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Category: Press Releases

  • PRESS RELEASE : Negotiations on an enhanced UK-Switzerland Free Trade Agreement [June 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Negotiations on an enhanced UK-Switzerland Free Trade Agreement [June 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 8 June 2023.

    Update on the first round of negotiations for an enhanced UK-Switzerland Free Trade Agreement.

    Trade negotiators from the UK and Switzerland held the first round of negotiations for an enhanced UK-Switzerland Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in London between 22 May and 2 June.

    Discussions between negotiators were productive and reflected the shared ambition to secure a modernised and comprehensive deal that boosts trade and investment between two like-minded economies.

    Technical discussions were held on 30 policy areas over 53 sessions. In talks, both countries emphasised their desire to be ambitious in areas such as services, investment and digital trade which are not covered in the existing FTA. Trade in goods was also discussed, including how the FTA could streamline and simplify customs procedures and support the removal and reduction of tariff and non-tariff barriers.

    The Government is committed to negotiating a bespoke agreement with Switzerland that is fit for the 21st century. The Government will make its next statement on progress following the second round of talks which is currently planned to take place in the autumn.

    His Majesty’s Government remains clear that any deal we sign will be in the best interests of the British people and the United Kingdom economy. Any organisations or individuals interested in speaking to the Department for Business and Trade about negotiations with Switzerland should do so by emailing ch.fta.engagement@trade.gov.uk.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK Science Minister unveils over £24 million in new science and innovation agreements to deepen collaboration with Canada [June 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK Science Minister unveils over £24 million in new science and innovation agreements to deepen collaboration with Canada [June 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 8 June 2023.

    UK Science Minister George Freeman was in Canada today to agree a package of science and research agreements between the UK and Canada.

    • UK and Canadian Ministers agree deeper collaboration on quantum, climate change and biomanufacturing to upskill workforces and boost growth
    • package sees Canada named as a partner to UK’s £119 million International Science Partnership Fund scheme, through initial £4.5 million funding
    • ministers signed Memorandum of Cooperation on biomanufacturing including a £20 million joint programme

    The UK and Canada has today (Thursday 8 June) unveiled agreements on biomanufacturing, quantum, climate change and alternative protein research, as part of a package of announcements aimed at greatly deepening collaboration on science and innovation between the two countries.

    UK Science Minister George Freeman was in Ottawa today, meeting Canada’s Minister of Science, Innovation and Industry, Francois-Phillipe Champagne, to sign a Memorandum of Cooperation on biomanufacturing and launch a £20 million joint biomanufacturing programme.

    The £20 million joint biomanufacturing programme, which will receive £10 million from each government, is designed to grow the biomanufacturing sector between the UK and Canada to ensure both countries are fully prepared for future pandemics.

    This will include efforts to build a talent pipeline for biomanufacturing, providing the skilled workforce needed to grow the sector in the future, funding UK and Canadian businesses and research organisations to work together on joint projects developing the future products and services, and backing businesses in the sector to grow and scale at speed through greater links with investors and shared knowledge.

    The focus of the Biomanufacturing Collaboration is to drive economic growth by bringing together the complementary strengths from Canada and the UK to support the growth of businesses in this area, delivering economic growth for both nations and creating highly-skilled jobs.

    The memorandum is just one of several agreements being made today by the two science and innovation powerhouses, aimed at tackling some of the biggest issues facing our world, from tackling climate change through to ensuring both nations have the vaccine production capabilities to meet the needs of future pandemics.

    They will also drive economic growth in both the UK and Canada, ensuring high-growth industries like quantum and biotechnology benefit from both government investment and closer international collaboration.

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

    The UK and Canada are natural partners, with shared cultural, economic and historical ties that stretch back centuries and a strong recent history of collaboration on science and innovation across a range of key sectors from agri-tech to genomics and space.

    In the global race for science and technology investment, and as we turn towards innovation in order to tackle urgent global challenges, the UK and Canada share deep values and interests in harnessing science for global good.

    As we deepen our global science and technology collaborations with key R&D economies, I’m delighted to be in Canada to agree a range of sectors in which to deepen our longstanding collaboration: from AI, biosecurity and engineering biology through to quantum, space sustainability and polar research.

    The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry said:

    The United Kingdom and Canada have a uniquely profound and positive relationship, nourished by our shared history and values.

    Today’s memorandum of cooperation on biomanufacturing and the joint statement on quantum science and technology are important steps to make the most of our world-class capabilities, which will drive innovation and economic growth in our both countries. We will continue to work together to foster greater collaboration in science and research to shape the economy of the future.

    Alongside the Memorandum of Cooperation on biomanufacturing, the UK and Canada has agreed a range of collaborations as part of today’s announcement, including:

    • Canada announced as a partner to the UK’s £119 million International Science Partnership Fund (ISPF). Initially, this would see £4.5 million in funding to enable UK researchers to take part in the Canada-led International Joint Initiative for Research in Climate Change and Adaptation and Mitigation, which sets out plans to help the most vulnerable people globally to deal with the impact of climate change.
    • a Statement of Intent on Quantum, which sets out a roadmap of activity including the introduction of joint research programmes and increased mobility for researchers. Collaboration begins immediately, with 20 PhD students from Canada travelling to the UK to participate in the UK-Canada quantum summer school.
    • an Innovate UK–Protein Industries Canada to advance innovation in plant-based foods through collaborative R&D projects between businesses and research organisations from Canada and the UK.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Sheffield to be centre for policy jobs under Whitehall shake-up [June 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Sheffield to be centre for policy jobs under Whitehall shake-up [June 2023]

    The press release issued by the Cabinet Office on 8 June 2023.

    A new policy campus has been launched in Sheffield.

    • First ever policy campus established outside of London
    • More than 2,400 government roles moved to Yorkshire and the Humber under flagship Whitehall reform programme
    • New local graduate scheme will establish talent pipeline

    A first-of-its-kind campus for government staff in key policy roles has been launched in Sheffield, as new figures show Yorkshire and the Humber have benefitted from more than 2,400 relocated roles.

    It comes as the Cabinet Office announces today the pilot of a new regional fast stream, part of the government’s ambitious plans to bring jobs and drive local economic growth across the UK.

    The scheme will prevent graduates having to leave the Yorkshire region to move into decision-making policy teams.

    There are also plans for expanded policy apprenticeships and events to attract university-leavers within the city, providing greater opportunities for the young people of Yorkshire.

    Traditionally most civil service teams based outside of London have been operationally-focussed, but the aim of the policy campus is to create a hub of core policy jobs, where people can advance their careers in key decision-making positions. Under these new plans, people will no longer have to move to, or work in, London to have a long and fulfilling career in the civil service.

    This forms part of a broader strategy to ensure people from all regions and backgrounds are contributing to the creation of government policies. Levelling up the civil service in this way is key to ensuring it  reflects the communities it serves, whilst delivering on the Government’s priority to grow the economy.

    New figures show that 2,400 roles have moved out of London and into Yorkshire and the Humber under the Places for Growth programme, and 12,000 have been relocated out of the capital and across the UK so far. The programme will move 22,000 government roles out of London by 2030, in a bid to harness the vast talent that exists up and down the country. It’s expected this will generate economic benefits for the region as well as government research has shown that people put around 50% of their incomes back into the local economy.

    Latest relocation studies suggest a local economic benefit of £30 million per 1,000 roles relocated.

    Cabinet Office minister Alex Burghart said:

    This Government is delivering on its promise to level up across the country by ensuring that we create opportunities for people across the country.

    This policy campus is a commitment to the people of Sheffield that local people will have a central role to play in the development of major national policies.

    Relocating roles out of London and establishing skills clusters will provide a fantastic economic boost for the people of Yorkshire and the Humber.

    This region has an immense array of talent and I’m delighted that we’re going to make use of it.

    Around 1,000 civil servants working a range of departments including the Department for Education (DfE), the Home Office and the Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) are based at the site.

    The Department of Health and Social Care, the Department for Transport and the Cabinet Office have moved the most roles to Yorkshire and the Humber.

    637 roles have relocated into Sheffield, primarily in the Home Office alongside more DWP, DfE and Ministry of Justice jobs which have moved to the city under the scheme. Sheffield also has 75 senior civil servants based in the city, one of the highest proportions outside of London.

    Cabinet Office Minister Alex Burghart and Cabinet Secretary Simon Case attended the launch of the campus with senior officials from DfE and DWP on Thursday.

    Cabinet Secretary Simon Case said:

    For too long in the Civil Service, talented people wanting to build careers in specific policy areas within government have needed to leave their home town or city and move to the South East to get on.

    Initiatives such as this are absolutely critical if we’re going to remove that barrier and spread fulfilling career opportunities across the whole of the UK.

    We need people with a broad range of experiences, backgrounds and insights if we are going to deliver for the whole of the UK and initiatives such as the Sheffield Policy Campus will allow us to do exactly that.

    The plans were undertaken in conjunction with the City Council, The University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University and the combined authority with the intention of building a strong talent pipeline for policy jobs in the city.

    The campus will enable better collaboration between departments with similar goals. For example, policy teams at DfE and DWP can work together on boosting skills and moving people into better paid work through initiatives such as the National Careers Service.

    The initiative forms part of a broader strategy to establish sites around the UK which will see specific sectors or disciplines within government aligned with regions. Further announcements will be made in due course.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Cyber security for airworthiness – new MAA regulations [June 2023]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 8 June 2023.

    To counter threats of cyber-attack on military air systems, new regulation has been introduced to assess and mitigate potential impacts on air safety.

    Cyber-attack presents a significant threat to the safe operation of modern military air systems. The MAA has now equipped the regulated community with Cyber Security for Airworthiness (CSA) regulation to ensure our safety-related systems are appropriately protected from this non-traditional, emerging threat to air safety.

    Background

    The aviation ecosystem is becoming more complex and connected. Modern military air systems, like their civil counterparts, are reliant on the correct functioning of avionic systems for safe operation. Increasingly, advanced network architectures are being introduced to interconnect avionic systems and other systems for internal and external data transmission. These technological advancements bring greater efficiency and performance but could introduce threats to airworthiness and air safety if not sufficiently protected. It is vital that cyber security assessments are conducted for connected systems to identify and mitigate, if necessary, airworthiness and air safety risks.

    Physical access security can provide some mitigation, but it is important to note that this can only go so far. For example, cyber security vulnerabilities can be introduced to airborne electronic hardware (AEH) or safety-related airborne software through insecure supply chains. Increasing reliance on computerised ground support systems and other systems which connect to avionics, such as connected-electronic flight bags (EFB) or mission equipment, could also introduce vectors for malicious software (malware) if not mitigated. Essentially, any external connectivity for the air system could introduce new threats.

    Some legacy air systems may have fewer intrinsic threats due to older federated architectures, bespoke computer technologies, and less reliance on avionic systems for safe operation. It is essential, however, that any extant risks are understood and mitigated. It should also be noted that type design changes which introduce new capabilities may establish connectivity to older systems; these could have been developed without consideration for cyber security controls, thereby introducing new vulnerabilities.

    Aviation cyber security – a civil perspective

    The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has taken a holistic view to the development of a cyber resilient aviation ecosystem. Conceptually, the problem has been addressed in two key areas: product security (including aircraft and engines) and organisation security (for aviation organisations – concerning people and processes).

    Product security

    EASA has introduced requirements to the certification specifications (CS) for large aeroplanes, small and large rotorcraft, engines, and propellers for equipment, systems, and network information security protection. These requirements apply to new or modified aircraft. AMC 20-42 airworthiness information security risk assessment is the published acceptable means of compliance for these requirements and refers to the following standards, developed by the European Organisation for Civil Aviation Equipment (EUROCAE) and the Radio Technical Commission for Aeronautics (RTCA): ED-202A/DO-326A, ED-203A/DO-356, and ED-204/DO-355 (note: some of these standards have since been updated). The certification specification for normal-category aeroplanes has introduced guidance material referring to AMC 20-42 (GM 23.2500(b) refers), and CS–ETSO (European Technical Standard Orders) also recognises the AMC for ETSO articles.

    Organisation security

    In February 2023 EASA published Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/203 which, together with the earlier released Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/1645 completes the new Information Security (Part-IS) Regulation. This regulation is cross-cutting and applies to aviation organisations which contribute to aviation safety such as Approved Maintenance Organisations (AMO), Continuing Airworthiness Management Organisations (CAMO), Production and Design Organisations, Air Traffic Management / Air Navigation Service (ATM / ANS) providers, and aerodrome operators. The regulation requires organisations to introduce an Information Security Management System (ISMS) with a focus on aviation safety. The associated acceptable means of compliance (AMC) is currently in development and expected to be published soon.

    CAA

    The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has replicated the EASA requirements in the published certification specifications for large aeroplanes, small and large rotorcraft, engines, propellers, and the guidance material for normal-category aeroplanes and ETSO articles; these also refer to AMC 20-42 as the published acceptable means of compliance.

    The CAA currently has a rulemaking task for the introduction of Cyber Security Regulation based on EASA Part-IS. There will be further consultations prior to publication of the new regulation.

    MAA cyber security for airworthiness and air safety

    The latest issues of Defence Standard 00-970 for fixed wing combat air systems, small and medium type air systems, large type air systems and rotorcraft include requirements for CSA; this applies to both new air systems and type design changes to existing air systems. Note: Defence Standard 00-970 part 9 (remotely piloted air systems (RPAS)) is currently undergoing a major review; there is an expectation that CSA requirements are included on any RPAS Type Certification Basis (TCB) in the interim, both for new air systems and depending on the specifics of any type design change.

    The new CSA regulations have been introduced to ensure that all air systems on, or destined for, the UK Military Aircraft Register (MAR) are assessed for cyber security threats, and that suitable mitigations are put into place to address any potential negative impacts on airworthiness and air safety. The regulations also address a need to inform owners of air safety risks of any potential CSA risks, so that these could be understood, owned, and integrated into core air safety management activities.

    Changes to the MRP include the introduction of two new regulatory articles (RA), amendments to the roles and responsibilities of two existing RAs, and publication of a supporting regulatory instruction (RI) to provide compliance latitude. The regulations introduce new responsibilities for Type Airworthiness Authorities (TAA), Type Airworthiness Managers (TAM), Aviation Duty Holders (ADH), Accountable Managers (Military Flying) (AM(MF)), and Senior Responsible Owners (SRO); a summary is detailed below.

    In addition, as published in the MAA’s programme of work for regulations – Financial Year 23 / 24 (MAA/RN/2023/02) following the publication of the EASA part-IS regulations, and the expected incorporation by the CAA, the MAA will investigate the overlaps with current MoD policy and determine whether future Information Security Regulation for aviation organisations is required.

    The new CSA regulations

    RA 5890 – Cyber Security for Airworthiness and Air Safety – Type Design and Changes / Repairs to Type Design

    The regulation introduces responsibilities for TAAs / TAMs to ensure that air system cyber security risk assessments are conducted. Identified cyber threats shall be suitably mitigated to combat the potential negative impact on CSA and air safety. The MAA recognises the risk assessment and mitigation process detailed in RTCA DO-326A / EUROCAE ED-202A and associated standards RTCA DO-356A / EUROCAE ED-203A as an acceptable means of compliance. TAAs / TAMs should provide appropriate Instructions for Sustaining Type Airworthiness (ISTA) to the relevant ADH / AM(MF), including security event management procedures.

    RA 1202 – Cyber Security for Airworthiness and Air Safety

    This regulation introduces responsibilities for ADH / AM(MF) / SRO to ensure that cyber security threats to airworthiness and Air Safety are identified, suitably mitigated, and managed through life. Direction to operators should be provided to mitigate cyber security threats to airworthiness and air safety during operation and maintenance of air systems. The MAA recognises RTCA DO-355A / EUROCAE ED-204A with JSP 440 as an acceptable means of compliance. ADH / AM(MF) / SRO should ensure that the ongoing CSA activity contributes to the development and management of the applicable Air System Safety Cases.

    MAA/RI/2023/03 – Cyber Security for Airworthiness and Air Safety

    This RI details transitional arrangements which provide compliance latitude; it is broken up into specified milestones which should be achieved.

    Some future changes

    To complement the new CSA regulations there will be some changes to existing 1000-series regulations as follows:

    RA 1015 – Type Airworthiness Management – roles and responsibilities

    There will be an amendment to this regulation with the inclusion of a new TAM responsibility to ensure that air systems are assessed for their cyber risks to combat potential impact on CSA and air safety.

    RA 1020 – Aviation Duty Holder and Aviation Duty Holder-Facing Organizations – Roles and Responsibilities

    Additional text will be included in the guidance material for ADH responsibilities in operations. Clarification will be included in the operating envelope guidance to state that the activities should include emerging cyber threats to air safety which have the potential to impact risk to life during operations.

    Summary

    The new regulations will ensure that military air systems are assessed for and appropriately protected from cyber threats to airworthiness and air safety. The MAA will continue to engage and support the regulated community as required.

  • PRESS RELEASE : DCDC celebrates 10 years of Swedish Armed Forces cooperation [June 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : DCDC celebrates 10 years of Swedish Armed Forces cooperation [June 2023]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 8 June 2023.

    Members of the Development, Concepts and Doctrine Centre (DCDC) and Swedish Armed Forces gathered to mark their decade-long partnership of working together.

    The occasion saw the Swedish Chief of the Defence Staff Lieutenant General Michael Claesson and the UK Vice Chief of the Defence Staff General Gwyn Jenkins join members of DCDC and Swedish delegates in Main Building, London to mark the 10-year milestone.

    As well as acknowledging the success of the relationship and the mutual benefits the cooperation brings, the event provided an opportunity to consider next steps and how to deepen and leverage the cooperation further.

    Attending the momentous occasion, Lt Gen Michael Claesson announced:

    The last ten years have seen extraordinary changes and developments in both global and European geopolitics – including the war in Ukraine and the greatest change in Swedish security policy since more than two hundred years ago. As a potential NATO-member the cooperation with DCDC will be an even more important part in preparing the defence of our nation for a changing world and new challenges – together with our partners.

    The following day saw Director DCDC address staff in a townhall, commenting on how our shared insights have helped inform both nations in ways that are valuable and build resilience.

    We look forward to the next decade of working alongside our Swedish allies.

    How it all began

    10 years ago, the then Swedish Director of Strategy concluded that collaboration in the intellectual space was the key to helping achieve efficiency within the Swedish Armed Forces.

    DCDC was highlighted as the only Defence organisation in the world that provided research on the future, as well as concepts and doctrine.

    Colonel Joachim Isacsson, now DCDC’s senior Swedish officer, was tasked with making the cooperation work in practice. Now in his 10th year working at DCDC, Joachim shares his reflections a decade on:

    The cooperation has taken huge steps forward and forms a direct part of Swedish Defence strategy and implementation of NATO doctrine. I am immensely proud of what we have collectively achieved.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Peter, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill, reappointed as Chair of Network Rail [June 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Peter, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill, reappointed as Chair of Network Rail [June 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 8 June 2023.

    Network Rail Chair will continue to play a prominent role in bringing about rail reform.

    • Peter, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill, will serve a further 2 years as Chair of Network Rail
    • as Chair of the Board, he will oversee Network Rail’s multi-billion-pound budget to run a safe, reliable and efficient railway
    • reappointment is vital in achieving a smooth transition to Great British Railways, bringing track and train together to drive modernisation across the network

    Peter, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill, has been reappointed as the Chair of Network Rail to serve a further 2 years, the Transport Secretary announced today (8 June 2023).

    As Chair of the Board, Peter, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill, will continue to oversee Network Rail’s multi-billion-pound budget to efficiently run 20,000 miles of railway track and provide reliable services for passengers and freight customers across England, Scotland and Wales.

    His role will be vital in steering Network Rail’s 5-year plan, backed by £44 billion government funding, to tackle climate change, improve performance, invest in infrastructure and make the railways even greener.

    Peter, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill’s continued service will ensure continuity and a smooth transition to Great British Railways (GBR) that will put customers at the heart of the railways and drive modernisation. Having held a place on Network Rail’s board since 2015, he will use his existing knowledge and experience to oversee a vital period of transformation that will bring track and train together.

    Transport Secretary Mark Harper said:

    I am delighted to reappoint Peter, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill, as Chair of Network Rail, and with his vast experience in the industry, I have no doubt he will help oversee a seamless transition to Great British Railways, delivering our shared goals of a rail network that drives modernisation and economic growth while enhancing the role of the private sector.

    Once delivered, GBR will take control of the industry’s finances to deliver efficiency and make the industry financially sustainable by working with the private sector to create a railway that puts passengers first. Alongside this, high-skilled jobs will also be created at GBR headquarters in Derby – Europe’s largest rail hub – which is already brimming with the best talent in the industry.

    Peter, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill, previously served as Commissioner of Transport for London for 9 years and led the successful operation of London’s transport for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

    He also provided valuable support to the government throughout the pandemic and led the Union Connectivity Review in 2021, which explored ways in which transport could better connect the UK. In November 2022, Peter, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill, received a life peerage, sitting as a crossbench peer, and was knighted in the 2013 New Year’s Honours list, having been made CBE in 2006 for services to public transport.

    Peter, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill, said:

    I am looking forward to supporting Andrew Haines, Chief Executive, and his team, in maintaining and improving Network Rail’s delivery now and into the next 5-year funding period. I will also do everything I can to move the reform agenda and the creation of Great British Railways forward as soon as possible.

    Passengers and freight customers deserve a better, more cost-effective railway that only reform and an integrated railway can deliver. I look forward to continuing to support Network Rail’s transition to Great British Railways.

  • PRESS RELEASE : £40 billion spent protecting families and businesses from energy costs [June 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : £40 billion spent protecting families and businesses from energy costs [June 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 8 June 2023.

    £40 billion has been paid out to protect UK families and businesses from energy costs over the colder months.

    The government spent nearly £40 billion protecting households and businesses from spiralling energy bills over the colder months, new figures today show.

    Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine led to unprecedented turmoil in global energy markets and made a huge impact on the energy bills of households around the world. In the UK, without government intervention households would have seen bills peak at almost £4,300 per year.

    In response the government covered around half a typical household bill over the winter – and today, the sheer scale of that financial support has been revealed for the first time. £39.3 billion was spent between October 2022 and March 2023, the most ever provided to subsidise household bills in UK history. This was in part funded through taxing energy producers’ excess profits – with the government’s windfall tax on producers expected to raise almost £26 billion by March 2028.

    And with moves to shore up the country’s energy security, wholesale costs have now come down two thirds from their peak in the first quarter of the year. The UK has seen a full year without using Russian gas, while accelerating the move towards renewables and alternative sources of supply such as liquefied natural gas imports.

    Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps said:

    Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and his reckless attempts to hold the West to ransom sent energy prices spiralling around the world.

    We acted swiftly and decisively to protect families and businesses from the full impact of that shock – covering around half a typical energy bill over winter. This helped safeguard jobs and livelihoods, and enabled many families to heat their homes.

    And we will not stop leading the world in standing up to Putin, helping countries around the world to move away from Russian fossil fuels – just as we have done having not used any Russian gas for the past 12 months.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt said:

    Putin’s weaponisation of global gas prices meant our energy bills soared, which is why we stepped in with immediate relief and cut the typical household energy bill by around half last winter, driving down inflation and relieving pressure on families.

    Improvements in the wholesale market mean energy regulator, Ofgem, has been able to reduce their price cap from £3,280 now to £2,074 in July. As a result, the average household bill is expected to fall £426 lower than current charges under the Energy Price Guarantee, which will also help further lower inflation overall. The government is committed to halving inflation by the end of the year.

    Today’s figures demonstrate the historic scale and nature of the schemes put in place to support households. The figures involved mean on average around £2,500 was shelled out every second since October to keep energy costs down, as Ofgem’s cap rose to almost £4,300 at the peak of the energy crisis – saving the average home roughly £1,500 by June.

    The figures show that from October up to the end of March, almost £21 billion went towards the Energy Price Guarantee. An expected £12 billion has been paid out under the Energy Bills Support Scheme, which offered homes £400 payments towards their bills over winter.

    Meanwhile, businesses and other organisations benefitted from a £5.5 billion boost under the Energy Bill Relief Scheme, the government’s primary non-domestic support scheme over the winter. A further £933 million was spent on other government energy support schemes, including alternative schemes providing support for households and businesses off-grid and those using alternative fuels.

  • PRESS RELEASE : New UK sanctions legislation allows the government to target Belarus exports, internet propaganda, and crack down on circumvention [June 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : New UK sanctions legislation allows the government to target Belarus exports, internet propaganda, and crack down on circumvention [June 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 8 June 2023.

    New sanctions legislation allows the UK to target exports from Belarus funding the Lukashenko regime and crack down on Russia’s efforts to circumvent sanctions.

    • further sanctions against the Belarusian regime for continuing to actively facilitate Russia’s invasion of Ukraine
    • includes export bans on sources of revenue to Belarus, cracks down on sanctions circumvention and provides grounds so that Belarusian organisations cannot spread propaganda in the UK
    • also expands sanctions criteria, giving the government the basis to sanction a broader range of people such as aides, advisers and government ministers who facilitate the operation of the Belarusian regime

    New sanctions legislation allowing the UK government to target exports from Belarus funding the Lukashenko regime and crack down on Russia’s efforts to circumvent sanctions, have been announced today (8 June 2023).

    The measures also give the government grounds to prevent designated Belarusian media organisations from spreading propaganda in the UK, including over the internet, as the regime continues to actively facilitate Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and spread false narratives.

    The Belarusian regime has permitted the use of its territory and airspace by Russia to conduct missile and drone strikes against Ukraine in addition to the provision of significant training and logistical support to Russian forces.

    Foreign Secretary James Cleverly says:

    This new package ratchets up the economic pressure on Lukashenko and his regime which actively facilitates the Russian war effort and ignores Ukraine’s territorial integrity.

    Our support for Ukraine will remain resolute for as long as it takes and the UK will not hesitate to introduce further measures against those who prop up Putin’s war.

    The UK is banning the import of gold, cement, wood and rubber to the UK from Belarus, which are sources of revenue for the Lukashenko regime, building on measures introduced last July to ban the import and export of goods worth around £60 million from Belarus.

    We are also blocking exports to Belarus from the UK of banknotes and machinery, alongside goods, technologies and materials that could be used to produce chemical and biological weapons.

    Our online measures provide the government with the ability to prevent designated Belarusian media companies from spreading propaganda in the UK. That means social media companies and internet service providers will restrict access to the websites of sanctioned Belarusian media organisations, as is already the case for sanctioned Russian organisations.

    We have also expanded the designation criteria for Belarus allowing the government to sanction a broader range of people who prop up the regime. This means we have the basis, where appropriate, to target close family members of those already sanctioned.

    In addition, our measures in this package crack down on those circumventing sanctions given the close links between the Belarusian and Russian economies, applying measures to Belarus which we have already applied to Russia to close loopholes and address sanctions circumvention.

    This includes through limiting the funds that Belarus is able to raise by further restricting Belarusian access to UK financial markets and preventing the import of goods such as gold which may have originated in Russia.

    This also reflects the UK’s wider work bearing down on those who prop up Putin’s war in Ukraine, coming down hard on sanctions evaders; closing loopholes; and working with our international partners to undermine attempts to build global resilience to Western sanctions.

    This latest package builds upon the significant sanctions against Belarus already in place, including last year banning the import and export of goods worth around £60 million for the regime’s active support of Putin’s war. That covers bans from Belarus to the UK on the export of oil refining goods, advanced technology components, luxury goods and imports to the UK of Belarusian iron and steel.

    The UK has also targeted people and companies who have engaged in, supported or promoted the repression of fundamental human rights and freedoms in Belarus. That includes sanctioning more than 100 people and organisations, such as freezing the assets of major Belarusian state-owned enterprises which are significant sources of revenue and foreign currency for the Lukashenko regime.

    The UK is resolute in condemning the brutal campaign by the regime against the human rights and fundamental freedoms of the Belarusian people – such as routinely subjecting citizens to inhumane and degrading treatment and hindering any form of opposition. With over 1,400 political prisoners in Belarus, the UK calls for their immediate and unconditional release.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Russia’s brutality cannot break Ukraine’s spirit – UK statement to the OSCE [June 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Russia’s brutality cannot break Ukraine’s spirit – UK statement to the OSCE [June 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 8 June 2023.

    Ambassador Holland says that despite countless Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure, Ukraine stands strong.

    Thank you, Mr Chair. Once again I would like to express our deep concern regarding the destruction of the Kakhovka dam. This is a despicable act, which has reportedly put over 42,000 people at risk from flooding. As my Prime Minister said, “Attacks on civilian infrastructure are appalling and wrong”. As I speak, the reservoir continues to empty, and will continue to do so for days. But even within the last two days we have seen lives, homes, and livelihoods destroyed. Civilians have been left stranded. The environment has sustained terrible, lasting damage. Food production will be severely impacted. And all this destruction is the consequence of Russia’s unwarranted, unprovoked invasion. The UK stands ready to support Ukraine and all those affected by this latest humanitarian catastrophe.

    Mr Chair, throughout its war of aggression, Russia has wrought enormous damage on many areas of Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure – including on healthcare provision and facilities. Last week, the World Health Organisation reported that since February last year, Russia has made more than a thousand attacks on healthcare in Ukraine. This is the highest number that the WHO has ever recorded in any humanitarian emergency. Over a hundred Ukrainians have lost their lives, including health workers, patients, and the injured. This is inexcusable.

    However, despite these challenges, the Ukrainian health system shows remarkable resilience. Ukrainian health workers demonstrate heroic levels of commitment as they continue to provide treatment for their communities and save lives, sometimes under fire.

    As my Foreign Secretary noted during his visit to Kyiv this week, “the Ukrainian people are not going to allow themselves to be broken”. And Ukraine’s indomitable spirit is reflected in its economic outlook too. The International Monetary Fund has commended the “remarkable resilience” of the Ukrainian economy. It has upgraded its growth predictions for Ukraine and revised down inflation.

    In two weeks the UK will co-host, with Ukraine, the 2023 Ukraine Recovery Conference in London. The conference will bring together the international community in support of Ukraine’s recovery and economic future. It will build on the work done by the 2022 recovery conference and the G7 Summit by mobilising public and private sector tools and financing to support Ukraine’s immediate recovery and long-term investment needs.

    This will involve cooperation with a broad range of governments, including many represented here today, as well as the Secretary General. It will also include collaboration with international organisations such as the OSCE, as well as civil society and of course the private sector. Together, this broad coalition will facilitate investment and recovery, enabling Ukraine to pursue its transformation and reform goals and build an economy that is more modern, open and resilient.

    Mr Chair, the people of Ukraine remain united, unbowed, and defiant. It is this Ukrainian spirit that means Russia cannot and will not win its war of aggression. The UK’s support for Ukraine will not waver – neither now as it is under attack, nor on its journey to a more prosperous and peaceful future.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Over £30m for new equipment to boost sustainable food production [June 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Over £30m for new equipment to boost sustainable food production [June 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 8 June 2023.

    £31 million has been made available for equipment and technology to boost farm productivity, increase environmental sustainability and help slurry management.

    Farmers will benefit from new equipment and technology to boost sustainable food production and reduce emissions and waste after £31 million was today (Thursday 8 June) made available in the latest round of the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF).

    Successful applicants can now claim for grants under the Productivity and Slurry budget to help cover the costs of over 90 pieces of equipment, from rainwater harvesting tanks to reduce water scarcity for farmers in the summer; tree shears to help stop the spread of pests and diseases; to equipment to minimise grass contamination and ammonia emissions when spreading slurry.

    The Farming Equipment and Technology Fund provides funding to farming businesses so they can invest in the tools they need to improve sustainable production across agriculture, horticulture and forestry. Productivity and Slurry grants will specifically support the procurement of equipment and technology that will help farmers use fewer inputs, reduce emissions and cut waste.

    With over 3,000 applications received for the FETF 2023 Productivity and Slurry grants, the government is matching this high demand by increasing the total funding offered from £17 million to £31 million. Twenty-one additional items have been added under the scheme in 2023, including camera-guided inter-row sprayers to help reduce herbicide usage, and mulchers for forestry, orchards and vineyards to help reduce input costs and improve carbon retention in the soil.

    This will ensure as many farmers as possible can claim for the equipment they need to run a profitable farming business that delivers for both food production and the environment.

    Secretary of State for Food and Farming Thérèse Coffey said:

    The tremendous interest shown in the FETF 2023 Productivity and Slurry underscores the determination of our farmers to drive ever more productive and sustainable farming practices to keep food on our plates whilst protecting our important landscapes and habitats.

    By empowering farms to invest cash in new kit, we are ensuring our farmers, growers and foresters have the equipment they need to embrace innovation, protect the environment, and contribute to a thriving and sustainable agricultural sector.

    Items applied for in the FETF 2023 Productivity and Slurry budget include:

    • Direct drill with fertiliser placement for precision drilling of arable and cover crops to help reduce crop establishment costs and increase efficiency of fertiliser usage. 250 applicants to be offered this grant worth £6.25m.
    • Robotic drill and guided hoe – an autonomous robotic vehicle which can precisely place seed in the ground and return to mechanically weed – this helps to reduce herbicide usage and associated costs. Ten applications accepted with a value of £250,000.
    • Rainwater harvesting tanks with a minimum capacity of 5,000 litres which will help to reduce water scarcity for farmers in the summer months. This equipment will now benefit 86 recipients with a value of £110,802.
    • Tree shears with the capacity to fell 300mm diameter trees to stop the spread of pests and diseases across our woodlands. This funding helped 113 recipients with a total value of £363,747.
    • Dribble bars with a minimum working width of 6m designed to apply slurry to the soil surface as accurately as possible to minimise grass contamination and ammonia emissions. This equipment was made accessible to 94 farmers, amounting to a value of £403,200.
    • Direct drills with a width of 3m to conserve moisture and reduces soil erosion. This initiative assisted 129 applicants, totalling £1.555m in value.

    The FETF 2023 forms part of the government’s wider manifesto commitment to invest £2.4 billion per year in farming for the rest of this Parliament. In 2023 alone, £168 million is being made available to increase farming productivity through 16 different grants and competitions themed around productivity, research and innovation.

    The FETF 2023 is made up of two themes: Animal Health and Welfare, and Productivity and Slurry. The Animal Health and Welfare FETF 2023 has been given a separate portal to streamline the application process and has seen 66 new items added to its books. Applicants can still apply to the Animal Health and Welfare strand of FETF 2023 until the 15 June 2023.

    We intend to offer further rounds of FETF funding. Meanwhile, our larger grants offering will support further investment in water storage and improving irrigation slurry infrastructure, as well as funding for automation and robotics.

    This announcement follows the Farm to Fork Summit at Downing Street last month where the government announced a package of support for the farming sector, including new measures to ensure the sector remains at the forefront of adopting new technologies and techniques.