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  • Nadia Whittome – 2026 Comments on Keir Starmer’s Resignation

    Nadia Whittome – 2026 Comments on Keir Starmer’s Resignation

    The comments made by Nadia Whittome, the Labour MP for Nottingham East, on 22 June 2026.

    The Prime Minister has made the right decision.

    I want to thank Keir for all his work as leader of our party. While we haven’t always seen eye to eye, I believe he cares deeply about the people of this country, and his dedication to the role has never been in question. He achieved a historic victory at the last general election and, under his tenure, our government has passed the biggest uplift to renters’ and workers’ rights in a generation; taken important action to tackle violence against women and girls; lifted children out of poverty; prioritised clean energy; and renationalised train services.

    On a personal level, I have appreciated the kindness and respect Keir has shown me, including during difficult conversations. I wish him and his family well during this period of transition and for the next chapter of their lives.

    I am sad that it has come to this, just two years into a Labour government – a precious, rare opportunity that has largely been squandered, burning through political goodwill and opening the door to a far-right government come the next election.

    Even though I did not vote for Keir to become leader, I desperately wanted him and our party to succeed. Throughout many disagreements and mistakes, I hoped the situation was retrievable and that he could change direction. Last November, when it became clear that the Prime Minister and those around him were unwilling to genuinely listen and learn from their errors, I publicly called for him to stand down.

    Going forward, we cannot continue with more of the same, just with someone new at the helm. We need a change of direction that is much bolder on the cost-of-living crisis, refuses to give an inch to Reform and aims to unite the country in the face of division.

    When Keir stood to be Labour leader in 2020, he ran on a platform that largely had my support. That platform – which included taxing the rich, public ownership, putting human rights at the heart of foreign policy, and defending migrants’ rights – came far closer to meeting the demands of our times than the direction in which he took the party afterwards. We should return to those ideas and our party’s core values, while restoring party democracy to safeguard against the same errors being made in the future.

    There must now be a timely and fully democratic contest, in which candidates set out their policies and Labour and affiliated trade union members elect the next leader.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Boaters benefit from £5.2 million investment in Anglian waterways [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Boaters benefit from £5.2 million investment in Anglian waterways [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Environment Agency on 22 June 2026.

    Improvement works carried out at over 14 sites, whilst more projects to come for this financial year. East Anglian waterways open for business for summer 2026.

    The Environment Agency’s navigation programme has invested £5.2 million into East Anglian waterways over 2025/26 and delivered a variety of refurbishment projects, from Ditchford in Northamptonshire to Denver in Norfolk. 

    These include improvements to public safety, lock resilience and the surrounding habitat to make visiting the waterways an even more pleasant experience for boaters and the general public out across East Anglia this year. 

    A series of improvements have been completed at Bedford Lock on the River Great Ouse to ensure the lock continues to operate safely and reliably in all seasons. The downstream gates have been replaced, as has the upstream landing stage, and the lock chamber wall has been stabilised. This will end the disruption that boaters faced with the old lock and will make the navigation safer and smoother. A final stage of the project is planned for later in the year to improve the downstream landing stage.

    At Titchmarsh Lock on the River Nene, solar panels have been installed to provide renewable energy to operate the guillotine gate. In recent seasons, the gate had reverted to manual operation due to its ageing components. The project makes passage through the lock easier and more reliable for boaters. It’s the first in a planned series of green energy switchovers the Environment Agency is planning in the coming years.

    At Brampton on the River Great Ouse and Wansford on the River Nene, major improvements to the locks are now complete that ensure they continue to operate safely and reliably for years to come. At Brampton, the works included improvements within the lock chamber and enhancing the surrounding pathways. At both Brampton and Wansford, mechanical improvements have been made to the guillotine gate.

    Gate improvements have also been made at Upware & St Ives.

    Environment Agency East Anglian waterways manager Katherine Briscombe said:

    We are delighted to have completed this range of works to get the East Anglian waterways open for business across summer 2026.

    In total, we invested in more than £5.2 million worth of investments in 25/26 and look forward to delivering more investment programmes in the coming years that will further improve our customers’ experiences on the local waterways. With all these improvements and the prospect of a long summer ahead, there isn’t a better time to get out on the river.

    Similar to excise duty for road vehicles, boat registration fees allow the Environment Agency to manage and maintain more than 600 miles of inland waterways across England, keeping them open and safe for thousands of boaters to enjoy. ‘Boats’ include any vessel with or without a motor, such as sailing boats, river boats, canal boats or houseboats, as well as ‘open boats’ such as canoes, paddle boards, rowing boats or dinghies.

    Throughout the 2025 to 2026 season, 35 unregistered boats were removed from East Anglian waterways, demonstrating our commitment to addressing non-compliance on our waterways.

  • PRESS RELEASE : We urge Israel to resume negotiations with the Syrian government and to pursue a diplomatic solution – UK statement at the UN Security Council [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : We urge Israel to resume negotiations with the Syrian government and to pursue a diplomatic solution – UK statement at the UN Security Council [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 June 2026.

    Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Chargé d’Affaires to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Syria.

    I will make three points.

    First, the United Kingdom welcomes the announcement of the memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran and congratulates all involved in this diplomatic breakthrough. 

    It is vital negotiations are concluded rapidly. 

    Regional de-escalation is a chance to build stability and peace for the benefit of all those in the neighbourhood, including Syria.

    But, we are concerned that increasing Israeli military activity in Syria and violations of the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement risks further destabilisation. 

    We urge Israel to resume negotiations with the Syrian Government and to pursue a diplomatic solution.  

    The UK maintains its longstanding position that we recognise the Golan Heights as Israeli-occupied Syrian territory.

    We strongly support the further extension of UNDOF’s mandate.

    Second, the UK welcomes continued progress made by the Syrian Government towards an inclusive political transition following the conclusion of elections in North-East Syria. 

    Political and cultural inclusivity are key pillars for stability, and we encourage continued efforts to unify Syria in a genuinely representative way. 

    This includes ensuring Syria’s diverse communities have their language and cultural rights fully respected.

    Third, President, the Syrian education system remains under severe strain. 

    Almost 40% of schools are damaged or destroyed, some continue to be used to house displaced people, and there is a significant shortfall of trained teachers. 

    We fully support the Syrian Ministry of Education’s ambition to ensure that all children in Syria can access safe, inclusive, and quality education. 

    Education is both a fundamental right and central to Syria’s long-term stability. 

    The UK continues to support this ambition, and our programming has helped nearly 1 million children in Idleb and Aleppo since 2018, with a strong focus on gender equity, disability inclusion, and psychosocial support.

    Colleagues, the United Kingdom remains firmly committed to supporting the Syrian Government build stability. 

    We encourage the international community to continue efforts to support wider recovery and help deliver a prosperous and peaceful Syria, for all Syrians.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK appoints Alastair Long as new Trade Commissioner for Africa

    PRESS RELEASE : UK appoints Alastair Long as new Trade Commissioner for Africa

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 22 June 2026.

    The Secretary of State for Business and Trade is pleased to announce that Alastair Long has been appointed His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner (HMTC) for Africa, and will take up the role in August.

    Alastair currently serves as His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain, having been appointed in August 2023.

    Alastair brings deep knowledge of Africa, having been Deputy and then Acting Trade Commissioner for Africa between 2019 and 2022.

    After joining the Foreign Office in 2002, Alastair’s previous HMG postings overseas include:

    • Riyadh, as HM Deputy Trade Commissioner for the Middle East and Director Trade & Investment for Saudi Arabia from 2018 to 2019
    • Dubai, as the Regional Director for Trade for the Middle East, Pakistan & Afghanistan and Deputy Consul General from 2016 to 2018
    • Muscat, as Deputy Ambassador and HM Consul General from 2013 to 2015

    Alastair was educated at Cambridge University (Clare College) and the London Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

    Alastair Long said:

    I am thrilled to be taking up the position of His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Africa and returning to the continent. Africa is the future and I saw, when deputy and then acting Trade Commissioner, what boundless energy and ambition the continent possesses.

    The UK is committed to being a partner that supports African and British growth by listening to African priorities and bringing the very best the UK has to offer. I look forward to engaging across the continent, with the UK business community, and with the UK Government team, to realise as many mutual opportunities as possible.

    Alastair replaces John Humphrey, who held the role since June 2022.

    John Humphrey said:

    It has been a privilege to serve as the UK Trade Commissioner for Africa and to work with partners across the continent to strengthen a relationship grounded in delivery, trust and shared economic ambition.

    Africa is central to the UK’s global outlook, with significant opportunities for commercially grounded collaboration and sustainable growth. Alastair Long inherits strong UK momentum in Africa, and will bring real depth of trade expertise and the focus and energy needed to deepen partnerships and unlock further opportunities for mutual benefit. I wish him every success as he takes on this important role.

    Role of the HM Trade Commissioner (HMTC) for Africa

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

    The Trade Commissioner has full responsibility for all Department for Business and Trade (DBT) work in Africa including:

    • growing the overall trade and investment relationship
    • improving market access for British companies, including small and medium sized businesses (SMEs)
    • developing trade policy

    The HMTC works closely with UK-based government colleagues, UK ambassadors and the wider diplomatic network in the region to deliver these goals.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Safer nurseries with 3,000 more surprise Ofsted visits [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Safer nurseries with 3,000 more surprise Ofsted visits [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department for Education on 22 June 2026.

    New investment in early years safeguarding to deliver 3,000 more surprise Ofsted nursery visits, tougher checks and faster action to keep children safe.

    Parents will have greater peace of mind as more surprise Ofsted visits, stronger checks and faster action help keep children safe in nurseries. 

    Over £8 million a year will give Ofsted the tools to better identify and investigate settings – including 3,000 additional unannounced visits to identify risks early and act quickly. This will give parents assurance that safeguarding across the system is upheld to the highest possible standards.  

    Tripling the number of unannounced Ofsted visits compared with the year to April 2025 will mean that issues needing urgent attention can be acted on rapidly, ensuring children are kept safe. 

    Funding will pay for more face-to-face interviews where appropriate before providers open, strengthening checks so every setting meets safeguarding expectations from day one. 

    The new funding will also include paying for rapid upgrades to Ofsted computer systems already underway, ensuring risk assessments are supported by state-of-the-art technology. Inspectors will have access to real-time updates to help them intervene more quickly. 

    Together, these measures give Ofsted the tools to strengthen safeguarding from the moment a provider applies to operate, through every stage of inspection and oversight, so that every child can get the very best start in life. 

    Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said:  > > Nothing matters more than keeping children safe. Parents should be able to trust that when they leave their child at a nursery, they are in safe hands.  > > This investment means more surprise Ofsted visits, stronger checks, and faster action where there are concerns – so risks are spotted early and dealt with quickly.  > > Early education gives children the best start in life, and we are making sure it is backed by the high standards of care and protection families expect.”  

    They build on wider action to improve safeguarding across early years settings, including stronger whistleblowing protections so staff and parents can raise concerns safely and confidently – and that every concern is treated seriously and acted upon without delay. 

    An independent expert panel is also examining the use of digital devices and CCTV in childcare settings, with ministers committed to publishing its findings and considering all recommendations. 

    The government is also working with Ofsted to review how nursery chains are regulated, to better identify and address risks across groups of providers. 

    These reforms sit alongside wider investment in early years, including expanding childcare support for working families and strengthening the workforce – helping ensure every child gets a safe, high-quality start. 

    Katie Meehan, mother of Genevieve ‘Gigi’ Meehan, said:

    “This announcement is another landmark step in strengthening safeguarding for our youngest children. This has been one of the core goals of Gigi’s campaign and we are thrilled with this development. Nothing will ever bring Gigi back but her legacy continues to grow and we couldn’t be prouder of what has been achieved in her name.”

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK and Malaysia launch negotiations on Digital Trade Agreement [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK and Malaysia launch negotiations on Digital Trade Agreement [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 22 June 2026.

    The ambitious new agreement will remove barriers to digital trade and enable UK exporters to expand into high-tech markets.

    The UK and Malaysia are today launching negotiations on a new digital trade deal that will support growth and back British jobs.  

    Digital trade is the exchange of goods, services, and data that is enabled or delivered through digital technologies. In practice, this could include a UK business selling software to an overseas customer through an online platform or providing financial consultancy services remotely across borders. 

    DTAs can provide the benefits of digital trade chapters in Free Trade Agreements while remaining agile, flexible and fast to agree and implement.   

    Today’s announcement marks the next step in making the UK a global hub for services and digital trade. Digital trade can open new markets for businesses by reducing the costs of delivering goods and services, supporting jobs and productivity.  

    The UK is a world leader in digital trade and has a growing trading relationship with Malaysia, worth £6.4 billion in 2025. In 2023, the UK exported £730 million digitally delivered services to Malaysia. The OECD estimates that in 2022, exports to Malaysia supported 31,100 UK jobs.

    The DTA aims to make digital trade with Malaysia easier, cheaper and more secure through cross‑border data flows. Other potential benefits could include reducing paperwork and border friction through digital systems, and guaranteeing strong protections for personal data, intellectual property, online consumers and cybersecurity.  

    The deal aims to strengthen international digital and tech cooperation by supporting responsible innovation in areas like AI and data. It could also create new partnerships that boost efficient supply chains, infrastructure and global competitiveness.  

    Trade Minister Chris Bryant said:  

    Launching negotiations with Malaysia marks an important step in strengthening the UK’s position as a global leader in digital trade.  

    A UK-Malaysia digital trade agreement has the potential to unlock new opportunities for British businesses, support high‑skilled jobs, and ensure our firms can compete and thrive in fast‑growing, tech‑driven markets.

  • Mark Carney – 2026 Comments on Keir Starmer’s Resignation

    Mark Carney – 2026 Comments on Keir Starmer’s Resignation

    The comments made by Mark Carney, the Prime Minister of Canada, on 22 June 2026.

    It has been a privilege to work alongside Sir Keir Starmer as he has led international efforts to support Ukraine through the Coalition of the Willing, strengthen Nato, improve Arctic cooperation, and deepen the historic partnership between Canada and the United Kingdom.

    Throughout, and in the face of exceptional challenges, Keir has acted with principle, determination, and collaboration. The world is safer and allies are more united because of his efforts.

    Keir, thank you for your lifetime of public service. I am grateful for your friendship, and I wish you all the best as you concentrate on your “most important job.”

  • Gordon Brown – 2026 Comments on the Resignation of Keir Starmer

    Gordon Brown – 2026 Comments on the Resignation of Keir Starmer

    The comments made by Gordon Brown, the former Prime Minister, on 22 June 2026.

    I know Keir as a decent honourable leader who has at all times been determined to put the needs of the country first. Today we think also of the huge support given by Vic and their family and wish them all well in the future.

  • Jack Abbott – 2026 Comments on the Resignation of Keir Starmer

    Jack Abbott – 2026 Comments on the Resignation of Keir Starmer

    The comments made by Jack Abbott, the Labour MP for Ipswich, on 22 June 2026.

    My statement on the Prime Minister’s resignation:

    I am deeply disappointed that the Prime Minister has stood down, less than two years after leading the Labour Party to a landslide victory, which returned our Party to Government for the first time in a generation.

    In truth, ‘disappointed’ is a gross understatement. The inheritance left to the Prime Minister, our Party, and our country, was utterly appalling. Our economy was in pieces, every public service was on its knees, we had stopped building, the next generation had a poorer future than the one before it, our society had split at the seams, and we had became totally attuned to trying to deal with crises, rather than doing the things needed to prevent them.

    The Prime Minister set us on a different path, stabilising the economy despite the international headwinds, cutting NHS waiting lists and investing in crucial infrastructure once again. On the world stage, he was the statesman we needed in times of geopolitical instability, and his decisions will lift hundreds of thousands of children out of poverty.

    For places like Ipswich and Suffolk, the Prime Minister has laid the foundations for us to rebuild from. Sizewell C has already delivering hundreds of jobs, with many more to come. Pride in Place funding will invest in and transform our communities. Our new Community Diagnostic Centre will come online next year. Bus services have had their biggest upgrade for nearly 30 years. Crime rates are at their lowest level for a decade.

    That doesn’t mean to say that our work is finished, far from it, but the Prime Minister should have had the chance to complete the job.

    Governing is hard, and it is perhaps harder than ever before. That doesn’t mean to say that other Prime Ministers haven’t had to face seismic challenges before, of course they have, but now the intensity is relentless, patience is in short supply, and we are in an era of constant volatility. What will be seven Prime Ministers in 10 years underlines that. We all must reflect properly, and know that we have to be better at navigating the tough moments, not succumb to them. If we don’t, governing won’t simply be hard – it will be impossible.

    On a personal level, I cannot begin to imagine the sacrifices that Sir Keir and his family have made while he has been Prime Minister, and the Leader of the Labour Party. He cares so deeply about our country, and gave everything to serve it. He is thoroughly decent, has carried himself with real grace and dignity, and leaves a legacy for our Party and our country that will be felt for years to come.

    I will remain forever grateful for his leadership that changed our Party, and returned us to Government. That leadership meant that I have the privilege of serving Ipswich, and I will continue to work every day for the town I love, my home.

    The Prime Minister’s speech was typically decent of him, as was his promise to support a transition to a new leader in the best interests of our Party and our country. After that, I hope he is afforded quality time and space to be with his family because they all richly deserve it.

  • Emmanuel Macron – 2026 Comments on Keir Starmer

    Emmanuel Macron – 2026 Comments on Keir Starmer

    The comments made by Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, on 22 June 2026.

    I would like to thank Prime Minister Keir Starmer for his contribution to strengthening the Franco-British relationship, his commitment to in the coalition of volunteers for Ukraine, and to reviving the relationship between the UK and the European Union.

    The work done together for defence, nuclear energy, space and innovation, especially at our Franco-British summit last July, is a testament to that commitment.

    We will continue on this path for the benefit of our people and Europe.