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PRESS RELEASE : Northern Ireland science and tech industries boosted by over £30 million from UK Industrial Strategy [August 2025]
The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 20 August 2025.

Major win for Northern Ireland’s high-tech sectors from the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy, supporting local jobs and growth.
- Industry Minister Sarah Jones visits Belfast to welcome local investments including £30m for innovative tech projects and £2m for Queen’s University Belfast’s cutting-edge cyber AI tech hub.
- Minister to host roundtables with Northern Ireland industry leaders including Artemis Technologies, Thales, Harland & Wolff, Ionic Technologies to promote Industrial Strategy benefits for local people.
Science and technology projects in Northern Ireland in key industries of the future, such as cybersecurity, are set to be boosted by at least £30 million from the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy.

Industry Minister Sarah Jones visited Belfast today to celebrate this news and other recent wins for the city that are delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change to increase economic growth and jobs.

Delivered as part of the UK Government’s modern Industrial Strategy, the package, to be allocated by local leaders, will build on successful pilots in other parts of the UK which have attracted more than £140 million of private investment and created hundreds of jobs so far.

The new funding could go to support Northern Ireland’s thriving cybersecurity sector, which is home to 100 businesses and 2,750 jobs. It comes on top of £2 million of UK Government funding for Queen’s University Belfast’s Cybersecurity AI Tech Hub, confirmed in June, helping Northern Ireland lead the way on cutting-edge technology to keep the UK safe.

UK Government Industry Minister Sarah Jones said:

From defence and cyber to the creative industries Northern Ireland’s economy has great strengths, which is why I’m in Belfast speaking to businesses about how our modern Industrial Strategy can help them grow and create well-paid jobs for local people.

This includes millions for Northern Ireland’s cyber and tech sectors, £1.6 billion supporting Thales to make missiles for Ukraine, and an Enhanced Investment Zone to tear down barriers to growth and boost prosperity across Northern Ireland, as part of our Plan for Change.

Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn said:

This is great news for Northern Ireland and for the businesses that will benefit from this Government’s modern Industrial Strategy.

The investment being announced today will create new opportunities, support long-term growth and innovation, create high-quality jobs, and strengthen fast-growing sectors like advanced manufacturing and the creative industries.

Northern Ireland’s fastest-growing sectors are also being boosted via a wider package of support from the Government’s Industrial Strategy – from advanced manufacturing to creative industries – which Minister Jones celebrated today with visits to some of Northern Ireland’s top companies and employers.

This included defence, cybersecurity and aerospace firm Thales, which was recently awarded a £1.6 billion missile contract with UK Government backing to defend Ukraine, creating 200 new jobs and supporting 700 highly skilled existing jobs.

Minister Jones then visited Ionic Technologies to see their progress so far in developing a rare earth magnetic recycling process to support the UK’s electric vehicle transition, following a £11 million grant from the Government in June.

She visited Harland & Wolff’s iconic Belfast shipyard for an update on their commitments to invest in Northern Ireland and to discuss opportunities to work together to deliver local growth and investment through the Industrial Strategy.

Demonstrating the Government’s commitment to Northern Ireland’s success, it comes after the Chancellor’s visit to Belfast earlier this month where she confirmed £310 million for the Belfast Region City Deal, including over £25 million for world class virtual production studio, Studio Ulster, and £137 million to tackle paramilitarism and create safer streets.

Designs are also underway for a bespoke Enhanced Investment Zone for Northern Ireland, delivered with the Executive, which will tear away barriers to growth and could include further new funding, tax and investment incentives.

The ministerial visits this summer will be followed on 11 September by the Government’s Made in the UK, Sold to the World Roadshow in Belfast. It will put a spotlight on the city’s creative sector and will host 18 market experts from around the world, including from the US, Germany and UAE.

Notes to editors
- The Local Innovation Partnerships Fund has so far earmarked at least £30 million each for ten regions across the UK, with 7 English regions confirmed alongside the Glasgow City Region, Cardiff Capital Region, and the Belfast to Derry-Londonderry Corridor.
Information on the upcoming Made in the UK, Sold to the World Roadshow:
- The Made in the UK, Sold to the World Roadshow takes place in Belfast on Thursday 11 September at The MAC. Businesses will have the opportunity to meet with relevant, overseas creative buyers, and sector/market specialists from UK embassies and consulates overseas.
- There will also be peer learning sessions, workshops focusing on overseas markets and developing your international strategy, networking opportunities and an inspiring and informative seminar programme. Whether you are a Creative business or sit in another sector, join us in Belfast by registering here.
August 21, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : ‘30 by 30’ – New funding to boost cadet force by over 40,000 by 2030 [August 2025]
The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 20 August 2025.

Young people will have more chances to join the Armed Forces Cadets, under a major expansion of cadet forces across the country, announced today (Wednesday 20 August).
- New ‘30 by 30’ drive to increase cadets by 30% by 2030 backed with £70 million as Government delivers on Strategic Defence Review.
- RAF Air cadets to become first military youth organisation in Britain approved to train young people in official drone pilot qualifications.
- Search launched for new National Cadet Champion to boost awareness of how cadets can transform futures for young people and break down barriers to opportunity.
Young people will have more chances to join the Armed Forces Cadets, under a major expansion of cadet forces across the country, announced today (Wednesday 20 August).

Under a new ‘30 by 30’ campaign, launched today, the Government is expanding cadet opportunities for a new generation of young people – boosting cadet forces by 30% by 2030 – backed by £70 million of new investment.

Delivering on the Strategic Defence Review, this would see over 40,000 more cadets across the UK, supporting the Government’s Plan for Change to break down barriers which are holding back Britain’s young people.

In a sign of how cadet forces can offer valuable STEM skills for young people, the RAF Air Cadets will become the first military youth organisation in Britain certified to train drone pilots. Once the Civil Aviation Authority approves the training manual, the Air Cadets will be able to deliver industry-accredited drone qualifications at the higher levels.

Defence has also launched the hunt to appoint a new National Cadet Champion to support and endorse the Cadet Forces and highlight the huge opportunities cadets can offer to young people from all backgrounds.

Minister for Veterans and People, Alistair Carns MP, said:

Every young person deserves the chance to discover their potential, regardless of their postcode or family income.

The cadet experience doesn’t just build character – it transforms futures, helping young people build confidence, develop skills and meet new people.

The government is kickstarting a new era for the cadets through this major expansion, backed by £70 million of extra funding.

Under the expansion, young people will have the chance to gain more qualifications, improve their confidence, and learn about the military.

The initiative, which delivers on the Strategic Defence Review, will prioritise cadets’ expansion across all four nations, ensuring every young person has the chance to discover their potential regardless of postcode or family income.

To support the ‘30 by 30’ campaign, the Government will deliver a package of measures to boost cadet forces, including:
- New joint Army and RAF Air Cadet Centres: adding to the five already opened and 12 under construction since this Government came into office.
- Increasing adult volunteers: streamlining the process for becoming an adult Cadet volunteer and a new fast-track opportunity for veterans to become volunteers.
- A National Cadet Champion: Hunt launched today for a new appointment to support and endorse the Cadet Forces.
- Boosting STEM skills: new opportunities to develop STEM skills and try new technologies through the cadets, including Civilian Aviation Authority approval for RAF Air cadets to deliver a CAA-endorsed qualifications in drone piloting. This will offer air cadet and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers industry recognised and transferable qualifications.
- Improving regular and reservist support for Cadets: greater opportunities for our UK military personnel – both regulars and reserves – to support the Cadet Forces.
New joint Army and Air Cadet Centres will be built – adding to the five already opened and 12 under construction, since the Government came into power to support growth of school-based cadet units.

The investment will also supercharge further opportunities in developing STEM skills and cutting-edge cyber skills training and hands-on experience with the latest drone and submersible technology – the same innovations reshaping Britain’s defence and economic landscape.

Independent research proves the cadet experience works. Participants show dramatically improved school attendance, better behaviour, and significantly higher rates of progression to university or employment.

For young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, the impact is even more pronounced – providing structure, challenge and achievement that changes life trajectories permanently.

Minister Carns is making today’s announcement at The National Air & Space Camp 2025, where he will witness cadets experiencing the future first-hand through spectacular flying displays featuring Typhoon jets, Lightning aircraft, and historic Spitfires. The camp’s careers fair connects young people directly with over 60 leading companies, turning inspiration into real employment pathways.
August 21, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Whitehaven man, Oliver Kirkbride, sentenced for illegal waste operations [August 2025]
The press release issued by the Environment Agency on 20 August 2025.

Oliver ‘Luke’ Kirkbride given suspended prison sentence for the illegal operation of waste sites that led to a major fire.

In a prosecution brought by the Environment Agency, Oliver ‘Luke’ Kirkbride, of Stanley View, Mirehouse, Whitehaven, pleaded guilty to multiple offences relating to the illegal operation of waste sites on the Lune Industrial Estate in Lancaster.

On 15 August, Kirkbride appeared at Preston Crown Court and was sentenced to 16 months imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, and 200 hours unpaid work. He was also banned from being a company director for 5 years.

Major fire caused by combustible waste

An investigation by the Environment Agency revealed that thousands of tonnes of combustible waste was stored in breach of permit conditions, with operations continuing even after a suspension notice was issued.

The abandoned waste led to a major fire in December 2023, which caused significant disruption to neighbouring businesses and left firefighting and clean-up costs of over £2 million.

Large quantities of combustible waste were stored far in excess of the 500-tonne, seven-day limit set in the site’s environmental permit.

Defendant ignores order to stop taking waste

In February 2022, the Environment Agency suspended the site’s permit because of the significant fire risk, but waste imports continued until April 2022, and then under a second company until October 2022.

The site’s permit was revoked by the Environment Agency in November 2022.

Between September 2021 and October 2022, Kirkbride, as a company director, was found to have deliberately breached environmental permit limits, operated unpermitted waste sites, repeatedly failed to comply with enforcement notices and deposited waste without the necessary authorisations.

Further offences involve waste storage breaches at Unit C4 and the illegal use of Unit C3, which had no permit in place.

‘Waste criminals cause distress and destruction’

An Environment Agency spokesperson said:

Illegal waste activity and breaches of Environmental permits puts communities, businesses, and the environment at serious risk.

The defendant repeatedly and deliberately ignored environmental law and defied enforcement action by continuing to breach the law with no consideration for the environment or the community of Lancaster.

His actions led to a major fire that ultimately caused weeks of harm and disruption to local residents and businesses. The costs of which to resolve and clear were borne by emergency services and multi-agency partners including Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service and Lancaster City Council.

Waste criminals cause distress to our communities and can destroy the environment. This case demonstrates that we will continue to pursue and take robust action against anyone operating outside the law.

Background
- Kirkbride pleaded guilty to four counts of Offence of depositing controlled waste without an environmental permit, contrary to Section 33(1)(a) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 at Unit 37, Lune Industrial Estate.
- Kirkbride pleaded guilty to three counts of Offence of breaching conditions under the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016 relating to the operation of waste sites at Units C3 and C4, Lune Industrial Estate.
August 21, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Baroness Chapman’s visit drives an exciting chapter in UK–Peru Cooperation [August 2025]
The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 20 August 2025.

Press release covering the official visit of Baroness Jenny Chapman, UK Minister of State for Latin America and the Caribbean, and International Development, to Peru.
- UK Minister for Latin America, Baroness Jenny Chapman, visited Peru to strengthen bilateral cooperation and reaffirm the UK’s long-term commitment to the country.
- With the Foreign Minister, the Minister agreed a Joint Declaration on Security, reinforcing collaboration against Transnational Serious and Organised Crime including drug trafficking, illicit economies, and environmental crimes
- The Minister also attended the signing of new education agreement to drive English language teaching, teacher training, and academic opportunities for Peruvian students, supported by the British Council.
Lima, August 20, 2025 – In a wide-ranging visit to Peru, Baroness Jenny Chapman of Darlington, UK Minister of State for Latin America and the Caribbean, and International Development, drove collaboration on Security, Growth, and Climate – deepening the UK’s strategic partnership.

With the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Peru, Ambassador Elmer Schialer, the Minister agreed a Joint Declaration on Security, a milestone in joint efforts to fight Transnational Serious and Organised Crime, drug trafficking, illicit economies and environmental crimes.

The Minister also delivered a donation of equipment (scanners, drones, and vehicles) on behalf of UK’s Home Office International Operation to the Peruvian Police, to enhance their operational and intelligence capabilities. At a ceremony with the Viceminister of the Interior, Maxfredid Pérez, Minister Chapman reaffirmed the UK’s long-term commitment to collaborate on counternarcotics, tackling organised crime and preventing cocaine reaching UK streets. That followed a visit to the Port of Callao where the Minister spoke with representatives from the Anti-Drug Directorate of the Police (DIRANDRO) and the National Superintendency of Customs and Tax Administration (SUNAT) to hear first-hand about the shared challenges and vital importance of this joint work.

Baroness Chapman’s visit also strengthened a trading relationship worth over £1bn, highlighting the growing potential of the CPTPP and the Andean Free Trade Agreement. In a series of meetings with the Peruvian Prime Minister, and Ministers of Transport and Finance she discussed mutual growth, and the benefits of the Double Taxation Agreement that the UK and Peru hope to ratify this year. The Minister underscored the importance of this for driving two-way investment, the UK’s position as the largest investor in Peru, and the desire to further that in the key sectors of mining and renewable energy through InPeru’s mission to the UK in September. They also explored strategic collaboration in infrastructure projects on health, education, rail and irrigation, building on the delivery of £7bn+ in key projects by UK companies over the last 6 years, and wider collaboration to improve the infrastructure ecosystem.

With the President, Dina Boluarte and the Minister for Education, Morgan Quero, Minister Chapman participated in the inauguration of the IE 2028 Peruano Británico – part of the Bicentennial Schools Government-to-Government Programme. This is the 35th school completed under this framework, which reflects the UK’s focus on delivering infrastructure in record time and to highest standards, but also adding wider value to support the country’s economic and social development.

UK Minister for Latin America, Baroness Chapman, said:

It’s been an inspiring and productive visit to Peru – and the 200-year strong UK-Peru partnership has never been stronger.

The security and education partnerships we have committed to this week will help to build inclusive, secure, and prosperous futures for both of our nations – underpinning a trade relationship worth well over £1bn, as I discussed with counterparts and industry partners.

The work we are doing here will help create jobs, opportunities and stability for the people of Peru and the UK, and I look forward to continuing our strategic collaboration.

During the visit Baroness Chapman also participated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to advance cooperation to strengthen the Peruvian education system. The agreement, which will be supported by the British Council, will drive English language teaching, professional development for teachers and school leaders, internationalization of higher education, and expand academic opportunities for Peruvian students in the United Kingdom.

Finally, the Minister met the Minister for Environment, Juan Carlos Castro Vargas to drive collaboration ahead of COP30 – including the signature of the new Joint Declaration of Intent – as Peru pushes an ambitious update of its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC).
August 21, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : FCDO statement: response to Israel’s revocation of visas to Australian representatives to the Palestinian Authority [August 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 20 August 2025.

The FCDO has released a statement on the Government of Israel’s decision to revoke the visas of Australian representatives to the Palestinian Authority.

An FCDO spokesperson said:

The Government of Israel’s decision to revoke the visas of Australian representatives to the Palestinian Authority is counter-productive. It will only close the space for dialogue and diplomacy which is so essential to delivering a long-term solution for both Israelis and Palestinians.

Together with our allies, including Australia, we are working on a framework for peace for what comes next in Gaza and to deliver a two-state solution. The first step must be an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages and a surge in aid.

August 20, 2025
NEWS STORY : Charity Commission opens inquiry into Darul-Uloom School London over unresolved land dispute [August 2025]

STORY

The Charity Commission has opened a statutory inquiry into Darul-Uloom School London after trustees failed to resolve a long-running dispute over ownership of the land on which the school operates. The regulator says its enquiries indicate the site is held on trust for the charity rather than belonging to any individual, and it has warned the stalemate risks putting charitable property at serious risk.

The move escalates earlier engagement by the Commission, which had set repeated deadlines for the trustees to bring the matter to a conclusion. The inquiry will examine the administration, management and governance of the charity, including whether trustees have complied with their legal duties in handling the dispute. The scope may be widened if further regulatory issues emerge.

Darul-Uloom School London has been registered since 1995 and provides Islamic and national curriculum education to children and young people. The Commission previously opened a separate statutory inquiry in 2018 following an altercation on the charity’s premises; that case concluded in May 2022 with findings of serious misconduct and mismanagement, and two former trustees were disqualified.

August 20, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Investigation opened into charity over trustees’ failure to resolve land dispute [August 2025]

The press release issued by the Charity Commission on 20 August 2025.

The Charity Commission has opened a statutory inquiry into Darul-Uloom School London.

Darul-Uloom School London was registered with the Commission in 1995 and operates a school providing Islamic and national curriculum education to children and young people.

The regulator previously opened a separate statutory inquiry into the charity in 2018 after an altercation on the charity’s premises. That inquiry concluded in May 2022 and found serious mismanagement and misconduct in the administration of the charity. Two former trustees were disqualified.

During the course of that inquiry, the Commission became aware that one of the disqualified former trustees had made representations to the charity’s trustees asserting ownership of the land on which the school is based.

Following its enquiries, the Commission’s view is that there is evidence which shows that the land is held on trust by the charity, rather than being the personal property of any individual and has shared this view with both the charity’s trustees and the disqualified trustee.

However, despite the repeated deadlines given by the Commission for the trustees to resolve the issue, the trustees have failed to bring the matter of the land dispute to a conclusion. The regulator is concerned that these failures place the charity’s property at serious risk.

As a result, the Commission has escalated its engagement to a statutory inquiry.

The inquiry will evaluate the trustees’ administration, management, and governance of the charity. In particular, it will consider the conduct of the trustees and their compliance with legal duties and responsibilities as it relates to the land dispute.

The Commission may extend the scope of the inquiry if additional regulatory issues emerge.

August 20, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : DVLA backs classic car industry and driving enthusiasts with updated registration policies [August 2025]
The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 20 August 2025.

DVLA announces new policies for registering repaired, restored and modified vehicles that will come into effect from Tuesday 26 August.
- DVLA has announced updated policies to modernise the process for notifying DVLA when a vehicle has been repaired, restored and modified.
- Like-for-like repairs and restorations will no longer need to be reported to DVLA, and more modified vehicles – including electric vehicle (EV) conversions – will be able to retain their original identities.
- Changes will take effect from Tuesday 26 August 2025.
DVLA has today (20 August) unveiled a major update to some of its vehicle registration policies, making it significantly easier for enthusiasts to register repaired, restored and modified vehicles.

The new guidance reflects modern restoration methods and simplifies the registration process, helping classic car owners keep their vehicles on the road while ensuring safety and accurate records.

These changes follow an extensive call for evidence, which received more than 1,350 responses from classic car owners, motoring clubs and the historic vehicle sector. In response, DVLA is replacing its existing policies on rebuilt and radically altered vehicles with 2 new sets of guidance that will apply to all vehicles, regardless of age.

Key changes include:
- like-for-like repairs and restorations will no longer require notification to DVLA, providing the vehicle’s appearance is the same as when it was originally manufactured and there are no changes to the log book (V5C)
- vehicles that have been subject to significant structural modifications will be able to keep their original Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and registration number, but the registered keeper must notify DVLA of the changes
- vehicles that have been converted to electric will also be able to retain their original identity, but the registered keeper must notify DVLA of the changes
Minister for the Future of Roads, Lilian Greenwood, said:

We know how much love, time and effort goes into keeping classic cars – and we’re right behind the community.

These changes are about cutting red tape and making life easier for enthusiasts, whether you’re restoring a vintage gem or converting it to electric. It’s all about celebrating the UK’s amazing motoring heritage and helping the industry thrive well into the future.

DVLA Chief Executive, Tim Moss, said:

We recognise the time, passion and care that keepers of classic vehicles invest in keeping their cars on the road. That’s why we’ve worked closely with the community to shape these changes.

These updated policies support historic vehicle keepers, and the wider industry, with clearer registration processes that reflect modern restoration and modification practices, helping safeguard the UK’s rich and wonderful automotive history. These changes will allow enthusiasts to focus on what they love most: preserving and enjoying these remarkable vehicles.
August 20, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Emergency Alert Test Follows Use in Storm Éowyn [August 2025]

The press release issued by the Cabinet Office on 20 August 2025.

With just weeks to go, people across Northern Ireland are being reminded to expect the second ever national Emergency Alert test. The system is designed to help protect lives by delivering urgent safety advice directly to mobile phones during major emergencies.

Mobile phones connected to 4G and 5G networks across the country will receive the alert at approximately 3pm on Sunday 7 September. During the test, phones will vibrate and emit a loud, siren-like sound for up to ten seconds. A message will appear on screen, making it clear the alert is a drill and that no action is needed.

The drill follows the live deployment of the system in Northern Ireland during Storm Éowyn in January this year. UK Government minister Pat McFadden authorised that message to help save lives after widespread red weather warnings were issued. Approximately 4.5 million mobile phones received the alert, in the largest-ever live deployment of the system.

Hilary Benn, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, said:

We saw the Emergency Alert system’s value first-hand during Storm Éowyn in January and this test will be important in making sure we are prepared for future emergencies

We need to ensure the system is working effectively so people in Northern Ireland get critical information when lives are on the line.

Storm Éowyn, an intense extratropical cyclone, struck Northern Ireland on Friday 24 January 2025. A red wind warning was issued by the Met Office for the entire region for the peak of the storm. The Emergency Alert was broadcast at approximately 6pm on 23 January 2025, warning of the threat to life posed by the storm and urging people to stay indoors.

During the national test on September 7, mobile phones will vibrate and emit a loud siren-like sound for up to ten seconds. A test message will appear on screens, making it clear the alert is a drill.

Ahead of the test, the government is running a public information campaign to notify people it is taking place, including communications targeted at vulnerable groups such as victims of domestic abuse. The campaign has featured the first national information video in British Sign Language.

Last week, the full text of the test message was revealed for the first time, saying:

This is a test of Emergency Alerts, a UK government service that will warn you if there’s a life-threatening emergency nearby.

You do not need to take any action. In a real emergency, follow the instructions in the alert to keep yourself and others safe.

Find simple and effective advice on how to prepare for emergencies at gov.uk/prepare.

Visit gov.uk/alerts for more information or to view this message in Welsh. Ewch i gov.uk/alerts am ragor o wybodaeth neu i weld y neges hon yn y Gymraeg.

This second test follows a government commitment to test the system regularly to make sure it works optimally and familiarise the public with the alerts. This is in line with standard practice in other countries, such as Japan and the USA.

As well as making clear the test is just a drill, the message will point the public to GOV.UK/PREPARE, a one-stop website offering practical advice about steps households can take to prepare for emergencies.

August 20, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : UK strengthens international diplomacy to tackle illegal migration [August 2025]

The press release issued by the Home Office on 20 August 2025.

New UK-Iraq agreement will bolster efforts to deter small boat arrivals.

The UK is bolstering its border security and tackling illegal migration through international diplomacy, including returns, to deter small boat crossings and undermine organised criminal gangs.

The government has now further strengthened its vital strategic partnership with the Government of Iraq, including on repatriation and enhanced border security collaboration.

As part of a two-day visit to the UK, Iraqi’s Deputy Foreign Minister and Head of the Higher Returns Committee signed a new agreement with Security Minister Dan Jarvis which will establish formal processes to return those with no legal right to be in the UK swiftly.

This agreement aims to further deter small boat arrivals, while supporting the UK Government’s wider commitment to restore order to the asylum system and recognising the Government of Iraq’s significant work to provide reintegration support to those returned.

The bolstered cooperation builds on Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani committing earlier this year to enhance migration cooperation between both countries, and the partnerships signed by the Home Secretary with Iraq last year on border security and serious organised crime. This committed £800,000 to law enforcement training, border security projects and capacity building to tackle people smuggling, organised immigration crime and drug flows.

In a demonstration that the UK-Iraq partnership has entered into a new era, discussions on the visit moved beyond security to include cooperation on regional security, Baghdad-Erbil relations, defence cooperation and a growing trade relationship. This reflects the government’s ‘reset’ approach to international partnerships, moving beyond transactional relationships to build deeper strategic cooperation.

Security Minister Dan Jarvis said:

This visit reinforces the strength of the UK-Iraq partnership and demonstrates our government’s commitment to serious diplomacy that delivers real results.

As someone who served in Iraq, I understand first-hand the importance of building enduring relationships in the region, and the new agreement we have signed is a testament to the trust and cooperation we’ve built with our Iraqi counterparts.

By working together on security, development and migration challenges, we are building stronger relationships that benefit both our countries whilst tackling shared challenges like organised crime and irregular migration.

The number of Iraqi nationals arriving by small boat in the UK has fallen substantially to 1,900 in the year ending March 2025, down from 2,600 in the previous year, demonstrating the effectiveness of upstream cooperation and the government’s comprehensive approach to addressing illegal migration at source through diplomatic engagement.

The UK-Iraq visit also highlighted opportunities for expanded economic cooperation and the UK’s continued support for Iraq’s stability and development, reinforcing the UK’s commitment to constructive engagement in the region.

The UK reiterated its support for infrastructure development projects in Iraq, building on a trade package worth up to £12.3 billion for UK business announced during Iraq Prime Minister Al-Sudani’s visit to the UK in January.

In discussions on the situation in the Middle East, the UK and Iraq agreed on the need for de-escalation and a return to diplomacy to bolster regional security.

The UK-Iraq partnership builds on successful international cooperation, including the operationalised UK-France returns treaty under which people arriving by small boat can now be detained and returned.

Minister for the Middle East, Hamish Falconer, said:

The UK-Iraq relationship has entered a new era – going from strength to strength across a number of areas, including driving economic growth and ensuring regional stability.

We will continue to use innovative foreign policy approaches to secure Britain’s borders and support development through partnerships.

In the UK government’s first year over 35,000 failed asylum seekers, foreign criminals and other immigration offenders with no right to be in the UK have been returned – a 14% increase compared to the same period 12 months ago – as part of restoring order to the asylum system.

On top of this, last week the new powers for immediate deportation of foreign national offenders from prison were introduced, building on recent legislation that already reduced the threshold for deportation from 50% to 30% of sentence served. This represents a significant escalation in deportation policy, with the new measures allowing immediate deportation once primary legislation is in force.

The UK government is also expanding its ‘Deport First, Appeal Later’ scheme, nearly trebling from eight countries to 23, with foreign nationals 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.

This work is part of the government’s ‘Plan for Change’ approach to secure Britain’s borders through serious international diplomacy, whilst maintaining the UK’s proud tradition of providing sanctuary to those genuinely fleeing persecution through safe and legal routes.

August 20, 2025