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Category: Press Releases

  • PRESS RELEASE : Overhaul of Prevent underway with new guidance published [September 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Overhaul of Prevent underway with new guidance published [September 2023]

    The press release issued by the Home Office on 7 September 2023.

    Significant improvements delivered just over 6 months after the Home Secretary committed to wholesale change following the Independent Review of Prevent.

    The government is on track to fulfil the majority of the recommendations from the Independent Review of Prevent by February 2024, with significant changes already implemented to bolster governance and embed oversight.

    Ten out of the 34 recommendations have been delivered in full, and progress has been made against every single recommendation, with 68 of the 120 required tasks completed.

    Refreshed draft Prevent duty guidance has been published today and a statutory instrument laid in the House of Commons to bring it into force under the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act, aiding frontline professionals in stopping people from becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism.

    Strengthened due diligence checks on civil society organisations will ensure that under no circumstances will Prevent work with or fund those who legitimise or support extremists. Prevent funding has ceased with groups which have fallen foul of these standards.

    Updated Prevent duty guidance, published today, delivers on several key recommendations of the independent review, making it clear that Prevent’s objective is to tackle the ideological causes of terrorism. It includes practical advice for those with responsibility to stop people from becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism.

    This guidance will help frontline professionals in healthcare, education, local authorities, prisons, probation and the police comply with the Prevent duty.

    Home Secretary, Suella Braverman, said:

    Terrorists seek to destroy the freedoms and values we cherish. It is the duty of government to disrupt this enduring and evolving threat.

    Ongoing improvements to Prevent are paving the way for a stronger, more transparent and proportionate approach to tackling radicalisation in this country. This includes ensuring that we are no longer working with or funding groups who legitimise extremists.

    The updated Prevent duty guidance provides frontline professionals in education, healthcare and local government with a renewed focus as well as new tools and information to stop people from becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism.

    Education Secretary, Gillian Keegan, said:

    Our schools are committed to protecting pupils from radicalisation and extremist influences, and this guidance along with the support of frontline workers will be pivotal to achieving that.

    These changes will provide greater clarity, practical advice and access to best practice for all teachers and education settings.

    A new security threat check will ensure that Prevent activity is always in line with the national threat picture.

    New training on the ideological foundations of extremism and terrorism is being rolled out throughout the country.

    Terminology has been updated in the guidance throughout to reflect an individual’s susceptibility to terrorism and vulnerability will only be used where appropriate.

    A refreshed ministerial oversight board will meet in the coming months to oversee continued implementation of the independent review and ensure delivery remains in line with Shawcross’ recommendations.

    Delivery of Prevent has moved from a national to a regional model which provides support for all local authorities in England and Wales. The areas with the highest radicalisation risk will also receive multi-year funding to combat the local threat.

    To address the reviewer’s concerns about the prevalence of antisemitism in Channel cases, specialist intervention providers have been recruited. There is also new training being provided to civil society organisations to tackle antisemitism.

    The government has completed 68 of the 120 subsets of the 34 recommendations of the independent review and the vast majority of these recommendations are expected to be fulfilled by February 2024.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK sanctions members of Russian cybercrime gang [September 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK sanctions members of Russian cybercrime gang [September 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 7 September 2023.

    UK sanctions members of Russian cybercrime gang responsible for attacks on hospitals and critical infrastructure.

    • sanctions hit 11 from Russian cyber gang that targeted hospitals and other critical infrastructure
    • sanctions will disrupt ransomware attacks and expose attackers behind them
    • new measures delivered in coordinated effort with the United States

    Members of a Russian cyber criminal gang behind the Trickbot/Conti ransomware attacks, which included the hacking of critical infrastructure and hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic, face new sanctions today (7 September).

    Eleven cyber criminals, whose gang also threatened those who oppose the illegal Russian invasion of Ukraine, have been targeted with asset freezes and travel bans in a coordinated effort by UK and US authorities to counter the threat of ransomware both in the UK and abroad. The US Department of Justice (DOJ) is concurrently unsealing indictments against seven of the individuals designated today.

    The National Crime Agency (NCA), who conducted a complex investigation into these individuals, assesses that the group was responsible for extorting at least $180 million from victims globally, and at least £27 million from 149 UK victims. The attackers sought to target UK hospitals, schools, local authorities and businesses.

    The individuals being designated in the UK are:

    • Andrey Zhuykov was a central actor in the group and a senior administrator. Known by the online monikers ‘Defender’, ‘Dif’ and ‘Adam’
    • Maksim Galochkin led a group of testers, with responsibilities for development, supervision and implementation of tests. Known by the online monikers ‘Bentley’, ‘Volhvb’ and ‘Max17’
    • Maksim Rudenskiy was a key member of the Trickbot group and was the team lead for coders. Known by the online monikers ‘Buza’, ‘Silver’ and ‘Binman’
    • Mikhail Tsarev was a mid-level manager who assisted with the group’s finances and overseeing of HR functions. Known by the online monikers ‘Mango’, ‘Fr*ances’ and ‘Khano’
    • Dmitry Putilin was associated with the purchase of Trickbot infrastructure. Known by the online monikers ‘Grad’ and ‘Staff’
    • Maksim Khaliullin was an HR manager for the group. He was associated with the purchase of Trickbot infrastructure including procuring Virtual Private Servers (VPS). Known by the online moniker ‘Kagas’
    • Sergey Loguntsov was a developer for the group. Known by the online monikers ‘Begemot’, ‘Begemot_Sun’ and ‘Zulas’
    • Alexander Mozhaev was part of the admin team responsible for general administration duties. Known by the online monikers ‘Green’ and ‘Rocco’
    • Vadym Valiakhmetov worked as a coder and his duties included backdoor and loader projects. Known by the online monikers ‘Weldon’, ‘Mentos’ and ‘Vasm’
    • Artem Kurov worked as a coder with development duties in the Trickbot group. Known by the online moniker ‘Naned’
    • Mikhail Chernov was part of the internal utilities group. Known by the online monikers ‘Bullet’ and ‘m2686’

    This action was taken in coordination with the US, where these key cybercriminals have also been sanctioned, and is a continuation of joint efforts by the UK and US to disrupt and impose costs on high harm cyber criminals. It is assessed that sanctions have hampered the ability of cyber threat actors to monetise their cyber criminal activities.

    Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said:

    These cyber criminals thrive off anonymity, moving in the shadows of the internet to cause maximum damage and extort money from their victims.

    Our sanctions show they cannot act with impunity. We know who they are and what they are doing.

    By exposing their identities, we are disrupting their business models and making it harder for them to target our people, our businesses and our institutions.

    The individuals, all Russian nationals, operated out of the reach of traditional law enforcement and hid behind online pseudonyms and monikers – many of which are revealed today. Removing their anonymity undermines the integrity of these individuals and their criminal businesses that threaten UK security.

    Several of those facing sanctions today held significant roles within the group. Those targeted include high-level managers and administrators, as well as two individuals, Maksim Khaliullin and Mikhail Tsarev, who focused on recruiting and inducting new members.

    The group was also one of the first to offer support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, maintaining links and receiving tasking from the Russian Intelligence Services.

    Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State in the Cabinet Office Oliver Dowden said:

    By targeting these malicious cyber actors, who have been known to work with some of the most damaging ransomware strains, we are seeking out and exposing those who threaten the UK’s national security. We will always take decisive action with international partners to protect the UK, its people and businesses.

    Security Minister Tom Tugendhat said:

    These sanctions demonstrate that the UK will crackdown on those trying to hold UK businesses and infrastructure to ransom. We will use our law enforcement agencies to go after the perpetrators and punish their crimes.

    We have the skills and resources to find and unmask criminals who attempt to steal from British businesses, schools and hospitals.

    We will keep working with our partners, like the US, to defeat these threats.

    NCA Director General of Operations Rob Jones said:

    These sanctions are a continuation of our campaign against international cyber criminals.

    Attacks by this ransomware group have caused significant damage to our businesses and ruined livelihoods, with victims having to deal with the prolonged impact of financial and data losses.

    These criminals thought they were untouchable, but our message is clear: we know who you are and, working with our partners, we will not stop in our efforts to bring you to justice.

    National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) Chief Executive Officer Lindy Cameron said:

    Alongside this latest round of sanctions, I strongly encourage organisations to proactively obstruct the activities of ransomware operatives by bolstering their online resilience.

    Ransomware continues to be a significant threat facing the UK and attacks can have significant and far-reaching impact.

    The NCSC has published free and actionable advice for organisations of all sizes on how to put robust defences in place to protect their networks.

    Today’s sanctions announcement reinforces the UK’s commitment to cracking down on cyber criminals. They follow on from the first ever joint UK-US sanctions against ransomware actors in February this year. The total number of group members sanctioned is now 18.

    View the full UK Sanctions List and more information about UK sanctions relating to Russia.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Environment Minister launches construction of British designed and manufactured Bewdley flood scheme [September 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Environment Minister launches construction of British designed and manufactured Bewdley flood scheme [September 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 7 September 2023.

    Event to mark official start of work on major flood risk management scheme at Beales Corner in Bewdley, Worcestershire

    Environment minister Rebecca Pow and local representatives today (7 September) celebrated the start of construction on a major flood risk management scheme at Beales Corner in Bewdley, Worcestershire, with a sod-cutting event.

    Construction is helping to support jobs and stimulate the economy by employing British companies, including Arup as lead designer and Jackson Civil Engineering as lead contractor. The new protection consists of a combination of demountable flood barriers and permanent raised walls with glass panels on top to maintain views across the river.

    As part of the scheme, off-site environmental improvements will take place at Limekiln Bridge Storage area to support habitats for wildlife and increase biodiversity in hedgerows and trees. The choice of materials for the scheme and archaeological works also recognise the significance of the area and the design aims to preserve its heritage ahead of construction.

    Once complete, the scheme will provide decades of invaluable service to the community, reducing flood risk for more than 50 properties and maintaining access to 160 businesses, as well as schools and other public services in the town.

    The project will replace the low-level temporary flood barriers currently used and provide a far higher standard of flood protection.

    Meanwhile, Minister Pow also announced today that the Bewdley scheme will be one of three in the area to share £9.3 million in additional funding, reallocated from economic recovery funding. The Beales Corner scheme will receive £1.5 million, Tenbury Wells £4m and Greyfriars in Hereford £3.8 million.

    To celebrate the official start of work on the scheme, Minister Pow, Mark Garnier, MP for Wyre Forest, and Environment Agency Operations Manager for the West Midlands Anthony Perry all took part in today’s ceremony.

    Environment Minister Rebecca Pow said:

    I am determined that we do whatever we can to prevent the devastating flooding that affects so many towns and villages across the country like Bewdley.

    Our investment means work is underway on this significant new scheme and we can use this investment to back British companies. It should provide the community comfort and confidence in their town’s resilience and forms part of our record investment in better protecting hundreds of thousands of properties across the country.

    Environment Agency Operations Manager for the West Midlands Anthony Perry said:

    We are very happy to mark the official start of the main construction on this important and much-needed flood risk management scheme at Beales Corner.

    We know the devastating impact flooding can have, which is why protecting the people of Bewdley is our top priority as we adapt to the increased threat of flood events caused by climate change.

    Bewdley is subject to significant flood risk from the River Severn and has flooded a number of times in the past decade. Houses and businesses have flooded, with transport links and commuter routes through the town also affected.

    After flooding in 2020, the Government made funding available for the communities impacted, enabling the Environment Agency to consider a flood risk management scheme for the Beales Corner area of Bewdley and keep the main Kidderminster and Stourport roads into the town open at times of flood.

    Construction work will take approximately 18 months to two years to complete, depending on weather conditions, flooding and interactions with historic structures.

    The Environment Agency’s new flood defences have ensured the better protection of 374,000 homes since 2015. We continue to do more, delivering a record £5.2 billion investment to protect better hundreds of thousands of properties and the National Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management (FCERM) Strategy for England will prepare us for more extreme weather and build a more resilient nation.

    You can find out if you are at risk of flooding by checking your postcode on the government’s website and you can also sign up for flood warnings. You will be alerted by phone, email or text when flooding is expected.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Qatar – Neerav Patel [September 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Qatar – Neerav Patel [September 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 7 September 2023.

    Neerav Patel has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to Qatar.

    Mr Neerav Patel has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the State of Qatar, in succession to Mr Jonathan Wilks CMG, who will be retiring from the Diplomatic Service. Mr Patel will take up his appointment during February 2024.

    Curriculum vitae

    Full name: Neerav Patel

    Spouse: Siobhan Patel

    Children: 2

    Date Role
    2021 to 2023 Cabinet Office, Director, Joint Intelligence Organisation
    Spring 2021 Tel Aviv, Chargé d’Affaires
    2017 to 2021 Cairo, Deputy Head of Mission
    2015 to 2017 Cabinet Office, Deputy Chief of the Assessment Staff, Joint Intelligence Organisation
    2012 to 2015 Tel Aviv, First Secretary (Head, Political Section)
    2011 to 2012 Kabul, First Secretary (Head, Internal Politics)
    2009 to 2011 Cabinet Office, Senior Policy Adviser, National Security Secretariat
    2007 to 2009 No 10 Downing St, Policy Adviser, Prime Minister’s Policy Unit
    2007 Department for Communities, Research and International Manager, Prevent Unit
    2005 to 2007 Home Office, Economist
  • PRESS RELEASE : Government announces up to £650 million for UK alternatives to Euratom R&T [September 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government announces up to £650 million for UK alternatives to Euratom R&T [September 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 7 September 2023.

    Following the decision to not associate to Euratom R&T, the government announces plans for an ambitious and cutting-edge suite of new fusion R&D in the UK.

    The government announces today (Thursday 7 September) that it plans to put in place an ambitious and cutting-edge suite of new, alternative R&D programmes to support the UK’s flourishing fusion sector and strengthen international collaboration, in support of the UK Fusion Strategy. This is following the decision to not associate to the Euratom Research and Training programme (Euratom R&T) and by extension, the Fusion for Energy Programme.

    To deliver this package the government plans to invest up to £650 million until 2027, subject to business case approvals. This is in addition to the £126 million announced in November 2022 to support UK fusion R&D programmes. Further details on the alternative programmes will be set out later in the Autumn.

    We remain very open to collaboration with the EU and other international partners, and this will form a key part of this new programme of work.

    The new alternative fusion R&D package will include:

    • new facilities, specifically to grow new fusion fuel cycle capabilities and support innovation
    • a new fusion skills package, to ensure that we develop the skills and capability needed to deliver on our fusion strategy
    • further support to strengthen international collaborative projects
    • other measures to accelerate the commercialisation of fusion including boosting our world leading Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production programme

    Given delays to association and the direction of travel of these EU programmes, an alternative approach gives the UK the best opportunity to deliver our fusion strategy by driving job creation, investment and growth in our world-leading fusion sector.

    This ambitious domestic programme fully aligns with the core principle of international collaboration in the UK fusion strategy, and we remain open to such collaboration including with the EU and ITER (the large international fusion experiment being built in France). However, we believe the UK can be of most use to the global fusion mission outside the Euratom R&T framework.

    Planning on the new package is well advanced and we will announce further details in due course.

    Minister for Nuclear and Networks Andrew Bowie said:

    Today’s investment is a game-changer for the UK.  It gives us the best opportunity to create jobs, investment and, ultimately, economic growth.  And it gives our talented science community the opportunity to work with experts all around the world.

    It will also secure the country’s position as a world-leader in fusion, meaning we could become the first to commercialise this exciting new technology as a clean and secure source of energy.

    Sir Ian Chapman, CEO of the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), welcomed the announcement.

    UKAEA welcomes the clarity about our future relationship with the Euratom R&T programme which provides the certainty needed by the sector. The government’s commitment to an ambitious alternative R&D programme will be hugely important in sustaining the UK’s position as a leader in fusion R&D as well as developing an industrial capability to deliver future fusion powerplants. We welcome the ambition to retain, and even enhance, our international collaborative relationships through this substantial package of alternative R&D.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Overwhelming support for UK’s Horizon Deal [September 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Overwhelming support for UK’s Horizon Deal [September 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 7 September 2023.

    Director of Universities UK, Vivienne Stern said:

    “Huge news! An absolutely excellent day. UK joins Horizon Europe under a new bespoke deal. I want to thank and congratulate Rishi Sunak, Michelle Donelan and George Freeman MP for securing this deal. It is great for the UK research system but also for the whole of the UK.”

    President of the Royal Academy of Engineering, Professor Sir Jim McDonald FREng FRSE said:

    “We are delighted with this excellent news. The strong preference of the Academy and the wider global research and innovation community has always been for the UK to associate with Horizon Europe, and we congratulate all those whose careful negotiations have confirmed the agreement and whose commitment to investment in innovation makes it possible.

    “The whole engineering community – including business, industry and academia – will celebrate the announcement of continued partnership between the UK and EU. Engineering plays a vital role in addressing our critical global challenges, and this welcome development will enable essential international collaboration for the common good.”

    CEO of the British Academy, Hetan Shah said:

    “And here it is. Excellent news – the confirmation that we are to associate to the Horizon Europe programme. Great news for all UK research especially humanities and social sciences which have always done very well.”

    President of the British Academy, Professor Julia Black PBA said:

    “This is fantastic news. We are delighted to see that association has now been finalised; it is the announcement the whole higher education and research community has been waiting for.

    “Associating to Horizon Europe provides both UK researchers and our international partners with the certainty and stability they have been seeking, enabling them to participate in the largest international collaborative research fund in the world.

    “All of us in the research and innovation community must now drive forward UK participation in Horizon Europe, particularly in the humanities and social sciences, working with counterparts elsewhere in Europe and globally to forge the exciting and fruitful collaborations and partnerships that Horizon Europe enables us to deliver over the long term.”

    President of the Royal Society, Sir Adrian Smith said:

    “Our association to Horizon Europe is fantastic news, not just for the UK but for scientists across the EU and for all the people of Europe.

    “Science has so much to offer in terms of tackling global challenges and improving lives. Today the Government and the EU have given that a big boost.

    “Science is all about international collaboration and association is a big win. It allows us to continue to build on decades of collaborative research with our European partners and step up our global collaborations too to keep us as a nation at the forefront of science and innovation.”

    Executive Director at the Academy of Medical Sciences, Simon Denegri said:

    “Delighted that the Prime Minister has today announced we are associating to Horizon Europe. Congratulations and thank you to our community on its Herculean collective effort in making the case and never giving up.”

    Sir Paul Nurse, Director of the Francis Crick Institute said:

    “I am thrilled to finally see that partnerships with EU scientists can continue. This is an essential step in re-building and strengthening our global scientific standing. Thank you to the huge number of researchers in the UK and across Europe who, over many years, didn’t give up on stressing the importance of international collaboration for science.”

    Janet Valentine, ABPI Executive Director, Innovation and Research Policy said:

    “Joining the Horizon Europe programme is a huge win for the scientific research community, who have been pushing for resolution over the past few years. UK innovation and research depends on international collaborations which are crucial for driving advancements in all areas of science, including the discovery and early development of new medicines and vaccines.
    “The UK accession to Horizon enables the two sides to reinvigorate their longstanding partnership in R&D, and directly contributes to UK growth and competitiveness in the life sciences sector by making the UK an attractive destination for talented researchers.”

    CEO of the Royal Society of Chemistry, Helen Pain said:

    “We wholeheartedly welcome the news that GOVUK and the EU Commission have reached an agreement on the UK’s association to Horizon Europe and Copernicus. After years of pushing for this outcome, it’s fantastic it has been reached. Our community has benefitted extensively from previous programmes and so we expect association to Horizon Europe to be extremely welcome and beneficial for our chemical sciences community. It will enable productive chemical sciences collaborations to help us tackle some of the biggest challenges of our time, from improving health to tackling climate change. To make the most of this opportunity, we urge researchers and innovators apply to the upcoming grant calls – we will be working with others across the sector to encourage applications. Over the coming months, we will continue to engage with DSIT and work with colleagues across the sector to ensure the transition to association is a smooth as possible.”

    The Royal Society of Biology said:

    “The RSB has been pressing the government to associate with Horizon Europe and is delighted with this outcome. This decision will benefit UK science, society and economic growth. Bioscience holds potential solutions for many critical challenges from biodiversity loss through climate change to disease control and food security. UK & EU biologists will once again have access to the enormous benefits of collaboration that the Horizon programme brings.”

    Chief Executive of the Institute of Physics, Tom Grinyer said:

    “The agreement to join Horizon is incredibly welcome and ends a period of real and damaging uncertainty for the UK science community.

    “As the Institute of Physics has long highlighted Horizon association brings unparalleled opportunities backed by funding for collaboration – it is best for science, best for business and innovation, and best for the UK.

    “Now we need to look at the details and get on with the hard work of making up for lost time in joint projects, collaboration and innovating with our European partners.”

    Dr Nick Walkden, UK Director of the Fusion Industry Association said:

    “The Fusion Industry Association welcomes the U.K. Government’s ambitious new £650m programme for fusion development and commercialisation as an alternative to Euratom association.  The Government’s proposed alternative programme will be ambitious, exciting, and commercially focussed, representing a unique opportunity and an effective use of public funds at a critical time in the effort to develop and deploy fusion energy. We therefore welcome today’s announcement and look forward to a rapid adoption of the UK Government programme of alternative interventions as soon as possible.”

    Chair of the UK Space Trade Association, John Hanley said:

    “We welcome this Horizon Europe news. We have a strong track record within Copernicus, with UK industry securing valuable contracts that have delivered jobs and growth across the country whilst unlocking a better understanding of our planet.”

    Director of Research & Head of Education & Science at the Policy Exchange, Iain Mansfield said:

    “Superb news that the UK will be rejoining Horizon Europe. Science has always known no borders. This renewed partnership is good for Britain, good for Europe and good for the world. A triumph for Michelle Donelan to secure this on such positive terms.”

    Professor Tara Spires-Jones, President of the British Neuroscience Association said:

    “There is a huge amount of relief in the neuroscience community today at the news that the UK will join Horizon Europe as an associate member. The delays have undoubtedly had impacts on the UK’s ability to lead international collaborations in neuroscience, which we will have to work hard to repair. An open and inclusive European Research Area is essential for neuroscience collaboration, and we
    look forward to UK neuroscientists seizing the opportunities ahead.”

    Tech UK said:

    “This is fantastic news, paving the way for new opportunities for the UK’s science sector and tech innovation.”

    Executive Director of Start-up Coalition, Dom Hallas said:

    “This is very positive news.”

    Co-founder of the Founders Forum, and founder of two unicorns, Brent Hoberman said:

    “UK rejoins EU horizon research programme. Good news to highlight!”

    Professor, Sarah Main, Executive Director of the Campaign for Science & Engineering, CaSE said:

    “What wonderful news! This news will bring a burst of joy to UK science and will provide the foundation for long-lasting economic, health and technological value to the UK.

    “The many organisations that lead with science and research in the UK, including big business, start-ups, universities and health charities, will be delighted with this news.

    “With this renewed certainty, scientists and engineers across the UK and Europe can now accelerate their ideas and collaborations, which drive the economy and improves the lives and livelihoods of people everywhere.

    “Congratulations to all who have worked so hard to secure this deal over the last few years.”

    VC Professor, Irene Tracey at the University of Oxford said:

    “It is terrific to see UK researchers back at the heart of the world’s largest collaborative research programme. Everyone stands to gain from the new Horizon deal, which will facilitate increased opportunities for international collaboration on setting the scientific agenda, powering fresh discoveries and breakthroughs on issues affecting us all, including disease, climate change and AI.”

    UCL President & Provost, Dr Michael Spence, said:

    “Today’s announcement on the UK’s association to Horizon Europe and Copernicus is a cause for celebration on both sides of the channel.

    “Association to Horizon Europe will enable research which makes a positive difference to people’s lives, supporting vital research networks and strengthening the UK’s position as an attractive destination for talent.

    “We are grateful to the UK Government and to the European Commission for their efforts to secure a deal, and to the many members of our community who have advocated for this outcome.

    “As one of Europe’s most internationally collaborative universities, the UCL community is well-placed to take full advantage of the opportunities association offers by continuing to lead collaborative, innovative research projects which tackle the world’s most pressing challenges.”

    Professor Geraint Rees, UCL Vice-Provost (Research, Innovation & Global Engagement), said:

    “The announcement of Horizon Europe accession is wonderful news for researchers across the UK and throughout Europe, allowing them the opportunity to work together to help solve some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. At UCL our researchers have continued to win European grants over the last two years thanks to the Government’s Horizon Europe Guarantee, but this excellent news will now give our researchers even more opportunity to lead, collaborate and partner with the best researchers and universities in Europe to deliver outcomes that transform the lives of UK citizens.”

    The Vice-Provost of research & enterprise at Imperial, Mary Ryan said:

    “Excellent news that the UK rejoins our partners in European research Collaboration is more important than ever to secure a safe, sustainable and healthy future.”

    The Queen Mary University of London said:

    “Queen Mary welcomes the confirmation that the UK is rejoining Horizon. Great news for our world-leading research community.”

    President of UUK, Professor Dame Sally Mapstone said:

    “The entire research community, within our universities and beyond, will be delighted at the news that an agreement has been reached. Overcoming the obstacles to association was no small feat and we are grateful to the government and the commission for their perseverance to secure this successful outcome.

    “Horizon Europe has been the basis of scientific collaboration for over 30 years. From early detection of ovarian cancer to developing clean energy networks involving dozens of universities and many industrial partners, Horizon lets us do things that would not be possible without that scale of collaboration.

    “Allowing our scientists to work together, irrespective of borders, is in all of our interests. Our universities will now do everything possible to ensure the UK rapidly bounces back towards previous levels of participation and is able to secure genuine value, delivering the wealth of research opportunities available.”

    The Academy of Medical Sciences, the British Academy, the Royal Academy of Engineering, and the Royal Society have issued a joint statement on the UK’s association to Horizon Europe said:

    “This is a great day for researchers in the UK and across Europe. The Horizon programme is a beacon of international collaboration and UK-based academic and industrial researchers will now be back at the heart of that.

    “Research is vital to tackling the key problems we face, from global challenges such as climate change to driving productivity growth and creating new jobs locally. Our involvement in Horizon Europe will make the UK stronger and is a big win for global research and innovation.”

    Michelle Mitchell, Chief Executive of Cancer Research UK, said:

    “Horizon Europe association is overwhelmingly in the best interests of cancer patients and scientists, and it is great news for cancer research that agreement has finally been reached between the UK and EU.

    “There will be relief throughout the research community that the uncertainty of the last two and a half years has come to an end. Nearly three quarters of respondents to our survey of cancer researchers cited funding from the EU as important for their work, showing how crucial Horizon Europe association is for the future of cancer research.

    “We hope that this deal paves the way for the UK’s ongoing participation in future European research programmes. It is essential that the European Commission, the UK Government and UK research funders work with urgency to rebuild the strong position the UK occupied in the Horizon programme, and get funds and global collaboration flowing again into our research institutions.”

    Dame Professor Angela McLean, Government Chief Scientific Adviser said:

    “This is great news for UK science and technology. International collaboration is a vital part of a thriving science ecosystem and association with the Horizon programme bolsters our plans to secure our status as a science and technology superpower.”

    Chief Executive of the Russell Group, Dr Tim Bradshaw said:

    “Association to Horizon Europe is tremendous news for UK science, research and innovation. We are delighted that a good deal has been struck, so all credit to the negotiating teams who have been working hard behind the scenes to get this over the line.

    “This deal is a true win-win for everyone. The scale of research supported by Horizon Europe will help deliver medical breakthroughs, new technologies, and advances in areas such as AI to improve all our lives and help tackle the shared environmental, economic, and social challenges we face.

    “The research community on both sides of the Channel are raring to go and will spare no effort in making our association a success. Universities have plans in place to get researchers to apply and our partner universities and businesses across the EU – and in other associated countries – are eager to work with our institutions. We will be ready to work with Government and the Commission to make the most of Horizon’s opportunities from day one and beyond into its successor.”

    John Hanley, Chair of the UKspace trade body, said:

    “UKspace welcomes the news that the UK is reassociating with the EU Copernicus and Horizon Programmes. We have a strong track record within Copernicus with UK industry securing valuable contracts that have delivered jobs and growth across the country whilst unlocking a better understanding of our planet. We look forward to working with the Government to capitalise quickly on this agreement and identify the actions needed to build upon the UK’s national Earth Observation initiatives to ensure that industry can once more take a leading role in the largest multi-lateral EO Programme in the world.”

    Grazia Vittadini, Chief Technology Officer for Rolls-Royce, said:

    “Horizon Europe has had a significant impact on Aerospace technologies and in helping Rolls-Royce remain at the forefront of technological advancement. We greatly welcome the UK’s return to the Horizon Europe programme, and look forward to going further and doing more, leveraging public-private partnership to continue driving world-leading innovation and competitiveness.”

    Dr Diana Beech, Chief Executive Officer, London Higher said:

    “The confirmation that the UK will rejoin Horizon Europe is welcome news for universities across London, the UK’s top ranked innovation cluster. The wait to associate to Horizon may have been lengthy but worthwhile, as today’s announcement shores up the future of research, innovation and higher education across the United Kingdom.

    “With the assurance of association, London’s higher education and research community now has a renewed sense of purpose and optimism that London can reach its true potential as a research powerhouse. Association is both a recognition of the value we bring to the international scientific community and the acknowledgment that we are still very much a part of a global network of knowledge-sharing and innovation.

    “Our universities now have the certainty and stability needed to continue powering the engine of UK innovation and to build connectivity across the regions as we seek to level up across the country and make the UK a global science superpower. We are committed to working collaboratively with our European partners, leveraging our collective expertise to drive innovation, support research excellence, and build a brighter future for all.”

    Professor Paul Stewart FMedSci, Academy of Medical Sciences Vice President, Clinical, said:

    “Today marks a pivotal moment for UK science. After a hiatus, the scientific community is celebrating the tremendous news that we are once more part of the EU’s flagship funding programme.

    “By associating to Horizon Europe, we now have the commitment and momentum to drive forward the Government’s vision for an innovative, high growth future and are well placed to support the diverse and highly skilled research talent that underpins our life sciences sector.

    “Health research is an international endeavour, it relies on supporting the best ideas, but also on creating cross-border networks which is good news for the UK, Europe and the rest of the world. Association sends a very strong message that the UK is open for business and remains a prime destination to work on health research and innovation to improve lives.”

    UKRI Chief Executive Professor Dame Ottoline Leyser said:

    “Today’s agreement on UK association to Horizon Europe is brilliant news.

    “The UK has a long track record of mutually beneficial participation in previous EU schemes and this decision enables us to build on those highly successful collaborations to maximise the opportunities membership of Horizon Europe provides.

    “UKRI is looking forward to working with our communities and partners to capture the many benefits of Horizon Europe for researchers and businesses.”

    John Harrison, Chairman of Airbus UK:

    “It is great news that the U.K. will be rejoining Horizon Europe, which is a key funding programme for research and innovation, as well as the Copernicus programme. Having provided many of Copernicus’ critical technologies from the U.K., as well as designing and building the Sentinel 5P satellite in Stevenage, we look forward to contributing to future Copernicus Earth observation missions which play such a key role in understanding and tackling the planet’s changing climate.”

    Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency, said:

    “The UK has a long history of expertise and innovation in Earth observation, so it is excellent news that we are going to continue our association in the EU part of Copernicus programme. This is a great outcome for our world-leading Earth observation sector, who we have worked closely with to support.

    “Participating in Copernicus will enable the UK space sector to continue to play a significant role in the development of critical missions that will enable us to monitor our planet more effectively and lead a global effort through the use of satellite data to find new solutions to the urgent challenge of climate change.”

    Ilan Gur, CEO of Advanced Research + Invention Agency said:

    “A strong, interconnected scientific ecosystem is the foundation of breakthrough discovery and invention. This is wonderful news — a boost to science innovation not just for the UK but for the world!”

  • PRESS RELEASE : Sir Nicholas Coleridge appointed as the new Chair of Historic Royal Palaces [September 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Sir Nicholas Coleridge appointed as the new Chair of Historic Royal Palaces [September 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport on 7 September 2023.

    His Majesty the King has appointed Sir Nicholas Coleridge as the new Chair of Historic Royal Palaces from 1 November 2023 to 31 October 2026.

    Sir Nicholas Coleridge

    Sir Nicholas Coleridge CBE has been Chair of the Victoria and Albert Museum since 2015, and a Trustee since 2012. He was for thirty years successively Editorial Director, Managing Director and President of the Conde Nast media group. He has been Chair of the Professional Publishers Association, Chair of the British Fashion Council, Chair of the Prince of Wales’ Campaign for Wool, and was Co-Chair of the late Queen Elizabeth 2nd’s Platinum Jubilee Pageant. He is the author of fifteen books, both fiction and non-fiction.

    Remuneration and Governance Code

    The Chair of Historic Royal Palaces Board is not remunerated. This reappointment has been made in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments. The appointments process is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Under the Code, any significant political activity undertaken by an appointee in the last five years must be declared. This is defined as including holding office, public speaking, making a recordable donation, or candidature for election. Sir Nicholas Coleridge has not declared any significant political activity.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Two Commissioners reappointed to Historic England [September 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Two Commissioners reappointed to Historic England [September 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport on 7 September 2023.

    The Secretary of State has reappointed Ben Derbyshire and Professor Helena Hamerow as Commissioners of Historic England for second terms of four years.

    Ben Derbyshire

    Reappointed for a second term of four years from 01 September 2023.

    Ben is non-executive Chair of HTA Design LLP, a leading multidisciplinary design practice specialising in housing and placemaking.  He has a long association with the practice, having first joined as a student in 1973, becoming a partner in 1986.  He led a management buyout in 2013 since when the practice has grown five-fold, now employing 250 people in four studios across the UK.

    As a Commissioner of Historic England, Ben serves on the London Advisory Committee, High Streets Heritage Action Zone Board and is chair of the Historic Places Panel.

    Ben is President of the London Forum of Amenity and Civic Societies and is a current member of the NHBC Council.

    He was President of RIBA from 2017 – 2019 where he oversaw fundamental change in the financing and governance of the institute and the instigation of policies in relation to climate action, professional competence and codes of conduct.

    Ben has published widely in research on housing for example relating to the performance rating of homes and in relation to Supurbia, a strategy for suburban intensification through collective action of neighbours. He has summarised his long career as a housing designer, in a book, Home Truths, published by Hatch Editions and available from RIBA Books in January 2023, effectively a primer for anyone with an interest in the planning and design of sustainable places.

    Professor Helena Hamerow

    Reappointed for a second term of four years from 01 September 2023.

    Helena Hamerow is Professor of Early Medieval Archaeology at the University of Oxford. Her research interests include the economy, settlements and farming practices of early medieval Europe. She is a Fellow of St Cross College, where she was Vice-Master from 2005-2008, and an Honorary Fellow of Lincoln College, Oxford.

    Helena has previously served on the Board of Visitors of the Ashmolean Museum and the Board of Curators of the Bodleian Libraries and was an elected member of the Council of the University of Oxford from 2016 to 2020. She is a former President of the Society for Medieval Archaeology and Vice-President of the Royal Archaeological Institute.  Helena is a Fellow of the British Academy and a member of the Board of Directors of Oxford Archaeology and of the Board of Visitors of the Pitt Rivers Museum. She currently Chairs the Historic England Advisory Committee.

    Remuneration and Governance Code

    Commissioners of Historic England are remunerated £4,113 per annum. This appointment has been made in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments. The appointments process is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Under the Code, any significant political activity undertaken by an appointee in the last five years must be declared. This is defined as including holding office, public speaking, making a recordable donation, or candidature for election.

    Ben Derbyshire and Helena Hamerow have declared no political activity.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government outlines preferred structure of new independent football regulator [September 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government outlines preferred structure of new independent football regulator [September 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 7 September 2023.

    A new independent regulator for men’s elite football will be set up as a standalone body to make sure it is operationally independent from the game and can adequately protect clubs’ and fans’ interests.

    • Government reaffirms commitment to independent regulator to protect the future of English football for fans and communities
    • New regulator will be standalone body, sitting outside existing football authorities and government
    • More detail on how it will fit with existing football structures announced

    The new independent regulator for men’s elite football will be set up as a standalone body to make sure it is operationally independent from the game and can adequately protect clubs’ and fans’ interests.

    Following a consultation process with clubs and the football authorities, the Government is today confirming it is ‘minded’ to set up the new regulator independent of any existing body, but that all options remain under review. It will continue to work with and engage industry and fan groups as these proposals develop.

    Despite the global success of English football, there have been more than 60 instances of clubs being put into administration since 1992, and the Government is stepping in to protect football clubs as vital community assets.

    The Government will make sure the regulator has a tightly defined scope focused on four major areas: financial resources, suitable owners, fan interests and approved competitions.

    To minimise the risk of regulatory overlap and burden, and reflecting the vital existing roles of the FA and the leagues in the growth of English football, the regulator will adopt a cooperative approach, collaborating and sharing information with existing football bodies.

    This will include identifying areas of responsibility, coordinating rules and processes with industry bodies to minimise gaps, duplication or conflicts, and to avoid confusion and burden for clubs.

    The Government’s preferred option on financial redistribution between the leagues continues to be a football-led solution. The financial health of clubs and their role as community assets is of paramount importance and the government urges the football authorities to come to a swift agreement in the interests of clubs and fans.

    The majority of respondents to the consultation support the introduction of new backstop powers for the regulator, to be used if a solution is not found in future financial redistribution agreements. Work is ongoing on a backstop system that involves targeted powers to intervene and facilitate an agreement on financial redistribution as and when necessary.

    Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer said:

    Our football clubs are the lifeblood of communities and the envy of leagues around the world. We want to see them protected for fans now and in the future.

    Today we outline our plans to make sure the new regulator for football is independent, and remains true to its central mission to safeguard these community assets and help the beautiful game continue to grow in England.

    Following the publication of its football governance white paper in February, the Government has carried out a series of detailed consultations with the football industry, gathering further views from fans, clubs and the football authorities on how the measures in the white paper should be implemented.

    The Government’s consultation response has now been published. Legislation to support the introduction of an independent regulator of football governance will be introduced as soon as parliamentary time allows.

    Today’s publication follows a letter from the Government encouraging The FA, Premier League, EFL and PFA to formalise a Technical Consultation Group, which would see them meet before the summer transfer window, on a formal basis, every year to agree immigration criteria for clubs’ access to players across the globe.

    The proposed group would help ensure English clubs have access to the very best talent from a wider pool of international players. It would also protect the prospects of homegrown players by ensuring a significant number of playing minutes are given to English players.

  • PRESS RELEASE : £15 million competition to accelerate use of quantum in Government [September 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : £15 million competition to accelerate use of quantum in Government [September 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology on 7 September 2023.

    £15 million Quantum Catalyst Fund will accelerate the adoption of quantum solutions by the public sector.

    • £15 million Quantum Catalyst Fund will accelerate the adoption of quantum solutions by the public sector
    • Quantum technology could revolutionise work across government, including transport, space, health and net zero – from boosting computing power for new drug discovery, to enabling previously-impossible ways of scanning and sensing
    • 30 projects have been chosen to take part in phase 1 of the competition

    The first winners of a £15 million competition to explore the benefits of using quantum technologies in the government’s work across areas like health, transport and net zero have been announced today (7 September).

    The Quantum Catalyst Fund aims to accelerate the adoption of quantum solutions by the public sector and will ensure the UK government is well-placed to fully harness the benefits of using these technologies across a range of policy areas.

    Quantum technologies – one of the government’s five critical technologies – are devices and systems using quantum mechanics to provide capabilities that ‘classical’ machines like binary computers cannot.

    They already offer possible solutions to some of our greatest challenges in society and provide future capabilities that are yet to be explored. These technologies hold the potential to tackle intricate problems that currently surpass the capacities of even the most advanced classical computers and will allow us to reach new frontiers in sensing, timing, imaging, and communications. Over the next ten years, quantum technologies are expected to revolutionise many aspects of life in the UK and bring enormous benefits such as helping to grow our economy and create well-paid jobs across the country – one of the Prime Minister’s five priorities.

    Examples include:

    • An exponential increase in computing power from quantum computers could revolutionise our healthcare system – from dramatically improved drug discovery techniques to providing personalised treatment to an individual based on genetic and environmental factors.
    • Quantum sensing and imaging can provide unprecedented insight about what lies beneath the ground – saving billions in environmental monitoring and on large-scale construction projects.
    • Quantum clocks and communication could help us develop new navigation and timing capabilities without the need for a satellite link, providing even greater resilience for railways, telecommunications and emergency services.

    The first round of feasibility studies under the new fund will explore how this technology can provide new capabilities in public services, such as quantum-enabled brain imaging in healthcare to tackle epilepsy, concussion, and dementia, or quantum computing that can solve optimisation problems in energy grids, helping us to reach net zero.

    Some of the areas of interest that the government has identified include:

    • Transport – how could quantum technologies improve our ability to survey underground to improve infrastructure project delivery or provide more precise positioning and timing of trains in real time
    • Space – how might quantum technologies be integrated into space-based platforms to provide insights into the Earth’s climate and its environment or be utilised for space-based applications
    • Health – how can quantum technologies provide new or enhanced capabilities in healthcare
    • Crime – could we use quantum technologies to enhance our ability to detect anomalies in cargo and parcels, such as contraband or people smuggling
    • Defence – how can quantum computing solve data analytics challenges in defence
    • Net Zero – how can quantum technologies help to reach net zero

    UK Minister of State for the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, George Freeman MP, said:

    The Quantum revolution is set to be as transformational as the rise of classical computing, and is now starting to open up whole new fields from superfast computing to navigation, allowing us to do things that were previously impossible. We can use our scientific leadership in quantum to build exciting new career paths, businesses and even whole sectors here in the UK, boosting economic growth.

    We are determined to continue to invest and lead from the front in quantum infrastructure, regulation, standards and skills to fully exploit it’s potential to drive new economic opportunities. Our Quantum Catalyst Fund will help to push the boundaries of this technology’s development, and use public sector procurement to help nurture new companies and deliver benefits for citizens in public services to benefit us all.

    The competition is being delivered by Innovate UK in conjunction with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). It is part of the UK’s National Quantum Technologies Programme which has been running since 2014 to put the UK at the forefront of quantum technologies globally.

    Quantum was identified as one of the five technologies that are most critical to the UK alongside artificial intelligence, engineering biology, future telecommunications and semiconductors. Quantum technologies will revolutionise many aspects of life in the UK and bring enormous benefits to the UK economy, society, and the way we can protect our planet. The UK has a world-leading position in quantum expertise, and this technology is one of the top priorities for the government, as set out in the UK Science and Technology Framework.

    30 projects have been awarded funding in phase 1 of the competition which will run for 3 months and explore the feasibility of applying quantum technologies to help solve challenges for government. At the end of phase 1, the most promising concepts will be awarded a contract to phase 2 to develop a prototype and demonstration of the solution.

    The Quantum Catalyst Fund is part of the Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) which is funded by DSIT and Innovate UK. SBRI offers organisations the opportunity to work directly with the public sector to develop new technologies and processes, helping to meet efficiency targets and improving public services. It supports the research and development of solutions to solve public sector challenges.

    The National Quantum Strategy, published in March 2023, commits £2.5 billion to developing quantum technologies in the UK over the ten years from 2024 – more than doubling current public investment, which will aim to generate an additional £1 billion of private investment into the programme.

    The strategy sets out a bold and ambitious approach to supporting quantum technologies in the UK across the broad spectrum of quantum computing, sensing, timing, imaging and communications. It sets out how the UK will develop its strengths across different hardware platforms, software and components, and reinforce our capabilities throughout the supply chains.

    Notes to editors

    A full list of those receiving funding can be found below:

    Project title Lead company Location
    Quantum-Accelerated Recombinant Protein Drug Embedding Frameworks (QARPDEF) VORSUS LTD Rugby, Warwickshire
    Utilising Quantum Machine Learning and quantum computing for genomic research and development QUANTUM BASE ALPHA LTD Brighton
    CPT Thermal clock development – TACIT ALTER TECHNOLOGY TUV NORD UK LIMITED Livingston, West Lothian
    Quantum computing solutions for optimisation problems in Energy Grids PHASECRAFT LIMITED London
    Quantum-Assisted Flood Modelling: Pioneering Large-Scale Analysis for Enhanced Risk Assessment MULTIVERSE COMPUTING LTD London
    Quantum Enabled Detector – QED MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGY CALDICOT LIMITED Bristol
    Quantum-Enabled Brain Imaging: A Pathway to Clinical Utility CERCA MAGNETICS LIMITED Staplehurst, Kent
    Quantum-Enhanced Sustainable Transportation (QuEST) CGA SIMULATION LIMITED Liverpool
    Quantum computing for clean energy innovation PHASECRAFT LIMITED London
    Quantum geo-magnetometers – a UK sovereign commercial OPM for enhanced GNSS-denied navigation University of Strathclyde Glasgow
    Q-view University of Southampton Southampton
    GCC – Gravity Cartography Catalyst DELTA G LIMITED Birmingham
    AtomTRAIN: Atom-based Transportation Resilience with Atom Interferometer Navigation M-SQUARED LASERS LIMITED Glasgow
    QUESTS – QUantum Enhanced Scanning Technology for community healthcare Settings METLASE LIMITED Oxford
    Q-ACES: Advances in Chemical Energy Storage with Quantum Computing CAPGEMINI UK PLC Woking, Surrey
    Quantum Simulations: A New Era for Actinide Chemistry CAMBRIDGE QUANTUM COMPUTING LIMITED London
    Quantum photonic neural networks to predict instabilities in tokamaks DUALITY QUANTUM PHOTONICS LTD Bristol
    Q-CALC (Quantum Contextual Artificial intelligence for Long-range Correlations) COLDQUANTA UK LIMITED Warwick, Warwickshire
    Quantum optimised Electric Vehicle charger locations Q-CTRL UK LIMITED London
    CQINS: Continuous Quantum Inertial Navigation Systems COLDQUANTA UK LIMITED Warwick, Warwickshire
    Q-GEO – Quantum Gravimetry for Earth Observation COLDQUANTA UK LIMITED Oxford
    QS-Precision Inertial Navigation (QS-PIN) ALTARANGE LTD Edinburgh
    Railway Quantum Inertial Navigation System for Condition Based Monitoring MONIRAIL LTD Halesowen, West Midlands
    Design of battery electrolytes using quantum computing MULTIVERSE COMPUTING LTD London
    Hydrodynamic simulation using Quantum Tensor Networks on a quantum computer SEEQC UK LIMITED London
    Project Octopus – Quantum fingerprinting for securing generative models ORCA COMPUTING LTD London
    Q-SAT-GEN – Hybrid generative modelling for satellite image denoising and infilling ORCA COMPUTING LTD London
    Qurrode: Quantum corrosion monitoring FRAUNHOFER UK RESEARCH LIMITED Glasgow
    Silicon-based Quantum Optimisation in the Parity Architecture QUANTUM MOTION TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED London
    Assessing future resource requirements for fault tolerant quantum computers (Qiron) Riverlane LTD Cambridge, Cambridgeshire