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Category: Press Releases

  • PRESS RELEASE : Discount of up to £3,750 on electric cars set to slash costs for thousands [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Discount of up to £3,750 on electric cars set to slash costs for thousands [July 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 15 July 2025.

    Car manufacturers can apply for the Electric Car Grant from 16 July 2025.

    • new £650 million grant will slash electric car prices, saving UK households up to £3,750 when they upgrade or switch to electric
    • car manufacturers to apply through the Electric Car Grant – speeding up access and cutting costs for drivers and businesses
    • comes as more than 380,000 zero emission cars were registered last year, delivering the government’s Plan for Change to kickstart economic growth and put more money in working people’s pockets

    Drivers across the UK will soon enjoy discounts on dozens of new electric car models after the Transport Secretary today (15 July 2025) announced a £650 million grant scheme worth up to £3,750 per car, putting more money back in working people’s pockets as part of the Plan for Change and making owning an electric car a reality for thousands.

    Supporting the manifesto commitment to phase out the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, the £650 million Electric Car Grant (ECG) will back UK and other manufacturers, with eligibility dependent on the highest manufacturing sustainability standards. Discounts up to £3,750 will be available at the point of sale for new eligible electric cars priced at or under £37,000.

    Drivers will start to benefit from discounts as soon as manufacturers successfully apply for their zero emission cars to be part of the grant scheme from 16 July 2025, with funding available until the 2028 to 2029 financial year.

    With drivers citing upfront costs as a key barrier to adoption, the grant will narrow the upfront cost between petrol and electric vehicles, giving thousands more drivers access to savings of up to £1,500 a year in fuel and running costs compared to a petrol car. The discount means that zero emission cars are now cheaper to buy and run than ever before and comes on top of preferential tax rates, delivering real savings for working families.

    Owning and buying an electric vehicle (EV) is becoming cheaper, with 2 in 5 of used electric cars sold at under £20,000 and 33 brand new electric cars available from under £30,000.

    Standing firmly on the side of British drivers, this latest investment is part of the government’s major plan to support motorists, including a record £1.6 billion invested to tackle potholes and freezing the fuel duty at 5 pence until spring 2026, saving the average motorist £50 to £60 over the year.

    Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said:

    This EV grant will not only allow people to keep more of their hard-earned money – it’ll help our automotive sector seize one of the biggest opportunities of the 21st century.

    And with over 82,000 public chargepoints now available across the UK, we’ve built the infrastructure families need to make the switch with confidence.

    This is our Plan for Change in action. We’re backing British drivers, British jobs and British growth.

    This latest scheme builds on the government’s major £63 million package to support at home charging for households without driveways, transition NHS fleets to electric and create thousands of chargepoints at business depots across the country.

    In total, the government is investing £4.5 billion to turbocharge the switch to EVs, securing Britain’s position as a world-leader in electric vehicle adoption while helping put more money in people’s pockets. Today, the UK is already a global leader in the transition to zero emissions driving, with the largest EV market in Europe in 2024 and sales up a fifth on the previous year.

    The latest update also comes as the UK hits over 82,000 public chargepoints nationwide – with one added every 30 minutes – giving peace of mind to drivers that they will be able to charge conveniently at home, work or on longer journeys.

    This latest move comes alongside the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate, which requires manufacturers to sell increasing percentages of zero emission vehicles each year. Recent changes to the mandate give industry the certainty, stability and support they’ve been asking for, alongside crucial trade deals with the US, India and the European Union following the recent global economic headwinds.

    Simon Williams, RAC head of policy, said:

    Within weeks, discounted cars should start appearing at dealerships across the country. And, as the biggest savings will be given to cars with the strongest ‘green’ manufacturing credentials, drivers will be picking models that are not only better for their wallets, but better for the planet too.

    This is further welcome news following last week’s announcement about more funding for pavement gully charging solutions that will enable those without driveways to charge an EV at home. Together, these initiatives should mean more drivers than ever start benefitting from the lower costs of running an electric car.

    Vicky Read, CEO of ChargeUK, said:

    This announcement is brilliant news – for drivers and for the UK’s transition to electric vehicles.

    With a commitment to invest £6 billion through to 2030, the UK’s charging industry has rolled out infrastructure ahead of demand to ensure that when drivers switch, the network is there to make charging as convenient as possible. There are now 82,000 public charge points and a new one goes in the ground every 29 minutes on average.

    Hot on the heels of the weekend’s announcement on measures to support charging, including meeting ChargeUK’s calls for improvements to signage on main roads, today’s package is another vital boost to the charging industry, helping it invest with confidence.

    Dan Caesar, CEO, Electric Vehicles UK, said:

    A targeted incentive program is a significant step forward in encouraging consumers to buy battery electric vehicles and to make them more accessible. While battery-only EVs are much cheaper to buy and run than most realise, surveys show that cost misperceptions are the primary reason for hesitance.

    A generous grant of this nature gives a new group of interested buyers, who might have thought that going electric was beyond them, a gentle nudge into what is great tech. More than 9 out of 10 battery EV drivers will never revert, and there’s a reason for that.

    John Lewis, CEO, char.gy, said:

    It’s encouraging to see the government stepping up to support consumers in making the switch to electric vehicles. This move brings us closer to a future where driving electric is accessible to everyone – not just the privileged few.

    Combined with the introduction of the price cap and the additional funding for on-street charge points, we can get more affordable cars on the road and more people enjoying the benefits of EVs. The outcome will be cleaner air for all and more cash in the consumer’s wallet as they enjoy the long-term savings of driving electric.

    Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said:

    Today’s announcement of the return of government support for the purchase of electric vehicles is a clear signal to consumers that now is the time to switch.

    Rapid deployment and availability of this grant over the next few years will help provide the momentum that is essential to take the EV market from just 1 in 4 today, to 4 in 5 by the end of the decade.

    This announcement is a welcome response to consistent calls from the industry for more support, which will be in addition to the substantive subsidies already provided by manufacturers. Taken with recent announcements regarding infrastructure investments and the Industrial Strategy, the UK has the opportunity to maintain its position as a leader in both the manufacture and sale of zero emission vehicles.

  • PRESS RELEASE : National two-minute silence to mark VJ Day 80 [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : National two-minute silence to mark VJ Day 80 [July 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 14 July 2025.

    National two-minute silence will be held at 12 noon on 15 August 2025 to honour the 80th anniversary of VJ Day.

    • Event at National Memorial Arboretum to honour VJ veterans will be broadcast live
    • Red Arrows will join historic Spitfire and Hurricane aircraft for flypast over national VJ Day 80 commemorations

    Members of the public are encouraged to participate in a national two-minute silence on Friday 15 August to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.

    A Service of Remembrance will honour and remember those who fought and died during the Second World War in the Far East at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, which will be broadcast live on BBC1 from midday.

    It will host a spectacular tribute to veterans involving 400 members of the Armed Forces, the Red Arrows and historic aircraft from The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

    This follows four days of events in May to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day, which marked the end of the Second World War in Europe.

    However, at that time 80 years ago, thousands of British and Commonwealth military personnel continued to fight Japanese forces in Asia and the Pacific for a further three months when Victory over Japan (VJ Day) was declared on 15 August 1945, following Imperial Japan’s surrender to Allied Forces. Alongside British Armed Forces, hundreds of thousands of people served in the Far East from countries including pre-partition India, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Nepal and from African nations.

    The Service of Remembrance will be run in partnership with the Royal British Legion and will be attended by Second World War veterans, VJ association members, senior politicians, and military personnel. It will pay tribute to the British, Commonwealth and Allied veterans who served in the Far East theatres of war, the Pacific and Indian Ocean territories.

    The event will include a guard of honour of Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force and music provided by military bands. The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will lead a breathtaking flypast featuring the historic Dakota, Hurricane and Spitfire aircrafts.

    Veterans attending will include Burma Star recipients, British Indian Army veterans and those involved in the Battles of Kohima and Imphal, as well as Prisoners of War held across the region and veterans stationed in the UK or Commonwealth countries, who contributed to the war effort.

    The service is a ticketed event, but members of the public visiting the Arboretum on the day are invited to observe the two-minute silence and watch the service on large screens at a nearby public viewing area.

    Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said:

    Those who continued to fight bravely in Asia and the Pacific in those last few months of the Second World War must never be forgotten.

    It is so important for us as a nation to come together on this important anniversary to remember our VJ Day veterans and hear their stories first-hand so we can ensure that their legacy is passed on to future generations and their sacrifice is never forgotten.

    Defence Secretary John Healey said:

    VJ Day was the final victory in a war that changed the world, and we honour those who served in the Far East with enduring gratitude.

    Just as we proudly marked VE Day, we reflect on the courage, sacrifice and resilience shown by so many to secure peace.

    Their legacy must never be forgotten, and it’s our duty to pass their stories on to future generations.

    Mark Atkinson, Director General of the Royal British Legion, said:

    We encourage everyone across the country to take a moment to reflect during the two-minute silence on VJ Day, to watch the Service of Remembrance live on the BBC or at the Arboretum, and pay tribute to those from Britain and across the Commonwealth who fought in the Far East in the Second World War.

    It was so moving to see the nation come together for VE80 and to be putting veterans at the heart of these commemorations – now we have one of our last chances to honour all those VJ Day veterans whose service and sacrifice finally brought an end to the War.

    Second World War veteran and RBL ambassador Tom Berry, 101, from Cheshire, who was serving on HMS Tartar in the Pacific when Japan surrendered, said:

    For veterans like me and all those who carried on fighting until VJ Day was announced, this will be a very emotional day – a moment in history. I’ll be watching the service at home, and I’d ask the country to do the same – to stop and remember all those who gave so much for our freedoms, and those who never made it back.

    The national commemorations will commence with a government reception to celebrate VJ Day with veterans.

    Government buildings and High Commissions across the globe will also be lit up on 15 August to commemorate VJ Day.

    In addition, Imperial War Museums (IWM) will be screening I Saw The World End, a digital public artwork by celebrated artist and designer Es Devlin, at Piccadilly Circus on Wednesday 6th August to commemorate the dropping of the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

    IWM will also invite visitors to reflect on the events leading up to the end of the Second World War through paper dove and crane making activities at IWM London and IWM North.

    On VJ Day itself, IWM will premiere a new contemporary film exploring the events and significance of VJ Day and the war in Asia and the Pacific. The film, which can be seen at IWM North and outdoor screens in locations across the UK, is produced in partnership with SODA (School of Digital Arts), part of Manchester Metropolitan University. A new augmented reality experience at IWM North will also engage audiences in a deeper exploration of the Second World War in Asia and the Pacific and its significance, bringing to life some of the personal stories, sound and film from IWM’s collection.

    Following the success of IWM’s VE Day Letters to Loved Ones initiative, the public are asked to delve into their family history to find letters sent by relatives to loved ones that provide fresh insight and first-hand testimonies of VJ Day and the war in the Far East. Digital copies can be uploaded onto the official VE/VJ80 website.

    James Taylor, IWM’s Principal Curator of Public History said:

    The story of the Second World does not finish with VE Day on 8 May 1945, with intense fighting in Asia and the Pacific continuing for another three months, and the destruction of the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Through this varied programme of activities, we will shine a light on these often-overlooked stories from the final months of the Second World War. Through public film screenings, digital experiences, and artist commissions, IWM will give people the opportunity to delve deeper into the significance of the war in Asia and the Pacific and its lasting global impact.

    The Government is working with partners across the UK, including the Devolved Governments of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, to ensure commemorations are inclusive and UK-wide.

    The Commonwealth War Graves will continue their Every Story For Evermore campaign through events, new content, and augmented reality tours at international sites. These will include Commonwealth War Graves Cemeteries at Nairobi in Kenya, Sai Wan in Hong Kong, Kranji in Singapore, Kanchanaburi in Thailand, and Yokohama in Japan. This will enable international audiences to learn about the men and women who continued to serve in the Second World War after VE Day.

    Director of Education, Engagement and Volunteering at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, Simon Bendry, said:

    As part of the anniversary commemorations marking the end of the Second World War, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission is encouraging people around the world to pause and reflect on the human cost of conflict.

    We commemorate more than 580,000 casualties who died during the Second World War, and we invite the public to ensure their stories are never forgotten by exploring and contributing to our online story collection, For Evermore, and by joining commemorative events taking place across the globe. From sites in the UK to Japan, from Kenya to Thailand, Indonesia and Singapore, local communities will have opportunities to honour and remember those who gave their lives and acknowledge the huge sacrifices made in pursuit of peace.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer meeting with Prime Minister Fiala of the Czech Republic [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer meeting with Prime Minister Fiala of the Czech Republic [July 2025]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 14 July 2025.

    The Prime Minister welcomed the Prime Minister of the Czech Republic, Petr Fiala, to Downing Street this afternoon.

    The leaders began by reflecting on the close relationship between the two countries, including across defence, trade and energy security.

    Both agreed that there were plenty of opportunities to be even more ambitious, which was emphasised by the signing of a civil nuclear memorandum of understanding today.

    The agreement would allow both countries to harness the potential of nuclear power and the related technology to drive prosperity, energy security and highly skilled jobs, the leaders agreed.

    The Prime Minister also thanked Prime Minister Fiala for the Czech Republic’s strong support for Ukraine in the face of ongoing Russian aggression, and the leaders reflected on the strength of solidarity for Ukraine through the Coalition of the Willing.

    Both looked forward to speaking again soon.

  • PRESS RELEASE : The UK is committed to ensuring the UN can operate across its Missions in Yemen – UK at the UN Security Council [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : The UK is committed to ensuring the UN can operate across its Missions in Yemen – UK at the UN Security Council [July 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 14 July 2025.

    Explanation of vote by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, after the adoption of UN Security Council resolution 2786.

    We welcome the Council’s extension of UNMHA’s mandate until January 2026.

    We thank Council colleagues for their engagement in the negotiation.

    We will closely engage with the UN on their review to identify opportunities for further efficiencies, coherence and coordination across United Nations Missions in Yemen.

    As the expiry of this mandate approaches early next year, we look forward to leading further discussions with this Council on the full range of options for UN operations in Hodeidah, including assessing the future viability and sunsetting of UNMHA.

    We remain committed to ensuring the UN is able to operate across its Missions in Yemen, with a view to supporting humanitarian needs, promoting long-term stability and preserving space for a future UN-led peace process.

    We will continue to work closely with the UN Special Envoy, regional and Yemeni stakeholders to achieve this.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK and Pakistan agree new Business Advisory Council at inaugural Trade Dialogue [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK and Pakistan agree new Business Advisory Council at inaugural Trade Dialogue [July 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 14 July 2025.

    Ministers from the UK and Pakistan have announced new measures to boost trade between the two countries, following the launch of the UK-Pakistan Trade Dialogue.

    As part of the Dialogue, ministers announced the creation of a new UK-Pakistan Business Advisory Council bringing together senior business leaders and government officials to facilitate high value trade and investment. The Council will provide strategic advice on policy reform, offer a confidential forum for engagement, and help promote commercial opportunities by addressing market access challenges and sharing best practices.

    Today’s (14 July) meeting in London was co-chaired by the UK Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security, Douglas Alexander, and Pakistan’s Federal Minister of Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan. Both Ministers agreed to annual ministerial meetings to unlock growth opportunities, and support businesses and investors in the UK and Pakistan.

    UK Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security Douglas Alexander said:

    Today’s Dialogue marks the next step in our long-standing relationship with Pakistan, taking our trading partnership to the next level and unlocking new opportunities for businesses in both our countries.

    By deepening cooperation in key sectors like healthcare and digital technology – areas central to the UK’s Industrial Strategy – we can drive growth, foster innovation, and create jobs.

    Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal said:

    The UK remains one of Pakistan’s most important economic partners. This Dialogue lays the foundation for a more structured and forward-looking trade relationship. By strengthening collaboration and aligning our priorities, we can expand bilateral trade, attract greater investment, and create sustainable economic opportunities that benefit both nations.

    The UK has also announced up to £200,000 to support Pakistan’s aspirations to attract investment from the UK. The funds will provide technical assistance for investor outreach, and support matchmaking between Pakistani investors and UK-based opportunities. This initiative reflects the UK’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s ambitions to increase outbound investment and to strengthening the bilateral investment relationship.

    The Dialogue highlighted shared ambition to build on recent momentum, with bilateral trade increasing by 7.3% during the final quarter of last year. Bilateral trade is currently valued at £4.7 billion. Today’s discussion focussed on key sectors including information technology and healthcare, two priority areas under the UK’s Industrial Strategy.

    The UK’s Industrial Strategy presents a significant opportunity for businesses and investors. The UK is committed to making it easier, faster, and more predictable for international firms to operate in its market. This includes reforms in skills development, innovation, regulation, and planning – creating a more dynamic and open business environment. Through the alignment of the UK’s Industrial Strategy and the UK – Pakistan Trade Dialogue, we are reaffirming our commitment to open and fair trade, and to deepening economic ties with key partners like Pakistan.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Man who sexually abused teenagers has sentence increased [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Man who sexually abused teenagers has sentence increased [July 2025]

    The press release issued by the Attorney General’s Office on 14 July 2025.

    A man who sexually abused two teenagers has had his sentence increased following an intervention by the Solicitor General.

    Jacob Corrie [31] from Carlisle has had his sentence increased by four years after it was referred to the Court of Appeal by the Solicitor General, Lucy Rigby KC MP, under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.

    The court heard that Corrie met his first victim over social media when he was 19. Corrie sexually abused the vulnerable boy, who Corrie knew was 14 years old, over two years between 2013 and 2015. Corrie also sent sexual messages via social media.

    Corrie sexually abused the second teenager in 2013, before threatening her not to tell anyone. After the incident, Corrie sent a series of sexual messages to the victim claiming he had compromising images of them.

    The court also heard Corrie had a previous conviction from 2020 after he sent messages to the second victim threatening to send compromising photos to her friends and family unless she sent more pictures.

    In a victim personal statement, one of the teenagers said they do not feel safe in their daily life and suffer from constant fear, anxiety and depression.

    Corrie initially denied the offences before pleading guilty and accepting that he was aware the victims were both aged under 16.

    He admitted to nine counts of sexual activity with a child, eight counts of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and two counts of sexual communication with a child.

    The Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP said:

    Jacob Corrie’s crimes were appalling. I commend Cumbria police for their comprehensive investigation, and I welcome the court’s decision to increase his sentence.

    On 16 April 2025, Corrie was sentenced to six years and four months’ imprisonment Carlisle Crown Court.

    On 11 July, his sentence was revised to 10 years and four months after it was referred to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Largest fund of its kind to support vulnerable children & families [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Largest fund of its kind to support vulnerable children & families [July 2025]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 14 July 2025.

    The world’s largest fund of its kind will support vulnerable children and families across the country.

    • Chancellor launches new £500m Fund to break down barriers to opportunity for up to 200,000 vulnerable children and young people and deliver Plan for Change.
    • World’s largest fund of its kind will boost pupil achievement and could fund programmes to reduce reoffending or provide specialist workers for children struggling with exclusion, mental health or crime.
    • Better Futures Fund will run for ten years, with plans to raise another £500 million from local government, social investors, and philanthropists on top of government’s funding
    • The launch is backed today by groups including Save the Children UK, The King’s Trust and Oxford University’s Blavatnik School of Government.

    Struggling and vulnerable families and children are to be given a better start in life after a new government fund was announced today (Monday 14 July), which will provide them with the support and funding needed to access a better education, a safe home, and the caring supportive environment they need to flourish.

    The Better Futures Fund will support up to 200,000 children and their families over the next ten years by bringing together government, local communities, charities, social enterprises, investors, and philanthropists to work together to give children a brighter future.

    It could fund providing support in schools to improve attendance, behaviour and overall achievement of pupils, intervening to free children from a life of crime, and offering employment support to secure their futures.

    The fund, which is the largest of its kind in the world, will be launched by the Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves at a visit to a school today in Wigan, hosted by the charity AllChild. It could fund providing support in schools to improve attendance and behaviour, intervening to free children from a life of crime, and offering employment support to secure their futures.

    By investing in early support to tackle challenges like school absence, addiction and re-offending, the fund will help give children the stability and opportunity they need to thrive – delivering on a key part of the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change to give every child the best start in life.

    It comes ahead of the government hosting the first Civil Society Summit this week, where the government will set out a comprehensive plan on how this government will partner with experts from outside the traditional corridors of power to create solutions that work for real people – all through the principles of fairness, collaboration and trust.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    I got into politics to help children facing the toughest challenges. This fund will give hundreds of thousands of children, young people and their families a better chance. For too long, these children have been overlooked. Our Plan for Change will break down barriers to opportunity and give them the best start in life.

    Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said:

    This groundbreaking Better Futures Fund represents a major step in partnering with the impact economy, which has long played an important role in strengthening communities and driving inclusive growth.

    As part of the Plan for Change, we’re bringing together government, local authorities, charities, social enterprises and philanthropists to create a powerful alliance that will transform the lives of vulnerable children and young people.

    We owe them the best start in life. Together we will break down barriers to opportunity, ensuring those who need support most aren’t left behind and have the chance to reach their potential.

    Social Outcomes Partnerships have already been used with success across the UK, with over 180 commissioners using the model across the country. The Greater Manchester Better Outcomes Partnership (GMBOP), for example, works with young adults in the Greater Manchester area who are at risk of homelessness.

    AllChild’s projects have already halved persistent school absences, and 80% of children have improved emotional wellbeing. Other programmes like the Skill Mill offer paid work experience and qualifications, reducing reconviction rates from 63% typically to 8% and three quarters of those in the programme progress to further employment, education or training.

    This fund is a big step in the government’s work with the impact economy – unlocking extra resources from philanthropy, social investors and businesses to tackle urgent social challenges. Today’s announcement comes as the government’s Child Poverty Strategy is to be published in autumn to ensure it delivers fully funded measures that tackle the structural and root causes of child poverty across the UK.

    The launch is backed today by groups including Save the Children UK, The King’s Trust and Oxford University’s Blavatnik School of Government.

    Today’s announcement is informed by consultation with the Social Impact Investment Advisory Group and other representatives from civil society, purpose-driven business, and local government. Over the coming months Government will build on this and develop a strategic approach to working with the impact economy, who have long played an important role across the UK economy in unlocking innovation, driving inclusive growth and strengthening community resilience.

    Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones said:

    Partnering with impact capital to tackle child poverty was a personal priority for me coming into government – which is why I set up the Social Impact Investment Advisory Group to advise on the development of this brilliant fund, which we’ve been delighted to support as a government. I’d like to thank Dame Elizabeth Corley for chairing the group and all the members for their hard work.

    Louisa Mitchell MBE, Chief Executive Officer, AllChild said:

    I warmly welcome the government’s Better Futures Fund as a pivotal step toward transforming how we support children and families across the country. It’s vital that children engage with the right support and opportunities, at the right time, in the right way. Holistic support that is rooted in each child’s local community, builds on their strengths, and places trust and relationships at the heart of delivery.

    I hope this fund will be a catalyst for a new way of working – one which prioritises prevention, shared accountability for locally identified outcomes, and genuine cross-sector partnerships. This is how we can ensure every child no matter where they live has the support and opportunities they need to flourish.

    Richard Rigby, Head of UK Government Affairs, The King’s Trust said:

    At The King’s Trust, we know that timely support can change the course of a young person’s life. Potential is everywhere but opportunity is not. The Better Futures Fund is an investment in the potential of young people who are too often left behind. We welcome this commitment to early intervention and collaboration with organisations like ours to tackle inequalities and help young people build brighter, more secure futures. By getting behind young people, we can all help to make the UK a healthier, wealthier, more positive and cohesive place.”

    Further details on the fund will be set out in due course. It will be delivered by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Future of the Post Office to be shaped by postmasters and customers [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Future of the Post Office to be shaped by postmasters and customers [July 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 14 July 2025.

    Government launches the Post Office Green Paper, the first comprehensive review of the Post Office in 15 years.

    • First comprehensive review of the Post Office in 15 years, with customers and postmasters shaping its future.
    • Post Office Green Paper will seek to transform the organisation’s culture in the wake of the Horizon scandal and changing customer demands.
    • Better services at the heart of new £118 million subsidy to fund the Post Office’s Transformation Plan and further network investment, moving the organisation closer to delivering growth in line with the Plan for Change.

    Postmasters and the public will have the opportunity to shape the future of the Post Office for the first time in 15 years, as the Government sets out its vision for the next decade for the organisation.

    The Post Office Green Paper, published today, will move further and faster to deliver a decade of renewal for customers and postmasters, building on the cultural reset being led by Post Office Chair Nigel Railton that will be so crucial to its success.

    Working hand in hand with postmasters and the public the Government will ensure the network is put on a path to a strong and sustainable future with Post Office branches remaining at the heart of communities across the UK.

    This includes on the Post Office’s ownership model, with concepts including mutualisation on the table for consideration following the publication of the final Horizon Inquiry report later this year.

    The report is expected to provide recommendations on improving the structure of the Post Office so that this miscarriage of justice is never allowed to occur again, protecting postmasters whilst also providing reassurance for customers.

    This follows an unprecedented period in which the Post Office has faced a series of major challenges, from the Horizon IT scandal to significant changes in consumer behaviour, such as a rise in online shopping and falling demand for traditional post.

    Post Office Minister Gareth Thomas said:

    Post Offices continue to be a central part of our high streets and communities across the country. However, after fifteen years without a proper review, and in the aftermath of the Horizon scandal, it’s clear we need a fresh vision for its future.

    This Green Paper marks the start of an honest conversation about what people want and need from their Post Office in the years ahead.

    I look forward to hearing the views of customers, business owners and postmasters so we can build a Post Office capable of serving the public for generations to come.

    The consultation will run for 12 weeks, closing on 6th October 2025. It will examine key areas including:

    • How Post Office services should evolve to meet changing consumer needs
    • Ways to strengthen the relationship between the Post Office and its postmasters
    • Options for modernising the network while ensuring services remain within local reach
    • Ensure the Post Office is well-equipped to adapt to consumer trends
    • How the Post Office can improve and develop the banking services it provides

    Research published alongside the Green Paper today also highlights the important role the Post Office still plays in the daily lives of people and businesses, adding social value of around £5.2 billion per year to households and £1.3 billion annually to small and medium sized businesses.

    As part of the Government’s commitment to securing the future of this vital national institution, Ministers have also announced plans to award a new subsidy package of up to £118 million to fund the Post Office’s Transformation Plan and further investment to improve the network.

    This funding will protect key services, including access to cash deposits and withdrawals as well as key government services, such as passport applications and the DVLA, alongside helping the Post Office deliver cost-saving measures in its Transformation Plan, part of the New Deal for Postmasters.

    Notes to editors:

    • The £118 million in funding is subject to the completion of subsidy control processes and compliance with the Subsidy Control Act 2022.
    • The Post Office operates over 11,500 branches across the UK.
    • Last month, the Government achieved the milestone of £1 billion in compensation payments to over 7,300 postmasters affected by the Horizon IT scandal.
    • Research published alongside the Green Paper can be found under Annex A: The Value of the Post Office Network
  • PRESS RELEASE : 5,000 jobs secured as construction starts on Port Talbot green steel project [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : 5,000 jobs secured as construction starts on Port Talbot green steel project [July 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 14 July 2025.

    5,000 steel jobs have been secured following the start of construction on Tata Steel’s Port Talbot electric arc furnace project today.

    • Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds and Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens join Tata Group Chairman to break ground on construction of electric arc furnace that will secure thousands of jobs.
    • Latest good news shows how UK’s modern Industrial Strategy is backing Welsh industry, following landmark energy support package slashing energy costs for Tata Steel and other UK steel firms.
    • Industry Minister Sarah Jones to chair meeting of Steel Council together with industry leaders at 7Steel this morning to work towards finalising UK’s Steel Strategy.

    5,000 jobs have been secured following the start of construction on Tata Steel’s electric arc furnace (EAF) at Port Talbot steelworks today (14 July).

    Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds will join Tata Group Chairman N. Chandrasekaran, Wales Secretary Jo Stevens and other government and company representatives to break ground on the project and start construction later today.

    The construction milestone, made possible by a £500 million UK Government grant provided as part of the improved deal for Port Talbot’s transition which the Government agreed after only 10 weeks in office, is a major win for Welsh steelmaking in the run-up to the launch of government’s Steel Strategy this year.

    This morning, Industry Minister Sarah Jones will chair a meeting of the Steel Council at 7Steel in Cardiff to work towards finalising the upcoming Steel Strategy – backed by up to £2.5 billion of investment – and reflect on a series of recent wins for the industry with senior leaders from across the sector, including British Steel and UK Steel.

    This includes slashing energy costs for steel producers via new measures announced in the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy, strengthening the UK’s steel safeguard measures to protect the industry from spikes of foreign steel imports and bolstering the UK’s procurement rules to ensure UK-made steel is considered wherever possible for use on public construction projects.

    The Government is also backing the steel sector by working closely with the US to secure the removal of 25 percent tariffs on steel and aluminium, while the UK remains the only country in the world not to pay a 50 percent tariff rate.

    Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    This is our Industrial Strategy in action and is great news for Welsh steelmaking backing this crucial Welsh industry, which will give certainty to local communities and thousands of local jobs for years to come.

    This government is committed to a bright future for our steel industry, which is why we provided £500 million of funding to make this project possible. Our modern Industrial Strategy has set out how we’ll back the sector even further, including by slashing energy costs for firms like Tata Steel to level the playing field, as part of our Plan for Change.

    The start of construction on Tata Steel’s EAF marks a significant step forward in Port Talbot’s transition to greener steel production, and is expected to reduce the site’s carbon emissions by around 90 percent.

    The success of the project – and Tata Group’s continued investment in British industry – is testament to the UK’s strong and valued relationship with India, following the trade deal the Government agreed with India in May which will add billions to the UK economy going forward.

    During the groundbreaking event to mark the start of construction, the Business Secretary will tour the site of the new EAF, meet with senior management at Tata Steel and take part in a demonstration with a virtual reality headset to see how the new EAF will look when operational.

    Tata Group Chairman Mr Chandrasekaran said:

    This is a proud day for Tata Group, Tata Steel and for the UK. Today’s groundbreaking marks not just the beginning of a new Electric Arc Furnace, but a new era for sustainable manufacturing in Britain. At Port Talbot, we are building the foundations of a cleaner, greener future, supporting jobs, driving innovation, and demonstrating our commitment to responsible industry leadership.

    This project is also part of Tata Group’s wider investment in the UK, across steel, automotive, and technology among others, which reflects our deep and enduring partnership with this country.

    Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:

    The UK Government acted decisively to ensure that steelmaking in Port Talbot will continue for generations to come, backing Tata Steel with £500 million to secure its future in the town, along with £80 million to support workers and the wider community. Our Steel Strategy will also deliver up to £2.5 billion of investment to rebuild the UK industry, maintain jobs and drive growth.

    The construction of Tata’ s new furnace realises the promise we made to the community, while the development of floating offshore wind, plans for a Celtic Freeport and millions more for local regeneration all mean that Port Talbot has a bright future.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Update on Enhanced UK-Turkey Free Trade Agreement negotiations [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Update on Enhanced UK-Turkey Free Trade Agreement negotiations [July 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 14 July 2025.

    An update following the first round of negotiations on an Enhanced Free Trade Agreement with Turkey.

    The first round of negotiations on an enhanced Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Turkey took place in Ankara between 23 June and 2 July 2025.

    The UK and Turkey have a strong economic relationship, with trade between the two totalling around £28 billion in 2024, making Turkey the UK’s 16th largest trading partner. Trade with Turkey’s growing market of 86 million people directly supported around 57,100 jobs across the UK in 2020.

    Economic growth is our first mission in government and FTAs have an important role to play in achieving this. The UK is the second largest services exporter in the world, but in 2024 only 34% of UK exports to Turkey were services. A stronger trade relationship with this fast-growing economy will unlock new opportunities for UK businesses and contribute to jobs and prosperity in the UK.

    Negotiations during round one were constructive, with both countries working towards agreeing ambitious outcomes in key areas. Discussions covered sustainability and collaboration, including Women’s Economic Empowerment and Labour rights, as well as the regulatory environments of both countries. Productive discussions were also held on Trade in Services, including Digital, Financial and Professional Business Services.

    The UK’s existing FTA with Turkey replicates the effect of the EU-Turkey Customs Union. Industrial products are already fully liberalised and agricultural goods are partially liberalised. During the first round of negotiations both sides worked to establish baselines and respective ambitions across trade in goods.

    The government will only ever sign a trade agreement which aligns with the UK’s national interests, upholding our high standards across a range of sectors, alongside protections for the National Health Service.

    The second round of negotiations is expected to take place in the Autumn of 2025.

    Any organisations or individuals interested in speaking to the Department for Business and Trade about negotiations with Turkey should do so by emailing tur.fta.engagement@businessandtrade.gov.uk.