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Category: Press Releases

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK’s largest companies increased their total tax contribution in 2021/22 [December 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK’s largest companies increased their total tax contribution in 2021/22 [December 2022]

    The press release issued by PWC on 8 December 2022.

    • UK’s largest 100 companies increased their Total Tax Contribution (TTC) by 5.2% to £81.5bn in 2021/22, according to a new study
    • 100 Group Total Tax Contribution accounted for nearly 10% of total government receipts as the economy emerged from lockdown, but still remains below pre-pandemic levels
    • 100 Group also contributed £25.8bn in capital investment and £10.9bn in R&D while employing 1.9m people

    The UK’s biggest listed companies generated £81.5bn in tax during the 2021/22 financial year despite lockdowns and ongoing social distancing measures throughout much of 2021, according to a new study.

    The 18th annual Total Tax Contribution of the 100 Group, produced by PwC, estimates the companies contributed £26bn in taxes borne – those that are a direct cost to the company – and a further £55.5bn in taxes collected, such as income tax and employee National Insurance Contributions (NICs) deducted under PAYE, for the year ended 31 March 2022.

    The survey has been compiled from data provided by 95 of the largest listed companies in the UK, coinciding with the second year of the pandemic, and has been extrapolated to estimate the overall contribution of the 100 Group as a whole. The survey period includes the emergence from UK-wide lockdown in early 2021 and continued social distancing and remote working policies throughout much of the year

    In 2021/22 the 100 Group’s tax contribution increased by 5.2% on a two-year trend basis. The increase in tax was driven by net VAT, corporation tax and fuel duty as the economy reopened. However, total tax receipts remain 3.3% lower than before the pandemic, due to the 8% decrease in 2020/21.

    The survey also highlights that 100 Group capital investment rebounded by 39%, to a total of £25.8bn in 2021/22, following a decrease in the first year of the pandemic. Meanwhile, R&D expenditure continued to increase throughout the pandemic, rising by 8% to £10.9bn in 2022, following a 15% increase in 2020/21.

    According to the survey, in 2021/22, the 100 Group employed approximately 1.9 million people, or 5.8% of the total UK workforce, paying an average wage of £37,514 and contributing employment taxes of £12,903 per employee on average.

    Andy Agg, chairman of The 100 Group tax committee said,

    “Notwithstanding the new social and economic challenges that have emerged in recent years, this year’s survey highlights the resilience and agility of the 100 Group companies as the UK started to emerge from the pandemic. This year’s findings demonstrate that businesses were willing to continue to invest and innovate to play their part in the economic recovery amid considerable uncertainty.

    “It is also important to remember and appreciate the valuable support that the Government provided through this period, while also recognising the contribution of the 100 Group to the wider economy and communities around the UK.”

    Andrew Packman, tax partner at PwC said,

    “As we deal with the impact of geopolitical and economic instability, this report illustrates the key role of large companies in sustaining investment in capital projects and research and development while supporting large numbers of well paid jobs. The tax contribution is recovering from the impact of Covid and the amount generated for the Exchequer is all the more important as the government deals with the challenges of the public finances. In difficult times, large and resilient companies are particularly important to our economy.”

    Total Tax Contribution in detail

    The largest tax borne was again corporation tax, at 32.2% of total taxes borne (compared to 27.0% in 2020/21). Employer NICs is the second largest tax borne, at 25.1% of total taxes borne (compared to 26.6% in 2020/21). The third largest is business rates (17.0%) followed by irrecoverable VAT (13.8%).

    For every £1 of corporation tax, £2.09 is paid in other business taxes borne. In 2005, the ratio was 1:1.

    Employment taxes, at 29.9%, are the largest share of taxes collected (income tax deducted under PAYE: 22.5% and employee NIC: 7.4%) followed by fuel duties at 24.5%..

    For every £1 of corporation tax borne by this group of companies, there is £6.65 of taxes collected.

    Both taxes borne and taxes collected increased in this year’s survey, by 1.2% and 7.1% respectively. The TTC in 2022 is £4.5bn higher than in 2021.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Younger people twice as likely to access private healthcare, with most willing to pay using their own money or savings [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Younger people twice as likely to access private healthcare, with most willing to pay using their own money or savings [November 2022]

    The press release issued by PWC on 30 November 2022.

    • Almost nine in ten (87%) UK adults believe people should have equivalent access to NHS services regardless of where they live, with those aged over 55 feeling most strongly about this
    • Seven in ten of 18-24 year olds are likely to access private healthcare, compared to three in ten of those aged 55 and over
    • Over three quarters of young people willing to access private healthcare would pay for at least one treatment using savings or their own money
    • Improving wellbeing support for female NHS workers of menopausal age could reduce the turnover and absence of 9,000 staff per year

    Younger people are twice as likely to access private healthcare in the next 12 months than those aged over 55, as health gaps remain between the rich and poor, according to a study by PwC on transforming healthcare.

    A PwC survey of 2,000 people across the UK showed that whilst two in five people (43%) say they would use private healthcare, or a mix of private and the NHS, for at least one treatment, younger people aged 18 to 24 are more than twice as likely to do so. Seven in ten (77%) 18 to 24 year olds said they would use private healthcare, or a mix, for one thing or more, compared to three in ten (30%) of those aged 55 and over.

    Over three quarters (78%) of those young people wanting to access private healthcare said they would pay for a treatment using savings or their own money, with others saying they would use health insurance (72%) and would ask for help from family and friends (65%).

    Geographically, Londoners are three times more likely (63%) to be willing to access private healthcare for at least one treatment, compared to people living in the North East (22%). Black and ethnic minorities are also more likely to be willing to pay to access private healthcare for something with seven in ten (70%) people saying they would, compared to four in ten (41%) white people.

    Karen Finlayson, PwC’s regional lead for government & health industries, said:

    “Generation Z is empowered to take decision making into their own hands and their willingness to opt for private healthcare is a sign of this. As the first generation defined by the disruption of Covid, how they access services, including healthcare, is changing. They are used to operating remotely, accessing tech-enabled services, and want fast-paced options, and these behaviours are evident in how they want to manage their wellbeing and health.”

    Regional inequalities

    PwC’s report A fairer future: how can the NHS tackle health and social inequities? also explores regional inequalities and differences in attitudes and impact on health inequity.

    Almost nine in ten (87%) UK adults believe people should have equivalent access to NHS services regardless of where they live. People aged over 55 felt most strongly about this (93%) compared to those aged 18-34 (78%). Regionally, people in Yorkshire and Humber think most strongly (93%) that people should have the same access to the NHS compared to those living in London (83%).

    The Rt Hon Alan Milburn, senior advisor at PwC, said:

    “Equity is at the heart of the NHS’ founding principles but in practice both access to care and health outcomes remain starkly unequal. Widening social divisions and the cost of living crisis make this the time for the NHS to make health equity a core priority for action. The public want the NHS to be a catalyst for greater fairness in our country. That means changing how services are provided, how resources are allocated and how staff are recruited.”

    Workforce support

    With a greater need for the NHS to focus on staff wellbeing due to the immense workforce pressures exacerbated by COVID-19, the report calls for an increase in the pace and scope of action on workforce wellbeing. This includes improving support for female NHS workers experiencing menopause symptoms, which could reduce the turnover and absence of 9,000 staff per year, according to PwC’s analysis.

    With 1.4million employees, the NHS provides careers beyond doctors and nurses to occupations such as porters, ambulance staff and healthcare assistants. PwC’s report calls for the NHS to develop a social mobility strategy, including capturing data on its workforce’s socio-economic backgrounds in the same way as other diversity measures, such as race and gender.

    PwC’s public polling found that people value the NHS creating economic value through employment more than delivering services at the lowest cost. People ranked world class skills (29%) and training and employment opportunities for the local population (26%) as the most important things the NHS should prioritise in recruitment and training of its workforce.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Ofqual to introduce vocational qualifications results deadline [December 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Ofqual to introduce vocational qualifications results deadline [December 2022]

    The press release issued by the Department for Education on 15 December 2022.

    Reports on 2022 assessments reflect on unique year and present actions to secure timely vocational and technical qualification results for students in 2023.

    Reports published today by regulator Ofqual provide a wide-ranging overview of exams and assessments in 2022. Ofqual also publishes an action plan which sets clear expectations for awarding organisations to help make sure all students receive their results when they expect to in 2023.

    Today’s publications, GCSE, AS and A level summer report 2022 and Delivery and award of vocational and technical qualifications in 2022 include reports on regulatory activity to protect students and apprentices.

    The reports cover Ofqual’s regulation of 14,000 vocational and technical qualifications (VTQs), 475 apprenticeship end-point assessments (EPAs) and 385 GCSE, AS and A levels.

    Summer 2022 marked a welcome step towards normality, with the first GCSE, AS and A level exams and full series of VTQ assessments since 2019. In recognition of the pandemic disruption, students were supported by a raft of measures.

    More than 6 million qualification results were issued to 1.2 million students who took GCSEs, AS and A levels. Between March and August 2022, awarding organisations issued approximately 725,000 results across 410 Level 1/Level 2, Level 2 and Level 3 VTQs in performance tables.

    This was despite the risks to delivery presented by 2 years without a main summer series of exams or formal assessments, and the impact of the pandemic.

    Overall, awarding organisations managed a similar number of incidents in summer 2022 compared to 2019. Some of these 2022 incidents were in relation to arrangements not present in 2019, such as advance information of some of the topics on exam papers.

    Just over 20,500 students taking VTQs did not receive their results from awarding organisations when they expected. This included 12,346 Level 3 results and 8,573 Level 2 results, across 1,550 schools, colleges and other centre types. Ofqual publishes further data about this unacceptable event and the actions we are taking to minimise the risk of this occurring again in 2023.

    Ofqual is putting in place:

    • a hard results deadline, by which point all eligible students will get their VTQ results from awarding organisations, underpinned by a term-time data checkpoint with schools and colleges
    • a dedicated 2023 VTQ Results Taskforce, chaired by the Chief Regulator, to monitor and coordinate the implementation of Ofqual’s new requirements

    Ofqual will:

    • require awarding organisations to communicate more clearly with schools and colleges
    • promote better data sharing across the sector
    • host a new VTQ information hub that will be a single point of reference for key information for schools and colleges

    Awarding organisations will:

    • provide new training and better support for the exams officer role

    The 2023 VTQ Results Taskforce will be made up of senior leaders from key organisations from across the sector to support the safe delivery of results.

    Ofqual Chief Regulator Dr Jo Saxton said:

    “Our focus in 2022 was on taking an important step towards normality and providing an unprecedented package of support to students. The interests of students and apprentices are what always drive Ofqual’s decisions.

    “Looking to 2023, I am taking action to protect students from the uncertainty and anxiety caused in 2022 by late vocational results. Today we are announcing an action plan as a step towards parity of treatment between vocational and technical qualification and general qualification students.

    “The implementation of this action plan will be overseen by a new taskforce, which I will chair, which will comprise leaders from across the sector.

    “Effective delivery of qualifications was only possible in summer 2022 because of the substantial efforts of teachers, school and college leaders, exams officers, exam boards and, above all, students, who showed remarkable resilience despite pandemic disruption to their learning.

    “Where necessary, we took swift and decisive action to protect students and we will continue to do so. It is unacceptable for any student not to get their results when they expect and Ofqual will take action to prevent it happening again.

    “Having worked in schools, I know how intensive the work in respect of vocational and technical qualifications can be. Today’s announcements are intended as the critical first steps in streamlining the process for schools and colleges.”

    Further details are in the reports linked above. Ofqual is also publishing today official statistics on malpractice, the number of students requesting reviews of marking and moderation, and special consideration in GCSE, AS and A levels.

    Ofqual’s analysis of the root causes of the results delays in 2022, as well as any recommendations for wider system changes to secure parity of treatment between vocational and technical qualifications and general qualifications, will be published in 2023.

    Ofqual’s formal consultation on the implementation of the new results deadline will launch in the new year.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Regulator of Social Housing takes action against Rochdale Boroughwide Housing after investigation finds widespread failings on damp and mould [December 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Regulator of Social Housing takes action against Rochdale Boroughwide Housing after investigation finds widespread failings on damp and mould [December 2022]

    The press release issued by the Regulator of Social Housing on 15 December 2022.

    The Regulator of Social Housing has found significant failings in the way that Rochdale Boroughwide Housing deals with damp and mould across the organisation.

    Following an investigation into Rochdale Boroughwide Housing, the Regulator of Social Housing has found significant failings in the way that RBH deals with damp and mould across the organisation, beyond the specific findings in the coroner’s verdict on the tragic death of Awaab Ishak. As a result, RBH has breached the regulator’s consumer and governance standards. The regulator is taking action to make sure RBH addresses these failings and puts things right for its tenants. The regulator expects all social landlords to learn lessons from the case.

    The regulator has found that:

    • RBH waited nearly two years after Awaab Ishak’s death to check for damp and mould in other homes on the estate. When they did eventually check, they found hundreds of tenants living with damp and mould. Awaab Ishak’s death should have alerted RBH to the safety risks for its tenants, but it failed to act quickly and protect more tenants from potential harm.
    • Wider failings within RBH meant that it gave the regulator inadequate information about damp and mould shortly after Awaab Ishak’s death. The widespread issues in its homes which it later found severely undermine RBH’s credibility and exposes significant failings in the way it treats damp and mould.
    • RBH has weaknesses in its IT and internal communications, which led to vital information being missed. The repairs team were unaware of the concerns raised by Awaab Ishak’s healthcare worker, which may have enabled them to identify the risks earlier.
    • RBH made incorrect assumptions about the cause of damp and mould in Awaab Ishak’s home and failed to act to resolve the issues. RBH did not treat Awaab Ishak’s family with fairness and respect, and the regulator does not have confidence that RBH is treating other tenants with fairness and respect.

    The regulator expects RBH to take urgent action to address these failings and will take enforcement action if necessary. In particular, the regulator is pushing RBH to improve the way it is run and to fix its approach to managing damp and mould in tenants’ homes.

    The regulator’s findings send a clear message to all social landlords that:

    • Housing associations and councils need to ensure their homes are well maintained and of a decent standard.
    • Landlords need to have systems in place to ensure their homes are free from hazardous levels of damp and mould, and deal with issues promptly and effectively.
    • Social landlords need to listen to their tenants’ concerns, understand their needs, remove barriers to accessing services and respond promptly when they need to put things right.

    The regulator wrote to every social landlord on 22 November 2022 to highlight landlords’ responsibility to protect tenants from hazardous damp and mould. Landlords need to submit evidence to the regulator by 19 December to show they are dealing with damp and mould appropriately. If this evidence isn’t provided, the regulator will take appropriate action.

    Fiona MacGregor, RSH’s Chief Executive, said:

    Our investigation reveals significant failures in the way RBH manages damp and mould in its homes, resulting in harm to tenants. The tragic death of Awaab Ishak should have led to action to establish wider risks, but RBH failed to respond quickly or effectively. This is unacceptable. RBH needs to address the issues we have found and we will take further action if it fails to do so.

    Our judgement sends a clear message to social landlords that they must deal with damp and mould as the serious hazards that they are, treat tenants with respect, and take their concerns seriously.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK commits further £13m to the Lebanese Army [December 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK commits further £13m to the Lebanese Army [December 2022]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 15 December 2022.

    The joint border project has reinforced the authority of the Lebanese state along its land border with Syria where Four Land Border Regiments are deployed.

    The British Ambassador to Lebanon, Hamish Cowell, announced a £13 million commitment to support the Lebanese Armed Forces’ (LAF) resilience from 2022 till 2025 in a Memorandum of Understanding signed with LAF Commander in Chief General Joseph Aoun.

    Ambassador Cowell, with the US Ambassador, Dorothy Shea, and the Canadian Ambassador, Stephanie McCollum, met General Aoun during the High Level Steering Committee to discuss security on the Lebanese-Syrian border.

    The joint border project has reinforced the authority of the Lebanese state along its land border with Syria where Four Land Border Regiments have been deployed from the North in Arida to the south in Jebel Al Sheikh.

    Following the meeting, Ambassador Cowell said:

    This MOU demonstrates our commitment to continuing our support to and cooperation with the Lebanese Armed Forces.

    Since 2009, the UK has committed over £87 million allowing the LAF to optimise its capabilities, develop and modernise. We are proud of our contribution to building the LAF’s reputation as a respected, professional armed forces able to defend Lebanon and provide security along its border with Syria.

    It was a privilege to meet the Commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces, General Joseph Aoun, and attend my first High Level Steering Committee. The Lebanese Armed Forces play a pivotal role in safeguarding Lebanon and its people.

    I am hugely impressed by the courage that the men and women of the Lebanese Armed Forces show.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Passengers to benefit from biggest shake-up of airport security rules in decades [December 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Passengers to benefit from biggest shake-up of airport security rules in decades [December 2022]

    The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 15 December 2022.

    • government sets June 2024 deadline for airports to install new security technology, spelling the eventual end to 100ml rule on liquids at large airports
    • in future, passengers will be able to leave liquids and large electrical items in cabin luggage as they go through security, reducing hassle for passengers
    • as changes will be gradual over the next 2 years, current rules will continue to apply and passengers should check with airports and airlines before travelling

    The rules around taking liquids and large electrical items through airport security are set to change by 2024 with the installation of new technology at major airports across the UK.

    Over the next 2 years, most major airports will introduce cutting-edge systems into their security checkpoints, ushering in a new era of improved security and passenger experience when going through departures.

    Not only will it mean greater convenience for travellers – as people will no longer need to spend time taking items out of their bags – but it will also enhance passenger safety, as security staff will have more detailed images of what people are carrying.

    The government is laying new legislation today (15 December 2022) which will make it easier to streamline the processes that apply to UK airports in the future. By allowing us to take advantage of the latest advancements, such as developments in screening technology, it will help us to further improve the already high-security standards in the UK.

    Transport Secretary Mark Harper said:

    The tiny toiletry has become a staple of airport security checkpoints, but that’s all set to change. I’m streamlining cabin bag rules at airports while enhancing security.

    By 2024, major airports across the UK will have the latest security tech installed, reducing queuing times, improving the passenger experience, and most importantly detecting potential threats.

    Of course, this won’t happen straight away – this is going to take 2 years to be fully implemented. Until then, passengers must continue following the existing rules and check before travelling.

    Passengers are currently required to remove tablets, laptops and liquids from their cabin baggage, while liquids have been limited to 100ml and must be in a clear plastic bag. This requirement will eventually be lifted, and the 100ml liquid container limit will be extended to 2 litres.

    Airports now have until June 2024 to upgrade their screening equipment and processes. Until then, passengers must follow the same rules as now until further notice or unless told otherwise. Crucially, they should check with their specific airport before travelling to see which rules are in place.

    They should also check the rules for carrying liquids at any airport through which they may transfer during their journey and at their return airport, as many destinations may not have implemented this new technology.

    Christopher Snelling, Policy Director at The Airport Operators Association (AOA), said:

    This investment in next-generation security by the UK’s airport operators will provide a great step forward for UK air travel, matching the best in class around the world.

    It will make the journey through the UK’s airports easier and air travel itself more pleasant.

    The new deadline follows several trials conducted at some airports since 2018, which have demonstrated the effectiveness of this new screening equipment – which uses CT X-ray technology to essentially provide a 3D image of what’s in passengers’ bags, as well as deploying highly advanced threat detection algorithms. Similar technology is taking place in many countries globally, with airports such as Schiphol and in the US now also making use of the technology.

    It will further enhance our airports’ ability to detect prohibited items but with greater convenience for passengers. The current liquids rules, which were introduced in 2006 following a terrorist threat, have been designed to stop those with hostile intent carrying liquid explosives onto planes.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Rape response overhaul delivers progress [December 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Rape response overhaul delivers progress [December 2022]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 15 December 2022.

    Victims are seeing significant improvements in the criminal justice system’s response to rape, a new report has revealed today.

    • Rape Review update reveals improvements across the criminal justice system
    • Number of adult rape cases reaching court up 91% from 2019
    • Government on track to hit Rape Review target
    • Draft national model for police investigations into this horrific crime published for first time

    18 months on from the government’s pivotal Rape Review Action plan – which sought to increase the volumes of trials being heard and ensure more rapists face justice – significant progress is being made according to the latest progress summary.

    In the most recent data for 2022, the number of cases referred by the police to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) was up 95 percent; the volume of cases charged was up by two-thirds; and the number of cases reaching the Crown Court was up 91 percent, compared to 2019 averages.

    These figures come a week after the announcement of the first national 24/7 rape support line – the latest way in which the system is being drastically improved to better serve victims and justice.

    From this enhanced initial support, victims are also benefitting from better collaboration between the police and prosecutors and less intrusive investigations, along with greater support through the court process.

    These cross-system improvements mean that while there is much more to be done, the government is on track to meet its Rape Review target – to more than double the number of adult rape cases reaching court by the end of this parliament.

    Deputy Prime Minister, Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, Dominic Raab said:

    Rape convictions are up two thirds since last year and the number of CPS charges is also up by nearly two thirds from 2019.

    But I want to make sure victims are properly supported throughout the criminal justice process. That is why we introduced a 24/7 rape and sexual abuse helpline, pre-recording of evidence in court to spare them the trauma of testifying during a live trial, and a new approach to police investigations that focuses on the behaviour of the suspect rather than the victim.

    This progress is set out in an update on the reforms to the response to rape, published by the government today. Since the publication of the Rape Review Action plan in June 2021, the government has:

    • Rolled out pre-recorded evidence for rape victims to every Crown Court in England and Wales, sparing them the trauma of testifying during live trial
    • Launched a 24/7 rape support line to provide victims access to vital help and information whenever they need it.
    • Expanded Operation Soteria to a further 14 police forces and to 3 new Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) areas.
    • Passed new laws via the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act (2022) to stop unnecessary and intrusive requests for victims’ phones, with the majority of forces in position to ensure no victim should be without their devices for more than 24hrs by the end of March 2023.
    • Consulted on further reducing requests for personal information, such as medical or social services records, with next steps being published shortly.
    • Launched a specialist sexual violence support pilot at three Crown Courts – Leeds Newcastle, and Snaresbrook in London. It seeks to provide victims with enhanced at-court support and help increase throughput of cases. It includes the introduction of trauma-informed training for court staff, maximising the use of technology, and access to ISVAs at court.
    • Quadrupled funding for victim support services to £192 million a year by 2025, this includes investment for the recruitment of 1000 Independent Sexual Violence Advisors.
    • Amended the Online Safety Bill to better protect victims from abusers who share intimate images without consent.

    This work is starting to deliver results. In 2021, the number of rape convictions increased by 67 percent compared to 2020, and the CPS is making charging decisions on average 29 days quicker according to the latest data available

    Today’s update comes as the Home Office publishes an independent report outlining the findings on Operation Soteria, which brings together academics and police to improve rape case outcomes and aims to radically transform the way police and the CPS deal with rape – shifting the focus onto the suspect, rather than the victim.

    Home Secretary Suella Braverman said:

    We need radical improvement in the way police handle rape cases. As a society, too often, we have failed the victims of sexual violence and that cannot continue.

    This independent report shows that there are big obstacles to overcome and the whole of the criminal justice system needs to work together.

    But there are also early signs of improvement and I’m determined to build on these to deliver a sustainable shift in the way rape is investigated.

    Academics were brought into 5 ‘pathfinder’ police forces to work alongside frontline police officers and develop new tools for improvement – Avon and Somerset, the Metropolitan Police Service, Durham Constabulary, West Midlands Police and South Wales Police. Early indicators of change can already be seen, including stronger collaboration with prosecutors, improved organisational capability and more specialist knowledge of sexual offending being applied to investigations. A further 14 forces are now participating in the programme.

    The national operating model will be tested and refined before being made available to all police forces nationwide from June 2023.

    Emily Hunt, survivor and independent advisor to the government on the Rape Review, said:

    This is only the start of the step change we need to make to truly tackle sexual violence.

    While important progress is being made, we cannot rest on our laurels and must continue to ensure victims of rape aren’t just heard, believed and supported, but also have a better chance to see justice done.

    Chief Constable Sarah Crew, National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for Adult Sexual Offences said:

    Uncovering deep rooted and systemic issues within policing is the first big milestone in achieving the transformational change required to improve the policing response to rape. Everyone in policing recognises that we must do better and this programme has been met with a genuine willingness and openness to change.

    The evidence tells as that building specialist knowledge, supported by critical thinking and a problem-solving mindset are among the most important changes we can make to tighten our grip on offenders and address falling conviction rates. Officers must target rapists by focusing on suspects – not the credibility of victims – and using their legal and policing powers to disrupt offenders and further harm.

    We are seeing green shoots of change in pathfinder forces and after 18 months, Avon and Somerset have increasing their adult rape charge rate from 3% to over 10%. Improvements are being made at pace in pathfinder forces and I am confident this work will lead to the sustainable progress victims so desperately deserve.

    Strategic Advisor for Operation Soteria Bluestone Professor Betsy Stanko (OBE), and Joint Academic Lead Professor Katrin Hohl said:

    This genuine collaboration has provided unprecedented data access, enabling the academic team to form a holistic, nuanced picture of how pathfinder forces tackle rape and other sexual offending. Some of our research highlights issues raised by campaign groups and replicate findings of earlier work, including those of the end-to-end rape review, while others are new.

    Our evidence informed and research grounded approach forms a robust evidence base, which sits at the heart of Operation Soteria Bluestone. The police-academic co-created solutions are starting to have traction, but our findings make clear the need for transformational change, there is lots of work to do.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK launches programmes for ecosystem restoration in Africa and Asia [December 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK launches programmes for ecosystem restoration in Africa and Asia [December 2022]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 14 December 2022.

    • The UK will fund research grants for locally-led research, innovation and action, to help people and nature thrive.
    • A new Nature Facility will enable the UK to deliver on commitments to ‘nature-proof’ aid.

    The UK has launched the implementation of a programme to fund research and innovation to develop bottom-up and locally-led approaches to protecting and restoring natural environments.

    The Reversing Environmental Degradation in Africa and Asia (REDAA) programme will tackle the destruction of nature and biodiversity across sub-Saharan Africa, South-East Asia and South Asia. Through in-country research and people-driven action, the programme will support work to improve the condition of natural landscapes and bolster local communities’ resilience.

    Institutions based across Africa and Asia can apply for research grants, to research local ecosystems and their links to livelihoods, and develop innovative and appropriate technical approaches for environmental management, conservation and restoration.

    The UK has also launched a new Nature Facility, to implement the UK’s commitment to take steps to ensure all new UK bilateral aid spending becomes nature positive. The new Facility will use expert insight to support the FCDO’s development activity to ensure that bilateral aid also supports the protection and restoration of nature.

    This builds on the 10 Point Plan on Financing Biodiversity, co-launched by the UK at the UN General Assembly in September, which calls on donor countries to ensure ODA delivers nature-positive outcomes.

    Speaking at COP15, FCDO Minister for Climate and Environment, Lord Zac Goldsmith, said:

    Through REDAA and the Nature Facility, we are using our ODA as a catalyst to unlock more public and private finance for nature.

    We are beginning to see the commitments made at COP26 translate into actions. Countries, businesses, and financial institutions have begun the journey towards a nature positive economy. The UK is playing our part too.

    Lord Goldsmith’s speech comes as REDAA-supported research has found that nature-based solutions, implemented at the local level, are vital for addressing inequality. Effective action to restore nature helps create jobs and enhance income for the poor and vulnerable, with estimations that over 20 million jobs could be generated around the globe by increasing investment in nature-based solutions.

    This programme is part of the UK’s commitment to spend £11.6 billion on international climate finance, to tackle the urgent impacts of climate change and support a just transition to environmentally sustainable economies and societies.

    The UK’s COP26 Presidency last year emphasised the critical role of nature to achieve goals on both climate change and sustainable development. In 2021, the UK committed £3billion of its international climate finance to support nature and biodiversity.

  • George Freeman – 2022 Speech at Keio University in Japan

    George Freeman – 2022 Speech at Keio University in Japan

    The speech made by George Freeman, the UK Minister for Science, Research and Innovation, in Tokyo on 14 December 2022.

    Thank you, Ambassador, for that kind introduction.

    Good morning, everyone.

    It is a pleasure to be here today, representing the United Kingdom in Japan as Minister for Science, Research, Technology and Innovation.

    Thank you to the Times Higher Education for inviting me here to speak and to Keio University for so kindly hosting us.

    It’s a particular personal pleasure for me to be here on behalf of UK with our longstanding global ally Japan in one of the great R+D Powerhouse nations in this great university (especially given the leading role which this university has played in the human genome project, one of the world’s greatest science success stories) at this event with so many distinguished leaders to make some important announcements about UK global science and diplomacy and our Science Superpower mission.

    But it’s also a particular pleasure having had a 15-year career in the UK bioscience venture capital sector before coming to Parliament.

    In the UK we have a longstanding joke that if you come to Parliament with any particular expertise the Whips will ensure you end up doing something unrelated!

    I seem to be the exception that proves the rule!

    Elected after a 15-year career in science, research, technology and innovation founding, financing and managing technology start-up companies, I’ve somehow managed to spend 12 years in Parliament on this agenda.

    As the first UK Minister for Life Science (launching our ground-breaking 100k Genomics program and Accelerated Access Reforms).

    As the first Minister for Agri-tech launching our Agri-tech Industrial Strategy.

    As the first UK Minister for the Future of Transport and Transport Tech.

    Now as UK Minister for Science, Research, Technology and Innovation.

    But in each role and all the time persuading Prime Ministers through the tumultuous last decade that science, research, technology and innovation is key to both UK economic prosperity, global sustainability and security.

    Security?

    Yes. I want to suggest that science is as key to long term global and national security as our military hardware.

    Because in a world where lack of food, energy and water represent such massive global challenges – and geopolitical tensions – our security is increasingly shaped as much by our ability to prevent and cure disease, feed 9 billion mouths, prevent the famine and poverty driving the mass population dislocation in Africa, help lessen our dependence on Russia and China for energy and strengthen global commitment to our values as by our military might.

    —

    But, of course, soft and hard security and soft and hard power go together.

    As we have seen in Ukraine with the appalling attack by a brutal Kremlin war machine determined to flex its muscles, divide the world and test the resolve of the “West”.

    It’s a test for all of us and one that our 2 nations have made very clear we will stand up to and pass – with our recent announcement of the new UK Japan Italy next generation fighter technology project.

    But I’m here today to focus on the other: the soft power and security that comes from science and technology leadership.

    UK mission

    The UK has taken the opportunity of the last decade (the Crash, Austerity, Brexit, Pandemic and War) to reset out global economic and geopolitical vision, mission and strategy.

    Our recent Integrated Review sets out a clear analysis of the UK’s place in an increasingly dangerous world.

    At its heart is a strategic commitment to science, research, technology and innovation.

    It’s reflected in a series of important policy reforms:

    First, our strategic commitment to significantly increase the level and role of science, research, technology and innovation in our economy for improved economic growth, productivity, international competitiveness, inward investment, technological sovereignty, industrial resilience, global security and geopolitical soft power.

    Second, the establishment alongside the National Security Council of the National Science and Technology Council, (NSTC) chaired by the Prime Minister, with the top half of Cabinet, myself as Science Minister and our National Science and Technology Adviser my good friend Patrick Vallance, to whom I’d like to pay tribute and put on record my personal thanks for all he has done for UK Science and Technology in his years as UK Chief Science and Technology Adviser as he comes to the end of his term this spring.

    Third, our 30% increase in public R+D over 3 years announced by the Prime Minister when Chancellor twelve months ago and now protected by Chancellor Hunt last month in a necessarily difficult budget.

    Alongside our 30% increase between 2022 and 2027 – to be matched by private sector, pension reforms in the City of London to boost scale-up finance and use of post-Brexit freedoms in Procurement and Regulation to support the UK Technology sector.

    As Minister for Science, Research, Technology and Innovation I’m responsible for 75% of the UK budget. That’s £11 billion per annum and £40 billion over CSR.

    But I’ve set up an Inter-Ministerial Group of the other key Ministers across other Delts with big R+D budgets.

    I’ve framed the Mission in 2 parts.

    Science Superpower

    Our Science Superpower mission isn’t about a militarisation or aggressive sovereignty in science – it’s about delivering 6 key objectives:

    One: world class science in an increasingly competitive world

    Two: Global Impact for global good

    Three: attracting much more global R+D inward investment

    Four: recognising science demands global career and talent paths

    Five: insisting on the values of scientia: free speech, critical thinking, challenge.

    Six: harnessing demonstrable UK commitment to these for geopolitical soft power.

    This means reforming our research funding and career ecosystem to ensure we continue to punch above our weight in world class research.

    Deepening our collaborations with R+D powerhouses, like Japan.

    Improving the global impact of and inward investment into UK R+D.

    Widening global talent pathways and international research collaboration.

    And maximising UK science, technology and innovation leadership for global geopolitical soft power influence in tackling the big challenges facing our planet.

    Innovation Nation

    To be a Science Superpower (as opposed to an academic powerhouse) you have to also be an Innovation Economy linking our R to D: Research AND Development.

    Better connecting our science base to the City, using our post-Brexit Regulatory and Procurement freedoms to help make the UK a global test-bed and scale-up hub for innovation.

    Widening the regional R+D footprint by nurturing the clusters of innovation around our whole country using our global leverage to help technology transfer and inward Investment in R+D.

    This means improving the depth and breadth of the innovation economy across the UK through supporting the regional clusters of STI excellence around the UK.

    Increasing investment in the Catapult network and improving successful commercialisation of UK innovation through better industry partnerships and spin/out and scale-up financing and more strategic use of HMG levers through regulation, procurement and global technology transfer.

    Fundamentally this is about Britain’s role in the world.

    The urgency of post-pandemic economic recovery and the growing geopolitical importance of strategic UK science, research, technology and innovation leadership in an increasingly competitive, and in places hostile, global landscape make these missions increasingly central to the UK’s role in the world.

    In all the defining global grand challenges, science is playing an increasingly pivotal role in Food, Medicine, Energy, Global warming, Net Zero and Cleantech, Oceans, Space, Quantum and Compound semiconductors.

    The pace of technology is driving the new dawn of a new era in global development.

    The prize is huge.

    Food security through Agri-tech (that means doubling world food production on the same land area with half as much energy and water by 2050).

    Energy security through new energy technologies. Climate security through Cleantech. Biosecurity and public health through Life science and med-tech. Clean oceans. Safe space. Secure data, research and IP.

    We are the generation who have to deliver.

    For our children and their children.

    But it will require all who share the same commitment to science for global good to stand for it.

    In a world in which the global race for science, research, technology and innovation is increasingly dominated by China (£240 billion pa), the USA (£180 billion pa + defense = £300 billion pa).

    The rest us are going to have to work increasingly closely together.

    The EU programs impasse

    The European Union has rightly spotted this as an opportunity and makes much of its destiny as the “3rd global bloc”.

    In our Brexit negotiations we carefully negotiated to stay in the EU research programs: Horizon, Euratom and Copernicus.

    Sadly, the EU has decided to punish the UK for Brexit by weaponizing science for political pressure.

    Association to Horizon Europe remains the UK’s aim and we are continuing to push actively for Association with Science Ministers across Europe – most recently in Paris last week (where you will have seen we made a £1.75bn commitment to a range of missions and programs key to UK Space science and industry).

    But whilst we push for Association, I am clear that we cannot allow UK researchers to be “benched” indefinitely while we wait.

    If we cannot play in the European Cup of science, we must play in the World Cup of science.

    So we have made clear that we will provide the interim and “in-flight” funding guarantee to honour the commitment at CSR21 that the money earmarked for Horizon would be invested in UK and international research if and while association continues to be blocked.

    But we simply cannot allow the Horizon block to hold back UK research any longer. Our priority is to invest in the UK’s R&D sector, if necessary through alternative programmes.

    That’s why the Chancellor announced the £480 million research support package of additional research spending that is targeted at those institutions most affected by the Horizon impasse.

    The new ISPF

    But we plan to go further. Today I’m announcing the first part of a package of additional funding for international research through the International Science Partnership Fund (ISPF).

    This is alongside our commitment to deploy, if necessary, the £15 billion ringfenced funds for Horizon for alternative programs to further support strong international UK research.

    As set out in July, this package of funding is structured around 4 key pillars.

    The Flagship Fellowships (Early, Mid and Late-Stage Career).

    The Technologies of Tomorrow and Industrial Innovation Challenges.

    Global Challenge Collaborations.

    And world class research infrastructure.

    I want to stress that in pursuing these we are not closing the door on the Horizon negotiations. But simply honouring the commitment we made to UK researchers that we will ensure the money that we would have received through Horizon will not be lost to UK research.

    The ISPF is designed to support research programs in themes and countries which align well with the UK’S Integrated Review.

    That’s why, today, I am delighted to announce the launch of phase one of our International Science Partnerships Fund.

    We will use this initial £119 million ISPF funding to support our scientists, researchers, and innovators to collaborate with colleagues around the world in tackling the great global research challenges of our time.

    No country better fits that profile than Japan which is why I’ve come here today to announce it.

    Japan

    Few countries can match Japan when it comes to R+D.

    Total expenditure (in 2020) on R+D £128 billion, 3.59% of GDP, 72% (£92 billion) from the private sector.

    951,000 researchers, 5th in 2021 Nature Index (UK 4th!), 13th in Global Innovation Index (UK 4th).

    World class universities, the second most Nobel Prizes in natural sciences including Manabe (modelling of earth’s climate) 2021, Yoshino (Lithium Ion Batteries) 2019, Honjo (Cancer) 2018, Ohsumi (autophage) 2016, Kajita (neutrinos) 2015, Omura (parasites) 2015, Amano and Akasaki (blue LED) 2014.

    Nine Moonshot Programmes, £1 billion Strategic Innovation Program and WPI Centres.

    And the UK and Japan have a long and distinguished history of research.

    The UK is Japan’s fourth biggest research collaborator.

    Japan is UK’s fourteenth biggest research collaborator.

    UK / Japan research quality is 3.5 times the world average. That’s higher than our average with USA, Germany or China.

    In medicine – it’s over 6.5 times the average!

    In 2019 UK researchers are the fourth largest group of visiting researchers

    The UK is the second most popular destination for Japanese researchers on mid to long term placements.

    And we have a range of joint projects including Ai (recently agreed with my Colleague and co-chair of Council for Ai – Secretary of State Michelle Donellan). The next generation fighter platform. CoVID 19. Space Situational Awareness. Nuclear decommissioning. Regenerative medicine. And Marine sensor technology.

    In the past two decades alone, we’ve seen the likes of Tim Peake and Yamazaki Naoko working together in the International Space Centre in the ice beneath Japanese barley sitting securely alongside British brassicas in the Svalbard Global Seed Vault…

    …and, given where we are, it would be remiss of me not to mention again the human genome project, which we’ve seen complete its sequencing of the DNA shared by each and every one of us here today.

    DNA science which was the key to discovering the Covid vaccine and stopping the coronavirus pandemic which threatened to put a stop to so much scientific collaboration, doing real damage to research, but also highlighted just how vital this collaboration is, as the foundation for a future where security and prosperity can be enjoyed by all.

    Scientific collaboration between our two countries goes back centuries. Almost 160 years ago, the Choshu five arrived in London after a 135-day journey.

    Enrolling at University College London, under the mentorship of Alexander Williamson, these men embraced life in Victorian Britain and Bloomsbury’s burgeoning scientific scene.

    When they returned to Japan, each of these ‘five fathers’ drew on what they learnt to transform their country with technology.

    Inoue Masaru used his civil engineering education to become the founding president of the Japanese Board of Railways.

    Yamao Yozo established the Imperial College of Engineering, Japan’s first institute of technology.

    And Ito Hirobumi as the first Prime Minister of Japan, shaped the constitution of the Meiji era and remodelled the political, social, and economic life of a nation newly open to the world around it.

    For much of the century and a half since, Japan has led the way… and the UK has benefitted.

    On rail, the same transformative technology that powers the Shinkansen is driving forward change in Britain’s high-speed rail network.

    On road, the lithium-ion battery brought to Japanese markets over three decades ago is now the cornerstone of our expanding electric vehicle industry.

    On screen, Japanese calculators, cameras, and computers kick-started our digital revolution – and continue to represent the cutting edge in our tech market today.

    And in our ears, digital recording has changed the way generations of British citizens listen to one another, whether with turntables, Walkmans, CDs, Blue Ray or the revival of cassettes.

    In the past century, we’ve each succeeded in large part thanks to the strength of our collaboration…

    …underpinned by our common commitment to academic freedom and a shared belief in the value of bottom up, peer-reviewed, and foundational research, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and adopted by excellent industries.

    Just take our first-class universities.

    From Cambridge to Kyoto, we are working together to lead top quality research in regenerative medicine, following our joint research call in 2020.

    This year, we’re celebrating the 10th anniversary of RENKEI, a consortium of universities who are improving collaboration between our young academics.

    The RENKEI winter school, hosted by Kyoto University, will establish a new UK-Japan network of climate change early career researchers.

    But we both know that it’s not just about what goes on inside academia – it’s about getting research out there in the world, driving up growth and unlocking new sectors, industries, jobs, and skills.

    Both through established industries leading and embracing innovation, and venture-backed start-ups and spin-outs.

    Because it’s our innovative enterprises who are leading the way in quantum, in Ai, in biotechnology and in fusion.

    I am looking forward to meeting Kyoto Fusioneering later this week, an exciting spinout who are leading the development of advanced fusion reactor technologies here in Japan – technologies which could completely transform the way we generate our energy in future.

    In the UK, we have launched our own fusion strategy, with a world-first pro-innovation regulatory framework published in summer 2022 and plans for the world’s first Industrial fusion plant via UKAEA Spherical Topomak.

    And – like our universities – our enterprises are joining up, too.

    Just take Amphibio and Azul Energy, who – with funding from UKRI and NEDO – are partnering to combine zero-waste, automated digital 3D knitting technology and metal-air batteries to manufacture seamless, safe, and sustainable waterproof clothing.

    Nowhere is this story of collaboration stronger than in space.

    Last year UKSA and JAXA marked a milestone moment by signing a Memorandum of Cooperation.

    But we haven’t just heard words; we’ve seen action, too.

    Whether it’s our universities and agencies getting together to tackle space junk…

    …or our businesses like Astroscale, a Japan-UK collaboration whose ELSA-d mission has done truly pioneering work to demonstrate the core technologies necessary for debris docking and removal.

    I have no doubt, then, that ISPF funding will be a game-changer for scientific collaboration between our countries.

    But ISPF is only part of the picture for the UK and Japan.

    We hope to announce more research calls to come.

    And we’ve agreed to work together on open joint research programmes…

    …to develop targeted strategic research programmes exploring our space, marine, and polar environments, providing a critical boost to our shared decarbonisation efforts…

    …and to improve our collaboration in digital and aerospace…

    Hyper-K announcement

    And it’s not just our researchers. We’re also committed to supporting the shared infrastructure which they need to succeed.

    I’m proud today to announce that we’re investing £15.5 million for the construction of the Hyper-K neutrino project, on top of the £4.2 million we invested during the research and development phase.

    This is a pioneering project, the likes of which the world has never seen.

    Buried under a mountain to avoid interference from cosmic rays, Hyper-K will be a ‘microscope’ to unveil the mysteries of the elusive neutron, the most abundant (but perhaps the least understood) matter particle in the universe.

    But it will also be a ‘telescope’ for observing the sources of these neutrinos, from the Sun and supernovas to black holes and dark matter.

    Hyper-K could help us to answer the fundamental questions which remain for the Standard Model of Particle Physics, the way we understand the basic building blocks of our universe.

    And we know that it will support scientific research at every level, and in every participating country, including the UK, where our very own Professors Francesca Di Lodovico and Dave Wark are leading ground-breaking neutrino research.

    And I am delighted that we in the UK are doing our bit to get it up and running.

    New British Council grants program called Reconnect to help boost Indo -Asia Pacific academic collaborations

    That’s why – with the legacy of the Choshu five still with us – I am also delighted to announce a new grants programme called ‘Reconnect’, funded by the British Council, to help teams of academics across the Indo-Pacific region to join up following the disruption of the Coronavirus pandemic.

    Today, the British Council is opening a call for proposals structured around our shared priorities, across Synthetic Biology, Ocean science, Healthy ageing, Clean Energy, Advanced materials and Quantum computing.

    This visit

    Over the next 3 days I’m honoured and delighted to be visiting and meeting some of the top people and research institutes across this R+D powerhouse economy: Keio University, Presidents and Executives of Japanese Universities, JAXA Tsukuba Space Centre, J-PARC Japan Proton Accelerator Complex, JAEA Naraha Center for Remote Control / Nuclear Robotics Technology Development, Kyoto Fusioneering, Minister Takaichi, Prof Ueyama, State Minister Nakatani, Minister Nagaoka, Prof Hashimoto and Tokyo Uni Edge Capital Partners.

    Over these 23 visits and meetings I hope we can deepen our two nations’ longstanding history of science and research collaboration, identify ways we can extend our work for mutual benefit and promote greater academic and investment collaborations and exchange.

    But something else too. To send a clear message that global science, research, technology and innovation can’t be dominated by just China (or the USA) but requires international partnerships rooted in shared values and a shared commitment to “scientia” as a force for good in the world.

    International scientific collaboration demands mutual respect for some key frameworks that underpin science free speech, the rule of law, open science, respect for intellectual property, research security and integrity which I’m delighted and grateful Japan has agreed to prioritise in the G7 Science Summit in Sendai in Japan in May.

    That just as our two great nations deepen our collaboration for military defence and security, so we will also deepen our collaboration in science, research, technology and innovation for peaceful, sustainable geopolitical development and soft power.

    By working together in robust defence of our shared commitment to the values of democracy, peace, freedom and mutuality which underpin our shared humanity we can both make the world a safer place for our children, and our countries more prosperous and secure.

  • PRESS RELEASE : British High Commissioner in The Bahamas – we are a Proud Partner with The Bahamas on Security, Diplomacy, Trade and Investment [December 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : British High Commissioner in The Bahamas – we are a Proud Partner with The Bahamas on Security, Diplomacy, Trade and Investment [December 2022]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 14 December 2022.

    British High Commissioner, Tom Hartley, reflects on the strong ties between the UK and The Bahamas.

    UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly described the role of diplomats in his recent foreign policy speech; he spoke of the importance of ‘investing in relationships based on patient diplomacy, on respect, on solidarity, and a willingness to listen.’ These characteristics are the foundation of the strong ties between the UK and The Bahamas, who are proud partners on security, diplomacy, trade, and investment.

    On the occasion of the 217thanniversary of Trafalgar Day, His Excellency Sir Cornelius Smith, ON, GCM; The Honourable Wayne Munroe, KC, Minister of National Security; Dr. Raymond King, Commodore of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force; Mrs. Ann Marie Davis, spouse of The Honourable Philip ‘Brave Davis, KC, Prime Minister; Captain Gregg Gellman, Senior Defence Attaché, United States Embassy; Mrs. Dellareece Ferguson and Mr. Zhivago Dames, Assistant Commissioners, Royal Bahamas Police Force; and other important partners on security attended a traditional Trafalgar dinner at the official British Residence with His Excellency the British High Commissioner, Thomas Hartley.

    Trafalgar provided the opportunity to, between courses, discuss a shared vision of strategic leadership in the security space highlight the UK’s work in the region, including the Royal Navy’s response to hurricanes Dorian, Matthew, and Joaquin, the establishment of a new UK Defence Academy for the Caribbean, in Jamaica, more naval officer training at Dartmouth, and other opportunities for Bahamian RBDF officers.

    Four months into his appointment British High Commissioner Tom Hartley said:

    I am here to listen, learn, and reflect on how we can strengthen people to people ties.

    It was my pleasure to welcome to the Residence the Governor General, First Lady, Ministers, and strategic Bahamian partners on security, and host a black tie traditional Trafalgar Day event – as a modern celebration of the partnership between UK and Bahamian Defence forces.

    At this Trafalgar Day dinner, I came to learn about the history of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, founded in 1980 and now one of the largest navies in the Commonwealth Caribbean.

    Joined by UK Defence Attaché Colonel Simon Westlake RM, we were surrounded by an incredible group of Bahamians who embody the spirit of the Royal Marines and Royal Bahamas Defence Force in their courage, determination and capacity to endure the seas even during the most extreme natural hazards such as they witnessed post hurricane Dorian.

    I am truly impressed by their service and our partnership, and proud that over the years so many RBDF officers have received training at the finest naval academy in the world, the Britannia Royal Naval College, Dartmouth (UK), including Commodore Raymond King himself.

    The British High Commissioner continues to engage with Bahamian leaders and communities, as he listens and learns to their priorities for the UK-Bahamas relationship, and how the British High Commission can help. Most recently he welcomed to the Residence representatives from the Bahamian government, community and junkanoo groups, artists, environmental leaders, British university graduates, foreign embassies, legal professionals, the chamber of commerce, and the business and banking sectors for a Christmas cocktail to discuss opportunities in 2023. High Commissioner Hartley reflected:

    Last evening, my wife Jennie and our three children welcomed colleagues, partners, friends and neighbours to Christmas Cocktails. I was so pleased to be able to host such a diverse group of attendees and hear their vision for the UK-Bahamas relationship in 2023 and beyond.

    It’s clear my priorities for engagement in 2023 must include more trade and investment, more scholarships, supporting The Bahamas’ environmental protection priorities, an strengthening our international cooperation.

    I hope to work on re-establishing the British business group, and bringing a trade mission from the UK to strengthen links in financial services, food and drink, infrastructure, and tourism to The Bahamas, and to encourage more Bahamian exports to the UK. Building on the great success of Chevening, I will also work hard to secure more scholarships for applicants to British universities, as well as other training and educational links, and to celebrate Bahamian and British sport, art, and music as part of the 50th anniversary celebrations.

    There is much to look forward to, building on the existing strong links.