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  • Oliver Dowden – 2023 Speech to the Future Investment Initiative

    Oliver Dowden – 2023 Speech to the Future Investment Initiative

    The speech made by Oliver Dowden, the Deputy Prime Minister, in Riyadh on 24 October 2023.

    Today’s theme is ‘defining dynamism amid global shocks’.

    And there could be no more apt place to discuss dynamism than Saudi Arabia.

    The pace of change in the Kingdom is dizzying:

    Asserting global leadership from the Gulf…

    …rocketing up the rankings for ease of doing business…

    …leapfrogging the world’s largest economies…

    …embracing technological change…

    … and transforming an economy fuelled by oil… into one powered by renewables…

    …making Vision 2030 not just a vision, but a reality.

    That is true dynamism: embracing change, and leading the charge.

    With your megacities and giga-projects, Saudi is not just adopting clean technologies but pioneering them…

    …delivering solutions that we will all be using in the future.

    So That’s why the UK is proud to partner with you in a huge array of areas, such as financial services, clean energy, urban regeneration, academia, defence, sports, e-gaming and more.

    Truly a partnership for the future.

    AGE OF SHOCKS

    But we do so in a world where shocks have become the new norm.

    We rightly refer to them as global shocks because their impact ripples from the epicentre right across our planet.

    The great financial crisis … the Covid pandemic … Russia’s invasion of Ukraine …

    …Record temperatures and devastating natural disasters…

    …and, of course, the brutal strike into the heart of Israel by Hamas terrorists just two weeks ago…

    …the very worst of humanity.

    Thousands of people have died horrifically… unnecessarily.

    Tens of thousands more are injured, or are in mourning.

    And millions are now living in fear of the consequences.

    This has caused untold misery and has led to deep, widespread insecurity.

    And we stand with all innocent victims of this conflict.

    Urging respect for international humanitarian law…

    And for parties to take every possible step to avoid harming civilians.

    And we welcome ongoing efforts to open up humanitarian access to Gaza…

    …we have pledged millions extra in aid…

    …and we remain committed to the two state solution.

    Britain stands together to reject terror, hate and prejudice.

    …and to reset the path to peace and long-term stability.

    TRADITIONAL SECURITY

    And as the Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, the Prime Minister has tasked me personally to drive cross-Government resilience towards shocks of all kinds.

    Understanding the nature of the threats we face today…

    …and scanning the horizon to predict the threats we may face tomorrow.

    The first duty of every government is to protect their civilians.

    Of course, our first line of defence is always our armed forces.

    Those brave men and women are our resilience personified.

    And the UK and Saudi Arabia have a proud partnership in security which stretches back into our history…

    …sharing intelligence, exchanging military hardware, training alongside one another…

    …and continuing into the future with our world-leading Typhoon jets.

    ECONOMIC SECURITY (AND TECH SHOCKS)

    But increasingly, the ripples of recent global shocks…

    …reverberate in an economic sense…

    …disrupting supply chains… driving up energy prices… and causing food shortages.

    And it on this economic front, where I am leading the UK’s charge to be out in front, in terms of our resilience…

    …developing and retaining critical domestic capabilities…

    …screening investment into UK companies…

    …protecting Government procurement from national security threats…

    …and better understanding our supply chains.

    As we scan the horizon, we see that rapid technological advancements will only make this task more urgent.

    We’ve had a glimpse into this future…

    …with cyberattacks bringing public services to a halt…

    …and ransomware wiping millions off companies’ share prices.

    Deepfakes have duped consumers…

    …bots have interfered in elections…

    …and intellectual property has been stolen from businesses and academic institutions.

    Now so far, these have been relative skirmishes…

    …wrought by an unholy alliance between hostile states and non-state actors.

    But with the enormous potential of artificial intelligence and quantum computing…

    …there is a very real possibility that the world’s next shock will be a tech shock.

    And so next week the United Kingdom will be convening the world’s leading nations and pioneering AI companies for the first global frontier AI safety summit.

    These emerging technologies represent exciting opportunities.

    …they exist at the cutting edge of development, often yet to be commercialised and with unknown end applications…

    But we also know that hostile state actors are actively seeking these technologies for their own competitive advantage…

    … or even to enhance their military capability.

    And the most valuable commodities to both businesses and nations are increasingly the source code… the technical designs… or other – intangible – intellectual property that underpins innovation.

    Where they have a military or dual-use application, traditional means of controlling these transfers are often simply not enough.

    These Intangible products can now be exported in a second – attached to an email…

    ….with no customs official to check any documentation…

    …nor a list of multilaterally agreed product categories to check against…

    …because these technologies have only just been invented…

    …often in small university spin-outs, rather than the established defence contractors used to working with Government.

    This dynamism in the tech sphere, must be met with dynamism within Government.

    Now I know that ‘Dynamism’ and ‘Government’, not, perhaps, two words which you often put together…

    But we cannot afford not to be…

    This is why I am reviewing our tools to ensure they are fit for purpose:

    • Examining our export regime controls, to ensure that it is striking the right balance for emerging technologies relevant to national security…
    • Exploring other paths through which this sensitive technology can leak out unchecked such as through outbound investment flows…
    • And working with academic institutions and start-ups to ensure they are alert to the risks, and have the toolkit to protect themselves.

    We need to build a policy environment that provides the private sector with the confidence to innovate…

    Confidence to build partnerships…

    Confidence to grow.

    Economic security should never be seen as a constraint on growth.

    It is an enabler of it.

    UK-KSA ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP

    So just as allies work together on physical security, so we need to work together to build economic security.

    Just as important as the collaboration between nation states is the partnership between Government and business.

    Which is why, earlier this year, we established the National Protective Security Authority within MI5 – so that our security services can support business in understanding and protecting themselves against the threats they face.

    The partnership between the UK and Saudi Arabia is a fine example of the collaboration we need.

    We made the green finance deal made last year – ensuring we protect our energy needs for the future…

    We’ve made an agreement on critical minerals this year – enhancing our collaboration and exploring new sources of supplying these elements that are so vital to our future prosperity and national security.

    And through to next year I will personally be prioritising building the bond between our two kingdoms.

    So today I can announce that I will be leading a new strand of engagement with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia  to enhance our cooperation and mutually-beneficial investment relationships, building on similar relations across the gulf.

    The partnership between our kingdoms has helped to shape the world we live in, and will be a linch-pin of shaping the future through to 2030.

    But just as important as the collaboration between nation states, is the partnership between government and business.

    So I will be Chairing a new Public-Private Forum between Government and business on economic security challenges… with the first meetings later this year.

    And I want to be very clear to all of you, that my door is always open to investors to discuss our economic security agenda.

    And our first task when Prime MInister Rishi Sunak was to restore the predictability and stability that investors so cherish in the United Kingdom.

    Our task now is to drive growth, jobs, prosperity and investment. And I know that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will be a key partner in that mission.

    PROSPERITY AGENDA

    But we should also never underestimate how much our peace, stability, and resilience to shocks are underpinned by our prosperity.

    A strong, growing economy doesn’t just allow you to invest in your armed forces….

    …it also allows you to deliver for your people…

    …it is a signal to the world that you are a serious partner and a key player.

    Those who will succeed in this age of uncertainty, as new economic powers vie for pole position…

    …are those with the fastest-growing, most vibrant, dynamic economies.

    And those nations – and those businesses – will get to shape the new global order.

    And the UK is laser-focused on that prosperity agenda.

    We are wide open for business…

    …a world-leader in climate solutions, life sciences and creativity…

    …a wonderful place to invest and innovate…

    …and a partner with whom to seize technological opportunities.

    Happily these areas where we excel are the areas where Saudi wants to grow.

    So your Vision 2030 is our vision too.

    We’re by your side…

    …with scores of fund managers flocking to Riyadh…

    …and hundreds of UK businesses operating all across Saudi.

    Meanwhile, of course London’s global financial centre remains committed to being the preferred hub for this part of the world…

    …thousands of Saudi students and tourists are in Britain…

    …and Saudi investment is benefitting every corner of our country.

    That is all part of a deepening partnership with the wider GCC – the UK’s 7th largest export market…

    …and with whom we hope to increase trade still further through a free trade agreement.

    Geopolitical shifts are a great challenge to all our economies…

    …but we can turn them into an opportunity to build a new world order based on rules, competition, open markets, innovation and investment.

    Because that is the definition of dynamism: turning challenges into opportunities.

    Not ignoring the threat of climate change but seizing the opportunities we have to build a green future.

    Not shunning artificial intelligence but using it to solve some of the greatest problems we face.

    Not turning inwards as new powers emerge and challenges arise, but forging new alliances and strengthening old ones.

    That is how we will withstand shocks, build resilience and embrace opportunities for all our people.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Farmers and growers to be given continued access to crucial plant protection products [October 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Farmers and growers to be given continued access to crucial plant protection products [October 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 24 October 2023.

    British farmers and growers will continue to have access to important pesticides to support resilient and profitable food production and cut input costs, the government has announced today.

    Following feedback from farmers and industry, these plans will ensure farmers and growers can continue to buy and use seeds treated with EU-approved pesticides, and more cost-effective pesticides identical to those authorised in Great Britain can continue being imported.

    The plans will not only provide certainty to farmers so they know which treated seeds and plant protection products they can use in coming growing seasons, but will also help improve the availability and reduce the cost of pesticides.

    These treated seeds are important for both the arable and horticulture sectors and are particularly important for maize – a crop that is crucial for dairy farmers and in energy production.

    The government shared these plans with Parliament yesterday which, once agreed, will come into force by the end of the year. This means there will be no break in the existing treated seed schemes (currently due to expire on 31 December), so that farmers can buy and use treated seeds ready for next growing season.

    These measures will provide the agricultural industry and farming communities with valuable time to adapt, whilst also ensuring that we continue to support our farmers to put affordable and high-quality food on our tables.

    Farming Minister Mark Spencer said:

    The government recognises the challenges faced by farmers and growers in importing treated seeds and more cost-effective pesticide products from the EU as the transition period concludes.

    Ensuring that British farmers and growers have access to the tools they need to produce food sustainably and affordably is a priority. The measures announced today will address the potential impacts and concerns raised by our valued farming sector.

    Under current timelines, farmers and growers were set to lose access to these products at the end of this year. However, the temporary measures will enable farmers and growers in Great Britain to:

    • Continue using seeds treated with plant protection products authorised for use in the EU for an additional 3.5 years, extending up to 1 July 2027.
    • Reinstate trade permits for the import of PPPs that are identical to those authorised in Great Britain for a maximum of two years.

    Continuing to give farmers access to these products will help to improve their availability and reduce costs, while providing certainty for the sector over the coming years.

    In the long term, this change will ensure manufacturers have time to submit full applications for GB authorisations for seed treatments in order to ensure that they can continue to benefit from the UK market. They have heard from farmers and understand the demand – the regulator will continue working with industry to support them in submitting successful applications.

    We are also encouraging farmers to develop and adapt their practices, including through integrated pest management approaches, which can increase resilience by diversifying crop protection techniques. We are already supporting farmers to increase their use of integrated pest management – including through new paid actions such as the Sustainable Farming Incentive scheme’s integrated pest management Standard which includes payments to carry out an assessment and produce an integrated pest management plan.

    The bureaucratic Common Agricultural Policy disproportionately rewarded the largest landowners and held back smaller farmers, while delivering little for food productivity or the environment.

    The government will continue to make improvements to our Environmental Land Management schemes to ensure they work best for farmers, such as bringing forward early payments in a way which would not have been possible under the Common Agricultural Policy.

    The 2023 offer has been expanded and made more flexible in response to farmer feedback with over 23 paid-for actions now on offer including improving hedgerows, nutrient management, farmland wildlife and low input grassland. Other improvements mean that farmers can choose what combination of actions are right for them – unlike previously where actions were grouped into standards.

    ENDS

    Notes to editors:

    • The measures are set out in a draft affirmative Statutory Instrument which was laid in Parliament yesterday: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukdsi/2023/9780348252651/pdfs/ukdsi_9780348252651_en.pdf
    • These measures must be agreed through the Houses of Parliament before they are made into law.

    Seed Treatments:

    • After exiting the EU, the government put arrangements in place until the end of 2023 to continue the import and use of seeds treated in the EU. However, recognising the importance of the scheme, we have today laid secondary legislation in Parliament to introduce an extension to measures that allow seeds treated with PPPs authorised for use in an EU or EEA member state to be imported, marketed and used in GB for an additional three-and-a-half years, up to 1 July 2027.
    • Following these proposals, manufacturers will have the opportunity to submit applications for full PPP authorisations for seed treatments, covering both existing and new products.
    • Simultaneously, farmers and growers will have the flexibility to consider utilising new products and alternative methods as part of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach. Notably, the government is already assisting farmers in increasing their adoption of IPM, including through newly introduced incentivised actions in the Sustainable Farming Incentive scheme, which was announced earlier this year.

    Parallel Trade:

    • The arrangements put in place at the point of the EU exit aimed to smooth the transition to a GB regime without parallel trade. However, global events have led to price increases across a range of important sectors, meaning that the need to access cost effective PPPs has become more acute.
    • Therefore, in response to stakeholder concern from across farming industry, we have today also laid secondary legislation in Parliament to introduce measures which will allow those who held a valid Parallel Trade Permit on 31 December 2022, to apply for it be reinstated for a maximum of two years.
    • This temporary measure will be in place while we address the limited competition and potential short-term gaps in the market that have arisen from the potential loss of parallel pesticide products.
    • Guidance will be published on HSE’s website when the regulation has completed the Parliamentary process.

    Standards:

    • As with any policy on pesticides, maintaining protections for the environment and human health is paramount.
    • Products imported through the parallel trade scheme must be identical to the GB reference product. We will continue to use both intelligence-led investigation and a broad range of controls to monitor, identify and act on any products that do not meet these standards.
    • The import of treated seeds will be restricted to products authorised in one or more EU countries. This means that they must have passed through a strict regulatory regime with similar high standards to GB to be imported and used in this country. Any products for which the authorisation is withdrawn in the EU will no longer be legal to import and use in GB.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Innovation projects in adult social care receive £42.6 million boost [October 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Innovation projects in adult social care receive £42.6 million boost [October 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 24 October 2023.

    Accelerating Reform Fund to support innovation in local areas to boost quality and accessibility of adult social care in England.

    • Projects include new ways to support unpaid carers, new digital tools for recruitment and retention, and increased social prescribing
    • Local authorities invited to register for a share of the £42.6 million in grant funding for projects in their area

    Unpaid carers and those requiring care are in line to benefit from innovative new projects backed by a £42.6 million fund announced by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) today (24 October 2023), as the government continues to deliver on its vision for social care reform.

    The Accelerating Reform Fund will focus on trialling and expanding new approaches to providing care and improving services for unpaid carers and is part of the department’s Innovation and Improvement Unit. This fund includes our commitment to invest up to an additional £25 million to support unpaid carers.

    It is intended to fund projects which support our 10-year vision for adult social care, which focuses on 3 objectives:

    • people have choice, control and support to live independent lives
    • people can receive outstanding quality and tailored care and support
    • people find adult social care fair and accessible

    Local authorities are invited to register their interest in partnership with others in their integrated care systems to fund local innovation projects, which will be evaluated for potential rollout across the country.

    Minister for Care, Helen Whately, said:

    I’m delighted to see the sector developing creative ways to move towards our 10-year vision for adult social care, and this funding is intended to help accelerate and grow these innovative approaches more widely.

    Our selfless unpaid carers are often the unsung heroes of the care sector – which is why I’ve asked that they are at the heart of this funding, aimed at supporting locally tailored projects that boost the quality, accessibility and independence of care.

    Examples of projects include Shared Lives, a care and support service that matches people aged 16 and above who want to live independently in their community with Shared Lives carers. People move in with their Shared Lives carers and are supported within the context of the carer’s home and family. Support can vary depending on what suits the person, but can include temporary care and support, a day service or longer-term overnight care.

    An independent cost comparison of Shared Lives found that it has significantly lower costs for people with learning disabilities and people with mental ill health than other forms of regulated social care, such as residential care. Research by the Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE) found that Shared Lives can result in an average saving of £8,000 for people with mental health needs and £26,000 for people with learning disabilities.

    For more examples of innovation priorities, including case studies, see accelerating reform in adult social care in England: priorities for innovation and scaling.

    Kirsty McHugh, Carers Trust’s CEO, said:

    Carers Trust welcomes the focus in the Accelerating Reform Fund on the essential role that unpaid family carers play in our health and social care system. We know from our network of local carer organisations that innovation is already underway across the country.

    We’re therefore looking forward to some fruitful collaborations between local authorities, local carer organisations and unpaid family carers themselves in the development and scaling of support which provide unpaid family carers with the help they desperately need.

    Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, said:

    We’re pleased that the £25 million committed to unpaid carers is now in play – it will be vital in helping to establish innovative and supportive local practices that support unpaid carers’ needs.

    With an estimated 12,000 people a day becoming unpaid carers, and a rise in the numbers providing more than 50 hours of care each week, this funding is really necessary.

    We hope it paves the way forward for longer-term innovation and support that is focused on unpaid carers’ unique needs.

    The fund will support local authorities to take forward projects relevant to their local needs, working collaboratively with local partners in their integrated care system regions, including the NHS, care providers, and voluntary and community sector groups.

    It will support at least 2 projects per region, with one of those having a particular focus on unpaid carers. All projects should consider the needs of people who receive care as well as unpaid carers, and ensure they are inclusive of the diverse needs of local populations.

    SCIE will be offering hands-on support to local authorities to develop local partnerships and deliver projects. The institute will also collect and share valuable learnings from projects across the country.

    Kathryn Smith, Chief Executive of SCIE, said:

    SCIE looks forward to working with local authorities to deliver the Accelerating Reform Fund for adult social care. This exciting programme focuses on scaling and spreading urgently needed social care innovation in key areas like supporting the UK’s incredible army of hardworking unpaid carers and delivering new care models.

    SCIE’s hands-on support will ensure participating projects benefit from shared learning and expert insights. We will shortly be offering a series of information sessions about the fund, what’s expected from programme participants and how to apply for funding, including with local partnerships.

    Those projects that are funded will be evaluated to inform future decisions on embedding models of care in the community and overcome barriers around the lack of evidence on efficacy in the future.

    Local authorities, in collaboration with partners in their integrated care system area, are invited to submit their expression of interest to DHSC by 12 January 2024.

  • PRESS RELEASE : The UK stands resolutely with Israel in defending itself against terror – Minister for Security Tom Tugendhat statement at the UN Security Council [October 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : The UK stands resolutely with Israel in defending itself against terror – Minister for Security Tom Tugendhat statement at the UN Security Council [October 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 24 October 2023.

    Statement by Minister for Security Tom Tugendhat at the UN Security Council meeting on the Middle East.

    Thank you, President, and thank you to the Secretary-General, the Deputy Special Coordinator, and the Special Envoy for their briefings. I welcome the Israeli and Palestinian Foreign Ministers to the chamber.

    The past 17 days have shocked all of us around this table who value the dignity of human life. It is a reminder of the solemn responsibility we carry to uphold peace and security across the world. Israel is a nation in mourning. It is also a nation still under attack. The violence did not end on 7 October.

    Terrorist rockets are still raining down on civilian towns and cities in Israel. Around 200 of her citizens are still being held hostage in Gaza. Some of those are fellow British citizens. Some of those families were in this room only a few moments ago. Israel has the right to defend itself. And the duty to protect all those on its territory, of whatever religion they may be, from terrorism.

    We recognise that Palestinians are suffering too. Thousands have been killed in this conflict. Over 1 million have been displaced. We know that Hamas are using innocent Palestinian children, civilians, and others as human shields. They have embedded themselves in civilian communities. Hamas care more for the opinion of their paymasters in Tehran than they do for the opinion of their fellow citizens. We know they fire rockets that often fall short, killing and injuring innocent Palestinians. Those people are victims of Hamas too. It is a terrorist organisation that is not just a threat to Israel and the Palestinians but to many others in the region.

    President, the UK stands resolutely with Israel in defending itself against terror. We are clear that it must act in line with international humanitarian law and take every possible step to avoid harming civilians. We have given that message to Israel as a friend and ally and we restate that position in this Council. We must urgently get more humanitarian support into Gaza. Sustained and unimpeded humanitarian access must be allowed so civilians can receive lifesaving support as quickly and as effectively as possible. We welcome the news that the Rafah crossing opened to aid trucks in recent days. This was an important first step and testament to the power of diplomacy.  However, it is not enough.

    As the Secretary-General has said, humanitarian access needs to be sustainable and at a scale. A constant stream of aid ­– water, fuel, medicine and food – is desperately needed. The UK is doing its part and has committed $37 million of extra support to help civilians in Gaza.

    President, we must prevent this conflict sparking conflict beyond Gaza and engulfing the wider region in war. The attacks by Hizballah terrorists on Israel’s northern border, rising tensions in the West Bank, and missiles and drones launched from Yemen all warn of the conflagration that is possible. It is in the interest of Israeli and Palestinian civilians, and all states in the region, that this conflict does not spread further.

    That is why my Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary have been in the region, engaging closely with our friends and partners to avoid escalation. Now is the time for dogged diplomacy that recognises the hard realities and delivers help now. Lastly, President, the UK’s longstanding position on the Middle East Peace Process remains clear: we support a negotiated settlement leading to a safe and secure Israel living alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state. The events of the past week show – with total clarity – the need to achieve these goals. Hope and humanity must win out.

    I thank you.

  • Keir Starmer – 2023 Speech on the Situation in the Middle East

    Keir Starmer – 2023 Speech on the Situation in the Middle East

    The speech made by Keir Starmer, the Leader of the Opposition, on 31 October 2023.

    Thank you all for coming today.

    And thank you to Chatham House for hosting and for your resolute commitment to dialogue on this issue.

    An issue that so many people recoil from out of despair.

    A despair that in the last three weeks has arguably reached new depths.

    Indeed, anyone who has followed this closely will have seen images that can never be unseen.

    Tiny bodies, wrapped in bundles.

    In Israel and Gaza.

    Mothers and fathers shattered by the ultimate grief.

    The innocent dead.

    Israeli. Palestinian. Muslim. Jew.

    It’s a tragedy where the facts on the ground are changing by the minute, but where the consequences will last for decades and the trauma might never fade.

    A crisis where the search for solutions is shrouded, not just by the fog of war but by an ever-darkening cloud of misinformation.

    Nonetheless, we must do what we can and we must explain what we do.

    Democratic accountability matters – particularly in light of the rising temperature on British streets.

    Our efforts must respond to the two immediate tragedies.

    To the 7th of October – the biggest slaughter of Jews – and that is why they were killed, do not doubt that, since the Holocaust.

    Men, women, children, babies murdered, mutilated and tortured by the terrorists of Hamas.

    Over 200 hostages, including British citizens, taken back into Gaza.

    Make no mistake.

    This is terrorism on a scale and brutality that few countries have ever experienced – certainly not this one.

    And that is an immutable fact that must drive our response to these events.

    As must the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza which again, plays out on a previously unimaginable scale.

    Thousands of innocent Palestinians…

    Dead.

    Displaced.

    Desperate for food and water, reduced to drinking contaminated filth, hiding out in hospitals for shelter whilst in those same buildings, babies lie in incubators that could turn off at any moment.

    At every stage during this crisis, my approach has been driven by the need to respond to both these tragedies.

    To stand by the right to self-defence of any nation which suffers terrorism on this scale alongside the basic human rights of innocent Palestinians caught, once again, in the crossfire.

    To focus, at every stage, on the practical steps that might make a material difference on the ground.

    In the short-term – on the humanitarian conditions in Gaza and the efforts by Israel to rescue her hostages.

    But in the future, also to the hope that I know still burns brightly for those who want peace.

    The two-state solution.

    An Israel where every citizen enjoys the security they need.

    And a viable Palestinian state where the Palestinian people and their children enjoy the freedoms and opportunities that we all take for granted.

    That is why, while I understand calls for a ceasefire, at this stage I do not believe that is the correct position now, for two reasons.

    One, because a ceasefire always freezes any conflict in the state where it currently lies.

    And as we speak, that would leave Hamas with the infrastructure and the capability to carry out the sort of attack we saw on October the 7th.

    Attacks that are still ongoing.

    Hostages who should be released – still held.

    Hamas would be emboldened and start preparing for future violence immediately.

    And it is this context which explains my second reason, which is that our current calls for pauses in the fighting for clear and specific humanitarian purposes, and which must start immediately is right in practice as well as principle.

    In fact it is – at this moment– the only credible approach that has any chance of achieving what we all want to see in Gaza – the urgent alleviation of Palestinian suffering.

    Aid distributed quickly.

    Space to get hostages out.

    That is why it is also the position shared by our major allies, in the US and the EU and I urge all parties to heed its call.

    Over time, the facts on the ground will inevitably change in relation to both hostages being rescued and Hamas’s capability to carry out attacks like we saw on October the 7th.

    And we must move to cessation of fighting as quickly as possible.

    Because the reality is that neither the long-term security of Israel nor long-term justice for Palestine can be delivered by bombs and bullets.

    Open-ended military action, action without a clear and desired political outcome is ultimately futile.

    This needs to begin now because a political agreement – however unlikely that seems today, however painful the first steps are to take – is the only way to resolve this conflict, once and for all.

    That is why our position and our counsel has always been that Israel must submit to the rules of international law.

    The right to self-defence is fundamental but it is not a blank cheque.

    The supply of basic utilities like water, medicines, electricity and yes, fuel to civilians in Gaza cannot be blocked by Israel.

    Every life matters, so every step must be taken to protect civilians from bombardment.

    Palestinians should not be forced to leave their homes en masse, but where they have no choice but to flee within Gaza we need crystal clear guarantees that they will be able to return quickly.

    You cannot overstate the importance of this last point.

    In conflicts like this, the most painful blows are those that land on the bruises of history.

    And for Palestinians – the threat of displacement sends a shiver down the spine.

    It must be disavowed urgently, clearly and by all.

    Because, while it may feel like a truism, so often the trauma of the present, leads directly to the tragedy of the future.

    Hamas know this.

    They knew Israel would have to respond.

    Their aim on October the 7th was not just to kill Jews, it was to bring death upon their fellow Muslims in Gaza.

    A plan, written in blood, to isolate Israel from the West, destroy its improving relations with other Arab Nations and ultimately, provoke wider regional conflicts across the Middle East.

    That threat remains real.

    And I echo President Biden’s sage advice to Israel.

    To understand, in its own interest, why a whirlwind of understandable emotion and rage must not blind it to the fact that it is Hamas it must target, Hamas that is the enemy, Hamas brutality that must be prevented, and not the Palestinian people, who must be protected.

    So I say again – we have to get many more aid trucks across the Rafah crossing.

    We have to get food, water, electricity, medicine and fuel into Gaza.

    We have to preserve innocent lives.

    Hospitals must be protected and cannot become targets.

    Across the West – we have been calling for this for weeks.

    But it hasn’t happened.

    The siege conditions haven’t lifted.

    That’s unacceptable – and it cannot continue.

    The risk of regional escalation is real and must be prevented.

    This is why millions of people across our country are rightly concerned.

    Concerned as well – about the impact this is having on communities here in Britain.

    There are some who want us divided.

    But our approach to multi-culturalism is envied around the globe.

    Jews, Christians, and Muslims live side-by-side and this is so ordinary it is barely remarked upon.

    Inter-faith marriages are common.

    People celebrate each others’ traditions and festivals as naturally as they do their own.

    The freedom of religious expression is uncontroversial.

    We don’t stop often enough to reflect on how unusual this is.

    How Britain’s modern diverse democracy is an existential challenge to people, all around the world, who say this cannot be done, something we’ve worked hard for, through the generations and that at moments like this we do have a responsibility to fight for it.

    We cannot have a Britain where Jewish business are attacked, Jewish schools marked with red paint, Jewish families hiding who they are.

    We cannot have a Britain where Muslim women feel scared to take public transport, Mosques are attacked, Palestinian restaurants receive death threats.

    No – this isn’t our Britain.

    And in the Labour Party we will have to reach out to communities under pressure and show them the respect and empathy they deserve as a fundamental British right.

    But ultimately, the gravest ramifications of failure, will of course be felt in the Middle East itself.

    For too long the international community has put the Israeli-Palestinian conflict into the too difficult box.

    There is no recent equivalent of anything like the concerted push for peace we saw in the 1990s and early 2000s.

    No – what has happened is we have continually paid lip service to a two-state solution.

    Because it’s easier – convenient – perhaps to look away.

    To look away from Gaza.

    Knowing it is controlled by those who want to kill Jews and wipe Israel off the map.

    To look away from Israel.

    Knowing people live without the security which they deserve.

    To look away from the West Bank.

    Knowing more settlements are being built against international law.

    Now – I don’t say any of this to start a new round of arguments or hand-wringing.

    Instead this must be the time for a new resolve.

    A renewed push, from all parties, to find a way to peace.

    It will mean engaging with our Arab partners, working urgently on viable plans for a Palestine free from the terrorism of Hamas.

    It will mean engaging with Israel, seeking to address its security concerns in the future but showing clearly that the settlement building is unacceptable, unlawful and has to stop.

    The Palestinian people need to know there is a genuine will and determination from Israel, from Arab states, from the West to finally address their plight in deeds as well as words.

    Because the Palestinian claim to statehood is not in the gift of a neighbour.

    It is an inalienable right of the Palestinian people and the clear logic of any call for a two-state solution.

    So my Labour Party will fight for that cause.

    We will work with international partners towards the recognition of a Palestinian state as part of a negotiated, just and lasting peace.

    Because even in the darkest days – in fact especially in the darkest days – we have to keep alive the light of peace.

    Fight, despite the horror of the present, for the fragile hope of the future.

    Focusing, always, on the difference we can make.

    This is an old conflict, but it is not and never has been an issue that will be solved by the black and white simplicity of unbending conviction.

    Rather, the colour of peace – always in conflict resolution is grey.

    And in the coming days and months we must do everything we can to fight for it.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK and Bulgaria to bolster cooperation through signing of new joint declaration [October 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK and Bulgaria to bolster cooperation through signing of new joint declaration [October 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 24 October 2023.

    The Foreign Secretary hosts Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mariya Gabriel to sign a declaration on a new UK-Bulgaria Strategic Partnership.

    • UK and Bulgaria have signed a joint declaration to expand defence and security ties, tackling Russian disinformation and organised immigration crime
    • comes after agreement announced earlier this month between Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Prime Minister Nikolai Denkov to tackle illegal migration
    • Foreign Secretary emphasised the need for cooperation on long-term support to Ukraine and security in the Black Sea region

    The UK will tackle illegal migration, serious organised crime and Russian disinformation through a new strategic partnership with Bulgaria.

    The joint declaration signed by Foreign Secretary James Cleverly and his counterpart, Mariya Gabriel, in London today (24 October) will drive cooperation on shared challenges facing European countries, including organised crime and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

    The signing follows an agreement announced earlier this month between Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Prime Minister Nikolai Denkov to tackle illegal migration and organised immigration crime with increased intelligence sharing and operational cooperation.

    The UK has stepped up cooperation on law enforcement since 2020, providing training and equipment to the Bulgarian authorities, including customs and border police, to disrupt the operations of criminal networks.

    The ministers are also expected to discuss the challenging situation in Israel and Gaza and the importance of regional security.

    The new Joint Declaration on the UK-Bulgaria Strategic Partnership also reflects a shared ambition to further enhance close cooperation, including an increase in academic mobility, R&D and digital trade, as well as boosting links between businesses through the Bulgaria Expansion Bridge, which supports companies to set up in the UK.

    Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said:

    The UK and Bulgaria are strong friends and partners. From our joint work tackling illegal migration and serious organised crime, to our unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.

    This strategic partnership cements our commitment to strengthening our cooperation in areas like trade, education and technology, which will help to grow both of our economies.

    During their meeting the foreign ministers emphasised the need to continue to support Ukraine to defend itself against Russian aggression and restore security in the Black Sea region.

    The UK and Bulgaria have been resolute in their support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, in the provision of lethal aid to Ukraine, and aligning closely in the implementation of the largest package of sanctions targeted against those supporting the war in Ukraine.

    The joint declaration demonstrates both countries’ commitment to a wide-ranging relationship, building on over 140 years of strong ties. The foreign ministers also discussed their intention to set up a UK-Bulgaria bilateral forum in the future.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Broader service provision for veterans in Northern Ireland [October 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Broader service provision for veterans in Northern Ireland [October 2023]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 24 October 2023.

    As part of the New Decade, New Approach (NDNA) Agreement, the UK Government committed to several veterans-related initiatives. One of these initiatives was a study into the expansion of the UDR & R IRISH (HS) Aftercare Service (ACS), to cover all UK Armed Forces veterans within Northern Ireland.

    The Veterans Welfare Service Northern Ireland (VWS NI), part of MOD’s Veterans Welfare Service (VWS) provides support to veterans, their families, service leavers, and bereaved families of service personnel in Northern Ireland. This service expansion sees the continued delivery of trusted services formerly provided by the Aftercare Service, combined with wider Veterans Welfare Service support, and is available to all UK Armed Forces Veterans within Northern Ireland.

    The VWS NI expansion provides significant benefits to veterans, offering the same high grade, holistic welfare service to all veterans living in Northern Ireland, without reducing the current support to existing clients.

    On 20 October 2023, The Veterans’ Commissioner for Northern Ireland, Danny Kinahan, attended the event at the new VWS NI Headquarters, where he cut the ribbon to formally open the building and officially launch VWS NI.

    Danny Kinahan, Veterans’ Commissioner for Northern Ireland said:

    Since being appointed as NI Veterans Commissioner I have championed a single service for NI Veterans, to aid in providing welfare support, finance & benevolence assistance and pension advice, amongst other services. In April 2023, Veterans Welfare Service Northern Ireland (VWS NI) was stood up. Formerly the UDR & R IRISH (HS) Aftercare Service (ACS), its service expansion levels the playing field, enabling Armed Forces veterans and their dependants to avail of a high-quality service which delivers the best of MOD’s VWS and ACS, without reducing support to existing clients. I am encouraged by the progress made, which is inclusive of all cap badges and services, and provides that single service. I hope that all veterans living in Northern Ireland will feel supported, understood and valued when reaching out to a Veterans Welfare Service, that can be trusted in their time of need.

    Mr Kinahan toured the VWS NI offices and spoke to the teams who deliver support to the veteran community.

    The VWS NI HQ and each of the four Welfare Teams were represented at the event (Coleraine, Portadown, Holywood, and Enniskillen). Veterans and clients of VWS NI also attended the event to share their experiences.

    Rob Rowntree, Deputy Head Armed Forces & Veterans Services, Defence Business Services said:

    I’m delighted to be here today to celebrate the completion of an important piece of work to deliver a ‘step change’ in support for all veterans in Northern Ireland, irrespective of their Service or Cap badge. The expansion of the After Care Service into Defence Business Services means that we can offer all veterans the very best of Government veterans support by building on the capability and experience of the After Care Service with the expertise of the Veterans Welfare service to provide a ‘one stop shop’ for all. Moreover, the ability to access facilities throughout Northern Ireland demonstrates that we have created a much more flexible and agile service for our veterans.

    There are additional services that will endure such as MOD funded medical provision for psychological therapy and physiotherapy for service-related ailments, non-public funded welfare support for widows, bereaved, and disabled ex-soldiers, including Respite and Remembrance activities; the latter funded by Regimental Benevolent Funds.

    VWS NI would like to assure UDR and Royal Irish (Home Service) veterans that delivery via a local community-based welfare service for Northern Ireland will continue. Outreach team locations and numbers will endure, the support our veterans are offered will not be diminished and there will be no degradation in service.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government, Katie Piper and industry meet to tackle acid attacks [October 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government, Katie Piper and industry meet to tackle acid attacks [October 2023]

    The press release issued by the Home Office on 23 October 2023.

    The meeting brought together experts and stakeholders to consider what more could be done.

    Government, law enforcement, academics, survivors, charities and industry, came together today (23 October) to discuss the horrible nature of acid attacks and consider what more can be done to protect our society.

    The meeting, jointly chaired by the Safeguarding Minister, Sarah Dines, and Katie Piper OBE, was an opportunity for government, policing, trading standards, charities, retailers and the delivery sector to discuss the action to date in preventing and tackling corrosive attacks and what more can be done to clamp down on these horrendous acts of violence which devastate lives.

    Government action to tackle the use of acid and other corrosives in violent attacks is based on four key strands: strong policing, effective legislation, providing support for victims and survivors, and working with retailers to restrict access to acids and other harmful corrosive products.

    Minister for Safeguarding, Sarah Dines, said:

    Acid attacks devastate lives and leave victims with both emotional and physical scars and our thoughts remain with all the survivors and their families.

    The government is committed to doing all we can to prevent acid and other corrosive substances being used as weapons, and to ensure strong punishments for those who do so.  We have already introduced the measures within the Offensive Weapons Act which makes it an offence to carry these substances in public, to ensure the cowards who use acids as weapons face the full force of the law, and also ban the sale of acid and other corrosives to under-18s and the delivery of such substances to residential premises and lockers to restrict the availability and prevent their misuse.

    We know that legislation alone will not prevent attacks, which is why conversations such as today’s are so important.  I thank those who participated, especially, Katie Piper, Andreas Christopheros and the other survivors who are so brave and courageous.

    The round table brought together the many structures both inside and outside of government aimed at protecting the public from such attacks to discuss, retailers’ statutory obligations, including around age verification, and to ensure they have all the necessary tools to effectively enforce these measures.

    The meeting also explored ideas about what more can be done to reduce the risk of corrosive products being misused as weapons, whether retailers are taking this seriously enough and if more can be done by staff to question the use at the time of purchase.

    Katie Piper and Andreas Christopheros previously met with the Home Secretary on 12 December 2022 to discuss their concerns and ideas, which has led to today’s event.

    Katie Piper, philanthropist and broadcaster, said:

    Today was about progress, prevention and proactive conversation.

    Over the past couple of years I have worked tirelessly to keep this topic on the government agenda.

    This is a very serious issue and statistics show violent crime using acid is increasing at an alarming and disturbing rate.

    Reducing accessibility and the sale of corrosive substances is absolutely crucial to reducing acid attacks, and the resulting horrendous impact it has on victims.

    Retailers, associations and delivery gateways all have a colossal duty and responsibility to help us in our aims.

    I remain absolutely determined in my mission for change – today for accessibility, but tomorrow also for sentencing, legislation, funding and increased regulation.

    Andreas Christopheros, acid attack survivor and campaigner, said:

    Surviving and living through the wake of an acid attack is a challenge like no other. Survivors are left broken physically, emotionally, and financially and many will carry these struggles for the rest of their lives.

    It’s promising that the government has engaged in our campaign for change,  however, more needs to happen. We must keep pushing for a better future for survivors of these horrific crimes.

    National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for Corrosive Attacks, Deputy Assistant Commissioner Alexis Boon, said:

    The use of corrosive substances to commit acts of violence devastates lives and causes physical and psychological damage to victims that can last a lifetime.

    We are committed to working with the public and partners to tackle this appalling crime and welcome efforts made in recent years to help, including changes to legislation brought about by the Offensive Weapons Act 2019, that restrict sale, possession, and delivery of corrosive substances. Reflecting corrosive substances in UK legislation for the first time, rightly demonstrates how serious such offences are.

    Today’s meeting with key partners was extremely constructive and indicates a real joint commitment to tackling this crime. Many corrosive substances are available over the counter at supermarkets and DIY stores, including for example bleach and drain cleaners. It is important that law enforcement and government work closely with retailers themselves, to enhance our intelligence picture, and determine the best ways to keep these products from falling into the hands of people who intend to use them to cause harm.

    Serious crimes such as this should not go unreported. I would urge anyone who is a victim of this type of attack to report it to the police, so that it can dealt with positively and sensitively.

  • PRESS RELEASE : New prison ‘no-fly zones’ for drug-delivering drones [October 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : New prison ‘no-fly zones’ for drug-delivering drones [October 2023]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 23 October 2023.

    Vast new ’no-fly zones’ will be enforced over all prisons in England and Wales to crack down on gangs using drones to smuggle drugs, phones and weapons that drive criminality behind bars.

    • new airspace restrictions to create 400 metre ‘no-fly zones’ around prisons
    • offenders who break the rules face up to ten years behind bars
    • tough new security measures to cut key supply route of illegal drugs and phones

    New legislation made this week will make it an automatic offence to fly drones within 400 metres of any closed prison or young offender institution in England and Wales. Drone operators that break the rules could face fines of up to £2,500 while those found smuggling illicit items will face up to 10 years in prison.

    Drone sightings at prisons have increased sharply in recent years and current air space restrictions mean police can only act on drone sightings where there is evidence of contraband being illegally smuggled.

    By creating a virtual ‘no-fly zone’ around prison airspace, the new restrictions mean police and prison staff will be able to act quickly to identify suspicious drones and take swift action against suspected criminal activity, as well as enhancing security by preventing illegal filming.

    Prisons Minister Damian Hinds said:

    This is the latest step in the war we are winning to stop drugs, weapons and phones getting into our prisons.

    These virtual ‘no-fly’ zones – along with our new airport-style X-ray scanners – mean we can clamp down better than ever on violence behind bars to keep both prisoners and staff safe from harm.

    Between 2019 and 2021, 504 drones were either sighted, intercepted or seized around prisons in England and Wales, and police and prison staff have worked together to help secure more than 70 convictions since June 2016. Those sentenced are serving more than 240 years in prison.

    A single attempted drone delivery in May 2022 contained a payload of over £35,000 worth of illicit substances and contraband. This included 399 buprenorphine tablets, around 30 grammes of cannabis and 11 mobile phones.

    Today’s announcement (23 October 2023) follows a £100 million investment to bolster prison security across the estate – including 75 additional x-ray body scanners and airport-style Enhanced Gate Security at 42 high-risk prison sites, implementing routine searching of staff and visitors.

    The new restrictions were made into law on Monday 16 October 2023, with the support of Department of Transport and Civil Aviation Authority. It will take effect from 25 January 2024.

    The new measures will build on current legislation including the Air Traffic and Unmanned Aircraft Act 2021 (ATUMA), which gives police the power to intercept or seize drones suspected of being used to break the law, as well as any use of drones which break the Prison Act 1952 – such as through smuggling drugs and weapons.

  • PRESS RELEASE : New £1.8 million competition launched to support innovative transport solutions [October 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : New £1.8 million competition launched to support innovative transport solutions [October 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 23 October 2023.

    The competition will award grants to businesses that seek to provide solutions to some of transport’s most-pressing issues, including decarbonisation.

    • government providing vital support for research to revolutionise our transport sector and address some of transport’s biggest challenges, including decarbonisation
    • research will help support companies across the UK, growing the economy and improving transport for passengers
    • funding comes as the latest round of the Transport Research and Innovation Grants competition, with previous winners including postal drones to connect remote communities and accessibility apps for train stations

    A new £1.8 million competition is opening to support the latest innovative transport solutions as the government seeks to grow the economy while looking at ways to decarbonise transport.

    The latest round of funding through the Transport Research and Innovation Grant (TRIG) competition has opened today (23 October 2023) and sees an increased available grant amount per winner of up to £45,000 per project.

    This round of funding will look at several different areas including ways to decarbonise airport operations and ways to better use artificial intelligence (AI) to make transport cheaper and quicker.

    The TRIG competition, delivered by the Connected Places Catapult (CPC), awards grants to businesses seeking to develop research and provide solutions to some of transport’s most-pressing issues including decarbonisation.

    Last year’s TRIG competition saw 67 projects awarded funding, including personalised navigation apps for disabled passengers and robots for freight at ports, creating jobs and growing the economy across the UK.

    Technology Minister, Jesse Norman, said:

    TRIG funding has been a huge success over the past 10 years, helping to pioneer the new ideas to solve the transport problems of tomorrow.

    Today’s launch of the latest round of funding promises to build on the knowledge that innovation is key to helping improve transport across the UK, making lives easier and creating jobs.

    This year, the competition is seeking proposals which focus on:

    • airport decarbonisation: innovative ideas to support the development of airport ground infrastructure for zero emission aircraft or to support airport operations transition to zero emission
    • local transport decarbonisation: innovative ideas that accelerate the decarbonisation of local transport systems, demonstrating an understanding of the needs of local areas and communities, whilst also having the potential to be scaled-up across the UK in the future
    • the Future of Freight: innovative ideas that address the opportunities and challenges faced by the Freight and Logistics sector and its supporting services, as outlined in the Future of Freight plan
    • maritime decarbonisation: innovative ideas for maritime solutions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions by the UK’s maritime sector, as set out in the Clean Maritime Plan, and support the transition to net zero by 2050
    • connectivity, AI and digital twins: innovative ideas that combine AI, digital twins and / or digital connectivity together to enable a resilient transport system delivering cheaper, cleaner, and quicker journeys for all
    • open call: innovative ideas that have the potential to address a UK transport challenge, across all modes, challenges and technology areas

    Following its continued success, TRIG is now in its 10th year, with over £12 million has been awarded to 361 projects since 2014. Previous winners have developed a range pioneering of initiatives including:

    • an app that uses augmented reality to help visually impaired passengers get around rail stations
    • kite-powered tug boats to reduce emissions
    • drones to deliver packages in hard-to-reach areas

    Connected Places Catapult’s Chief Executive Officer, Nicola Yates OBE, said:

    Transport research and innovation grants support high-potential innovators to develop their fresh ideas. Alongside financial assistance, they will receive a wide-range of business support from Connected Places Catapult to help them realise their commercial potential.

    The increased funding available per project this year will mean innovators have access to more resources to further their ideas. If you have an innovative idea that could help tackle some of the UK’s transport challenges, I urge you to apply now.

    Previous winners include Edge Innovation, which created a new approach to community car sharing in rural areas.

    Head of Projects at Edge Innovation, Susan Ross, said:

    The programme has enabled a new product, brand and support packages to be created and to move the concept from TRL2 to TRL6. This would not have been possible without the TRIG programme.

    The application process and monitoring processes were user friendly and the teams at CPC and the Department for Transport were very supportive.  I would encourage anyone who has a transport innovation however big or small to apply. I am certainly glad that we did!

    IONA Drones, the first drone solution that meets the needs and regulations for rural logistics, enables efficient and sustainable autonomous deliveries anywhere and for everybody.

    IONA Drones Chief Executive, Etienne Louvet, said:

    TRIG and the CPC network were instrumental on IONA’s research and development efforts, especially when funding gets scarce which naturally penalises industrial technologies.

    Since then, we have continued to work efficiently and are pursuing new later stage opportunities.

    The TRIG competition is now open for applications.