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Category: Press Releases

  • PRESS RELEASE : Stakeholders respond to the government’s Energy Security Plan [March 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Stakeholders respond to the government’s Energy Security Plan [March 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 30 March 2023,

    Stakeholders response to the government’s Energy Security Plan, announced by the Energy Security Secretary on Thursday 30 March.

    Tom Greatrex, Chief Executive of the Nuclear Industry Association, said:

    Great British Nuclear will transform the way nuclear projects are deployed in the UK, enabling us to deliver more capacity more quickly. It will help us become a global leader in large and small scale nuclear, with the SMR selection process offering a real opportunity for home-grown technologies and others to bring jobs, skills and investment to the UK.

    For nuclear to provide a quarter of Britain’s electricity means embarking on an ambitious new build programme, including a fleet of new stations, as well as placing nuclear on par with other green technologies to drive crucial investment.

    More nuclear will cut gas imports, cut carbon and create good jobs for communities all across the country.

    David Postings, Chief Executive of UK Finance said:

    The banking and finance sector fully supports the government’s goal of net zero UK emissions by 2050 and is committed to a just transition. We welcome the government’s commitment to investment in the UK’s energy independence and hope this package can be used to deliver green growth up and down the country.

    Providing a clearer path to net zero and mobilising investment through the Green Finance Strategy is crucial to enable the banking and finance industry to help deliver a just transition to a more sustainable economy. We have long called for further steps to green the housing stock and welcome the government’s pledge to increase energy efficiency as part of the Great British Insulation Scheme.

    Matt Evans, Director for Markets at techUK said:

    We welcome the government’s latest commitment to review UK’s strategy and deliver net zero. This new raft of policies should kick-start private sector innovations across clean energy and wider industry.

    The tech sector has a crucial part to play in delivering on the targets, there is also the real opportunity to make the UK the home of climate tech.

    With the increased urgency of addressing climate change, it’s time to make real strides in the transition towards a more sustainable and prosperous future.

    Syma Cullasy-Aldridge, CBI Chief Campaigns Director, said:

    Businesses across the country are raring to go on delivering green growth and making the most of the UK’s potential as a net zero superpower. The package of measures announced by the government represents a gear shift to boost energy security, reduce household bills and re-establish the UK’s credentials as a leader in green technologies.

    In streamlining red tape, tackling the cumbersome planning process and identifying ways to catalyse investment, the government is laying solid groundwork that will allow the green economy to take off. Backing for new technologies, like hydrogen and nuclear, where the UK has the capacity to win big is hugely welcome.

    With the strategy now set, the test is for all parts of government and business to switch to delivery mode. We need to move at pace to keep up with fierce international competition for green investment.

    Steve Scrimshaw, VP of Siemens Energy UK&I, said:

    Today’s news gives the industry greater clarity and a forward-looking strategy which means we can get on with the job in hand, powering up Britain. Siemens Energy, as a world-leading technology provider working across the entire energy-value chain, welcomes this package of measures today particularly on carbon capture and hydrogen production.

    This reset on energy policy builds on Chris Skidmore MP’s independent Net Zero Review and as an energy company, employing over 6,000 employees in the UK&I, we fully support these new announcements.

    Lawrence Slade, Chief Executive of Energy Networks Association, which represents the UK’s energy network operators, said:

    Investment and innovation in Great Britain’s electricity and gas networks is crucial if we are to reach net zero in time. That’s why we have thousands of innovation projects under way and are investing billions over the next decade to get our grids net zero ready. The clock’s ticking and we need planning, regulation and policy to keep pace. It’s great to see this being recognised by government today.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Shapps sets out plans to drive multi billion pound investment in energy revolution [March 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Shapps sets out plans to drive multi billion pound investment in energy revolution [March 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security Net Zero on 30 March 2023.

    Energy Security Secretary outlines steps to strengthen Britain’s long-term energy security and independence to help deliver clean, prosperous future for the country.

    Ambitious plans to scale up affordable, clean, homegrown power and build thriving green industries in Britain have been unveiled by the government today (Thursday 30 March) – boosting the country’s energy security and independence and reducing household bills for the long term and maintaining a world-leading position in achieving net zero.

    Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine had a devastating effect on global energy markets, forcing up wholesale prices and with it the energy bills of households and businesses in the UK and around the world.  In response, the government has taken steps to shield consumers and companies from the worst effects, paying around half a typical household’s bill over the winter and half the wholesale energy costs paid by some businesses.

    After decades of reliance on importing expensive, foreign fossil fuels, the government is delivering a radical shift in our energy system towards cleaner, more affordable energy sources to power more of Britain from Britain.

    In doing so, plans will help deliver on the Prime Minister’s promise to grow the economy across the country, supporting almost half a million new green jobs by 2030, creating a strategic advantage in new clean industries, and generating opportunities for UK businesses to export their expertise around the world.

    Building on decisive government action taken since 2021, measures announced today include:

    • World leading commitment to Carbon Capture Usage and Storage – The first projects will be announced to progress to the next stage of the negotiations to rollout the first Carbon Capture clusters in our industrial heartlands. The round for areas to apply for two additional future clusters has also been launched and there will be an opportunity for further projects to be added to the first two clusters. These announcements build on the £20 billion CCUS funding
    • Kickstarting investment into the UK’s emerging floating offshore wind industry by launching the £160 million fund to support port infrastructure projects, securing the UK’s leadership in this new technology.
    • Backing the first tranche of new green hydrogen production projects under the £240 million Net Zero Hydrogen Fund as part of development of this new power source.
    • Opening the fifth round of the UK’s world-leading scheme to incentivise investment in renewable electricity, backed by a budget of £205 million. Now being held annually, Contracts for Difference will build on the UK levy-funded support for renewable power since 2010 of around £80 billion.
    • Announcing Great British Nuclear, will initially be led by Simon Bowen as interim Chair and Gwen Parry-Jones OBE as interim Chief Executive Officer: with GBN’s first job to launch a new competition to select the best Small Modular Reactor technologies – one of the most advanced nuclear power technologies in the world – for development by Autumn.
    • Speeding up the planning process to attract investment – reforming the planning process to enable the building of more energy infrastructure including solar power and offshore wind projects more quickly.
    • Cutting household bills by expanding Government energy efficiency support to even more households – The Great British Insulation Scheme, a rebranded ECO+, will upgrade 300,000 of the country’s least energy efficient homes.
    • Investing more than £380 million into boosting EV charging points and infrastructure across the country to support the rollout of electric vehicles
    • Reducing our reliance on fossil fuels to heat our buildings – a new £30 million Heat Pump Investment Accelerator is designed to leverage £270 million private investment to boost manufacturing and supply of heat pumps in the UK. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which offers a £5,000 grant to anyone buying a heat pump, will be extended to 2028.
    • Providing UK Export Finance with an extra £10 billion capacity to boost exports, including from the UK’s world leading clean growth sectors.
    • Building a stable environment for businesses to invest and grow in the transition to electric vehicles and sustainable aviation fuel.

    Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said:

    When global energy supplies are disrupted and weaponised by the likes of Putin, we have seen household bills soar and economic growth slow around the world.

    We have stepped in to shield people from its worst impacts by helping to pay around half the typical energy bill. But we are also stepping up to power Britain and ensure our energy security in the long term with more affordable, clean energy from Britain, so we can drive down energy prices and grow our economy.

    That’s why we’re driving forward plans to boost renewables, revive nuclear and build new thriving industries like carbon capture, which will in turn create good jobs across the country, provide new opportunities for British businesses at home and abroad, and maintain our world-leading action to reach net zero.

    Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps said:

    We have seen over the past year what can happen when global energy supplies are disrupted, and a tyrant like Putin uses energy as a weapon.

    Access to cheap, abundant and reliable energy provide the foundation stone of a thriving economy with our homes and businesses relying on it to deliver our future prosperity.

    Following our unprecedented cost of living support this Winter, which continues, this plan now sets out how we fix this problem in the long term to deliver wholesale UK electricity prices that rank amongst the cheapest in Europe, as we export our green growth expertise to the world.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt said:

    Transforming our energy system is no longer just about tackling climate change, it is also a matter of national security. To protect ourselves from future price spikes, we need to accelerate the move to cleaner, cheaper, home-grown energy.

    By unlocking billions of pounds of private capital through our Green Finance Strategy, we generate more of the energy we need in Britain and create new industries and jobs that are built to last.

    Since 2010, the UK has seen £198 billion of investment into low carbon energy, through a mixture of government funding, private investment and levies on consumer bills. Going forward we anticipate around £100 billion of private investment will be forthcoming into the UK’s energy revolution. The UK has also broken numerous records in generating renewable electricity, leading the world in offshore wind – the UK is now in prime position to export its world-leading expertise.

    This will drive green growth at home and abroad and see British businesses set the standard for a clean, secure and prosperous future.

    Building on our COP26 Presidency and our role in agreeing the Global Biodiversity Framework, the UK will continue to lead international action in tackling climate change and biodiversity loss, working with our partners and delivering on our £11.6 billion International Climate Finance commitment. The 2030 Strategic Framework for International Climate and Nature Action and the International Climate Finance Strategy set out today what this will look like in practice.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UN adopts UK co-sponsored resolution on climate change – UK at the UN [March 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : UN adopts UK co-sponsored resolution on climate change – UK at the UN [March 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 29 March 2023.

    Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki to the UN General Assembly following the adoption of a resolution requesting an Advisory Opinion on Member States’ climate change obligations from the International Court of Justice.

    Thank you, President.

    We thank Vanuatu and the core group presenting this resolution for the positive and constructive approach they have taken toward negotiations, and in particular welcome the presence of Prime Minister Kalsakau in this meeting.

    The United Kingdom is committed to taking ambitious action to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss and environmental degradation. We were proud to host COP26 in Glasgow, where all 197 Parties agreed to the Glasgow Climate Pact. At COP26, nature also moved from the margins of the debate on climate change to the heart of it. The UK will continue to lead and engage on climate change and on nature to make sure that promises are kept and delivered to the highest standards, working with all partners to maintain momentum.

    The UK is especially proud of its work with Small Island Developing States and Least Developed Countries, both in its capacity as COP26 Presidency, and also beyond this. The UK recognises that all States are vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and that SIDS are some of the most vulnerable.

    In this regard, the UK set up Climate & Development Ministerials to focus on priorities of climate vulnerable states. We co-lead with Fiji the Taskforce on Access to Climate Finance to improve access to climate finance for SIDS and climate vulnerable States. We have also created programmes like the SIDS Capacity and Resilience Programme and the Infrastructure for Resilient Island States facility. In addition, the UK was instrumental in securing agreements and funding to set up and develop the Santiago Network, to provide technical assistance for the implementation of approaches for averting, minimising and addressing loss and damage.

    We welcome the ICJ considering the current obligations of all States under international law to ensure the protection of the climate system and other parts of the environment from anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases, and the legal consequences where states, by their acts or omissions, breach such obligations, causing significant harm. By looking at the obligations as they are today, the questions are clearly focused on assisting States in understanding these obligations under international law, so that they are able to comply with them in the future and understand the consequences if they breach them.

    In particular, we are pleased to make the following four observations on the questions:

    • First, they are not determinative of whether there are obligations or where they flow from.
    • Second, they do not prejudge whether breaches have occurred, are occurring or will occur but look at the consequences if and when they do.
    • Third, they are not limited to considering the obligations and legal consequences for any specific State or States; and
    • Finally, they are not determinative of whether any States have been specially affected or injured.

    The United Kingdom’s co-sponsorship of the resolution today is without prejudice both to its position on, and interpretation of, the obligations, instruments and concepts to which this resolution refers and to any submissions by His Majesty’s Government before the ICJ and other courts and tribunals. We also note that the first question is focused on the obligations relating specifically to anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases.

    Increasing climate action is a top priority for the United Kingdom. The IPCC says to keep 1.5 alive we need emissions to peak in 2025, to halve by 2030 and reach net-zero by 2050. We recognise the UNFCCC as the primary intergovernmental negotiating forum for climate action. An ICJ Advisory Opinion may help to refocus efforts to deliver on climate commitments in this critical decade, which would support the UNFCCC’s agenda.

    We are pleased to co-sponsor this resolution today.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK calls on all parties to end the conflict and the human suffering in DRC – UK Statement at the Security Council [March 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK calls on all parties to end the conflict and the human suffering in DRC – UK Statement at the Security Council [March 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 29 March 2023.

    Statement by Political Coordinator Fergus Eckersley at the UN Security Council briefing on the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    I thank SRSG Keita for her briefing today.

    President, on the Council’s visit to DRC earlier this month, we saw first-hand the severity of the security crisis in eastern DRC, as well as the extremely difficult context in which MONUSCO is operating. We also saw some of the tragic human cost.

    The United Kingdom remains deeply concerned by ongoing and intensifying violence, and deteriorating humanitarian situation in eastern DRC. We strongly condemn the continuing advance of the UN-sanctioned M23 illegal armed group across North Kivu province. The resumption of violence has caused significant human suffering and displaced over 800,000 people since March 2022. We strongly condemn violence perpetrated by all other armed groups. All support to armed groups must stop, including external support to M23, and we call on all parties to exert any influence they have to deescalate the situation.

    We welcome indications of M23 withdrawal and the handing over of locations to the EAC Regional Force, but any withdrawal must be complete and in line with the agreed process through the Luanda roadmap. Now is the time, as we heard from the Special Representative.

    We reiterate our full support to regional diplomatic efforts, including the Nairobi and Luanda processes. The UK urges all parties to respect the commitments they have made under these processes.

    This includes the withdrawal of M23, an end to all support to armed groups, and to stop the use of incendiary hate speech.

    Regional and bilateral forces deployed in the DRC, including the East African Community Regional Force (EAF), Ugandan People’s Defence Force, Burundian National Defence Force, and the recently announced Angolan troop deployment must engage with each other substantively and with MONUSCO on de-confliction of operations to ensure the protection of civilians, the safety and security of peacekeepers and the effective implementation of MONUSCO’s mandate.

    President, the UK fully supports MONUSCO, including its vital role in protecting civilians and facilitating humanitarian assistance. We commend the Mission and the SRSG for their work in challenging circumstances.

    But MONUSCO cannot of course tackle this crisis alone. Effective cooperation by the Government of DRC with MONUSCO is vital to ensure the mission can implement its mandate, in particular the protection of civilians.

    We encourage the Government to engage in a serious dialogue with MONUSCO to clarify how we might achieve a responsible, conditions-based reconfiguration of the UN presence in DRC. We look forward to receiving options for this in July. The Government must also do its work with MONUSCO on critical pillars of the peace process such as DDR and security sector reform.

    President, we must come together as a Council to deliver a very simple message. The violence must stop to give dialogue a chance to succeed. This is the only way to build confidence and to provide a lasting resolution to the crisis in eastern DRC.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Minister for Defence People and Veterans meets veterans taking part in archaeological dig on Salisbury Plain Training Area [March 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Minister for Defence People and Veterans meets veterans taking part in archaeological dig on Salisbury Plain Training Area [March 2023]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 29 March 2023.

    Military veterans taking part in an archaeological excavation on Salisbury Plain Training Area explained their work to Defence Minister Dr Andrew Murrison MP as he visited the dig site.

    The veterans are taking part in the excavation of Boles Barrow, which dates back to the Neolithic period, under a programme called Operation Nightingale. This award-winning scheme sees wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans taking part in archaeological digs on the Defence estate. The participants are guided by professional archaeologists from the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, which manages the MOD’s land and buildings, as well as partner organisations, which in the case of the Boles Barrow excavation includes private archaeology company Wessex Archaeology.

    Dr Murrison, himself a Royal Navy veteran and a member of the Royal Navy Reserve, visited the excavation on Monday 27 March and was briefed on the project by DIO Senior Archaeologist Richard Osgood. As Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Dr Murrison talked to the participants about their experiences and how taking part in the excavation helps them.

    Boles Barrow is a Neolithic long barrow excavated three times in the 19th Century with few surviving records. These excavations found prehistoric combat victims, and it is thought that a bluestone given to Salisbury Museum by Siegfried Sassoon may have emerged during these original investigations. The participants hope to find bluestone chips, which would be incredibly significant given proximity to Stonehenge. Bluestone is a term used to refer to some of the stones used in Stonehenge, but bluestone originates in the Preseli Hills in Pembrokeshire and is not found naturally locally.

    This excavation will also examine the effectiveness of a meshing programme DIO has been running for over a decade on Scheduled Monuments, considering the longevity of the types of protective covering and thus its efficacy.

    Dr Andrew Murrison, Minister for Defence People and Veterans, said:

    It was great to meet the veterans taking part in this innovative and award-winning programme. Using archaeological excavations to help veterans and allow them to spend time together has clear benefit and this is a programme I wholly support.

    Richard Osgood, DIO Senior Archaeologist, who is leading the excavation, said:

    It was a pleasure to explain Operation Nightingale and its success to the Minister, and introduce him to our participants. We are hopeful that the excavation of Boles Barrow will help deepen our understanding of the Neolithic landscape of Salisbury Plain. On a practical level, it has already demonstrated that our method of installing mesh to protect certain sites from burrowing animals is a success.

    The excavation commenced on 20 March 2023 and has already identified flint tools, a Roman coin and pot rim, and some sarsen.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Myanmar – FCDO statement on the dissolution of political parties [March 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Myanmar – FCDO statement on the dissolution of political parties [March 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 29 March 2023.

    FCDO statement on the Myanmar military’s decision to dissolve the National League for Democracy and other democratic political parties.

    A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office spokesperson said:

    The Myanmar military regime’s decision to dissolve 40 political parties, including Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy party, is a further assault on the rights and freedoms of the Myanmar people.

    There can be no solution to the crisis created by the military regime without meaningful, inclusive dialogue, which respects the people’s democratic wishes.

    We condemn the military regime’s politically motivated actions and their use of increasingly brutal tactics to sow fear and repress opposition. The UK will continue working with partners to pressure the regime to end all violence and create space for meaningful and inclusive dialogue. We reiterate our support for the people of Myanmar and their aspirations for an inclusive and democratic future.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Asylum seekers to be accommodated on surplus military sites [March 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Asylum seekers to be accommodated on surplus military sites [March 2023]

    The press release issued by the Home Office on 29 March 2023.

    The Immigration Minister updated Parliament on the progress the government is making in delivering the Prime Minister’s priority to stop the boats.

    Surplus military sites at Scampton and Wethersfield will accommodate asylum seekers who enter the UK illegally on small boats, the government has announced.

    Immigration Minister, Robert Jenrick, updated Parliament today (Wednesday 29 March) on the progress the government is making in delivering the Prime Minister’s priority to stop the boats; reducing the unsustainable pressure on the UK’s asylum system and the cost to the taxpayer caused by illegal crossings.

    The government’s Illegal Migration Bill, which returned to Parliament this week, is designed to stop crossings by ending illegal entry as a route to asylum in the UK. This will significantly reduce the number of people requiring accommodation in hotels, which is costing £6 million a day.

    Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick said:

    The Home Secretary and I have been clear that using expensive hotels for asylum seekers is wholly unacceptable.

    Delivering accommodation on surplus military sites will provide cheaper and more orderly, suitable accommodation for those arriving in small boats.

    We understand the concerns of local communities and are working closely to listen to their views and reduce the impact of these sites, including through providing onsite security and financial support.

    The minister set out an update on the ongoing work being done across government to secure alternative, more appropriate, cost-effective accommodation options around the country.

    The 2 military sites in Lincolnshire and Essex will provide basic and functional accommodation for migrants who illegally enter the UK by crossing the Channel, instead of using expensive hotels.

    The sites will house asylum seekers in former barracks and modular accommodation in an orderly manner with healthcare provision in place, catering facilities on site and 24/7 security.

    Further accommodation in the Prime Minister’s constituency at Catterick Garrison will be brought forward in due course.

    Not only are these sites more affordable for taxpayers than hotels, but they are more manageable and orderly for communities and offer significant employment opportunities in the broader area.

    We will work closely with local authorities and key partners to manage the impacts of using these sites, including liaising with local police to make sure appropriate arrangements are in place.

    This approach also brings the UK in line with European partners, including Germany and Greece, who also successfully use military sites.

    To begin reforming the accommodation system, the government will:

    • set up accommodation sites on surplus military sites in Wethersfield and Scampton for up to 3,700 asylum seekers across both sites, while preserving their heritage
    • open a non-military site in Bexhill, East Sussex which will also be used for accommodation for up to 1,200 people
    • explore the use of vessels to provide accommodation in line with the approach taken by the Netherlands and Scotland
    • significantly increase dispersed accommodation across the country by providing a new local authority funding package with a generous additional per bed payment for asylum seekers, alongside continued funding for each new dispersal bed
    • pilot an extra incentive payment for local authorities when properties for asylum seekers are made available faster
    • introduce a temporary licensing exemption to houses of multiple occupancy regulations for asylum seekers which will help move people out of hotels more quickly

    Accommodating asylum seekers in the private rented sector and on alternative sites costs a fraction of the current costs of hotels which are £6 million a day or about £2.3 billion a year.

    The Home Office is committed to supporting local authorities to enact these changes.

    The changes to the asylum system are part of the urgent action the government is taking to stop the boats.

    In his statement, Minister Jenrick said there had been significant progress since December, including:

    • ramping up immigration enforcement visits to their highest levels in recent years – with more than 3,500 since December, meaning more arrests and more people on a pathway to removal
    • introducing the landmark Illegal Migration Bill
    • signing an historic deal with the French government to stop the criminal gangs
    • increasing resource and streamlining processes to eliminate the legacy asylum backlog by the end of 2023

    Since 2018 about 85,000 migrants have made the dangerous journey across the Channel, placing unprecedented and unsustainable pressure on housing.

    The vast majority are single adult males. The government are under a legal obligation to accommodate those who would be otherwise be destitute.

    The alternative sites will house asylum seekers in appropriate accommodation whilst they await a decision on their claim.

    Asylum seekers will be in basic, safe and secure accommodation appropriate for this purpose, whilst providing value for money for the taxpayer.

    The 2 surplus military sites Scampton and Wethersfield, and the non-military site in Bexhill, will be run by contractors with Home Office oversight.

    People whose claims are refused and have exhausted their appeal rights will be removed from the UK.

    The government recognises that using alternative sites involves difficult decisions, but urgent action is needed to reform the broken asylum system and reduce the use of hotels.

    Scampton and Wethersfield are each due to accommodate about 200 people initially, with capacity gradually increasing to 1,700 at Wethersfield and 2,000 at Scampton.

    The numbers of people expected on other sites will be published in due course.

    The Home Office will preserve the heritage features of Scampton, recognising the vital role it played in the 2nd World War. This includes not accommodating migrants in buildings from this period. The Home Office only intends to use Scampton on a temporary basis.

    We are committed to working with West Lindsay District Council to develop their long-term vision for the site.

  • PRESS RELEASE : New bill to modernise Business Rates system [March 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : New bill to modernise Business Rates system [March 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities on 29 March 2023.

    A new bill introduced today will support businesses by modernising the business rates system to incentivise property improvements.

    A new bill introduced today (Wednesday 29 March) will support businesses by modernising the business rates system to incentivise property improvements and support more frequent revaluations.

    The measures being put forward review and reform business rates in England, making them fairer and more responsive to changes in the market.

    The Non-Domestic Rating Bill will introduce more frequent valuations, to take place every three years instead of the current five, meaning those with falling values will see their bills drop sooner.

    It will also provide new business rates improvement relief, so businesses making qualifying building improvements will not face higher business rates bills for 12 months. This will make it easier for businesses to invest with new reliefs for property improvements, providing tax breaks for businesses who are extending or upgrading their property.

    Local Government Minister, Lee Rowley MP said:

    The introduction of our Non-Domestic Rating Bill seeks to deliver the reforms announced during our Business Rates Review.

    We are bringing the administration of the tax up to date, and making the system more responsive to changes in the economy and introducing new support to reduce barriers to business investment.

    This is another step in the right direction for making sure the UK continues levelling up and supports businesses to grow and flourish.

    The bill will build on recent steps to cut business rates, with £13.6 billion of support announced at the Autumn Statement, and to redistribute the tax through the 2023 revaluation.

    Victoria Atkins, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, said:

    I want businesses to know that the government is on their side. Businesses have asked for changes to the business rates system and we are acting, including with more frequent revaluations to make the system fairer and more responsive.

    And they come on top of £13.6 billion of business rates support which resets the balance between bricks and clicks businesses, helping our much-loved high streets and communities.

    Melanie Leech, Chief Executive at the British Property Federation, said:

    These measures are a welcome step towards creating a business rates system that is fair for all. The British Property Federation has long-called for more frequent revaluations to help ensure the level of rates payable reflects current market conditions and structural changes in the economy.

    A move from five to three yearly revaluations is a marked improvement, and we would like to see Government continuing to strive towards even more frequent revaluations in due course. The introduction of a business rates improvement relief is also a welcome boost as property owners and occupiers work together to decarbonise and futureproof older buildings and support the UK’s journey to net-zero.

    Helen Dickinson OBE, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, said:

    Retailers welcome moving to three-yearly revaluations, meaning business rate bills will reflect underlying market conditions more quickly. Changes to valuation appeals processes and more transparency are also vital and the improvement relief will encourage more retailers to invest in their properties. These are all positive changes, but the job is not done. Government’s focus must remain on reducing the rates burden, enabling more local communities across the country to thrive.

    The Non-Domestic Rating Bill has been informed by the Business Rates Review, which ran from July 2020 to October 2021.

    The Bill has been introduced in parliament and will be debated in due course.

  • PRESS RELEASE : New settlement route for Hong Kong veterans [March 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : New settlement route for Hong Kong veterans [March 2023]

    The press release issued by the Home Office on 29 March 2023.

    The government’s new Hong Kong Veterans Settlement route will enable Hong Kongers who served in the British military to live and work in the UK.

    Hundreds of Hong Kongers who served in the British armed forces will be able to apply to settle in the UK, in recognition of their military service in the 20th century.

    The government’s new Hong Kong Veterans Settlement route will be open to all servicemen and women who served in the British military prior to 1 July 1997 and their family members, including a partner or spouse and dependant children.

    This will put veterans from Hong Kong on an equal footing with other members of the British armed forces who were also stationed in the territory. All those eligible will be able to apply for indefinite leave to enter, allowing them to live and work in the UK without restriction and putting them on a path to full British citizenship.

    Applications for settlement are expected to open this autumn.

    Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick said:

    The immensely valuable contribution that many Hong Kongers made to the UK while serving in the UK armed forces is one that will not be forgotten.

    We relied on these veterans to support Hong Kong’s administration and emergency services as well as in the international effort of Operation Granby, which liberated Kuwait from Iraqi forces in 1991. On every occasion, their loyalty was pivotal. It is only right that we recognise their exceptional dedication, service and sacrifice by introducing our new settlement route for Hong Kong veterans.

    Today’s announcement allows those who served before 1 July 1997 to settle in the UK and live without restriction. Moreover, it means that the UK can continue to honour their service.

    Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Johnny Mercer said:

    I am incredibly grateful for the contribution of veterans from across the world who have served in the UK armed forces, including those from Hong Kong, who played a vital role up until the transition in 1997.

    By delivering this settlement route, we rightly provide Hong Kong veterans and their families a path into a new life post-service, here in the UK.

    Many residents of Hong Kong served in the British armed forces before the handover to China on 1 July 1997. Their role was to form part of the military garrison in the territory, and support Hong Kong’s administration and emergency services.

    The veterans provided important roles to some of the UK’s most impactful international operations too, such as Operation Granby, which contributed to the liberation of Kuwait from Iraqi forces in 1991.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Astounding levels of incompetence in the Russian military leadership have eroded Russia’s military reputation – UK statement to the OSCE [March 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Astounding levels of incompetence in the Russian military leadership have eroded Russia’s military reputation – UK statement to the OSCE [March 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 29 March 2023.

    UK military advisor, Ian Stubbs, says the staggering casualties suffered by Russia around Bakhmut have had significant impact on personnel and munition stocks.

    Thank you, Mr Chair and welcome Deputy Minister of Defence Galić to this Forum. Mr Chair, I would like to start by thanking you and your team for your stewardship over the past trimester. It is nearly 400 days since Russia’s barbaric and illegal invasion of Ukraine. Since then, we have seen the extraordinary determination of the Ukrainian people as they defend their homeland. With support from their partners, Ukraine has shown that agility and ingenuity can have a devastating effect against a so-called super power.

    In recent weeks, the staggering casualties suffered by Russia around Bakhmut appear to have had significant impact. Their assault seemingly stalled, reports suggest that the Russian military and Wagner group urgently need to replenish personnel and munition stocks. Approximately 30,000 Russian fighters have been killed or wounded since the battle for Bakhmut began nine months ago, with the Wagner-dominated force advancing just 25km in this time.

    Mr Chair, try as they might to present an alternate reality to the ground truth with an increasingly ridiculous carpet of disinformation, the astounding levels of incompetence in Russia’s military leadership that have eroded Russia’s military reputation are clear for all to see.

    In February, ahead of the 14th Aero India biennial air show, the Director of the Russian Federal Service for Military and Technical Cooperation, Dmitry Shugayev, stated that the “special military operation provided foreign experts with an opportunity to see Russian military products in use in actual combat conditions, convincing them of their high technical performance and reliability”. In the same week, Russian Soviet made MT-LB multipurpose tracked armoured vehicles were observed operating in eastern Ukraine modified with old naval turrets and guns, still painted in naval colours. These Stalin era naval weapon systems, 60-year-old T-62 main battle tanks and vintage BTR-50 armoured personnel carriers that Russia is operating in Ukraine are indeed a true demonstration of the type of “high technical performance” for which Russia’s military and defence industry are now regarded.

    In contrast, the UK has provided sophisticated artillery and air defence systems, and modern anti-tank munitions to help Ukraine defend itself against Russia’s brutal and indiscriminate attacks. The UK was the first nation to pledge modern main battle tanks to Ukraine – and we are grateful to all our Allies who have now done likewise.  These Challenger 2 MBTs are a step change in capability for Ukraine’s Armed Forces, equipped with some of the most modern and sophisticated gunnery systems in the world.

    Mr Chair, for well over a year now, our Russian colleagues have attempted to use this forum to distract from failures on the battlefield with a campaign of lies, threats and propaganda. When this has not worked, they have become increasingly contemptuous of this Forum, belligerent towards the Chair, and threatening towards fellow delegates – such behaviour is a tacit sign of weakness. Russia’s decision to block the Forum for Security Cooperation (FSC) agenda and your Security Dialogue last week because you would not cede to its attempts to negotiate by ultimatum, was a deplorable example of its attempts to undermine the principles under which we meet in this Chamber.

    Against such behaviour, we must do our upmost to ensure the integrity of this Forum, such that it is able to fulfil its mandate. Russia has attempted to break the foundations of European security, violated the UN Charter, and flagrantly disregarded the Helsinki Final Act’s core principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and the non-use of force. However, we have shown that these principles, and this Forum, matter. We will stand up to defend them both.

    The UK looks forward to working with the incoming Bulgarian Chair in what will clearly continue to be a challenging time for the FSC, the OSCE and European security writ large. We also thank Belgium who leave the troika and welcome our Canadian colleagues.

    Mr Chair, on a final note, the UK condemns in the strongest terms Putin’s recent announcement on the planned stationing of tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus. The nuclear rhetoric and signalling that we have seen from Russia is irresponsible. Russia should seek to reduce tensions and the risk of miscalculation, not increase them. We again call on the Belarusian regime to desist from supporting Russia’s attempts to stoke further instability in the region and stop its support of Russia’s illegal invasion.

    Mr Chair, Ukraine has turned the tide in this war, regaining territory and liberating thousands of Ukrainian people. Ukraine has done this thanks to the awe-inspiring bravery of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the resilience of the Ukrainian people and strong international support. This must remain at the forefront of our minds and efforts into the next trimester. Together, with our Allies and partners, we will ensure that Ukraine will win.

    Thank you.