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  • David Lammy – 2025 The Spirit of Locarno Speech

    David Lammy – 2025 The Spirit of Locarno Speech

    The speech made by David Lammy, the Foreign Secretary, in Locarno, Switzerland on 11 August 2025.

    It’s a real pleasure to be here in Locarno – a place of immense beauty and profound historical significance. Thank you so much to my good friend Minister Councillor Cassis. And I want to thank Professor Frank for his reflections on the Treaties — signed during a remarkable period in history.

    It was perhaps when the world was experiencing what the great historian Adam Tooze called a deluge of modernity. The 1920s brought the first transatlantic phone call, the earliest films with sound, the rise of radio and the dawn of commercial flights. These technologies reshaped daily life and transformed diplomacy.

    Governments could communicate faster, coordinate more closely and respond swiftly to global events — vital in a decade marked by profound challenges with the Great Depression looming, fascism rising and international co-operation reeling.

    It was a time that called for clarity, it was a time that called for strength and conviction. And so it is today, my friends.

    In Silicon Valley, tech leaders speak of the singularity — the moment in which change progresses so far that we enter into a post-human era. I think that is a long way off — indeed it may never come.

    But recent tech shifts are significant enough to call this a new chapter — if you like, I call it the great remaking of our society. A phase where innovation leaps forward and reshapes geopolitics, redefining diplomacy and security once again.

    War has sadly returned to our continent — spreading from the battlefield into cyberspace. Power is being redefined — not just by armies, but by algorithms. And the international order is under strain — from disinformation to digital surveillance, AI-enabled weapons to quantum disruption.

    So, our diplomatic tools have got to adapt.

    They have to become sharper and more effective at building partnerships. So we can seize the immense opportunities that lie ahead.

    That is why the UK is working with friends and allies — to shape those norms, to promote responsible innovation and embed safety into emerging technologies. And Switzerland is one of our closest and dearest partners.

    Together, our scientists are developing early-warning systems for cyber threats. Our universities are creating tools to expose disinformation. And our governments are holding talks on the risks of emerging technologies — from AI to quantum to cyber.

    We are also making progress in the fight against dirty money — the kind that fuels inequality, undermines democracy and holds back the world’s poorest. This is a global fight, and it demands global resolve. Switzerland is a vital partner in that endeavour.

    I am looking forward to hosting a summit next year in London to build an international coalition for transparency, enforcement, and reform. Because when we act together, we can turn the tide.

    But this partnership is not just about managing problems — it’s about unlocking opportunity. In the last few years, we’ve signed a memorandum of understanding to deepen our science and research ties. And our innovation agencies have funded  40 joint projects — from life sciences to next generation tech.

    The same spirit of collaboration guides our pursuit of peace. Switzerland’s role as guardian of the Geneva Conventions and its record in mediation is unmatched.

    And together, we are supporting peace efforts from Myanmar to Colombia. This includes co-funding a pioneering study on how to bring reluctant parties together for dialogue and talks.

    This partnership is a model for diplomacy in the 21st century: agile, collaborative and forward-looking. And that is why I am here – to help shape a future where British–Swiss cooperation is even stronger.

    On a personal note, I’m also delighted to be part of this film festival — I just wish I could stay longer but international events mean I cannot. Given my job, you might be surprised to hear that I enjoy dark, intense, even tragic films. Just as those dramas ask us to stay with the story — through painful and uncomfortable moments — diplomacy asks us to do the same.

    So, in this moment of extraordinary change, let us rededicate ourselves to working together — patiently and persistently. Not turning away or switching off. But engaging in diplomacy that is progressive, realistic and innovative.

    Seeing the world with clear eyes — as it is, and as we wish it to be. And deepening our collaboration — guided by shared values and fuelled by shared purpose.

    That is how we build peace, defend freedom, and shape a future grounded in cooperation and hope.

    That, to me, is the true spirit of Locarno. And that is the spirit we must carry forward — together.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Collective action is vital to secure the safety of our seas for future generations – UK statement at the UN Security Council [August 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Collective action is vital to secure the safety of our seas for future generations – UK statement at the UN Security Council [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 11 August 2025.

    Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Maritime Security.

    The United Kingdom commends Panama’s leadership in upholding international maritime standards through its work to remove ships from its registry that fall short of international regulations.

    We further recognise the strategic importance of the Panama Canal to maritime security and flows in international trade.

    As a fellow maritime nation, the United Kingdom emphasises the importance of keeping trade routes open and secure. They are vital to our shared economic prosperity.

    We reaffirm our commitment to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea as the legal framework for all activities in the ocean and seas.

    But we note with deep concern that the rule of law and the safety of our sea lanes is being eroded.

    This includes reckless Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, which the United Kingdom unequivocally condemns.

    We call for the immediate cessation of such attacks and full respect for freedom of navigation.

    As we’ve heard from the briefers, other illicit activities, including illegal fishing, smuggling and illegal migration, pose further threats to maritime security.

    The United Kingdom is implementing programmes to target organised crime groups and disrupt such activities taking place across maritime routes and seaways.

    We are also supporting capacity building and the strengthening of governance at seaports.

    Tackling these challenges means working with international partners across all regions.

    This includes collaboration through the International Maritime Organisation as the pre-eminent global forum for maritime issues.

    For our part, the United Kingdom is leading efforts together with the IMO, Member States and industry to develop a Maritime Cyber Code to enhance the resilience of ports, ships and the digital ecosystem.

    President, collective action is vital to secure the safety of our seas for future generations.

    The United Kingdom stands ready to work with all Member States in support of this shared objective.

  • PRESS RELEASE : British investment boost in Ukraine to benefit both countries [August 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : British investment boost in Ukraine to benefit both countries [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 11 August 2025.

    British investment boost in Ukraine to support security and prosperity of both countries.

    • new UK package of support for Ukraine’s immediate and longer-term needs at Ukraine Recovery Conference
    • UK and Ukraine conclude historic deal for Thales Air Defence missiles, boosting British growth and jobs and keeping Ukraine in the fight
    • UK also confirms up to £283 million in bilateral assistance for Ukraine over the next year

    Two hundred British jobs will be created and another 700 safeguarded in a major defence deal between the UK and Ukraine to be signed at this year’s Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC).

    The jobs at Thales in Belfast come as the UK and Ukraine successfully conclude the largest export credit agency-backed deal in Ukraine.

    Supported by a £2.5 billion guarantee with a 19-year financing agreement, the funds can now be released. This enables the delivery of more than 5,000 Air Defence missiles from British business Thales – in what is not only a major boost to the UK’s defence capabilities but will also keep Ukraine in the fight, boosting their defence against Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion.

    Representing the Prime Minister at the conference, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Minister for Exports Gareth Thomas will formally sign the agreement with the Government of Ukraine, marking a key milestone in the UK-Ukraine defence cooperation.

    The deal delivers on this Government’s Plan for Change, by spending more on defence and creating jobs we will keep the country safe and boost economic growth.

    In a speech at the conference in Rome, the Deputy Prime Minister will also reaffirm the UK’s bilateral assistance to Ukraine for the financial year 2025 to 2026 of up to £283 million. This will keep the country in the fight and ensure Ukrainians living through Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion have access to vital support across humanitarian, energy, stabilisation, reform, recovery and reconstruction needs.

    Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said:

    As we continue to witness the enduring strength of the Ukrainian people, the UK stands by their side to provide the assistance their country needs to not only stay in the fight, but to rebuild and recover.

    This announcement underlines our continued support for Ukraine – boosting their air defences against devastating drone and missile attacks and supporting the critical work to reconstruct this nation and provide the hope that they need.

    This will also provide skilled jobs in the UK and is all part of our Plan for Change – bolstering the UK defence industry and strengthening our international ties.

    Minister for Services, Small Business and Exports Gareth Thomas said on the Thales deal:

    This landmark agreement is a powerful example of how British expertise is supporting Ukraine’s defence and recovery while creating high-quality jobs at home.

    By unlocking UKEF-backed finance, we’re enabling the delivery of vital equipment to Ukraine and strengthening our own defence industrial base.

    It’s a clear demonstration of our Plan for Change in action – backing British business, boosting exports, and standing shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.”

    The UK will provide up to £10.5 million for the Governance Reform Programme and up to £1 million in support of Ukraine’s Green Transition Office in financial year 2025 to 2026 to help Ukraine reform for the future. £10.5 million will go towards efforts on rule of law, justice and anti-corruption while £1 million will fund work on green transition and energy, both supporting Ukraine on its path to becoming a prosperous, green and modern European nation.

    During the conference, British International Investment (BII) will also confirm €30 million for MHP, a leading Ukrainian agribusiness. MHP employs over 30,000 people in Ukraine, with more than 40% being women. The loan will help them to safeguard jobs and boost resilience in the food and agriculture sectors during Russia’s full-scale invasion. MHP, Ukraine’s largest poultry and processed meat producer, exports to over 70 countries.

    Underpinning much of these efforts, the UK will endorse the Government of Ukraine’s insurance agreement. This initiative seeks to make insurance more affordable and widely accessible for businesses, including those in the UK, helping to derisk their investments into Ukraine.

    The UK is committed to supporting Ukraine win the war and the peace, emerging as a stronger, more prosperous and free nation, resilient to Russian threats. Our 100 Year Partnership, alongside the commitments made at URC, reaffirm the UK’s iron-clad support for Ukraine now and into the future.

    In total, the UK has committed £18.3 billion for Ukraine with £13 billion in military support and £5.3 billion in non-military support.

    Background:

  • PRESS RELEASE : Export Bar placed on Historic British Maritime Chart Collection [August 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Export Bar placed on Historic British Maritime Chart Collection [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 11 August 2025.

    A temporary export bar has been placed on a Historic British Maritime Chart Collection, which is at risk of leaving the UK.

    • Export bar is to allow time for a UK museum or institution to acquire the collection
    • Records of Britain’s most significant commercial chart makers from the late 18th and 19th centuries has been valued at £6 million

    An export bar has been placed on an extraordinary collection documenting Britain’s rise as the world’s leading maritime power to allow time for a UK gallery or institution to acquire it.

    The historic archive of Imray, Laurie, Norie and Wilson – comprising the records of Britain’s most significant commercial chart makers from the late 18th and 19th centuries – has been valued at £6 million and represents an important source of knowledge relating to British commercial chartmaking at its prime.

    The collection spans over 200 working charts, rare maritime atlases in their original ‘blueback’ bindings, and unique artefacts including a copper plate for an original chart by explorer James Cook and a chair believed to have been used by Lord Nelson.

    It is the largest surviving archive documenting the work of commercial chart-making firms from this era. These firms were essential to Britain’s expanding maritime power during the period when the nation rose from being one of several competing European powers to become the dominant global force of the 19th and early 20th centuries.

    Arts Minister, Sir Chris Bryant said:

    This extraordinary collection helps us better understand Britain’s transformation into a global maritime power.

    I hope that a museum or institution can come forward to help secure this collection for future generations so that researchers and the public can learn about this crucial chapter in British history.

    Caroline Shenton, Committee member:

    Britain’s position as a global superpower in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries was in large part due to its dominance at sea. For this, the Royal Navy and merchant shipping relied on accurate maritime charts of the world’s oceans and far-flung coastlines. This incredible archive, the surviving records of the premier chart-making firm and its predecessors of Imray, Laurie, Norie, and Wilson, sheds light on one of the principal means by which Britannia ruled the waves for several centuries. It is my fervent hope that a suitable home in the UK will be found for this outstanding, beautiful and fascinating collection.

    The Minister’s decision follows the advice of the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest (RCEWA).

    The Committee made its recommendation on the basis that the collection met the first, second, and third Waverley criteria for its outstanding connection with our history and national life, its outstanding aesthetic importance, and its outstanding significance to the study of British commercial chart making, the British Empire and naval history. It was also of outstanding significance to the study of the businesses involved in the commercial publication of maritime charts in the UK from the late 18th century to the early 1900s, shipping routes, and climate change.

    The decision on the export licence application for the collection will be deferred for a period ending on 10 November 2025 inclusive. At the end of the first deferral period owners will have a consideration period of 15 Business Days to consider any offer(s) to purchase the collection at the recommended price of £6,000,000 (plus VAT which can be reclaimed by an eligible institution). The second deferral period will commence following the signing of an Option Agreement and will last for six months.

    ENDS

    Notes to editors

    1. Organisations or individuals interested in purchasing the panel should contact the RCEWA on 02072680534 or rcewa@artscouncil.org.uk.
    2. Details of the item are as follows: The manuscript and printed archive of the maritime publisher Imray, Laurie, Norie and Wilson. Charting the firm’s birth, rise, and heyday, from the 18th to the beginning of the 20th century.
    3. Provenance: Imray, Laurie, Norie and Wilson Ltd
    4. The Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest is an  independent body, serviced by Arts Council England (ACE), which advises the Secretary of State for  Culture, Media and Sport on whether a cultural object, intended for export, is of national importance under specified criteria.
  • PRESS RELEASE : British High Commissioner Bids Farewell to Kenya [August 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : British High Commissioner Bids Farewell to Kenya [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 11 August 2025.

    High Commissioner Neil Wigan will be leaving Kenya at the end of August to take up a new position of Director General Strategy and Delivery at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) in London.

    • British High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan OBE, will be leaving his post after two years in the role.
    • Mr Wigan leaves for a promotion to Director General Strategy and Delivery within the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

    The British High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan OBE, announced today his departure from Nairobi at the end of this month after two years in Nairobi.

    Reflecting on his time in Kenya, the High Commissioner said:

    I am extremely sorry to be leaving Kenya after a whirlwind two years. The Kenya-UK partnership has gone from strength to strength – whether in trade, investment, technology, innovation or cultural links, benefitting both countries and peoples.

    Since I arrived in 2023, the close partnership between our two great nations has seen the historic visit of His Majesty King Charles III, the signing of the new Kenya-UK Strategic Partnership, Kenyan marines trained by the UK, vital infrastructure investments including Nairobi Railway City and so much more.

    I have also seen first hand the incredible potential of Kenya and her people. From taking part in a Maasai elders meeting, to seeing how UK support is helping establish women-led businesses in Wajir, from the tea plantations of Bomet County to the Silicon Savannah, I’ve no doubt that Kenya’s future is bright. I have visited most of Kenya’s counties – I am sorry not have visited them all.

    Kenya and the UK are going far, together, and it has been incredibly rewarding to be part of that journey.  Asanteni sana na kwaherini.

    Mr Wigan leaves Kenya to take up the new position of Director General Strategy and Delivery at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) in London.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Taskforce to tackle regulatory barriers holding back nuclear [August 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Taskforce to tackle regulatory barriers holding back nuclear [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 11 August 2025.

    Nuclear Taskforce interim report finds “once-in-a-generation” reform is needed to tackle regulatory barriers.

    • Independent expert taskforce finds British nuclear projects are being held back by costly and complex regulation barriers
    • Radical “once-in-a-generation” reform is needed to tear down barriers to faster, cheaper nuclear development, while maintaining the highest safety standards
    • The government is delivering a golden age of new nuclear to create thousands of good jobs and unlock investment as part of the Plan for Change

    Nuclear projects which could create skilled jobs and growth are being held back by regulatory barriers, an independent taskforce commissioned by the government has found.

    In its first report published today (Monday 11 August), the taskforce says a “radical reset” is needed to speed up vital nuclear projects and encourage more companies to build in Britain, delivering a new golden age of nuclear with thousands of good jobs and investment – supporting government’s mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower.

    The taskforce, announced by the Prime Minister in February and led by John Fingleton, former CEO of the Office of Fair Trading, will today publish its interim report. The findings reveal an “unnecessarily slow, inefficient and costly” system which is hampering the delivery of clean energy infrastructure needed to power Britain’s future, as well as increasing costs of the UK’s vital nuclear deterrent.

    Radical, once-in-a-generation reform could transform nuclear delivery in several critical areas, while maintaining the highest safety standards. These include overly complex and inconsistent regulatory processes, risk-averse cultures that prioritise bureaucracy over proportionate safety measures, and outdated planning frameworks that fail to support new technologies like small modular reactors.

    It comes after the Chancellor announced action to reduce the administrative cost of regulation by 25%.

    Minister for Energy Consumers Miatta Fahnbulleh said:

    For too long, big British infrastructure projects have been held back by needless bureaucracy.

    It’s time for a new approach to getting nuclear projects off the ground more quickly, and at a lower cost.

    We look forward to working with the expert taskforce to modernise outdated regulations so we can unlock growth, jobs and energy security for the British people.

    Nuclear Taskforce lead John Fingleton said:

    Nuclear energy is safe and reliable and can contribute to net zero goals. It is also vital to the UK’s strategic deterrent.

    However, over recent decades, nuclear regulation has become more complex and costly without always delivering commensurate safety and environmental benefits.

    Our interim report identifies our main concerns with the current system which we think is not fit for purpose.

    With a view to recommending a once-in-a-generation reset, we now invite views from interested parties on what solutions will better enable the UK to achieve the huge benefits nuclear power offers.

    The final report and recommendations will be published in the autumn. As a first step, the government will work with the taskforce to develop a new strategic direction for nuclear operators and regulators to prioritise quick, effective and safe delivery of nuclear programmes.

    The government’s nuclear programme is now the most ambitious for a generation and reforms will be essential to unlock the potential of the industry. Once small modular reactors and Sizewell C come online in the 2030s, combined with Hinkley Point C, this will deliver more new nuclear to the grid than over the previous half century combined.

    It follows government action earlier this year to shake up the planning rules to make it easier to build nuclear across the country – delivering cheaper clean power, energy security and jobs.

    The final report’s recommendations will focus on:

    • tackling a culture of risk aversion and reluctance to challenge and debate, impacting costs and time, to ensure that risk management is proportionate
    • addressing complex and inconsistent regulations, with processes often duplicated across multiple overlapping regulators
    • an outdated planning framework that doesn’t support innovative technologies such as small and advanced modular reactors
    • maintaining a range and depth of expertise across the workforce
    • the potential for greater standardisation across international regulators, which could cut down complexity, costs, and delays when seeking approvals
    • improving the regulatory understanding of the cost of project delays to ensure safety measures are proportionate
  • PRESS RELEASE : Job boost for newly qualified nurses and midwives [August 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Job boost for newly qualified nurses and midwives [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 11 August 2025.

    Thousands of new jobs will be unlocked across the healthcare sector to make sure there are enough jobs for every newly qualified nurse and midwife in England.

    • Qualified nurses and midwives given better job opportunities upon graduation with new Graduate Guarantee
    • New support for both graduates and trusts to improve recruitment processes and ensure a seamless transition from training to employment
    • Better staffing of the NHS, part of Plan for Change to build an NHS fit for the future and improve care for patients

    Thousands of new jobs will be unlocked across the healthcare sector thanks to government action to make sure there are enough jobs for every newly qualified nurse and midwife in England.

    The government’s Graduate Guarantee will ensure thousands of new posts are easier to access by removing barriers for trusts, creating a wealth of opportunities for graduates and ensuring a seamless transition from training to employment.

    These new measures aim to tackle graduates’ concerns about job availability, after record numbers of people chose to study nursing during the pandemic, while fewer nurses and midwives leave the profession.

    While this demonstrates real progress in health professionals choosing to stay and thrive in their NHS careers, it has created barriers in the workforce – with up to 3 times as many graduates as there are vacancies in some areas.

    To address this, the government has committed to a comprehensive package of reform and support, which will see more healthcare professionals deployed across a wide variety of sectors, improving access for patients as part of our Plan for Change.

    This package comes as a result of collegiate and good faith working between government, the Royal College of Midwives and the Royal College of Nursing, demonstrating that by working together, the NHS, patients and staff all benefit.

    Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, said:

    It is absurd that we are training thousands of nurses and midwives every year, only to leave them without a job before their career has started.

    No one who dedicates themselves to a nursing or midwifery career should be left in limbo, when their skills are so urgently needed in the effort to rebuild our NHS.

    I am sending a clear message to every newly qualified nurse and midwife: we’re here to support you from day one so you can provide the best care for patients and cut waiting lists. This new guarantee will benefit nurses, midwives and patients, helping to build an NHS fit for the future as part of our Plan for Change.

    NHS providers will begin recruiting newly qualified nurses and midwives before vacancies formally arise, with trusts supported to employ staff based on projected need rather than headcount, ensuring the NHS has the right number of staff to provide the best possible care to patients everywhere.

    Additionally, every newly qualified nurse and midwife will receive the backing they need to succeed in their first role, which includes an online hub with important information and advice for those applying for roles.

    Vacant maternity support worker posts will be temporarily converted to Band 5 midwifery roles, backed by £8 million to create new opportunities specifically for newly qualified midwives and further ease the recruitment strain.

    Chief Nursing Officer for England, Duncan Burton, said:

    Having been a student nurse, I know how important it is to feel supported, valued, and able to get on with the job you have trained so hard to do.

    Every nurse and midwife deserves the guarantee of a job to apply for when they graduate, so we’re unlocking more opportunities right across health and care and providing refreshed online advice and support with applications to help ensure a smooth transition into employment.

    We have more nurses and midwives than ever before choosing to stay working in the NHS, which is fantastic for patients, but we must ensure our newest graduates get the same opportunity to put their skills and passion to use without frustrating delays.

    Royal College of Nursing General Secretary and Chief Executive, Professor Nicola Ranger, said:

    Our student members have led the way in calling for ministers and healthcare leaders to provide certainty and clarity on jobs. Today’s announcement is welcome news that should provide hope to students as they come towards the end of their education and training.

    When the health service urgently needs nursing staff, it was absurd to leave people in limbo. The test of this will be if students can find jobs, vacant posts are filled, and patients receive the care they deserve.

    Ministers have to continue listening to nursing staff who are crying out to have their critical work valued – today’s action takes us all a little closer.

    Gill Walton, Chief Executive of the Royal College of Midwives, said:

    We’re pleased that the government has listened to the voices of student midwives who are desperate to start their career, only to find those opportunities blocked. I know today’s announcement will come as a relief to so many of the RCM’s student midwife members.

    These are people, mainly women, who have worked incredibly hard to complete their degree and are trained and ready to support our current midwifery workforce at a time when so many maternity services are under pressure. Ensuring we have the right midwifery staff, in the right places, at the right time, with the right education and training has never been so crucial as services are striving to improve safety.

    Today’s new package of support is centred on patient care and the nursing and midwifery workforce, signalling a fundamental shift towards valuing and nurturing newly qualified professionals from day one of their careers, backed by investing in training and guaranteeing employment opportunities.

    For newly qualified nurses and midwives, these changes mean greater certainty and access to a wide and diverse range of roles.

    For the health service, they mean better workforce planning, improved retention and enhanced capacity to deliver patient care. For patients, they mean shorter waiting times and access to a well-supported, confident workforce.

    Our Plan for Change is already delivering on making the NHS fit for the future, by working with staff to improve working conditions and ultimately patients’ experience.

    Paul Rees MBE, Chief Executive and Registrar of the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), said:

    A guaranteed opportunity for a role after years of hard work in education is excellent news for future nursing and midwifery graduates. It means highly trained professionals can move into roles more quickly, utilising their skills and knowledge for the benefit of patients and communities.

    This is critically important at a time of rising demand for health and social care. We will continue working to place all new graduates on our register quickly and safely, so they can begin their roles at the earliest opportunity.

    Steph Lawrence MBE, Chief Executive at the Queen’s Institute of Community Nursing (QICN), said:

    The QICN welcomes this news which will ensure we retain our newly registered nurses and also give them a good start to their journey as a registered nurse. It will be essential to ensure this occurs across all sectors of the NHS and in particular in community, given the shift from hospital to community.

    Vivienne Stern MBE, Chief Executive at Universities UK, said:

    Our healthcare graduates power the NHS and this guarantee of additional support into employment is good news for students, the NHS and the country. This commitment comes at the perfect time as thousands of healthcare students prepare to start their university experience.

    Our NHS is the envy of the world, and our universities stand ready to strengthen their partnerships with the NHS to deliver the workforce pipeline on which the future health sector depends.

  • PRESS RELEASE : More foreign criminals to be deported before appeals heard [August 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : More foreign criminals to be deported before appeals heard [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the Home Office on 10 August 2025.

    ‘Deport Now Appeal Later’ scheme nearly trebled to 23 countries, with more to follow in the future.

    More foreign criminals will have their appeals heard from abroad, preventing them from gaming the system to delay their deportation from the UK, in the latest step to restore order to the UK’s immigration system as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.

    The scope of the ‘Deport Now Appeal Later’ scheme will be nearly trebled from eight countries to 23, with foreign nationals from those countries (listed below) now expected to be deported to their home countries before they can appeal against that decision, increasing the UK’s ability to remove foreign criminals at the earliest opportunity, and easing pressure on the detention and prison estate.

    Under the expanded scheme, foreign nationals who have had their human rights claim refused will be removed from the UK to their home country before they can appeal the decision. Individuals can then take part in their UK appeal hearing from overseas using video technology.

    Previously, offenders from the countries in question could remain in the UK for months or years while their cases were worked through the appeals system, placing a burden on the taxpayer even beyond the end of their prison sentence. The Government is in continuous discussions with a range of other countries about joining the scheme.

    This represents the Government’s latest tool in its comprehensive approach to scaling up our ability to remove foreign criminals. This has seen almost 5,200 removed since July 2024 – an increase of 14% compared to the same 12 months prior and builds on wider action to deliver on the British public’s priorities for safer streets and secure borders through our Plan for Change.

    On Sunday, further measures were announced to allow foreign national offenders to be deported immediately after sentencing, saving taxpayer money by removing more foreign criminals directly from our prisons.

    In addition, the Home Office is legislating to ensure that asylum seekers who commit notifiable sex offences can be stripped of their right to claim refugee protections under new powers in the Borders Security, Asylum & Immigration Bill.

    We have also invested £5 million for the deployment of specialist staff to almost 80 jails with one clear mission – speeding up removals.

    Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper said:

    For far too long, foreign criminals have been exploiting our immigration system, remaining in the UK for months or even years while their appeals drag on. That has to end. Those who commit crimes in our country cannot be allowed to manipulate the system, which is why we are restoring control and sending a clear message that our laws must be respected and will be enforced.

    Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, said:

    We are leading diplomatic efforts to increase the number of countries where foreign criminals can be swiftly returned, and if they want to appeal, they can do so safely from their home country. Under this scheme, we’re investing in international partnerships that uphold our security and make our streets safer.

    In addition to the measures set out above, the government’s Immigration White Paper in May has also set out new plans to tighten the rules around how Article 8 of the Human Rights Act – the ‘right to a family life’ – may be used when appealing against deportation orders or the rejection of asylum claims, to ensure that the UK’s immigration rules are no longer abused.

    These measures support the Government’s Plan for Change mission to secure borders through systematic immigration reform. The approach includes returning 35,000 people with no right to remain since July 2024, surging illegal working raids and arrests by 50%, and increasing asylum decision-making by more than 116%.

  • PRESS RELEASE : The Government of Israel’s decision to further escalate its military operations in Gaza is wrong – UK statement at the UN Security Council [August 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : The Government of Israel’s decision to further escalate its military operations in Gaza is wrong – UK statement at the UN Security Council [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 10 August 2025.

    Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Gaza.

    The United Kingdom requested this meeting alongside Denmark, France, Greece and Slovenia in response to the Government of Israel’s decision to further escalate its military operations in Gaza.

    As my Prime Minister said, this decision is wrong, and we urge the Government of Israel to reconsider immediately.

    Expanding military operations will do nothing to bring an end to this conflict. It will not secure the release of the hostages. It will only deepen the suffering of Palestinian civilians in Gaza.

    This is not a path to resolution, it is a path to more bloodshed.

    President, just this week the Security Council heard harrowing testimony from Ilay David, the brother of Evyatar David who was cruelly taken by Hamas on 7 October.  He has been held hostage in appalling and inhuman conditions for over 21 months.

    The Security Council has in its four resolutions since 7 October called for the unconditional and immediate release of the hostages. I repeat that call today.

    We are clear that Hamas must disarm and can play no future part in the governance of Gaza, where the Palestinian Authority must have a central role.

    But, as many family members of the hostages have warned, this decision by the Israeli Government will do nothing to secure the return of the hostages. Instead, it risks further endangering their lives.

    This escalation will only exacerbate an already catastrophic humanitarian crisis, uprooting a million more people and forcing them into dangerously overcrowded, unsanitary and under-supplied areas.

    In Gaza, children and babies are suffering from starvation.  Hundreds of civilians have been killed trying to access basic food supplies. This inhumanity cannot be justified.

    The partial aid access Israel granted in late July has proven woefully inadequate.

    We have a clear message for Israel: urgently and permanently lift all restrictions on aid delivery. Yesterday, the UK announced a further $11.4 million for OCHA’s Occupied Palestinian Territories Humanitarian Fund.

    It is vital the UN and established humanitarian partners can operate safely and at scale, in line with the principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality and independence.

    And Israel must not bar humanitarian NGOs from their essential work, through unreasonable and arbitrary registration requirements.  All land routes must be opened for essential supplies, including food, baby formula, medicine, shelter, fuel and clean water.

    President, a diplomatic solution is possible, but both parties must step away from the path of destruction.

    We urge the parties to engage in good faith negotiations and show political will to secure a ceasefire deal and commit to a path to peace.

    The recent conference on the two-state solution last week was a powerful demonstration of international resolve to achieve a brighter future for the region.

    The UK will continue working with our partners on a long-term plan to secure peace in the region as part of a two-state solution.

    This is the only way to guarantee Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in peace, security, and dignity.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Foreign criminals to face immediate deportation [August 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Foreign criminals to face immediate deportation [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 10 August 2025.

    Foreign criminals will for the first time face immediate deportation after sentencing as the Government strengthens border security through the Plan for Change.

    • Law change to allow immediate deportation of convicted foreign criminals
    • Follows recent changes that will allow foreign prisoners to be deported 30% into their jail term
    • Part of Plan for Change to restore control to our borders and keep streets safe

    The new power announced today (10 August) will get foreign national offenders out of our prisons, saving money for British taxpayers and protecting the public from dangerous criminals.

    The change follows legislation introduced by the Government in June, which will mean most foreign prisoners can now be deported after serving 30 percent of their prison time, rather than 50 percent.

    Today, the Government has announced it will go even further—stripping back a decades-old law to introduce new powers for immediate deportation from prison. Offenders who are deported are barred from re-entering the UK, keeping their victims and the wider public safe. Terrorists, murderers and others serving life sentences will continue to have to serve their prison sentence before being considered for deportation.

    Ramping up removals of foreign national offenders has been a priority for this Government with almost 5,200 deported since July 2024 – an increase of 14% compared to the same 12 months prior. We have also invested £5 million for the deployment of specialist staff to almost 80 jails with one clear mission – speeding up removals. These are all now in post.

    This is part of our Plan for Change to fix the broken criminal justice system we inherited and make our streets safer. This includes building 14,000 more prison places, reforming sentencing and ensuring victims get the support they need.

    Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, said:

    This Government is taking radical action to deport foreign criminals, as part of our Plan for Change. Deportations are up under this Government, and with this new law they will happen earlier than ever before.

    Our message is clear: if you abuse our hospitality and break our laws, we will send you packing.

    These measures build on broader work during the Government’s first year in office to deliver on the British public’s priorities for border security and ramp up returns which has now seen 35,000 people with no right to be here returned since the election, including over 5,000 FNOs.

    The changes will apply to prisoners serving fixed-term, or determinate, sentences and discretion to not use the measure on a case-by-case basis will be retained. For example, where there is clear evidence a prisoner is planning further crimes against UK interests such as posing a threat to national security they will not be released.

    Foreign offenders make up around 12% percent of the total prison population with prison places costing £54,000 a year on average.

    The measures will apply to all foreign national offenders already in custody as well as those newly sentenced, ensuring that taxpayers’ money will not be wasted on incarcerating foreign criminals in the future.

    We are committed to further ramping up returns activity, including exploring returns hubs, introducing a ground-breaking new returns treaty with France which will see small boat arrivals detained and returned to France, and will set out major reforms to the asylum appeals system later this year, working with a range of countries to strengthen law enforcement, border security and returns.

    Our Immigration White Paper will end the addiction to cheap overseas labour that saw net migration explode to nearly one million in recent years by replacing it with an immigration system that is controlled, selective and fair and boosting opportunities for homegrown talent. The White Paper also includes plans to introduce legislation that tightens the application of Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights and sets out reforms to make it easier to remove foreign criminals convicted of any offence before the threat they pose escalates.

    The changes to enable the immediate deportation of foreign prisoners require primary legislation and will be brought before Parliament in due course.

    Further information

    • In May, the Independent Sentencing Review recommended the law change so most foreign prisoners could be deported after serving 30 percent of their prison time, rather than 50 percent, and up to four years before their release, rather than the current 18 months.
    • The Government laid secondary legislation in June and this is expected to come into force in September, at which point prisoners with no right to be in the country will face deportation 30% into their prison part of their sentence rather than the current 50%.
    • This will be reduced to 0% once the primary legislation this power requires is in force.