Category: Press Releases

PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister call with His Majesty the King of Jordan Abdullah II

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 1 August 2026.

The Prime Minister spoke to His Majesty the King of Jordan, Abdullah II, this morning.

The Prime Minister began by setting out how much the UK valued its friendship with Jordan.

From defence and security to the growing economic ties, it was a unique and vital relationship for both countries, the Prime Minister added.

Turning to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the Prime Minister said he was focused on de-escalation, adding that the UK would continue to support Jordan in its self-defence.

The leaders also discussed the appalling situation in Gaza and the West Bank.

The Prime Minister condemned the attacks by Israeli settlers taking place in the West Bank and said he would look at what further measures could be taken to deter the unacceptable violence.

The Prime Minister added he looked forward to building a personal friendship with His Majesty.

02/08/2026
PRESS RELEASE : Government takes action to crack down on rogue funeral operators [July 2026]
The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 31 July 2026.

Urgent work to take place to protect bereaved families.
- Proposals for formal regulation of the funeral sector to be developed following harrowing case in Hull
- DHSC to lead cross-government work to ensure that every person in every setting is treated with the respect they deserve in death.
- Work will formally commence following the sentencing of criminal funeral director Robert Bush today
The government has announced urgent plans to crack down on rogue operators in the funeral sector and ensure better protection for bereaved families after the sentencing of Robert Bush today.

Bush, of Legacy Independent Funeral Directors in Hull, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for a total of 67 charges, including the prevention of a lawful and decent burial, fraud, fraudulent trading, and theft.

The Department for Health and Social Care will now drive forward work alongside other government departments, including the Ministry of Justice and the Law Commission to crack down on rogue operators in the funeral sector, and to protect bereaved families against the heartbreak of having their loved ones mistreated in death.

This will include developing a range of detailed proposals to drive up standards, including regulation of the funeral sector. These will be drawn up in discussion with established operators, faith groups, families, and other stakeholders.

As part of this work, the Law Commission will undertake a review of the criminal law in relation to the deceased, consider any gaps in existing legal protections and make recommendations on the creation of new offences, if they are needed.

For bereaved families, there can be few things more painful than knowing a loved one was not treated properly after they died. The deceased cannot speak for themselves, which is why clear safeguards, stronger oversight and consistent standards are needed to protect their dignity and give families the reassurance they deserve.

Health and Social Care Secretary, Yvette Cooper said:

Robert Bush’s actions were utterly abhorrent, and my thoughts are with all the bereaved families in Hull who have been so badly let down.

In the wake of this horrific case, we will now bring forward comprehensive proposals to ensure respect and dignity for the deceased in every setting, including proper regulation of the funeral sector. We are determined to drive rogue operators out of this industry, and protect other families from suffering this same heartache.

Every person in every situation deserves dignity in death, and every bereaved family deserves certainty that their loved ones are being treated with care and respect.

The Government will work closely with bereaved families, funeral providers, faith groups and others to ensure that future policy is proportionate, effective and informed by those with relevant experience.

This will ensure action is designed to give families confidence that funeral providers are meeting clear, consistent standards, no matter where they live or which provider they choose.

It will also reinforce the profound responsibility placed on anyone entrusted with caring for someone after death.

This case is another horrendous example of where the deceased have not been honoured with the care and respect many of us would have expected. The findings from Sir Jonathan Michael’s independent inquiry into the actions that allowed David Fuller to commit his horrific crimes showed that we need to consider how we can ensure better standards across all settings that look after our loved ones after they die, including where some level of regulation is already in place.

Many funeral providers offer compassionate and professional care every day. Stronger oversight, including regulation and other measures, would protect families from poor practice, support good providers, and restore confidence in a sector people rely on when they are at their most vulnerable.

Andrew Judd, Chief Executive Officer, National Association of Funeral Directors, said:

We welcome the government’s commitment to raising standards and oversight across the whole funeral sector and look forward to working with government to ensure that every single deceased person and their bereaved families are treated with the respect and dignity that they deserve.

We will work with Government and industry during the engagement to secure meaningful change for all bereaved families as soon as possible. We believe that statutory regulation can best achieve this aim and will continue to make that case during this process.

Paul Allcock, Government Liaison at the National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF), said:

SAIF welcomes the DHSC’s commitment to engaging with the funeral profession on regulation.

Any framework must protect the deceased and their families as a priority, but must also uphold standards and recognise small and medium-sized independent funeral businesses. It should be proportionate, preserve family choice and maintain a diverse market.

We’re committed to supporting the engagement and cross-government work.

SAIF members currently follow the UK Funeral Director Code and undergo inspections of premises, mortuary facilities and administrative processes. Families also have access to an independent complaints and redress process, delivered by an externally audited alternative dispute resolution body certified by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute, providing an added safeguard.

We’ll continue working closely with the DHSC and MOJ to shape regulation that protects the deceased, their families and supports a sustainable funeral profession.

Phil Rosenberg, President of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, said:

We look forward to working with the Department of Health and Social Care and the Ministry of Justice to ensure the improvement of standards in the funeral sector enable all families and communities to bury their loved ones with dignity and care.

The Jewish community is proud of its high standards of care for the deceased and internal regulatory processes, which ensure that Jewish people are buried safely, respectfully, and in accordance with religious requirements.

Mohamed Omer MBE, Chair, National Burial Council, said:

We have followed the Robert Bush (Legacy Independent Funeral Directors) case with deep distress. The findings are profoundly troubling and have caused immense pain to families who entrusted their loved ones to this service. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to all bereaved families affected by this appalling breach of trust, care and decency.

The National Burial Council welcomes the Government’s commitment to urgent action to strengthen oversight, accountability and professional standards across the funeral sector. Muslim and Jewish communities have specific religious requirements for timely burial and respectful handling of the deceased, making dignity and transparency essential. NBC works closely with burial societies and funeral directors to uphold high standards and will support DHSC and the Ministry of Justice in strengthening safeguards and effective self‑regulation.
02/08/2026
PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister call with Prime Minister Modi of India [July 2026]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 31 July 2026.

The Prime Minister spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India today.

The Prime Minister began by reflecting on the strength of the UK-India partnership and the significant impact it has had on local communities across the UK.

The Prime Minister set out his ambitions to further enhance the UK-India relationship, including through the UK-India Vision 2035 framework and strong people-to-people links.

The Prime Minister praised the contribution Indian communities in the UK make to the fabric of UK society, with Prime Minister Modi noting the links between the two leaders’ own home cities of Manchester and Ahmedabad, in Gujarat, which he called the “Manchester of India”.

Turning to trade, the Prime Minister underlined the value of the recently introduced Free Trade Agreement between the UK and India, which will create opportunities for people across both countries.

The Prime Minister set out his personal commitment to the UK-India Technology Security Initiative, and both leaders noted the potential to work together on cutting edge technology, such as AI.

The two leaders then discussed the situation in the Middle East, agreeing to continue to work closely together towards deescalation and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Both leaders look forward to speaking again soon and meeting in person at the earliest opportunity.

02/08/2026
PRESS RELEASE : UK adopts updated Khmer translation of its name [July 2026]
The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 31 July 2026.

The British Embassy Phnom Penh has adopted an updated Khmer translation of the United Kingdom.
- new Khmer language name reflects all four nations of the United Kingdom and the UK’s modern political structure
- the revision was developed in consultation with Cambodian linguistic experts and the Royal Academy of Cambodia
- approved by Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
The British Embassy Phnom Penh has adopted an updated Khmer translation of the United Kingdom, following consultation with Cambodian linguistic experts, the Royal Academy of Cambodia and members of the British community in Cambodia, and with the approval of Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

The full official title of the United Kingdom in English is “The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland”.  This remains the full and official title in English. We have updated and modernised the Khmer language translation to ”រាជាណាចក្ររួមនៃព្រីតថេន និងអៀរឡង់ខាងជើង”. The new translation more accurately reflects the UK’s current political structure as a constitutional monarchy and the fact that it is a union of four nations: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The preferred short form will be ”ព្រីតថេន”, a newly minted Khmer word which is a transliteration of the English word “Britain”.

The revision reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that the Khmer language accurately represents the identity of the United Kingdom, while respecting Khmer linguistic conventions and usage. It also highlights the value of collaboration between Cambodian and British partners in promoting mutual understanding between our two countries.

His Majesty’s Ambassador to Cambodia, Dominic Williams MBE, said:

I have had the tremendous privilege of an extended period learning Khmer and have deep respect for its fundamental importance in Cambodian culture.  I believe strongly in sustaining this vibrant, living language.

When I first learnt the Khmer word for my country, I discovered that the words used, when translated into English, do not reflect the modern, diversity of the UK nor my own personal identity, as someone with English, Northern Irish and Welsh heritage.

Our decision to update the translation is an indication of the deep respect and importance we place on the Khmer language.  We did not want to impose a change that felt alien to Khmer speakers so we consulted widely.  It was fascinating to learn from the Royal Academy that the King Father had used a more accurate term for my country in the 1960s – “រាជាណាចក្ររួម”.  It feels respectful to revive this historic usage so we have put the King Father’s words at the heart of our updated translation.

I am grateful to the Royal Academy, our linguistic partners, members of the British community in Cambodia, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for their expertise, thoughtfulness and collaboration in helping us reach this important milestone.  I hope this new translation will play a small role in enhancing the friendship and mutual understanding between our two great nations.

The updated translation takes effect immediately and will be used across official British Embassy communications in Cambodia.

Further information
- the revision was formally proposed by HM Ambassador to the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and has received ministerial approval
- the previous term ”ចក្រភពអង់គ្លេស និងអៀរឡង់ខាងជើង”, translated as “English Empire and Northern Ireland”, not ”the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland”
- the updated Khmer translation is ”រាជាណាចក្ររួមនៃព្រីតថេន និងអៀរឡង់ខាងជើង”, translated as ”the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland”
- the preferred short form is ”ព្រីតថេន”, which can be translated to either “Britain” or “Great Britain”
02/08/2026
PRESS RELEASE : Gemma Stevenson appointed as HMTC for Middle East & Pakistan [July 2026]
The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 31 July 2026.

Gemma Stevenson has been appointed as HMTC for the Middle East and Pakistan and His Majesty’s Consul General to Dubai and the Northern Emirates.

The Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade is delighted to announce that Gemma Stevenson has been appointed His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner (HMTC) for the Middle East and Pakistan, and His Majesty’s Consul General to Dubai and the Northern Emirates, and will take up the role in September 2026.

Prior to this role, Gemma was Director in the Department for Business and Trade covering the UK’s Strategy for Small and Medium Enterprises. She previously held senior civil service roles focusing on the UK’s commercial relationship with the Indo-Pacific, and economic and investment security.

Before joining the civil service, Gemma spent a decade in South Asia where she was an adviser to the Indian and Afghan governments on trade and commerce issues, and Director to the Centre for Economic Research in Pakistan. She has acted as a consultant for private sector clients in the UK from the professional services, transport and consumer goods sectors.

Gemma holds a degree in Modern History and Modern Languages from the University of Oxford and a Masters in Economic Public Policy from Princeton University.

Gemma takes up the role at an exciting time, with the UK having successfully concluded a milestone free trade agreement (FTA) with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), comprising the Kingdom of Bahrain, the State of Kuwait, the Sultanate of Oman, the State of Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This is a major win for the UK and the Gulf and is the latest step in our mission to grow the economy through high-quality trade deals that deliver real benefits for people across the UK.

Gemma Stevenson said:

Our work on trade and investment is more than the exchange of goods and services and capital flows. It is about shared ambition, trust and relationships that deliver innovation and growth. I look forward to working with government and private sector partners across the Middle East and Pakistan to realise these opportunities.

Gemma replaces Sarah Mooney, who has covered the role on an interim basis since early 2025.

Sarah Mooney commented:

It has been a privilege to lead DBT in the Middle East and Pakistan in support of the government’s growth mission. Across every market, I have seen for myself the opportunities for UK business, as well as a genuine appetite from countries in the region to deepen their partnership with the UK towards shared economic growth.

Role of the HM Trade Commissioner (HMTC) for Middle East and Pakistan

The HM Trade Commissioner (HMTC) for the Middle East and Pakistan cooperates closely with the wider diplomatic network and other colleagues to coordinate the government effort overseas to promote UK trade and prosperity.

The HMTC has full responsibility for all Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade (BIST) work in the Middle East and Pakistan including:
- growing the overall trade and investment relationship
- improving market access for British companies, including small and medium sized businesses (SMEs)
- developing trade policy
The HMTC works closely with UK-based government colleagues, UK ambassadors and the wider diplomatic network in the region to deliver these goals.
02/08/2026
PRESS RELEASE : Appointment of the Bishop of Leeds [July 2026]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 31 July 2026.

The King has approved the nomination of The Right Reverend Dr. Toby Matthew Howarth, Suffragan Bishop of Bradford in the Diocese of Leeds, for election as Bishop of Leeds, in succession to The Right Reverend Nicholas Baines following his retirement.

Background

Toby was educated at Yale University, Birmingham University and the Free University of Amsterdam, and trained for the ministry at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford. He served his title at St. Augustine, in the Diocese of Derby, and was ordained Priest in 1993. From 1995, Bishop Howarth served as a study partner with Crosslinks and The Netherlands Reformed Mission League in India and, in 2000, he was appointed Evangelist at the Pilgrim Father’s Church in Rotterdam. From 2002, Toby served as Tutor with the Church Mission Society at Crowther Hall, Selly Oak, in the Diocese of Birmingham and was made Vice-Principal in 2003.

In 2004, Bishop Howarth was appointed as Priest-in-Charge, Springfield St. Christopher, additionally serving as Inter-Faith Adviser to the Bishop of Birmingham from 2005. He served as Secretary for Inter-Religious Affairs to the Archbishop of Canterbury and National Adviser for Inter-Religious Affairs from 2011.

In 2014, Bishop Howarth took up his current role as Bishop of Bradford, and has been serving additionally as Acting Bishop of Leeds since 2025.

02/08/2026
PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister hands mayors share of income tax to make lives better in every postcode [July 2026]
The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 30 July 2026.

The Prime Minister will today launch the biggest transfer of power from Westminster in a generation, giving communities greater control over the decisions that shape jobs, transport, housing and public services in their area.
- Biggest transfer of power, funding and responsibility from Westminster in a generation
- Mayors to keep a share of income tax and business rates revenues so communities directly benefit when their economy grows, with new powers for communities still on the road to devolution
- Taking a tried and tested approach nationwide – delivering better transport, more homes and skills training matched to local jobs
The Prime Minister will today launch the biggest transfer of power from Westminster in a generation, giving communities greater control over the decisions that shape jobs, transport, housing and public services in their area.

As part of the largest package of financial powers ever offered to English mayors, mayors will receive a share of income tax revenues for the first time.

This means when places create jobs and grow their economies, they will now keep more of the rewards – giving local leaders new powers to invest in what matters most locally.

The government wants every community to benefit from stronger local decision-making. Areas without a mayor will still be supported to establish strategic authorities and gain greater control over local priorities.

In his second week in office, the Prime Minister will tell his Cabinet that it is time to launch a new era of devolution – taking power and decision-making out of SW1 and putting it closer to people’s lives.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said:

I said we’d take power out of Westminster and carry it into every postcode in the country. Today, we make good on that promise.

Under our plans, more of the taxes raised in a community will stay in that community. Soon, every local leader will have the power and resources to improve public transport, build homes and create jobs.

I know what it’s like to be ignored by politicians in Westminster. I’m not going to make that same mistake now I’m PM.

The whole of government will now pull together behind the people and places that desperately need our support. This is how we’ll bring back hope and bring power home to you.

The plans will end the Whitehall-first culture that has held back local areas for decades, forcing departments to justify why powers should stay in Westminster rather than be handed to local leaders.

By shifting power, funding and decision-making closer to people, the changes will give every part of the country the tools to create strong local economies, improve public services and shape its own future.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, John Healey MP said:

The people who best understand what skills employers want, what transport an area needs and where investment can make the biggest difference are those who live there.

For the first time we’re giving Mayors a share of income tax so communities directly benefit when their economy grows – passing power out of Westminster and driving growth in every postcode.

This is the way we start to build new hope and advance the working people of this country.

From next spring, mayors will begin retaining a greater share of locally generated revenues, starting with business rates. Further details on this and on income tax retention will be set out in a roadmap at the Budget and will be underpinned by the government’s firm commitment to fiscal discipline.

Over time, local areas will move away from dependence on Whitehall grants and towards funding that rewards local growth.

The ambition is to extend the benefits of devolution across the whole UK, working with devolved governments and local leaders to give communities more control over their future.

Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Angela Rayner said:

This is the first step in our plan to rewire this country and build a better future, where power is no longer hoarded in Westminster but is put back in the hands of local people – where it belongs.

Our devolution revolution is about bringing an end to the begging-bowl culture of the past, and instead making sure our local leaders have the tools they need to drive the change that communities have been crying out for.

We need every region to be firing on all cylinders if we want good growth in every postcode, and we will do everything in our power to make that a reality.

The reforms will be driven by a strengthened No10 North operation, working with mayors, local leaders and other partners to remove barriers to growth, accelerate delivery and ensure government is better connected to communities across the country.

Local leaders will gain greater control over the services that shape people’s lives, including housing, transport, skills, employment support and public services.

This includes powers to:
- Bring rail and bus services under greater local control, helping introduce integrated ticketing and more reliable services.
- Build more homes where they’re needed and unlock stalled development sites by giving local leaders stronger planning and regeneration powers and more devolved funding.
- Give more control over large local transport schemes, trams and metros to Mayors by removing and streamlining Whitehall approvals.
- Give mayors control over 16-19 funding and employment support, so young people can train for the jobs local employers need and people out of work can get tailored support back into employment.
- Back local industries and innovative businesses, and attract investment, creating more well-paid jobs.
- Where power is devolved, Whitehall resource will follow, giving devolved leaders the resources they need to drive change closer to home
Reforms will remove barriers that prevent locally led transport projects from going ahead, handing over new planning powers for mayors and give local areas greater flexibility over how funding is spent.

Under a new “local first” principle, ministers will be expected to justify why powers should remain in Whitehall rather than being devolved.

The United Kingdom has invested less in its future than any other G7 country over the past three decades. Giving local leaders greater control over funding and investment decisions will help unlock opportunities that have too often been overlooked by a Whitehall-led approach.

The Prime Minister believes the country’s towns, cities and communities can drive far more growth and opportunity if they are given the tools to do so. Where local leaders have been trusted with greater responsibility, they have already delivered results:
- In West Yorkshire, a Housing Investment Fund of up to £334 million is helping unlock land for development and bring forward stalled sites, supporting the delivery of thousands of new homes.
- In the Liverpool City Region, local leaders are transforming transport through the rollout of Tap and Go ticketing on Merseyrail, bringing the bus network into local control later this year and taking rail services back into public ownership by 2028.
- In the North East, 65,000 residents have been supported to gain qualifications, opening up new employment opportunities in sectors including construction and childcare.
The UK cannot rely on success in a small number of places alone. By giving more communities the tools to succeed, these reforms will help spread opportunity more widely, raise living standards and ensure more people feel the benefits of economic success in their everyday lives.

As powers move out of Westminster, the Civil Service will become smaller and more strategic, focusing on the responsibilities that are best exercised at a national level.
02/08/2026
PRESS RELEASE : Report by the Head of OSCE Mission to Serbia – UK statement [July 2026]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 30 July 2026.

Ambassador Holland commends the OSCE Mission to Serbia for its sustained work and continued focus on democratic governance, rule of law, media freedom, security sector reform and minority rights.

Thank you, Mr Chair.

I welcome Ambassador Peško to the Permanent Council and thank him for his comprehensive report. We commend the OSCE Mission to Serbia for its sustained work and continued focus on democratic governance, rule of law, media freedom, security sector reform and minority rights.

The report illustrates both the value of the Mission’s work and the challenging operating context. The UK remains concerned by the deepening political polarisation and tensions that have accompanied the ongoing protest movement. It is important to protect freedom of peaceful assembly, freedom of expression and the independence of democratic institutions, including the judiciary.

We are particularly concerned by the deterioration in media freedom, and the rise in the number of attacks against journalists described in the report. We welcome the Mission’s efforts to keep the Permanent Working Group on the Safety of Journalists functioning and its support for practical mechanisms that protect media professionals. Independent media and the safety of journalists are essential safeguards of democratic accountability. We encourage the Serbian government to facilitate the better operation of institutions dealing with attacks on journalists.

The United Kingdom welcomes progress towards re-establishing the Council of the Regulatory Authority for Electronic Media, and is grateful to the Representative on Freedom of the Media for his active engagement on this issue. A credible, independent and effective regulator is vital for public confidence, media pluralism and the implementation of electoral reforms. The Council should be allowed to carry out its mandate and resolve outstanding issues without interference.

On elections and democratic governance, we note the Mission’s support for reforms to electoral legislation and the Unified Voters’ Register. These are important steps. However, as ODIHR have underlined, significant recommendations remain outstanding. Comprehensive electoral reform, implemented well in advance of future elections and in consultation with opposition parties and civil society, remains essential.

We thank the Mission for its valuable work to improve the rights of minority communities and increase their representation in public institutions. These programmes help build trust between communities and strengthen Serbia’s long-term resilience. We also commend the Mission’s work on community policing, youth engagement and women’s participation in security institutions.

We reiterate our call for Serbia and Kosovo to engage constructively in the EU-facilitated Dialogue and to implement their existing commitments. We also urge public officials to refrain from provocative, revisionist or harmful language in public statements, which risks deepening divisions and undermining reconciliation. We continue to call for full accountability for the 2023 Banjska attack.

Finally, we thank Ambassador Peško and his team for their professionalism and dedication. The Mission remains an important partner and a valuable contributor to security and stability across the region.

Thank you, Mr Chair.

02/08/2026
PRESS RELEASE : Major £8.4bn investment advances UK nuclear deterrent and backs British industry [July 2026]
The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 30 July 2026.

The UK will continue to be kept safe for decades to come, as major investments will progress the next phase of the next generation nuclear deterrent submarines.
- £8.4 billion government funding committed to drive forward construction of the Dreadnought Class submarines
- around 47,000 jobs and over 6,000 suppliers across the UK supported by the Defence Nuclear Enterprise
- the programme to deliver the four new nuclear deterrent submarines is advancing at pace
- significant step change in driving productivity and innovation to deliver faster and more efficiently
The UK will continue to be kept safe around the clock for decades to come, as major investments will progress the next phase of the build of the next generation of nuclear deterrent submarines, while backing British jobs.

During a visit to BAE Systems (BAES) shipyard in Barrow, Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who was accompanied on the visit by Defence Secretary Wes Streeting, announced that government funding worth around £8.4 billion has been committed to begin the fourth major production phase of the UK’s Dreadnought Class submarine programme. The Prime Minister highlighted the pace of progress in the build and the government’s enduring commitment to national security and economic growth.

As part of this investment, a contract worth £5.9 billion has been agreed by the government and BAES, the Defence Nuclear Enterprise (DNE) industry partner responsible for delivering submarine production from their shipyard in Barrow, the home of UK submarine building. Further investments will be committed to Rolls-Royce Submarines in Derby and the wider supply chain across the UK.

The DNE supports over 6,000 UK companies in the supply chain and backs around 47,000 UK jobs. The Dreadnought Delivery Phase 4 (DP4) investment underlines defence as an engine for growth and reinforces the work to modernise our nuclear capabilities and the facilities that deliver them as a truly national endeavour.

DP4 will see HMS Dreadnought, the first of the four new nuclear deterrent submarines, complete its sea trials and be ready to enter service with the Royal Navy in the early 2030s. Boat two, HMS Valiant, will reach sea trials while boats three and four will achieve key construction milestones.

This next phase looks to further enhance continual and sustained productivity growth in Barrow, where a 40% increase has been achieved over the last 3 years, and around 1,800 additional roles have been created under this government.

Building on the Defence Industrial Strategy, making defence an engine for growth, the contracts for DP4 will continue to back UK business, lead in innovation and sustain a resilient UK industrial base. Utilising recent Single Source Contract Regulations changes, the BAES contract will incentivise faster and more efficient delivery with a focus on productivity and cost control, but only when agreed performance targets and programme outcomes are achieved.

Defence Secretary Wes Streeting MP said:

“Our nuclear-armed submarines are essential to keeping the UK secure, acting as the ultimate deterrent to our adversaries in an increasingly dangerous world.

“This milestone investment breathes new life into Barrow’s historic traditions and secures our commitment to deliver Dreadnought Class submarines by backing British industry.

“Supporting thousands of skilled, local jobs, we are fusing Barrow’s proud heritage with modern technology to build our security for the future, supporting the next generation to keep our country safe as their parents and grandparents did.”

The Dreadnought programme is supporting high-skilled employment across the UK, with significant opportunities for regions through the defence supply chain. The wider DNE’s demand for UK workforce is forecast to rise to approximately 65,000 by 2030. This growth is creating long-term opportunities for highly skilled jobs, including engineers, welders and apprentices, and for small and medium-sized enterprises.

The North of England is a powerhouse of British industry and innovation, and remains central to the DNE, which supports around 15,000 jobs and more than 1,000 supply chain companies, and spent £3.4 billion in the region in the last financial year.

Chief of Defence Nuclear, Maddy McTernan CB, said:

“This investment builds on significant momentum in the Dreadnought programme and our partnership with BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce and the extensive submarine supply chain.

“This is a national endeavour that will deliver a safe, secure and effective nuclear deterrent for decades to come, providing the bedrock of the UK’s national security and the cornerstone of our commitment to NATO and global security.”

This milestone demonstrates the UK’s continued commitment to delivering on the Strategic Defence Review and maintaining its nuclear deterrent under the nuclear triple lock: building four Dreadnought submarines in Barrow, sustaining the nuclear deterrent, and delivering future upgrades, including the replacement warhead. The significant DNE investment confirmed in the Defence Investment Plan reflects this unwavering commitment.

The UK’s nuclear deterrent underpins the country’s contribution to NATO and Euro-Atlantic security, demonstrating to allies and adversaries alike that Britain’s deterrent remains credible, independent and enduring.

This announcement highlights a programme delivering across multiple priorities: strengthening national security, supporting allies, transforming industrial performance, and driving economic growth across all parts of the UK.
02/08/2026
PRESS RELEASE : Police misconduct processes to be reviewed [July 2026]

The press release issued by the Home Office on 30 July 2026.

Oversight of misconduct procedures is to be reviewed as part of an overhaul of policing standards.

The Home Office has today launched an end-to-end-review into the police accountability system.

Chaired by Dame Lynne Owens and Jason Beer KC, the review will look at how police officers are held to account, identify barriers that can delay outcomes, and consider how the system can be made faster, fairer and more effective.

Lengthy investigations can leave victims and their families waiting years for resolution. It can also mean police officers who are found to have done nothing wrong are kept away from front line duties for too long.

The review will assess how police misconduct cases are handled across different parts of the misconduct and wider justice system to help create a speedier, simpler and more effective accountability regime.

It follows calls from policing leaders, the Independent Office for Police Conduct’s director general and others to go further in reforming the systems and thresholds used to hold the police to account for their actions.

Recent high-profile cases have also brought to light the significant impact of lengthy investigations on officers, who can wait years for internal resolutions.

Reforming the police accountability system will ensure victims receive swifter justice, while officers who have done nothing wrong avoid unnecessary delays and can get back on the beat faster.

This will help build a policing system that is fairer, faster and more effective for everyone.

02/08/2026