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  • NEWS STORY : Sizewell B given permission to operate until 2055

    NEWS STORY : Sizewell B given permission to operate until 2055

    STORY

    Sizewell B nuclear power station has been granted a 20-year lifetime extension, allowing it to continue operating until 2055. The decision follows safety assessments and is intended to preserve a major source of low-carbon electricity.

    The Suffolk plant had previously been expected to stop generating in 2035. The extension will require continued investment, regulatory oversight and maintenance to ensure that the station can operate safely for the additional period.

    The Government said nuclear power would remain an important part of Britain’s energy security and net zero plans. The decision is separate from the proposed Sizewell C development, which would create a new nuclear station alongside the existing site.

  • NEWS STORY : UK life sciences secures more than £3 billion in investment

    NEWS STORY : UK life sciences secures more than £3 billion in investment

    STORY

    The Government has said the UK life sciences sector attracted more than £3 billion in public and private investment during the past 12 months. Ministers said the funding reflected international confidence in British research, manufacturing and medical innovation.

    The announcement accompanied new plans for jobs and growth in life sciences, with the Government seeking to accelerate clinical research and the adoption of new treatments. It said investment would support skilled employment and faster access to medicines for patients.

    The sector is a central part of the Government’s industrial strategy. Ministers are seeking to maintain the UK’s position in pharmaceutical research while addressing concerns about investment, regulation and the speed at which innovations reach the NHS.

  • NEWS STORY : Review finds Personal Independence Payment is not fit for purpose

    NEWS STORY : Review finds Personal Independence Payment is not fit for purpose

    STORY

    An independent review has concluded that Personal Independence Payment is no longer fit for purpose and has failed to keep pace with changes in disability, health and employment. The Timms Review published an update setting out concerns about the operation of the benefit.

    The review is examining how PIP assessments work, whether the system treats claimants fairly and how support can better reflect fluctuating and long-term conditions. Its findings are expected to inform future Government reforms.

    Ministers will face pressure to ensure that any changes protect disabled people from sudden losses of income. Campaigners have repeatedly called for a less adversarial assessment process and greater involvement of people with direct experience of the system.

  • NEWS STORY : NHS waiting list rises for second consecutive month

    NEWS STORY : NHS waiting list rises for second consecutive month

    STORY

    The NHS waiting list for routine hospital treatment in England has risen for a second consecutive month, according to the latest performance figures. The list reached about 7.28 million treatments involving approximately 6.16 million patients.

    The total was reported as the highest level since December 2025, reversing some of the earlier progress in reducing the backlog. Ministers have made cutting waiting times one of the Government’s principal health priorities.

    The figures will increase pressure on the Government to demonstrate that additional investment and reforms are improving access to care. NHS leaders continue to face workforce pressures, high demand and difficulties moving patients safely through hospitals.

  • NEWS STORY : Burnham promises greater scrutiny of defence spending

    NEWS STORY : Burnham promises greater scrutiny of defence spending

    STORY

    Andy Burnham has promised greater public scrutiny of defence spending as he prepares to become Labour leader and Prime Minister. He said national security would be his first priority and argued that higher defence investment should also support British industry, jobs and apprenticeships.

    Burnham said major defence and infrastructure projects should be subject to more detailed public progress reports, with greater transparency over delays and cost overruns. He also backed rebuilding Britain’s military capabilities while reducing dependence on overseas suppliers.

    He reaffirmed support for NATO, the nuclear deterrent, the United States alliance and Ukraine. Burnham also called for closer defence co-operation with European countries and faster progress in the UK’s negotiations with the European Union.

  • Rachel Reeves – 2026 Comments on Nigel Farage By-Election

    Rachel Reeves – 2026 Comments on Nigel Farage By-Election

    The comments made by Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, on 8 July 2026.

    I will accept Nigel Farage’s request to be appointed Steward and Bailiff of the Manor of Northstead.

    It is a farce and a desperate distraction, and the people of Clacton deserve better.

    But if he wants to spend the summer arguing with a bin, I won’t stop him.

  • David Lammy – 2026 Comments on a Conditional Pardon for Ruth Ellis

    David Lammy – 2026 Comments on a Conditional Pardon for Ruth Ellis

    The comments made by David Lammy, the Secretary of State for Justice, on 8 July 2026.

    I have the honour to say that His Majesty the King has accepted our advice to grant Ruth Ellis a conditional pardon – the last woman to be hanged.

    While the pardon does not claim she was innocent of killing David Blakely, it replaces the death penalty with a sentence of life imprisonment to recognise a profound injust in this exceptional case.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 62 – UK Explanation of Position on the draft resolution on Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 62 – UK Explanation of Position on the draft resolution on Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 7 July 2026.

    UK Explanation of Position on the draft resolution on Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar. Delivered by UK Chargé d’Affaires ad Interim to Myanmar, Andrew Jackson.

    Thank you Mr President, 

    The UK would like to thank the OIC for presenting Resolution L.20 on the human rights situation of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar. 

    As we have heard repeatedly throughout this Council, including from the High Commissioner and Special Rapporteur, the Rohingya and other minorities in Myanmar continue to suffer from appalling human rights violations and abuses at the hands of the Military and other armed groups.  

    The High Commissioner’s latest report highlights the continued deterioration of the situation in Myanmar, including at least 702 civilian deaths during the reporting period, of which 476 resulted from airstrikes. Behind these stark figures are lives lost, families torn apart and communities living in fear every day. The UK condemns the Military’s continued use of violence, which is inflicting immense suffering on civilians and deepening an already devastating humanitarian crisis. 

    The Rohingya continue to face persecution, discrimination, statelessness, and restrictions on freedom of movement. Ongoing violence in Rakhine State has further exacerbated their vulnerability, alongside other minority communities, exposing many to sexual and gender-based violence and forcing thousands more to flee their homes in search of safety.

    The UK recognises the important role played by Bangladesh in hosting over 1.2 million Rohingya refugees and acknowledges the immense challenges it faces, including pressures on infrastructure and security in the camps. Greater self-reliance for refugees and improved safety and security are vital to supporting the wellbeing of the Rohingya, and in creating the conditions for eventual safe, voluntary, sustainable and dignified returns. 

    This resolution rightly maintains the Council’s attention on the plight of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar. We welcome its strong focus on accountability including through ongoing international processes and mechanisms. Ending impunity is essential to breaking cycles of violence and ensuring justice for victims and survivors. 

    Mr President, 

    While we will join consensus on this resolution, we wish to place on record the UK’s position that though we continue to address human rights violations and abuses, wherever they occur in Myanmar, we must be clear that the military bears primary responsibility for systematic violations against the Rohingya and other civilian populations. 

    The situation in Myanmar deserves sustained collective attention and resolve of this Council. The United Kingdom remains committed to working with the OIC and international partners to address the root causes of the crisis, support accountability, and advance the rights and dignity of the Rohingya and all people of Myanmar. 

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Millions invested in new missile to strengthen British Army’s capability and NATO deterrence [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Millions invested in new missile to strengthen British Army’s capability and NATO deterrence [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 7 July 2026.

    The UK will join the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) programme, supporting a transformation in the British Army’s ability to strike targets further away and strengthening the UK’s contribution to NATO deterrence.

    • British Army to acquire the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM), a proven supersonic ballistic missile capable of hitting targets up to 500km away.
    • PrSM will help the Army’s ability to find, fix and strike threats to destroy enemy systems and supply lines before they can threaten NATO forces and territory.
    • Procurement backed by £190 million from the Government’s £298 billion Defence Investment Plan, expected to support British jobs.

    The UK will join the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) programme, supporting a transformation in the British Army’s ability to strike targets further away and strengthening the UK’s contribution to NATO deterrence.

    Backed by £190 million in the Government’s £298 billion Defence Investment Plan, the procurement of PrSM will extend the Army’s current land-based strike range significantly.

    PrSM is a proven ballistic missile capable of reaching supersonic speeds and travelling up to 500km. It is fully compatible with the UK’s existing upgraded M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) launchers, meaning no additional vehicle modifications will be required.

    Currently built by Lockheed Martin, the missile provides the capability to take out stationary enemy systems and weapons up to 500km away. Future development could enhance the capability further. 

    The investment in PrSM gives the British Army a deep surface-to-surface ballistic missile capability that will complement the Army’s One Way Effector (OWE) drone and ground-launched cruise missile capability. This will create a mix of long-range precision strike options that the British Army needs to defend and deter as part of NATO.

    PrSM is a collaborative programme between the United States and Australia. Subject to agreement with them, the UK could receive the first deliveries in 2027. The announcement follows NATO Defence Ministers meeting which focused on cooperation and deterrence, and where Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis met with US Secretary of War Hegseth.

    Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis MBE MP said:

    I am absolutely determined to give our soldiers the weapons they need as they defend our nation and NATO.

    This new investment into a precision strike missile will help to strengthen our Army and our security at this increasingly dangerous time.

    The US and Australia are vital defence partners, and I am working with Secretary Hegseth and Deputy Prime Minister Marles to deliver this programme alongside AUKUS.

    UK participation will provide significant benefits to the UK, US, Australia and NATO beyond the immediate military capability. Benefits include working collaboratively to further develop the missile – bringing in the best of British industry, and workshare to produce the missile – creating good jobs in the UK. Working with the US and Australia, the programme aligns strongly with AUKUS Pillar 2.

    The UK remains firmly committed to the Deep Precision Strike and European Long Range Strike Approach with European partners, including Germany. PrSM will be a complementary capability available immediately and does not replace longer-term collaborative programmes.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Sir Andy Marsh announced as preferred candidate for HM Chief Inspector [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Sir Andy Marsh announced as preferred candidate for HM Chief Inspector [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Home Office on 7 July 2026.

    College of Policing chief executive has 30 years’ policing experience and led significant reforms in professional standards, leadership and technology.

    The Home Secretary has today (7 July 2026) confirmed Sir Andy Marsh QPM as the government’s preferred candidate for the role of HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary in England and Wales and Chief Inspector of Fire & Rescue in England (HMCI).

    Sir Andy Marsh has been Chief Executive of the College of Policing since September 2021.

    Sir Andy has over 30 years’ policing experience, having joined Avon and Somerset Police in 1987 and rising to senior leadership roles including Chief Constable of Hampshire Constabulary and Avon and Somerset Police.

    Sir Andy has led significant reform across policing, including improvements in professional standards, leadership development, and the use of technology and evidence-based practice. He was awarded the Queen’s Police Medal in 2018 and was knighted in 2024 for services to policing.

    The recommendation follows a fair and open recruitment process, conducted in accordance with the Governance Code on Public Appointments.

    Crime and Policing Minister, Sarah Jones, said:

    Sir Andy Marsh has extensive experience at the highest levels of policing. He is the right person to take on this vital role as we deliver the most ambitious reforms to policing in two centuries and help shape the future of the fire sector.

    I would like to thank Michelle Skeer for her leadership of the Inspectorate since April.

    Sir Andy Marsh said:

    It is a privilege to be named as preferred candidate at what is a pivotal moment for policing and fire. I’ve spent my career alongside the dedicated officers and staff who work every day to keep the public safe, and I know first-hand the difference the right leadership, standards and support can make. My focus will be on the issues that matter most to our communities, and on making sure the people doing this vital work have everything they need to do it well.

    Pre-appointment scrutiny by the Home Affairs Select Committee (HASC) will follow shortly, which is an important part of the process for some of the most significant public appointments made by ministers. It is designed to provide an added level of scrutiny to verify that the recruitment meets the principles set out in the Governance Code.

    If Sir Andy’s appointment is finalised, he will succeed HMCI Michelle Skeer OBE QPM, who has been in post on an interim basis since the departure of HMCI Sir Andy Cooke QPM DL in April 2026.

    Following a pre-appointment hearing on 14 July, HASC will publish their recommendations, which the government will consider before deciding whether to finalise the appointment.