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  • NEWS FROM 100 YEARS AGO : 1 April 1925

    NEWS FROM 100 YEARS AGO : 1 April 1925

    1 APRIL 1925

    Students of Paris University demonstrated against the appointment of Professor Georges Scelle to the Chair of Law, preventing the Professor from lecturing, and eventually coming into conflict with the police. Twenty policemen were injured and 36 students arrested.

    Polling takes place in the Northern Ireland General Election on Friday. The situation is reviewed by a special correspondent.

    Mr Joseph Devlin, who is standing as a Nationalist candidate for one of the Belfast divisions in the Ulster election, referred to the necessity for dealing with social problems. He declared that he would do what lay in his power to bring North and South closer together. Force was no remedy.

    Mr Wheatley, speaking in Glasgow, referred to the “approaching industrial crisis,” and said he thought the Labour movement was not in a fit state to fight or negotiate successfully. He appealed for co-operation between the ILP. and the Trade Unions.

    Ten thousand employees of Co-operative Societies in North-West England have been locked out because of inability to reach an agreement upon a wage question.

    Socialist proposals for the devolution of Parliamentary work on Departmental Committees are advanced in two reports to be submitted to the conference of the Independent Labour Party. The first report advocates Responsible Committees, but the second report insists on the retention of the Cabinet’s collective responsibility, and argues for Advisory Committees only.

    Among the subjects discussed at the Conference of the University Labour Federation, held at Oxford, were the nationalisation of banking, the currency question, and taxation.

  • NEWS FROM 100 YEARS AGO : 31 March 1925

    NEWS FROM 100 YEARS AGO : 31 March 1925

    31 MARCH 1925

    Thirty-two miners are entombed in the Montague Pit, Scotswood-on-Tyne, as the result of an inrush of water. Rescue work is proceeding, but it is feared that eight of the miners have already perished.

    Dr Jarres, the Nationalist candidate, heads the first poll in the German presidential election. But the aggregate vote of the parties of the right has decreased by 3,163,000 compared with the Reichstag elections in May of last year, whereas the Republican vote has risen by 1,641,000. Dr Jarres will probably be the right’s candidate in the second ballot, but it is not clear who will be the nominee of the Republican parties.

    The Roads Improvement Bill was read a second time in the House of Commons. A second reading was given to the Administration of Justice Bill.

    Mr Massey, the New Zealand Premier, underwent an operation. His illness is stated to be serious.

    A bulletin regarding the Earl of Ypres reports “disquieting symptoms,” which give rise to increased anxiety.

    The King, in a message of sympathy to Lady Rawlinson, says that by the death of Lord Rawlinson the Army is deprived of one of its most distinguished commanders, who in peace and war displayed the highest qualities of administration and leadership.

    The first application under the new government regulations for the safeguarding of industries was the subject of inquiry by a Board of Trade Committee, when the Federation of Lace Embroidery Employers’ Associations asked for the imposition of an import duty on machine-made lace and embroideries.

  • NEWS FROM 100 YEARS AGO : 30 March 1925

    NEWS FROM 100 YEARS AGO : 30 March 1925

    30 MARCH 1925

    Students of Paris University demonstrated against the appointment of Professor Georges Scelle to the Chair of Law, preventing the Professor from lecturing, and eventually coming into conflict with the police. Twenty policemen were injured and 36 students arrested.

    Polling takes place in the Northern Ireland General Election on Friday. The situation is reviewed by a special correspondent.

    Mr Joseph Devlin, who is standing as a Nationalist candidate for one of the Belfast divisions in the Ulster election, referred to the necessity for dealing with social problems. He declared that he would do what lay in his power to bring North and South closer together. Force was no remedy.

    Mr Wheatley, speaking in Glasgow, referred to the “approaching industrial crisis,” and said he thought the Labour movement was not in a fit state to fight or negotiate successfully. He appealed for co-operation between the ILP. and the Trade Unions.

    Ten thousand employees of Co-operative Societies in North-West England have been locked out because of inability to reach an agreement upon a wage question.

    Socialist proposals for the devolution of Parliamentary work on Departmental Committees are advanced in two reports to be submitted to the conference of the Independent Labour Party. The first report advocates Responsible Committees, but the second report insists on the retention of the Cabinet’s collective responsibility, and argues for Advisory Committees only.

    Among the subjects discussed at the Conference of the University Labour Federation, held at Oxford, were the nationalisation of banking, the currency question, and taxation.

  • NEWS FROM 100 YEARS AGO : 29 March 1925

    NEWS FROM 100 YEARS AGO : 29 March 1925

    29 MARCH 1925

    The condition of the Earl of Ypres was reported to have improved.

    London County Council recommended the purchase of Hornsey-rise Training College for £12,000 to allow for the erection of block dwellings for 1,000 people.

  • PRESS RELEASE : ‘Pull all the levers possible’ to protect jobs from global turbulence – TUC [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : ‘Pull all the levers possible’ to protect jobs from global turbulence – TUC [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the TUC on 15 April 2025.

    Responding to today’s (Tuesday) labour market data, which suggest risks to the jobs market with payrolled employees falling and vacancies now below the pre-pandemic position, TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said: 

    “With the global turbulence from Trump’s tariff chaos, we should be pulling all the levers possible to protect jobs.  

    “The government did the right thing to safeguard jobs in steel. We will need more action in the weeks ahead to protect jobs across UK industry, including measures to bring down the cost of energy. 

    “The Bank of England must act too. A rate cut in May would ease the pressure on businesses hit by tariffs. And it would protect the household spending and business investment that employment growth depends on.” 

  • PRESS RELEASE : Export bars placed on two paintings by 18th century artist Agostino Brunias [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Export bars placed on two paintings by 18th century artist Agostino Brunias [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport on 16 April 2025.

    Temporary export bars have been placed on two paintings by 18th century Italian artist Agostino Brunias.

    • Export bars have been placed on the paintings to allow time for a UK gallery or institution to acquire them

    Export bars have been placed on two paintings of the island of St Vincent by 18th century artist Agostino Brunias.

    Both paintings depict the island through the lens of the British Empire, with one showing the signing of a treaty and the other a representation of Indigenous life.

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

    The Committee found that ‘Sir William Young Conducting a Treaty with the Black Caribs on the Island of St Vincent’ met the first and third Waverley criteria for its connection with our history and national life. In addition, the Committee found that ‘A family of Charaibes in the Island of St Vincent’ met the third Waverley criterion for its significance to the study of the history of slavery and colonialism.

    The decision on the export licence applications for both paintings will be deferred for a period ending on 15 July 2025 inclusive. At the end of the first deferral period owners will have a consideration period of 15 Business Days to consider any offer(s) to purchase one or both the paintings.

    Sir William Young Conducting a Treaty with the Black Caribs on the Island of St Vincent is set at the recommended price of £240,000 (plus VAT of £8,000). The second deferral period will commence following the signing of an Option Agreement and will last for three months.

    A family of Charaibes in the Island of St Vincent is set at the recommended price of £180,000 (plus VAT of £6,000). The second deferral period will commence following the signing of an Option Agreement and will last for three months.

    Notes to editors

    1. Organisations or individuals interested in purchasing one or both the paintings should contact the RCEWA on 02072680534 or rcewa@artscouncil.org.uk.
    2. The Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest is an independent body, serviced by Arts Council England (ACE), which advises the Secretary of State for  Culture, Media and Sport on whether a cultural object, intended for export, is of national importance under specified criteria.

    Details: A family of Charaibes in the Island of St Vincent

    1. Details of the ITEM are as follows: A family of Charaibes in the Island of St Vincent, c.1773, oil on canvas, by Agostino Brunias (c.1730 – 2 April 1796), 56 x 61 cm.; 22 x 24 in.
    2. Provenance: Commissioned by Sir William Young, 1st Bt (1725–1788), Governor of Dominica; By descent to his son, Sir William Young, F.R.S. (1749–1815), Governor of Tobago; Anonymous sale, Paris, Hotel Drouot, 9 March 1951, lot 74 (as one of a pair); Private collection, France; Anonymous sale, Christie’s, London, 25 September 2003, lot 424; Where acquired by the mother of the present owners.

    Details: Sir William Young Conducting a Treaty with the Black Caribs on the Island of St Vincent

    1. Details of the ITEM are as follows: Sir William Young Conducting a Treaty with the Black Caribs on the Island of St Vincent, 1773, oil on canvas, by Agostino Brunias (c.1730 – 2 April 1796), 56 x 61 cm.; 22 x 24 in.
    2. Provenance: Commissioned by Sir William Young, 1st Bt (1725–1788), Governor of Dominica; By descent to his son, Sir William Young, F.R.S. (1749–1815), Governor of Tobago; Anonymous sale, Paris, Hotel Drouot, 9 March 1951, lot 74 (as one of a pair); Private collection, France; Anonymous sale, London, Christie’s, 25 September 2003, lot 425 (where titled ‘Pacification of the Maroon Negros in the Island of Jamaica’); Where acquired by the mother of the present owners.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Government announces preferred candidate for S4C Chair [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government announces preferred candidate for S4C Chair [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 16 April 2025.

    Delyth Evans is the Government’s preferred candidate for the S4C Chair, the Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy announced today.

    Delyth Evans

    Delyth started her career as a journalist at HTV Wales, working on the flagship current affairs programme ‘Y Byd ar Bedwar’ for S4C. She subsequently worked as a reporter on BBC Radio Four’s ‘World at One’ and ‘PM’ programmes.  Delyth became a Labour Member of the Welsh Assembly (now the Senedd) in 2000, representing the Mid and West Wales constituency, and was a deputy minister for Culture, Environment and Rural Affairs. After stepping down from politics Delyth worked in the charity sector as Chief Executive of Smart Works, a women’s employment charity. Delyth is currently a Board member at Sport Wales, a Governor at Coleg Gwent, and a trustee of the Alacrity Foundation and the Urdd.

    Delyth will now appear on 23 April before MPs on the Welsh Affairs Committee for pre-appointment scrutiny.

    This process for appointing the Chair of S4C is set out in the  Broadcasting Act 1990.

    Ministers were assisted in their decision-making by an Advisory Assessment Panel which included a departmental official and a senior independent panel member approved by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. The Welsh Government and UK Government Wales office were also represented on the Panel.

    UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said:

    “Delyth began her career as a broadcast journalist, and her vision for S4C’s future reflects a deep understanding of the Welsh cultural and media landscape, as well as an enduring commitment to public service.

    “I’m pleased to recommend her for the role of Chair, in which she will no doubt be a proud champion of Welsh-language broadcasting. This marks an exciting chapter for S4C as we develop plans to boost the job opportunities and growth potential of the creative industries in Wales and the rest of the UK.”

    Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:

    “Delyth has a great track record in broadcasting and wealth of experience in public service to bring to the role of S4C Chair.

    “S4C plays a pivotal role in Wales, sustaining and promoting the Welsh language and strengthening our unique identity and culture. The channel is a cornerstone of the strong creative sector in Wales which is vital for economic growth.”

    Remuneration and Governance Code

    • S4C (Sianel Pedwar Cymru, meaning “Channel 4 Wales”) is a British Welsh-language free-to-air television channel.
    • The Chair of S4C is remunerated at £40,000 per annum and the time commitment will be equivalent to an average of two days a week.
    • This appointment process was run in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments.
    • The Broadcasting Act sets out how the Chair will be appointed.
  • NEWS STORY : Tommy Robinson Loses Appeal Against 18-Month Prison Sentence for Contempt of Court

    NEWS STORY : Tommy Robinson Loses Appeal Against 18-Month Prison Sentence for Contempt of Court

    STORY

    Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, better known as Tommy Robinson, has lost his appeal against an 18-month prison sentence for contempt of court. The Court of Appeal in London upheld the sentence, which was imposed in October 2024 after Yaxley-Lennon admitted to breaching a High Court injunction by repeating false allegations against Syrian refugee Jamal Hijazi, who had previously won a libel case against him.​ The contempt charges stemmed from Yaxley-Lennon’s comments in online interviews and a documentary titled “Silenced,” which was widely distributed, including a showing at Trafalgar Square. The Court of Appeal judges stated that the original sentencing judge applied the law appropriately and imposed a fitting punishment.​

    Yaxley-Lennon’s legal team argued that his detention in segregation at Woodhill Prison was adversely affecting his mental health. However, the court dismissed these claims, noting that the segregation was necessary for his own protection and did not constitute solitary confinement, as he had opportunities to spend time out of his cell, work, and communicate with family and friends. The 42-year-old self-styled journalist has been a controversial figure in the UK, known for his far-right activism and previous convictions. Despite his claims of support from U.S. billionaire Elon Musk for his legal fees, Musk has not confirmed this. Yaxley-Lennon’s imprisonment has been a focal point for his supporters, who have organised rallies and spread disinformation in his defence.

  • NEWS STORY : UK and France Condemn Gang Violence in Haiti, Reaffirm Support for Stabilisation Efforts

    NEWS STORY : UK and France Condemn Gang Violence in Haiti, Reaffirm Support for Stabilisation Efforts

    STORY

    The United Kingdom and France have jointly expressed deep concern over escalating gang violence in Haiti, particularly efforts aimed at destabilising the country’s Transitional Presidential Council (TPC).​ In a statement released today, both governments condemned reports of criminal gangs coordinating to undermine Haiti’s fragile political transition. They reiterated their support for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, which is assisting the TPC and the Haitian National Police in combating gang activity and restoring stability.​

    “We reiterate our collective support for CARICOM and the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support mission in assisting the TPC and the Haitian National Police to tackle the gangs who continue to cause daily suffering to the Haitian people,” the statement read. “We are committed to maintaining pressure on those who seek to destabilise Haiti via the implementation of sanctions, and we call on authorities to fully implement the sanctions regime in Haiti.”

    The joint statement underscores the UK and France’s commitment to supporting Haiti’s efforts to restore democratic institutions and the rule of law. Both nations have pledged to continue applying pressure on those who threaten the country’s stability and to support international initiatives aimed at bringing peace and security to the Haitian people.​ This declaration comes amid ongoing international efforts to address the humanitarian and security crisis in Haiti, which has been exacerbated by gang violence and political instability. The UK and France’s reaffirmed support highlights the importance of coordinated international action in assisting Haiti during this critical period.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Becky Wood appointed as Chief Executive Officer of NISTA [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Becky Wood appointed as Chief Executive Officer of NISTA [April 2025]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 16 April 2025.

    New CEO brings wealth of infrastructure leadership experience to new body supporting the implementation of the government’s 10-year infrastructure strategy.

    The National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA) has today announced the appointment of Becky Wood as its new Chief Executive Officer.

    Last October, Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones announced plans to create a new National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA), bringing together the former Infrastructure and Projects Authority (IPA) and National Infrastructure Commission (NIC).

    Formally launched at the beginning of this month, NISTA will look to fix the foundations of our infrastructure system by bringing strategy and delivery under one roof, addressing the systemic delivery challenges that have stunted growth for decades.

    Supporting delivery of our roads, railways, schools and hospitals, it will help overcome the barriers to delivery of UK infrastructure, as well as provide expertise on private finance and implementing the 10-year infrastructure strategy.

    With extensive experience in infrastructure leadership, particularly in the UK transport and international sectors, Becky will bring significant expertise, skills and knowledge to the role.

    Darren Jones, Chief Secretary to the Treasury said:

    I am delighted that Becky is going to lead NISTA as the new CEO, she brings a wealth of experience from the public and private sector overseeing some of the biggest transport projects around the world in the past decade. Her appointment is an important milestone for NISTA’s work in getting a grip on infrastructure delivery, powering growth across the country and delivering on our Plan for Change.

    Sir John Armitt, Chair of the NISTA Council of Expert Advisors said:

    I am pleased to welcome Becky on board to lead NISTA. We are at a critical moment for transforming how we plan and deliver the nation’s infrastructure, and Becky’s leadership will be vital for building an effective and credible institution that can do just that. I look forward to working closely with her in the coming months.

    Becky Wood, NISTA Chief Executive Officer said:

    It is an honour to be appointed to a role that has so much potential to make a vital difference to the everyday lives of people across the UK, ensuring robust delivery of infrastructure and enabling growth.  I am very much looking forward to joining the team in June.

    Becky will formally take up her role as CEO in June 2025.

    Notes to editors:

    • The National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority, formally launched on 1 April 2025, brings together the functions of the Infrastructure and Projects Authority and National Infrastructure Commission, under HM Treasury NISTA is part of a three-pronged approach to addressing the fundamental constraints to infrastructure investment, sitting alongside the 10-year infrastructure strategy, which sets out a long-term plan for the country’s infrastructure, and the new Planning and Infrastructure Bill to unblock planning constraints.
    • She is currently a partner at the consultancy firm EY, and prior to that was a Commercial Advisor at the Infrastructure and Projects Authority. For ten-years Becky oversaw major infrastructure developments at the Department for Transport, serving as the Senior Responsible Officer for the Crossrail, Thameslink and Intercity Express programmes. She also has valuable international experience, having worked on significant infrastructure programmes across both public and private sectors in Australia and New Zealand.
    • Last week, we also announced that the Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones had set up a new Council of Expert Advisors to support the work of the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).
    • For further information, please visit NISTA on gov.uk.