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  • PRESS RELEASE : Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Laos – Jemima Gordon-Duff [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Laos – Jemima Gordon-Duff [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 30 June 2026.

    Ms Jemima Gordon-Duff has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic in succession to Ms Melanie Barlow.

    Ms Gordon-Duff will take up her appointment during August 2026.

    Curriculum Vitae

    Full name: Jemima Gordon-Duff

    YearRole
    2022 to 2026Scottish Government, Deputy Director International Climate Change
    2018 to 2021Accra, Head of Social Sectors
    2016 to 2018Jerusalem, Head of Governance and Security
    2013 to 2016Maputo, Governance Adviser
    2011 to 2013Islamabad, Governance Adviser
    2011Quito, Deputy Head of Mission
    2009 to 2011Head of Human Rights and Democracy, Human Rights Department
    2006 to 2009Kathmandu, Second Secretary (Political)
    2003 to 2005Desk Officer for Serbia and Montenegro
    2003Joined FCO
  • Michael Shanks – 2026 Comments on Nuclear Power and Scotland

    Michael Shanks – 2026 Comments on Nuclear Power and Scotland

    The comments made by Michael Shanks, the Energy Minister, on 30 June 2026.

    For decades thousands of Scots have worked in the nuclear sector and provided the country with low-carbon, reliable power.

    This new report shows there is potential for new nuclear in Scotland, which could boost the country’s energy security and deliver new jobs.

    We are delivering a golden age of nuclear in England and Wales from Sizewell C to small modular reactors. Sadly Scotland is missing out on the enormous economic and energy security potential.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Scotland has “high potential” for new nuclear development [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Scotland has “high potential” for new nuclear development [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 30 June 2026.

    Scotland has areas with “high potential” for new nuclear development from a technical perspective, according to a new siting study by the government’s nuclear delivery body.

    The Energy Secretary commissioned Great British Energy-Nuclear in autumn last year to conduct a technical study into potential suitable areas in Scotland for possible new nuclear developments in the future, including small modular reactors or large-scale power stations.

    Their report identified the following areas currently associated with nuclear power:

    • Torness, East Lothian
    • Dounreay, Caithness
    • Hunterston, North Ayrshire

    As well as other potential areas around the Firth of Forth Estuary and Eastern coast of Scotland.

    The UK government is delivering a golden age of nuclear, greenlighting Sizewell C on the Suffolk coast and small modular reactors in North Wales – supporting thousands of jobs across the country and boosting energy security with clean homegrown power.

    However, the Scottish Government has a long-standing policy that it will not grant planning consent to new nuclear projects in Scotland. UK ministers remain open to discussions with the Scottish Government on deploying new nuclear technologies in Scotland.

    Energy Minister Michael Shanks said:

    For decades thousands of Scots have worked in the nuclear sector and provided the country with low-carbon, reliable power.

    This new report shows there is potential for new nuclear in Scotland, which could boost the country’s energy security and deliver new jobs.

    We are delivering a golden age of nuclear in England and Wales from Sizewell C to small modular reactors. Sadly Scotland is missing out on the enormous economic and energy security potential.

    The nuclear industry now employs a record  98,000 people across the UK , according to the Nuclear Industry Association , and the sector has already seen  11,000 new jobs  last year following government-led investment.  Meanwhile Scotland represented the smallest jobs growth in the nuclear sector last year due to a lack of new projects.

    The government-commissioned report concluded that Scotland has land areas with high potential for new nuclear development, although further detailed site-specific studies, including assessment of grid requirements, community engagement with and development of a commercial case, would be required to confirm suitability for any particular new nuclear project.

    Tom Greatrex, Chief Executive at the Nuclear Industry Association, said: 

    Scotland has the sites, skills, and decades of engineering expertise for new nuclear projects, alongside strong community support. Scotland deserves the same investment and opportunities that are going into new nuclear in England and Wales. It’s time for a new dialogue about energy policy and a robust, diverse mix of clean power sources. New nuclear in Scotland can play a key part in that and unlock new investment that strengthens energy security, supports local communities, and creates thousands of jobs.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK announces further support for Palestine refugees at UN pledging conference [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK announces further support for Palestine refugees at UN pledging conference [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 30 June 2026.

    UK to provide £23 million to the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) to support Palestinian refugees and deliver humanitarian assistance in Gaza and across the region.

    • UK set to announce £23 million of support for UN agency responsible for supporting Palestine refugees at pledging conference in New York.  
    • Announcement forms part of the UK’s commitment to support humanitarian efforts in Gaza and support for Palestine refugees across the region.  
    • Funding comes as United Nations Relief and Workers Agency (UNRWA) continues to face severe restrictions and disruption to its lifesaving support.  

    The UK government  will  today  announce £23 million of support for UNRWA to deliver lifesaving support for Palestine refugees at a pledging conference in New York.

    The funding will help UNRWA continue delivering essential services for up to 5.9 million Palestine refugees across the region. The funding will also support civilians in Gaza, where humanitarian needs remain acute and families face displacement, food insecurity and limited access to basic services. Funding will support primary healthcare, basic education, social services, emergency food and shelter.  

    The conference comes as UNRWA faces serious challenges operating on the ground in Gaza, where 392 of its staff have been killed since October 2023. Ongoing steps by Israel, including legislation introduced in 2024, have sought to severely disrupt its operations. In January, UNRWA’s headquarters in East Jerusalem were demolished and persistent access restrictions on the humanitarian response in Gaza continue to hinder their efforts. 

    The UK’s funding, announced alongside support from other international partners, underlines continued international backing for UNRWA and the vital role of the UN in delivering humanitarian assistance.  

    UNRWA is central to delivering humanitarian assistance and remains uniquely placed to do so at the scale required in Gaza. Its staff, infrastructure and local networks are critical to reaching Palestinian civilians most in need.  UNRWA’s work in the West Bank is also supporting Palestinian refugees facing displacement, heightened insecurity, access restrictions and increasing humanitarian needs for protection and basic services. 

    Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said:   

    The humanitarian situation in Gaza is desperate. Families urgently need food, shelter, clean water and medical support – I saw first-hand during my visit to Jordan how UNRWA is central to delivering help at the scale required.    

    That is why the UK is announcing £23 million of support for UNRWA, alongside international partners, to help sustain its vital work for Palestine refugees across the region and civilians in Gaza.   

    UNRWA must be able to operate safely and effectively. We condemn the Israeli government in preventing aid agencies like UNRWA to undertake lifesaving work. This means all crossings must be opened, and supplies must be allowed in.”  

    The UK continues to support UNRWA’s reform and improvement work, including implementation of its Action Plan following the Colonna Report, which set out measures to strengthen neutrality, accountability and integrity across the agency’s operations.  

    The UK has consistently called for humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza at the scale needed, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2803, which underscores the importance of the full resumption of humanitarian assistance in coordination with the UN and its partners.  

    Israel must comply with its obligations to facilitate humanitarian assistance, ensure aid workers can operate safely, and allow UN agencies, including UNRWA, to reach those in need.  

    The UK remains committed to a negotiated two-state solution that guarantees security and stability for Israelis and Palestinians.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Over 45 miles of new walking routes open on the Suffolk coast [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Over 45 miles of new walking routes open on the Suffolk coast [June 2026]

    The press release issued by Natural England on 30 June 2026.

    On Tuesday 30 June, walkers in Suffolk will gain access to over 45 miles of stunning coastline. Two new sections of the King Charles III England Coast Path will open between Kessingland and Lowestoft, and Bawdsey and Aldeburgh. 

    The openings mean the public can now walk continuously along the Suffolk coast from Shotley Gate to Southwold. The route passes through an area protected for a range of wildlife, along ancient river estuaries, and through the Suffolk and Essex Coasts and Heaths National Landscape. 

    Kessingland to Lowestoft (7 miles)

    This new section trades a busy roadside stretch along the A12 for a cliff top route close to the sea. Where coastal erosion had affected existing footpaths, brand new trail has been created to fill the gaps, including 1.2km of new cliff top path at Pakefield.

    The route connects with the already-open section of the Coast Path running from Lowestoft to Hopton-on-Sea. Walkers should be aware that seasonal fencing is in place on Kessingland beach to protect nesting Little Terns, Ringed Plovers and Oystercatchers during the breeding season.

    Bawdsey to Aldeburgh (38.5 miles)

    This longer section follows the open coast from Bawdsey to Shingle Street, then around the Alde-Ore Estuary to Aldeburgh. Five miles of new access have been created along cliff tops near Bawdsey and along the Butley River.

    Highlights along the route include:

    • The Alde-Ore Estuary — intertidal mudflats and saltmarsh that attract internationally protected overwintering birds including Avocet, Bewick’s Swan and Redshank, as well as important breeding habitat for Marsh Harrier and other species.
    • Orford Quay — a gateway to Orfordness, with its unique vegetated shingle landscape; boat trips to the National Trust site and the RSPB’s Havergate Island reserve run from here.
    • Snape Maltings — a world-renowned arts and cultural venue set in beautiful riverside surroundings.
    • Aldeburgh — a historic seaside town famous for its fish and chips, beach sculpture, and distinctive character.

    Seasonal routes either side of the Butley River protect sensitive wildlife and will be clearly marked, and walkers are asked to follow local signage.

    Hannah Thacker, Natural England Deputy Director for Norfolk and Suffolk, said:

    These new sections of the King Charles III England Coast Path have improved access on Suffolk’s stunning coastline, particularly at Bawdsey and between Kessingland and Pakefield.

    We have created access where the existing public rights of way had been affected by coastal erosion. Whether walking along the coastal cliffs or around the beautiful estuaries, this Suffolk coastline has something for everyone.

    Councillor Morgan Brobyn, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Food, Waste and Rural Affairs, said:

    Suffolk is home to some of the most beautiful and distinctive coastal landscapes in the country, so I am delighted to see the opening of these new sections of our Coast Path.

    Our coastline is rich in history, wildlife, and natural beauty, offering something for everyone to enjoy. The new paths will enable residents and visitors to experience more of what Suffolk has to offer, while supporting local communities and businesses.

    Sam Kench, Delivery Manager, Wildlife Wise, said:

    It’s so important we all work together to help keep these places as a sanctuary for wildlife, especially with so few truly wild spaces remaining in Suffolk. We hope walkers will help bird’s nest, feed and raise their chicks undisturbed. Please give wildlife space, keep to the path, and keep any dogs under close control.

  • NEWS STORY : Constitution Committee Publishes Cyber Security Bill Report

    NEWS STORY : Constitution Committee Publishes Cyber Security Bill Report

    STORY

    The House of Lords Constitution Committee has published its legislative scrutiny report on the Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill.

    The bill forms part of the Government’s wider legislative programme on digital resilience and network security. The committee’s publication adds constitutional scrutiny to a policy area increasingly linked to public services, critical infrastructure and national security.

    The committee has also recently scrutinised the National Security (State Threats) Bill. Its work reflects continuing parliamentary concern over how the Government balances security, resilience and constitutional safeguards in new legislation.

  • NEWS STORY : Lords Committee Examines National Resilience

    NEWS STORY : Lords Committee Examines National Resilience

    STORY

    The House of Lords National Resilience Committee is taking evidence from emergency service, health and supply-chain experts as part of its inquiry into national preparedness.

    The committee was scheduled to hear from senior representatives of the National Fire Chiefs Council, National Police Chiefs Council and St John Ambulance. It was also due to take evidence from NHS Supply Chain, the Centre for Health Security and Medicines UK.

    The inquiry is considering national resilience, including the role of local resilience. It follows growing political attention on preparedness for major risks, including public health emergencies, supply disruption and wider national security challenges.

  • NEWS STORY : Northern Ireland Affairs Committee Opens Reconciliation Inquiry Evidence

    NEWS STORY : Northern Ireland Affairs Committee Opens Reconciliation Inquiry Evidence

    STORY

    The Northern Ireland Affairs Committee has begun taking oral evidence in its inquiry into reconciliation in Northern Ireland.

    MPs questioned representatives from the Northern Ireland Community Relations Council and the Peace Summit Partnership on the meaning of reconciliation today and the role of social, cultural and political factors. Written evidence to the committee has highlighted links between reconciliation, racism and economic insecurity.

    The inquiry is part of wider parliamentary scrutiny of legacy issues and follows the committee’s December report examining the Government’s approach in the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill. MPs are expected to examine social barriers such as housing segregation and peace walls.

  • NEWS STORY : Women and Equalities Committee Questions Ministers on FGM Surgery Research

    NEWS STORY : Women and Equalities Committee Questions Ministers on FGM Surgery Research

    STORY

    The Women and Equalities Committee has questioned ministers and health officials over access to reconstructive surgery for survivors of female genital mutilation.

    The session followed the committee’s earlier recommendation that ministers facilitate and fund research into the effectiveness of reconstructive surgery for FGM survivors. The committee had said that, if evidence showed the surgery was effective, the NHS should provide it.

    The committee heard from Women’s Health Minister Baroness Merron, the Department of Health and Social Care’s chief scientific adviser Professor Lucy Chappell and NHS England representatives. MPs were expected to examine research funding, international comparisons, health services and mental health support.

  • NEWS STORY : Public Asked for Views on National Lottery Good Causes

    NEWS STORY : Public Asked for Views on National Lottery Good Causes

    STORY

    The public is being asked to help shape how National Lottery funding for good causes should be distributed in future.

    The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has opened a 12-week call for evidence, saying no Government had asked the public for two decades how National Lottery good-cause money should be spent. The review will consider where future investment can have the greatest impact and how access to funding can be improved.

    The Government said the National Lottery generated more than £8 billion in ticket sales in 2025, with at least £1.7 billion going to good causes. Funding is currently split across arts and culture, sport, heritage and community projects.