pump. The AA recently reported on trends showing a recent drop in fuel prices.

Read and respond to the consultation on the open data scheme and ongoing monitoring function for road fuel prices.

The impact assessment published today alongside the open data scheme consultation shows that the open data scheme could help deliver a 3p per litre saving on petrol and diesel prices for consumers.

Additional information on the 12 fuel retailers to who have signed up to share their daily pricing information, as part of the CMA’s voluntary data scheme.
January 18, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Funding to help hundreds of rough sleepers off streets [January 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities on 15 January 2024.

Over £17 million to help rough sleepers into long term housing as cold weather bites. Money to provide more bed spaces for areas most in need.
Hundreds of rough sleepers will be helped off the streets and into long term settled accommodation thanks to over £17 million of government funding. The money has been given to local authorities across England most in need so they can provide more bed spaces for people who are sleeping rough this winter and more long-term secure accommodation.

London boroughs including Hammersmith, Lambeth and Greenwich collectively received over £3 million, with all local authorities in the capital able to benefit. Nottingham City Council received over £400,000, Bristol City Council over £300,000 and Hastings & Eastbourne Borough Councils almost £250,000.

This brings the total funding for the Rough Sleeping Initiative to over £547 million and forms just one part of a wider package of support backed by over £2 billion of government funding over 3 years. This includes helping individuals find work, manage their finances and access mental and physical health services.

Minister for Rough Sleeping Felicity Buchan said:

As the cold weather continues this winter, our mission to help people off the streets is even more urgent. We are determined to deliver our manifesto pledge to end rough sleeping and today’s announcement demonstrates our continuing commitment to supporting the most vulnerable in our society with access to a safe and warm home, backed by over £2 billion of government funding over 3 years.

The winter period is particularly high-risk for individuals who are sleeping rough, increasing the demand for immediate ‘off the street’ accommodation so the funding package includes £4 million available to local authorities facing the greatest pressures in rough sleeping in England.

Meanwhile over 1,000 people have been housed through the Housing First Pilots in Liverpool City Region, Greater Manchester, and the West Midlands Combined Authority, providing long term housing for the homeless. The scheme has reported that the vast majority using the scheme (92%) found a home within a year and said they feel safer, less likely to be a victim of crime and less likely to be involved in antisocial behaviour.

Further information

The StreetLink campaign is now running which enables members of the public to alert local council outreach workers if they see someone sleeping rough. Investment from government has made it simpler than ever for people to support a person sleeping rough off the streets and into safe accommodation. See more here: StreetLink – Connecting people sleeping rough to local services (thestreetlink.org.uk)

The government has a manifesto commitment to end rough sleeping in this parliament. This means rough sleeping is prevented wherever possible and, where it cannot be prevented, it is a rare, brief and non-recurring experience.

Our manifesto also committed to pilot Housing First in 3 urban areas with contrasting challenges: Greater Manchester, West Midlands and Liverpool City Region. The programme was initially allocated £28 million of government funding, but in May 2022, they secured an additional £13.9 million in funding to drive forward the programme’s legacy.
January 18, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Home Secretary declares Hizb ut-Tahrir as terrorists [January 2024]

The press release issued by the Home Office on 15 January 2024.

James Cleverly has laid a draft order before Parliament to proscribe Hizb ut-Tahrir under the Terrorism Act 2000.

The Home Secretary, James Cleverly, has today (15 January) laid a draft order before Parliament to proscribe the international Sunni Islamist political organisation Hizb ut-Tahrir under the Terrorism Act 2000.

If agreed by Parliament, the order will come into force on 19 January 2024. This means that belonging to, inviting support for and displaying articles in a public place in a way that arouses suspicion of membership or support for the group will be a criminal offence.

Certain proscription offences can be punishable by up to 14 years in prison, which can be handed down by a court alongside or in place of a fine. The resources of a proscribed organisation are terrorist property and may be seized. Once a group is proscribed its ability to operate openly in the UK will be significantly degraded because of the offences attached to membership and inviting support.

Founded in 1953, Hizb ut-Tahrir is an international political group with a long-term goal of establishing a Caliphate ruled under Islamic law. While their headquarters are in Lebanon, the group operates in at least 32 countries including the UK, United States, Canada and Australia.

The proscription of Hizb ut-Tahrir includes the global organisation, as well as all regional branches, including Hizb ut-Tahrir Britain.

Home Secretary, James Cleverly said:

Hizb ut-Tahrir is an antisemitic organisation that actively promotes and encourages terrorism, including praising and celebrating the appalling 7 October attacks.

Proscribing this terrorist group will ensure that anyone who belongs to and invites supports for them will face consequences. It will curb Hizb ut-Tahrir’s ability to operate as it currently does.

Hizb ut-Tahrir’s praise of the 7 October attacks and associated incidents, as well as describing Hamas as ‘heroes’ on their central website constitutes promoting and encouraging terrorism.

Hizb ut-Tahrir has a history of praising and celebrating attacks against Israel and attacks against Jews more widely. The UK stands strongly against antisemitism and will not tolerate the promotion of terrorism in any form.

This group’s antisemitic ideology and praise of attacks against innocent civilians in Israel outlines the necessity of its proscription.

Security Minister, Tom Tugendhat said:

Hizb ut-Tahrir clearly encourage and promote terrorism.

Their celebration of Hamas’ appalling attacks on Israel, going so far as to call the terrorists who raped and murdered Israeli citizens ‘heroes’, is disgraceful.

We stand firmly against antisemitism and hatred against the Jewish community in the UK.

Several countries have banned Hizb ut-Tahrir for their various activities, including Germany, Egypt, Bangladesh, Pakistan and several Central Asian and Arab countries. Austria banned symbols of the group in May 2021.

The order will be debated in Parliament during this week and, if approved, Hizb ut-Tahrir will become the 80th organisation to be proscribed in the UK.

Other groups who have been proscribed by the British government include al-Qaeda, ISIS, National Action and most recently the Wagner Group.

January 18, 2024