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PRESS RELEASE : Government launches Tree Planting Taskforce to oversee planting of millions of trees across our four nations [November 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 28 November 2024.

The Taskforce will strengthen collaborative working across the UK to improve tree planting and ensure the long-term survival of woodland.
- Forestry Minister Mary Creagh hosts new Tree Planting Taskforce to oversee tree-planting across the UK.
- Taskforce brings together ministers from across the four UK nations, key forestry delivery partners and arm’s-length bodies.
- Forestry leaders to provide oversight, share best practice and identify shared blockers and barriers to tree-planting.
A new Tree Planting Taskforce has been launched today to oversee the planting of millions of trees across the UK (Thursday 28 November).

The Taskforce, chaired by the forestry ministers from the four nations, brought together representatives from key arm’s-length bodies and delivery partners from across the UK.

Top of the agenda at the meeting was how to drive forward the UK’s tree planting in order to meet our collective net zero targets, as part of the Government’s critical mission to make the UK a clean and green energy superpower.

The UK has less tree cover than almost anywhere in Europe and more work is needed to close this gap. Our nation’s woodlands and trees are the heart of communities around the UK, essential to supporting wellbeing and improving quality of life, alongside providing sustainable timber and being home to some of our most important species.

The Taskforce is designed to strengthen collaborative working across the UK, identifying opportunities to work together, to improve tree planting and ensure the long-term survival of woodland, safeguarding their benefits for future generations.

Forestry Minister Mary Creagh said: 

This Government was elected on a mandate to protect and restore nature.

That is why today I am proud to fulfil our promise to set up a Tree Planting Taskforce that will oversee the planting of millions of trees across our four nations.

Trees deliver huge social, environmental and economic benefits – from absorbing carbon dioxide, cooling our cities, improving wellbeing and helping reduce NHS costs, while a thriving forestry sector supports green jobs and drives economic growth.

Richard Stanford, Chair of the Forestry Commission said:

There has never been a more crucial time to take action to increase and improve the number of trees, woods and forests growing across the UK for future years. It is vital that our four nations unite and work in partnership on this mission.

This new Tree Planting Taskforce, is committed to delivering the shared aims of forestry across the four nations so we can continue to tackle some of society’s biggest challenges with thriving trees, woods and forests.

Scotland’s Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said:

I welcome the formation of this Taskforce as we all have a collective interest in increasing woodland cover and obtaining the multiple benefits this will bring, especially for climate change and addressing biodiversity loss.

Currently Scotland has delivered around 75% of all new woodlands in the UK. In 23/24 we created 15,000 ha of new woodland and this accounted for over 50% of the UK target. Whilst this is a substantial contribution, we know there is potential for us all to do more.

The new Taskforce will be a great opportunity for all the countries to share valuable insights and ideas to expand our woodlands and create resilient forests for the future.

Northern Ireland Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir said:

I welcome the establishment of a Tree Planting Task Force across the UK and believe that the Taskforce represents a powerful vehicle to facilitate collaborative working to achieve our challenging tree planting targets.

The work of this taskforce will be pivotal to finding ways to encourage a greater level of tree planting to deliver on climate change goals, enhance our biodiversity and underpin the sustainability of forests and woodlands for successive generations.

Deputy First Minister for Wales with responsibility for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies said:

Wales was one of the first nations in the world to declare a climate emergency and we welcome the opportunity to be members of the UK Tree Planting Task Force.

Forestry is a devolved matter, but we all face some common challenges and there are clear benefits to sharing good practice between nations. We want to continue to make it easier for landowners in Wales to plant trees in ways which both add value to their businesses and help us tackle the climate and nature emergencies.

Creating green jobs and growth in our rural communities is a key priority for us, and a prosperous trees and forestry sector alongside a thriving agricultural sector is crucial to this. That’s why I’m delighted that we’ll be publishing a consultation on a Timber Industrial Strategy for Wales in the new year. I’m looking forward to the task force helping us deliver on our commitments for Wales.

The announcement today comes after a commitment in the Budget to provide up to £400 million in England across the next two years (2024/5 and 2025/6) for tree planting and peatland restoration.

This Government is delivering its promise to protect and restore nature. It has launched a rapid review of the Environmental Improvement Plan to ensure we meet our legal targets, including the Environment Act target of 16.5% tree cover by 2050.

It has also pledged to restore our place as an international leader on nature and climate – recently announcing the next steps towards meeting the international target of 30% of our land and seas protected for nature by 2030 and appointing the first ever Special Representative for Nature.

Notes to editors: 

List of attendees:
- Defra Minister for Nature, Mary Creagh
- Deputy First Minister (DFM) for Wales and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies
- Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, Mairi Gougeon Northern Ireland Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir
- Representatives from Forestry Commission, Natural Resources Wales, Scottish Forestry, Northern Ireland Forest Service
- Representatives from England’s Community Forests, Community Forest Trust, National Forest Company, Woodland Trust, Confor
- Government officials
December 29, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Welsh Secretary’s Economic Advisory Group to bring ‘new era of prosperity and growth for Wales’ [November 2024]
The press release issued by the Wales Office on 28 November 2024.

The Economic Advisory Group will be the first time that representatives from Welsh business, education and industry groups will shape cross-government UK policy
- Welsh Secretary announces new Economic Advisory Group to drive growth, shape UK industrial strategy, and make Britain a clean energy superpower.
- First time that representatives from Welsh business, education and industry groups will shape cross-government UK policy
- Body will help boost prosperity and put more money in people’s pockets
Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens has announced the formation of a new economic advisory group to drive growth, shape UK industrial strategy and make Britain a clean energy superpower.

For the first time under the new government, leaders from Welsh government, business, industry, universities, and unions will be convened to help shape UK government efforts to boost growth and put more money in people’s pockets.

Announcing the Welsh Economic Growth Advisory Group at the annual CBI Wales dinner in Cardiff, Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens said it would “harness Wales’s best talent, ambition and creativity”, allowing a full range of Welsh industries to contribute to the UK Government’s economic growth and clean energy missions.

The group will also work with the Welsh Secretary to inform the UK Government’s new Industrial Strategy to boost key Welsh industries, and shape Welsh priorities for the next Spending Review, both expected during spring 2025.

Chaired by the Welsh Secretary, the new group will meet for the first time in Cardiff next week (2 December).

Ahead of the first meeting of the group, Ms Stevens visited Cardiff’s Wolf Studios Wales today (28 November) where she met leading organisations from the creative industries, one of Wales’s growth sectors, including Bad Wolf, Cloth Cat animation, Ffilm Cymru and Creative Wales.

Economic growth is the UK government’s number one priority. Since July more than £1bn and hundreds of jobs have been delivered for North Wales, Welsh Growth Deals and Investment Zones have been confirmed, a better steel deal has been announced which secures the future of the industry in Wales, and a record Budget settlement has been provided to the Welsh Government to spend on public services.

Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:

My new Economic Advisory Group will harness Welsh talent, ambition and creativity to usher in a new era of prosperity and growth for our nation.

We are forging a new partnership with businesses, workers and unions to drive growth and put more money in people’s pockets. This is about jobs for you, investment in where you live, opportunities for your children.

Working alongside the Welsh Government and our industry leaders we will rekindle Wales’s proud industrial roots with the jobs and industries of the future.”

The Economic Growth Advisory Group will begin with a series of meetings over the next six months, as UK Government priorities on economic growth and clean energy are developed.

Alison Orrells, Chair, CBI Wales, said:

I welcome the opportunity to share our members’ insights on the actions needed to unlock and drive sustainable economic growth and build prosperity in communities across Wales.

From regional investments and green growth projects, such as the freeports, to semi-conductor clusters, manufacturing and technology, service sector employers to a skilled workforce, Welsh businesses of all sizes and sectors are represented by the CBI and can play an essential role in enabling the government to deliver on its growth mission.

Shavanah Taj, TUC Cymru General Secretary, said:

We welcome the opportunity to participate in this advisory group to shape the vision for economic growth, industrial strategy and clean energy. Many parts of Wales have been scarred by deindustrialisation and underinvestment, which must be addressed.

These plans will shape workers’ futures throughout Wales, and we will be championing investment in manufacturing, decent work and a transition to net zero that leaves no community behind.

Oriel Petry, Senior Vice President, Head of Airbus Group UK Public Affairs

I am very pleased to join the Welsh Economic Advisory Growth Group at a time when unlocking the potential of the Nations and Regions sits at the heart of the government’s mission to secure the highest sustained growth in the G7.

I look forward to providing strong advocacy on the drivers for economic growth and how Wales can capitalise on its sectoral strengths whilst taking advantage of the industries of the future.

Dr Jenifer Baxter, CEO at Industry Wales, said:

Industry Wales looks forward to collaborating on shaping an industrial strategy that harnesses Wales’ strengths in high value manufacturing, clean energy, medical technologies and transport systems to drive innovation, digital connectivity and economic growth across Wales and The UK.

Sir Derek Jones, Independent Adviser at Cardiff University and Chair of Keolis UK, said:

There is now a clear consensus that economic growth must be the top priority for the UK, and that is certainly true for Wales. So I welcome the Secretary of State’s initiative in establishing the Group and look forward to making my own contribution to this vitally important work.

ENDS

Notes for Editors

The Welsh Economic Growth Advisory Group’s initial membership includes:
- Alison Orrells, Chair, CBI Wales
- Dr Jenifer Baxter, Industry Wales
- Ben Francis, Wales Policy Chair, FSB
- Shavanah (Shav) Taj, Wales TUC General Secretary
- John-Paul (JP) Barker – Lead for West and Wales at PWC
- Jessica Hooper, Director, Renewables UK Cymru
- Kevin Crofton, Chair of Creo Medical
- Oriel Petry, Senior Vice President, Airbus
- Professor Paul Boyle, Universities Wales
- Sarah Williams-Gardner, Chair of Fintech Wales
- Sir Derek Jones, an independent adviser at Cardiff University and on the board of the King’s Trust in Wales, Keolis UK and IQE.
December 29, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Secretary of State commits to first ever men’s health strategy [November 2024]
The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 28 November 2024.

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting announced plans at a Men’s Health Summit with Movember and the Premier League.
- Secretary of State Wes Streeting confirms plans for a men’s health strategy at Men’s Health Summit with Movember and Premier League
- Strategy will address biggest issues affecting men of all ages that are costing lives
- This could include heart disease and strokes, prostate cancer and testicular cancer, as well as mental health and suicide prevention
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting has announced plans for a men’s health strategy at a Men’s Health Summit held in partnership with Movember, hosted by Arsenal and the Premier League.

The strategy will consider how to prevent and tackle the biggest health problems affecting men of all ages, which could include cardiovascular disease, prostate cancer and testicular cancer, as well as mental health and suicide prevention. It will form a key part of the government’s 10 Year Health Plan to fix the NHS.

A call for evidence on the strategy will seek views on what is working and what more needs to be done to close the life expectancy gap between men and women.

Speaking at Arsenal Football Club, Wes Streeting spoke to campaigners, including the UK Men’s Sheds Association, Prostate Cancer UK and the African Advocacy Foundation, to hear directly about the obstacles currently facing men’s health.

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:

It can be hard to be a young man in today’s society, particularly for boys from backgrounds like mine.

We’re seeing mental ill health on the rise, and the shocking fact that suicide is the biggest killer for men under the age of 50. Preventable killers like heart disease and prostate cancer are being caught far too late.

Just as we are determined to end the injustices women face in healthcare, we won’t shy away from the need to focus on men’s health too. This government will publish a men’s health strategy to tackle these problems head on.

I am pleased to have brought together leading campaigners, experts, and the Premier League to gather ideas and inform our strategy and our 10 year plan.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in England; significantly more men die early from cardiovascular disease compared to women. On average, men die nearly 4 years earlier than women and are disproportionally affected by a number of health conditions, including some cancers, heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

Men tend to seek help for their mental health less than women. They are also more likely to die by suicide, with men accounting for 3 of 4 suicides. There are also significant health inequalities across the country, with those in the most deprived areas in England expected to live almost 10 years less than those in the least deprived.

As well as the call for evidence, all men are encouraged to go to the Change NHS online portal to give their views on how to build an NHS fit for the future through our 10 Year Health Plan. The UK National Screening Committee is actively looking at all the evidence for prostate cancer screening programmes, including targeted approaches for those at higher risk such as people with a family history. This will include looking at the appropriate ages for any screening programme, and ensuring that any programme is evidence led.

The strategy will be unveiled next year and the call for evidence will be launched in due course.

Michelle Terry, CEO of Movember, said:

Today is a significant step forward in transforming the face of men’s health. We are delighted that the UK government has committed to a men’s health strategy.

When we improve men’s health, we know that the benefits can ripple through families, communities, societies and the economy. This will transform the lives of men, but also their wives, mothers, sisters, partners, mates, neighbours, children, teachers and doctors.

We stand ready to work with other leaders in men’s health and the Secretary of State to make the men’s health strategy a reality that brings real change to lives up and down the country.
December 29, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister call with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine [November 2024]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 28 November 2024.

The Prime Minister spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy this morning.

The Prime Minister began by reiterating the UK’s steadfast support for Ukraine. The leaders discussed the egregious Russian missile strike in the early hours of this morning, which had deprived more than a million people of heat, light and electricity.

Russia’s systematic attacks on Ukraine’s energy sector was depraved, the Prime Minister said.

Both leaders underlined the importance of putting Ukraine in the best possible position ahead of another challenging winter of conflict.

The leaders also discussed Ukraine’s long-term future, and how investment in the country’s security today would support Europe’s broader security for generations to come.

They looked forward to speaking again soon.

December 29, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : New measures to protect victims of domestic abuse [November 2024]
The press release issued by the Home Office on 28 November 2024.

Domestic abusers will be ordered to stay away from their victims and face tougher restrictions with the launch of new protective orders today.
- Stronger protections for victims of all domestic abuse under new orders
- New powers to police and courts to deliver toughest restrictions yet
- Family courts able to impose tagging for the first time
Providing vital protection to victims, for the first time all types of domestic abuse will be covered – including physical, psychological, stalking, and coercive control. The new Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Orders will also be handed out by all courts (family, civil, and criminal), meaning more perpetrators will be forced to live under restrictions.

They will initially launch in Greater Manchester, three London boroughs and with the British Transport Police. They will also be used in Cleveland and North Wales from early 2025 ahead of a national rollout.

The Domestic Abuse Protection Notices can be issued by the police immediately following any incident of abuse, providing protection straight away and giving police time to apply for a Domestic Abuse Protection Order to secure longer term protection for the victim.

Unlike some existing protections, which can only be enforced for 28 days, the new Domestic Abuse Protection Orders will have no time restrictions, meaning victims are protected for as long as needed to stay safe. Breaching the order will be a criminal offence punishable by up to five years in prison, making sure perpetrators who flout the rules are punished.

Friends and family of victims will also be able to apply for the new orders on behalf of the victim, as well as victims themselves and the police. This will reduce victim engagement with the criminal justice system, if necessary – process which can be daunting for some survivors.

As well as imposing exclusion zones, the orders can mandate positive requirements such as attendance at a behaviour change programme.

For the first time, family courts able to impose tagging in the most serious cases, a power previously reserved for the police and criminal courts only.

Minister for Victims and Violence Against Women and Girls, Alex Davies-Jones, said:

It takes tremendous courage for victims of domestic abuse to seek help. Our role in government is to make this as straightforward as possible. These new orders reduce the pressure on victims by allowing third parties to make an application on their behalf, while ensuring the powers available to the courts are more stringent than ever before. This government will continue to do all it can to end violence against women and girls.

Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls Jess Phillips said:

More than two million people are estimated to have experienced domestic abuse in the last year – a number that is appalling, frightening and we are determined to change.

That’s why one of our first acts to deliver against our ambitious manifesto pledge to halve violence against women and girls in a decade is to launch new, strengthened Domestic Abuse Protection Orders. By bringing together the strongest elements of existing orders into a flexible order that covers all forms of domestic abuse and has no time limit, we’ll ensure more victims receive the robust protection they deserve.

The Domestic Abuse Commissioner said:

Domestic Abuse Protection Orders were designed to bring together the most effective features of existing orders to provide flexible and long-term protection to victims of domestic abuse.

The DAPO pilot should evidence what is needed to sufficiently resource participating agencies and sector partners alike, so that it can be fully funded for a national rollout.

I look forward to closely following the pilot’s progress and see how DAPOs can improve the safety of domestic abuse victims and hold perpetrators to account across England and Wales.

Victims and VAWG Minister Alex Davies-Jones will visit Croydon Court and Minister for Victims and Safeguarding Jess Phillips will visit the Metropolitan Police today to mark the launch, as they raise awareness of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence campaign.

Today’s announcement is the next step in the government’s unpreceded pledge to halve violence against women and girls in the next decade.

Background information
- The DAPO is a joint policy shared between the Ministry of Justice and the Home Office and was legislated for in Domestic Abuse Act 2021.
- Tagging can only be imposed for 12 months at a time.
December 29, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : UK/Iraq border security pact to target smuggling gangs [November 2024]
The press release issued by the Home Office on 28 November 2024.

Home Secretary signs landmark joint statement with Iraq to tackle people smuggling and organised crime networks operating across the region and in Europe.

A world-first security agreement has been reached between Iraq and the UK government to target people smuggling gangs and strengthen border security co-operation.

The UK will also support Iraq law enforcement to tackle other serious organised crime, including countering narcotics.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper visited Iraq and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) this week to seal a series of co-operation deals, to tackle shared threats and boost the security of its citizens.

The Home Secretary is the first UK government Secretary of State to visit the country since 2021. She was accompanied by the UK government’s Border Security Commander, Martin Hewitt.

During the 3-day official visit, the Home Secretary spoke to ministers from the Federal Government of Iraq and met ministers in the Kurdistan Regional Government.

As part of the programme the Home Secretary:
- signed a joint statement on border security: a first-of-its-kind agreement with Iraq, which sets out the commitments of both countries to work more closely in tackling people smuggling and bolster border security
- committed to providing up to £300,000 for Iraq law enforcement training in border security – the training will focus on organised immigration crime and narcotics, and will increase the capacity and capability of Iraq’s law enforcement at the border
- announced support for further border security projects: the UK government has pledged £200,000 to support projects in the KRI which will enhance capabilities concerning irregular migration and border security, including a new taskforce
- signed a declaration of intent on serious organised crime: pledges from both the UK and Iraq to build on operational and bilateral co-operation on serious organised crime, including organised immigration crime, narcotics, modern slavery and human trafficking, and illicit finance
- support to tackle wider crime: £300,000 will also be allocated to capacity building in Iraq to disrupt serious organised crime, including organised immigration crime and illicit drug flows
- agreed to launch communications campaigns in both Iraq and the KRI to counter the misinformation and myths that people smugglers post online
- signed a joint statement on migration: this includes further work on the returns of people who have no right to be in the UK, where returns are currently very slow, and the continued provision of reintegration programmes to support returnees
Central to the statements agreed today is a commitment from the UK, Iraq and KRI to international and humanitarian law and commitments to international human rights standards.

Today’s announcement represents the biggest operational package to tackle serious organised crime and people smuggling between the 2 countries ever. Smuggling networks operating out of Iraq, including the KRI, and Europe have been responsible for trafficking thousands of people across the globe, including across the Channel to the UK, undermining border security and putting lives at risk.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

These landmark commitments between the UK government and Iraq and the KRI send a clear signal to the criminal smuggling gangs that we are determined to work across the globe to go after them.

There are smuggler gangs profiting from dangerous small boat crossings whose operations stretch back through northern France, Germany, across Europe, to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and beyond. Organised criminals operate across borders, so law enforcement needs to operate across borders too.

The increasingly global nature of organised immigration crime means that even countries that are thousands of miles apart must work more closely together than ever to stop these gangs getting away with it, to strengthen our border security and to stop so many lives being put at risk.

Our new Border Security Command is already building partnerships across the world to tackle this evil trade in human lives.

I want to thank my hosts for their hospitality. This is an important new partnership between the UK government, Iraq and the KRI to build security and keep people safe.

The joint statement on border security, signed with Federal Government of Iraq Interior Minister Abdulameer Al-Shimmeri, will build on operational work already being conducted between UK law enforcement, including the National Crime Agency, and Iraq.

It sets out a blueprint for both countries to tackle of people smuggling and wider border security issues and pave the way for deeper collaboration in the future. It will include new formal processes for regular engagement.

The statement is backed up by a wider declaration of intent to tackle serious organised crime, which incorporates organised immigration crime, as well as other high harm crimes including drug smuggling, modern slavery and illicit finance. The Home Secretary and representatives in the country also reiterated their drive to continue to work together to counter terrorism.

Some £300,000 from the UK Integrated Security Fund will be spent on training at the border to counter organised immigration crime and narcotics.

On returns, the UK and Iraq have reaffirmed their commitment to enhance co-operation to ensure those who have no right to be in the UK can be returned swiftly, while the UK government will continue to respect international law and protect human rights.

On deterrence communications, the planned campaign will seek to counter disinformation spread by criminal gangs and stop people making the dangerous journey, including telling the real stories of people who have fallen victim to people smuggling gangs.

During the visit, the Home Secretary met with the Federal Government of Iraq Minister of Interior Abdulameer Al-Shimmeri, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al Sudanl, Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein and Chief Justice Faik Zidan.

In the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, the Home Secretary met with Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani and the Interior Minister Rebar Ahmed.

Mr Hewitt met with KRG Director General of the Diwan at the Ministry of Interior, Dr Hemin Mirany.

Border Security Commander Martin Hewitt said:

Enhancing our border security requires international efforts, which is why collaboration with Iraq and the KRI is so important. This work is only going to improve, which means smuggling networks should be on notice that we are coming after you.

As Border Security Commander I will work with law enforcement around the world to break the business model of people smugglers and help save lives.

This international collaboration marks a shift in the UK government’s approach to tackling irregular migration. Through the Border Security Command, the UK are working on a whole system approach to tackling irregular migration, including arming UK law enforcement with the powers it needs, working bilaterally on cross border co-operation and ensuring law enforcement across borders are joined up.

Next month, the UK government will co-host the Calais Group with Germany, in London. The interior ministers of the hosts will be joined by their counterparts from France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, as well as law enforcement, including NCA, Europol and Frontex.

Since July, the new government has:
- started recruitment of 100 more specialist intelligence officers to work across Europe and delivered a 50% uplift in UK officers at Europol
- announced an anti-smuggling action plan signed with other G7 nations
- hosted the European Political Community summit at Blenheim Palace
- announced new agreements with Serbia, North Macedonia and Kosovo to tackle people smuggling through the Balkan states
- pushed forward a suite of measures to tackle organised immigration crime as part of the Interpol General Assembly in Glasgow
- returned 9,400 people since 5 July who have no right to be in the UK, including the 3 biggest returns flights in the UK’s history
December 28, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Warship production milestone supports thousands of British jobs [November 2024]

The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 28 November 2024.

The construction of HMS Sheffield, an advanced anti-submarine warfare ship for the Royal Navy, officially began today with a traditional steel-cutting ceremony in Glasgow.

Nearly 2,000 jobs and apprenticeships will be supported through the production of Type 26 frigates, providing valuable employment opportunities for skilled workers and apprentices in Scotland. Around 4,000 jobs will be supported throughout the UK supply chain, in a boost to the economy.

HMS Sheffield is the fifth of eight Type 26 frigates being built in Scotland, marking another significant step forward in the City Class frigate programme, designed for a service life of at least 25 years, serving into the 2060s.

Representatives from BAE Systems, Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), the Royal Navy, and government joined employees for the event, as an apprentice official cut steel on HMS Sheffield.

Attending the ceremony, Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle MP, said:

This steel cutting ceremony marks another key moment for both our Royal Navy and British shipbuilding.

HMS Sheffield represents not just a cutting-edge addition to our fleet, but also demonstrates our commitment to supporting thousands of skilled jobs and economic growth across Scotland and the wider UK.

This investment in our naval capability ensures we can continue to protect our nation’s interests while supporting British industry.

The Type 26 frigates will replace the current Type 23 fleet and will be among the world’s most advanced warships, supporting our national security. Their primary role will be to protect the Royal Navy’s Continuous At Sea Deterrent and Carrier Strike Group.

These versatile ships will also support international operations, including counter-piracy missions and humanitarian relief work. This will support the UK in creating a stronger defence and ensuring our Armed Forces are better equipped to tackle the threats of the future.

Sir Simon Lister, Managing Director, BAE Systems, Naval Ships said:

This is a proud moment for our talented teams across the UK who play their part in the design and construction of these important vessels.

HMS Sheffield’s construction will benefit from a range of investments, which are transforming our digital and physical infrastructure and will consolidate a centre of excellence for UK shipbuilding in Glasgow.

I’d like to thank our customers and suppliers for their support and commitment as we take this programme forward together and deliver the next generation frigates for the Royal Navy.

HMS Sheffield is a name steeped in Royal Navy history, with the name previously on several ships, including on a Town class cruiser which saw extensive action during the Second World War, and a Type 42 destroyer which was deployed during the Falklands War.

Construction of all of the City Class Type 26 frigates is expected to be completed by the mid-2030s, with HMS Glasgow, the first in class, entering service by the end of 2028.

December 28, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Russia has intensified its deliberate targeting of civilian energy infrastructure – UK statement at the UN Security Council [November 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 27 November 2024.

Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN at the UN Security Council meeting on the maintenance of peace and security in Ukraine.

Last week, we marked 1000 days since Russia launched its illegal, full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

We recalled the devastating impact the war has had upon the Ukrainian people and the world, and reiterated our steadfast commitment to ensuring Ukraine gets the support it needs to defend itself and to achieve a just and lasting peace, in line with the UN Charter.

President Putin has demonstrated, time and again, that he has no interest in such a peace. In recent weeks and months, Russia has intensified its attacks on Ukraine.

First, it has stepped up the use of indiscriminate glide bombs against Ukrainian cities. Last week, the UN announced that the number of civilians killed since February 2022 had reached over 10,000, with over 18,500 injured.

Second, Russia has intensified its deliberate targeting of civilian energy infrastructure. This is a war crime and puts the lives of millions of Ukrainians at serious risk during the cold winter months.

Third, Russia is using experimental weapons. Last week, it fired an intermediate-range ballistic missile on Dnipro. Ukraine is not a testing ground for new weapons.

I could go on. But this pattern of reckless activity by Russia serves only to prolong the war and the suffering of the Ukrainian people, whilst posing serious risks to international peace and security.

There is only one aggressor here and only one country in breach of the Charter. To seek de-escalation, we must focus on deterring Russia from that aggression.

No one wants peace more than Ukraine, but Ukraine needs to be able to defend its civilians from these brutal attacks.

Ukraine has a right to self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter, and we will support them in their efforts to achieve sustainable peace.

December 28, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : New ambition for 50 million annual visits to UK announced by Tourism Minister [November 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 27 November 2024.

A new ambition for the United Kingdom to welcome 50 million international visitors per year by 2030 has been announced by the government, as part of its plans for the country to remain one of the most visited worldwide, driving economic growth.
- In a major speech, the Tourism Minister, Sir Chris Bryant, commits to increasing visitor numbers and improving overall visitor experience
- A new Visitor Economy Advisory Council to boost collaboration between government and industry
- Tourism industry worth £74 billion to the economy and 4% of GVA with a huge potential for further growth to support government’s central mission
A new ambition for the United Kingdom to welcome 50 million international visitors per year by 2030 has been announced by the government, as part of its plans for the country to remain one of the most visited worldwide, driving economic growth.

In a keynote speech at the Tourism Alliance conference in London today (26 November), Tourism Minister Sir Chris Bryant set out the government’s plans for the tourism sector to be an integral part of its growth mission.

A new Visitor Economy Advisory Council, co-chaired by the Minister, will be established that will see industry and government work together to kickstart this next stage of growth for the sector. The council will work towards the creation of a National Visitor Economy Strategy, which will be launched next autumn and map out plans to support the growth of the tourism industry.

Growth in the tourism industry beyond London will be at the heart of this strategy. While the capital is a huge draw that brings in tens of millions of visitors each year, there is vast potential for increasing visits to other cities and regions, which can be achieved through improved marketing, reforming tourist boards, filling skills gaps in the visitor economy and better celebrating our culture.

The UK attracted 38 million visitors last year. Before the pandemic in 2019 that figure was 41 million.

Speaking at the Tourism Alliance Conference, Tourism Minister Sir Chris Bryant said:

I am passionate about making the UK a top visitor destination that truly rivals our European counterparts.

But we can only do that if we work together. We need a true partnership between the government and the sector to deliver such growth.

We all know that London is great – one of the best cities in the world. But too many visitors only go to London – in fact when asked by VisitBritain, 57 per cent of visitors could not imagine what there was in the UK outside of London.

We need to complement London and Edinburgh with stronger regional destinations – where people visit in their own right and stay and spend money because they know about the full range of attractions at those destinations – the heritage, the arts, the music, the pubs and restaurants.

Too many of my predecessors have seen tourism as a nice thing to have and not a priority. I don’t. I see it as an essential part of our economy, worth £74 billion and 4 per cent of GVA with a huge potential for growth.

We are good at this and can be even better if we work together. I want us to have a ‘holistic’ approach to tourism where we will be looking at every element from a visitor’s arrival at the airport to buying a ticket for a music gig or finding a restaurant or catching a train.

In addition to focusing on inbound and domestic tourism, the Visitor Economy Advisory Council will also look at outbound travel, including the rollout of the EU Entry Exit scheme and eGate access for Brits at European airports, to ensure all visitors have the best possible experience when travelling.

Improving the overall visitor experience will be central to the government’s plans for the tourism industry. Every element of someone’s visit – from their arrival at the airport, to buying a ticket for a gig and booking a hotel – will be considered. Making each individual element of the visitor experience as accessible and enjoyable as possible will encourage more tourists to visit the UK, foster national pride and provide long-term economic benefits for communities across the whole country.

Minister Bryant also updated on ongoing tourism programmes, including the Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) programme, which is transforming tourist boards across the country so they can work better together to market their areas to tourists, and attract more investment and major events to the UK. Thirty five LVEPs have been accredited so far.

The Minister also confirmed that the government will introduce a short-term lets registration scheme as soon as possible, to help provide the best tourist accommodation possible while protecting people’s right to affordable housing, with initial phases of testing already underway.

This follows the government securing a permanent business rates relief at 40% for many companies in the tourism sector.
December 28, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Easier access to social housing for veterans confirmed [November 2024]
The press release issued by the Department of Housing, Communities and Local Government on 27 November 2024.

New regulations to remove a local connection requirement for veterans to access social housing.
- New regulations to further support UK Armed Forces Veterans in housing need
- Removal of five-year local connection link removed for our heroes looking for social housing
- Changes build on government’s commitment to honour the sacrifices made by veterans and ensuring homes will be there for heroes
Veterans will have greater access to social housing thanks to the removal of a local connection requirement made by the government today.

The new changes, made by the Housing Minister in Parliament today, exempt all former UK Armed Forces Veterans from rules that restrict access to social housing for those that do not have a connection to the local area. This will make sure veterans across the country have access to the housing support they need and can find a place to call home.

The changes apply to councils with local connection or residency tests determining who can currently qualify for social housing. This will ensure veterans cannot be unfairly penalised where such requirements are in place, recognising the unique challenges they face in trying to build up a connection in a specific local area.

Housing and Planning Minister, Matthew Pennycook said:

“Those who put their lives on the line in the service of their country should have access to the housing support they need – this government is making sure they do.

“We will continue to do all we can to ensure homes are there for heroes, as part of our commitment to delivering the biggest increase in social and affordable housebuilding in a generation.”

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

“This is a government that is committed to renewing the nation’s contract with those who serve and have served and today is an important step forward in delivering on our promise that homes will be there for heroes.

“Today’s action shows our government is delivering our manifesto commitment to strengthen support for our Armed Forces communities and to ensure veterans have access to the housing support they need.”

The Deputy Prime Minister has previously written to local councils reminding them of their obligation to prioritise veterans for social housing and the guidance is being updated to reflect these changes.

Wider government support is also in place to help more veterans into secure and permanent accommodation. This includes a further £3.5 million to the Reducing Veteran Homelessness Programme and Op FORTITUDE, which is the single referral pathway for veterans at risk of homelessness.

Alongside these changes, the government has already given councils greater flexibility to use Right to Buy receipts to build and buy more homes and provided an additional £450 million for councils to secure homes for families, including veterans, at risk of homelessness.

Government investment in housing will also increase to £5 billion for next year and this includes an extra £500 million in new funding for the Affordable Homes Programme to deliver tens of thousands of new affordable and social homes across the country. In turn, supporting the government’s commitment of delivering 1.5 million homes by the next Parliament and generating economic growth.

Further information
- The government’s written ministerial statement confirming today’s changes is available here.
- The regulations will come into force on Wednesday 18 December.
- On 24 September, the Prime Minister also set out his ambition to improve access to social housing for young care leavers and victims of domestic abuse. Ministers will convene roundtables to explore the detail of these exemptions and bring forward further regulations in due course.
December 28, 2024