Tag: 2023

PRESS RELEASE : Storm overflows monitoring hits 100% target [December 2023]

The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 30 December 2023.

Every storm overflow across England’s water network is now monitored.

100% of storm overflows across the water network in England have now been fitted with Event Duration Monitors (EDMs), meeting the ambitious target set by the government to do so by the end of 2023.

Event Duration Monitors increase transparency by measuring how, when and for how long a storm overflow is in operation. This shows the public when discharges are happening, and helps the government and regulators to better hold water companies to account for illegal sewage spills and improve knowledge of overflow operation to identify where improvements can be made.

In 2010, just 7% of storm overflows had monitors fitted. Since then, the government has driven an increase in monitoring, with 100% oversight of overflows now achieved. This delivers on commitments in our Plan for Water which sets out our plans for more investment, stronger regulation and tougher enforcement in the water sector.

The installation of monitors rapidly accelerated under this government in 2013 when Lord Benyon instructed water companies to increase their storm overflow monitoring.

Storm overflows are an automatic safety valve that release excess pressure on the network from flooding and heavy rain – preventing sewage backing up into properties and stopping widespread mains pipe bursts across the country. They should, however, only be used under strict permit conditions. Increased monitoring will give government and regulators the information they need to take action when permits are breached.

Environment Secretary Steve Barclay said:

The completion of storm overflow monitoring is a major step forward in better protecting our precious waterways, as well as the communities and wildlife that rely on them.

The wealth of data collected from these monitors will ensure that we know the full extent to the problem – increasing transparency, revealing the worst-offending overflows, and enabling regulators to hold polluters to account.

This step is just one of many ambitious actions set out under our Plan for Water, which is delivering more investment, stronger regulation, and tougher enforcement across the water system.

Environment Agency Executive Director John Leyland said:

After eight years of work, every storm overflow is now monitored, giving us much more information about where and when storm overflow discharges are happening.

This increased transparency will allow the Environment Agency to better tackle illegal discharges from storm overflows. We are dedicated to investigating those that breach their strict permitting conditions.

We take our responsibility to protect the environment very seriously. We are also strengthening our regulation by expanding our specialised workforce, increasing compliance checks, and using new data and intelligence tools to inform our work.

Water UK Chief Executive David Henderson said:

With 100% of the near 15,000 storm overflows across England now monitored we have the best, most comprehensive and accessible monitoring system in the world. This data will be invaluable in ensuring investment is targeted at those sites which urgently need improvements.

Storm overflows are a design feature and act as a release valve after heavy storms. Water companies want them to operate as little as possible, which is why we are seeking regulatory approval to invest £11 billion over five years – three times the current rate – to increase the capacity of our sewers and prevent much more storm water entering the system in the first place.

As well as the expansion of EDMs, the Government has taken significant action throughout 2023 to boost water quality and resilience and hold polluters accountable for environmental damage.

As part of our Plan for Water, over £2.2 billion of new, accelerated investment is being directed into vital infrastructure to improve water quality and secure future supplies, with £1.7bn of this being used to tackle storm overflows to cut over 10,000 discharges.

This builds on stringent targets on water companies to reduce storm overflows, outlined in our Storm Overflow Discharge Reduction Plan – driving the largest infrastructure programme in water company history of £60 billion over 25 years. This will result in hundreds of thousands fewer sewage discharges every year by 2050. The Plan frontloads action in particularly important and sensitive areas including designated bathing waters, meaning the overflows causing the most harm will be addressed first to minimise impact.

Polluters now face unlimited financial penalties for breaching permits and polluting the environment thanks to changes to Variable Monetary Penalties (VMPs), which are civil sanctions issued by the Environment Agency. The move is designed to offer a more rapid form of punishment compared to criminal prosecution.

Furthermore, government has given Ofwat increased powers to ensure water company dividends are linked to environmental performance while the regulator has also tightened the rules on bonus payments.

January 4, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Brand new guide to help public easily access court hearings [December 2023]
The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 30 December 2023.

People are being encouraged to see how justice is done in courtrooms with the publication of a new and simple ‘how to’ guide for attending court hearings today.
- First ever easy-to-use guide published to help people access court hearings
- Public encouraged to know their rights to support open justice
- Follows successful Reporters’ Charter to boost transparency in justice system
Around two million court and tribunals hearings take place every year and for the first time ever, this eight-page document sets out in one place how people can access many of them.

From murder trials to employment law cases, it explains the different types of courts and tribunals, how to observe a court hearing, which areas of court are open to the public and what to expect once inside the court.

It also includes details like what to do before a hearing and how to access Wi-Fi in court buildings, and directs people to further resources for more information.

Justice Minister, Mike Freer, said:

Open and transparent courts are a key principle of our justice system and it is vital people can see for themselves how justice is done.

This guide is another way we are lifting the curtain for the public to help them easily observe trials, tribunals and hearings.

In a further boost to support the principle of open justice, the document will also help HMCTS staff be well prepared to help members of the public access hearings, and to support those attending for the first time.

The guide follows a move last year to allow cameras to film some sentencing remarks by judges in Crown Courts to allow more people to see inside the courts as justice is served.

The Government has previously published the Reporters Charter which outlined the rights and responsibilities of court reporters to boost transparency in the justice system.
January 4, 2024
Rishi Sunak – 2024 New Year’s Message

The message issued by Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister, on 31 December 2023.

Happy New Year, everyone. I hope you had a great Christmas.

We can look back on a pretty momentous year. We’ve delivered record funding for the NHS and social care. Schools in England are surging up the global league tables.

We’re getting the economy growing. We’ve cut inflation in half. We’ve delivered the biggest business tax cut in modern British history.

And in just the last few weeks, we’ve seen an incredible £60 billion of investment into the UK. So my New Year’s resolution is to keep driving forward. In six days’ time, we’ll deliver a tax cut for 27 million people, worth on average £450.

Inflation is set to fall further, cutting the cost of living for everyone. And we’re not stopping there.

We’re going further to grow our economy by reducing debt, cutting taxes, and rewarding hard work, building secure supplies of energy here at home, backing British business and delivering world class education. And we’re taking decisive action to stop the boats and break the business model of the criminal gangs.

From our incredible armed forces and NHS staff who take care of all of us. To our tech experts, scientists and innovators who are putting our economy at the global cutting edge.

We should look forward full of pride and optimism for what we can do together to build a brighter future for everyone. That’s what I’m determined to do, and I wish you all a very happy 2024.

January 4, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : The Military Division of the New Years Honours 2024 [December 2023]

The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 29 December 2023.

Armed Forces personnel and Defence Civil Servants have been granted state honours by His Majesty The King in the annual New Year Honours list.

His Majesty The King has recognised over 180 service personnel and civil servants in the 2024 New Year Honours list for their outstanding acts of service to protect national security. From delivering His Majesty’s Coronation, to facilitating some of the most complex equipment programmes, the honours list praises the outstanding achievements of personnel across Defence.

The recognition follows praise from the Prime Minister who has spoken about the valiant work of our Armed Forces, including in the Middle East and in Estonia as part of our unshakeable commitment to NATO.

The full list of Defence personnel named in the 2024 New Years Honours list is available here.

State honours have also been awarded to senior members of the Armed Forces, for their work including force integration, service on operations and driving organisational change to ensure Defence is ready to leverage the most cutting-edge technologies.

Welcoming the New Years Honours, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said:

I want to congratulate all our Defence personnel who have been named in this year’s New Year Honours.

As the world becomes more dangerous and Defence’s global commitments have increased, you have all risen to the challenge through your selflessness, resilience, and ingenuity.

You showcase the very best our nation has to offer, and it is only right that your exceptional acts of service have been recognised.

January 4, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Scots recognised in King’s New Year Honours List [December 2023]

The press release issued by the Cabinet Office on 29 December 2023.

The Scottish Secretary has congratulated the many people from across Scottish society who have been recognised in the New Year Honours List published today.

Speaking as King Charles’ New Year Honours were announced, Scottish Secretary Alister Jack said:

My warmest congratulations go to all the Scottish recipients of the King’s New Year Honours. Scots are well represented in His Majesty’s list, which showcases the best of Scottish talent – including sport, the arts, community, education, business, charity, policing and healthcare.

Scottish rugby centurion Stuart Hogg, who announced his retirement earlier this year, is rightly celebrated [MBE] for his services to the game. Former Scotland rugby captain Rob Wainwright is also honoured [OBE] for his extraordinary work raising money for research into motor neurone disease through the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. From the world of football, former player and Scotland, Rangers, Hibs and Motherwell manager Alex McLeish is recognised [OBE] for his services to charity.

I welcome best-selling author Alexander McCall Smith being knighted for services to literature, academia and to charity. And much loved star of BBC comedy Two Doors Down, Arabella Weir, has been rightly recognised [MBE] for her work with the arts and young people, not least through the Kirkcaldy Festival of Ideas.

And it’s poignant that just days after the 35th anniversary of the Lockerbie atrocity a leading police officer in the investigation, Stuart Cossar, is recognised [MBE] for his services to the inquiry and bereaved families.

This year, more than 100 Scots have been awarded honours. The achievements of such a diverse number of our fellow Scots is truly inspiring.

January 4, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Welsh Secretary congratulates 2024 New Year’s Honours recipients [December 2023]

The press release issued by the Office for the Secretary of State for Wales on 29 December 2023.

Dozens of people from across Wales have been recognised by His Majesty The King.

Welsh Secretary David TC Davies has congratulated the recipients from Wales on the King’s New Year Honours List.

Among dozens of recipients from Wales were singer Dame Shirley Bassey, businesswomen Amanda Blanc and Joanna Swash and many more recipients of honours for services in the community including Pembrokeshire guide leader Wendy Barnett (BEM), water safety campaigner Debbie Turnbull (MBE) and founder member of Monmouth Male Voice Choir Huw Edwards (MBE).

Secretary of State for Wales David TC Davies said:

I am inspired by the many inspirational people from across Wales who have deservedly been recognised on the New Year Honours List.

It is fantastic to see people from such a wide range of backgrounds being recognised, including for services to business, community work, culture, charity or health.

Hearing about the extraordinary and invaluable work of so many people from across Wales is inspiring – I congratulate all the recipients being honoured and thank each and every one for their contribution.

January 4, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : British business leaders, innovators and international trade champions recognised in the King’s 2024 New Year Honours List [December 2023]
The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 29 December 2023.

Secretary of State for Business and Trade congratulates those honoured.
The Secretary of State for Business and Trade Kemi Badenoch is congratulating entrepreneurs, innovators and Department for Business and Trade staff who have been awarded for their extraordinary service to businesses, investment, exporting and UK economic growth.

Those honoured represent a diverse range of exceptional individuals who have championed a wide range of sectors across the UK economy at home and overseas.

Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch said:

In 2023 we’ve signed ambitious trade deals, removed market access barriers, and supported British businesses to start up, scale up and grow.

These outstanding individuals embody the enterprising spirit found across the UK, from exporting original produce, to helping others grow their businesses. I congratulate them on their honours and look forward to seeing their leadership continue to deliver for the British people.

Business leaders and entrepreneurs recognised in the 2024 New Year Honours List:

Knights of the Order of the British Empire (KBE)

John Griffin, Founder, Addison Lee. For services to Business and to Charity.

Tim Martin, Founder and Chair, Wetherspoons. For services to Hospitality and to Culture.

Commanders of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)

Kevin Ellis, Alliance Senior Partner, PwC UK and Middle East. For services to Economic Growth and Expanding Social Mobility.

Paul Golding, Chair, Pinewood Group. For services to Business and to the UK Film Industry.

Dr Charles Woodburn, Chief Executive Officer, BAE Systems. For services to International Trade and Skills Development.

Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)

Rachel Gaisburgh-Watkyn, Managing Director, Tiny Box Company. For services to Sustainability, to Ethical Business Growth and to Exports.

Catherine McBride, Member, Trade and Agriculture Commission. For services to Economic Commentary and Trade Policy.

Martin McTague, Low Pay Commissioner and National Chair, UK Federation of Small Businesses. For services to Small Businesses.

Brian Palmer, Founder and Chief Executive, Tharsus Group Ltd. For services to Manufacturing and Skills.

Munir Patel, Chief Executive Officer, XRAIL Group. For services to Rail Exports.

Ashley Pigott, Chairman and Managing Director, AJ Power, Northern Ireland. For services to UK Exports and Manufacturing.

Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)

Simon Ayers, Chief Executive Officer, TrustMark. For services to Consumer Protection.

Kathy Caton, Founder and Managing Director, Brighton Gin. For services to Trade and to the community in Brighton.

Rowan Crozier, Chief Executive Officer, C Brandauer & Co. For services to Manufacturing and Enterprise.

Shalom Ijeoma Lloyd, Director, Naturally Tiwa Skincare. For services to International Trade and to Women in Business.

John Norris, Chair, B&M Longworth (Edgworth) Ltd. For services to Innovation, to Sustainability and to International Trade.

Staff from the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) recognised in the 2024 New Year Honours List:

Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG)

Crawford Falconer, Chief Trade Negotiation Adviser and Second Permanent Secretary, Department for Business and Trade.

Companions of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG)

Simon Penney, lately HM Trade Commissioner for the Middle East and Pakistan and HM Consul General to Dubai and the Northern Emirates.

Commanders of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)

Bidesh Sarkar, Chief Financial Officer, Department for Business and Trade.

Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)

Lukas May, lately Deputy Director, CPTPP, Department for Business and Trade.

Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)

Sophie Dyer, lately Counsellor, British Embassy Tokyo, Japan.

Elizabeth McCrory, Regional Lead, UK Export Finance.

Phillip Potter, Regional Lead, UK Export Finance.

Medallists of the Order of the British Empire (BEM)

Barbara Williams, Diary Manager, Department for Business and Trade.

Selected quotes from recipients:

1. Kevin Ellis – awarded a CBE for services to Economic Growth and Expanding Social Mobility

As Chairman and Senior Partner of PwC since 2016, Kevin has grown the company by more than a third to 30,211 people. Kevin has made a significant contribution to the growth of PwC and has driven PwC to become a leader on social mobility and inclusion. Believing that business has a vital role in solving society’s biggest issues, Kevin has invested in areas that matter most such as an Advanced Research Engineering Centre in Belfast, investing over £40m to support jobs and skills; and a Technology Hub in Manchester on track to create 1000 new jobs.

Kevin, Alliance Senior Partner at PwC UK and Middle East said:

I’m grateful to be recognised in this way. Throughout my almost four decades in the professional services sector, I’ve had the privilege to work with a vast range of businesses as well as the government, education and third sectors on initiatives that champion UK prosperity, social mobility, skills, and regional impact. This recognition inspires me further.

2. Munir Patel – awarded an OBE for services to Rail Exports

Munir has transformed XRAIL into a globally focused business, generating 80% of its turnover from exports. With Munir, XRAIL achieved a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in 2022 for outstanding achievement in international trade. He is credited with single handedly developing an export business in XRAIL and his determination to succeed resulted in the award of contracts against intense global competition. Munir is a shining example to rail businesses of what can be achieved taking a long term perspective, and proactively encouraging and supporting others to develop export capability.

Munir, Chief Executive Officer at XRAIL Group:

I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive this OBE for international export. Our journey in global trade has been marked by resilience, innovation, and a shared vision for creating positive impact. Together, we’ve transcended borders, turning challenges into opportunities. This honour is not just an accolade for me but a celebration of collaboration, determination, and the power of fostering international relationships. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who have been part of this remarkable journey. Thank you for this profound honour.

3. Catherine McBride – awarded an OBE for services to Economic Commentary and Trade Policy

As a member of the Trade and Agriculture Commission, Catherine is recognised as an expert in her field, specialising in economic and regulatory topics, global trade, farming standards, the environment, banking and macroeconomics. Catherine has provided world class advice to the Government in her role as TAC member and made a significant national impact through her commentary on UK trade policy post Brexit.

Catherine, Member of the Trade and Agriculture Commission said:

I am delighted to be included in His Majesty The King’s New Year’s honours List for my work promoting the UK’s potential to thrive as an independent trading nation and the benefits of trade for UK citizens and UK exporters. I am very pleased that my efforts have been recognised by the Department for Business and Trade and rewarded in this way.

4. Shalom Ijeoma Lloyd – awarded an MBE for services to International Trade and Women in Business

As a qualified pharmacist, Shalom founded Naturally Tiwa Skincare in 2014 after creating a formulation using Shea butter to ease her son’s eczema. Her company creates vegan and cruelty free skincare products with natural ingredients from Africa. Shalom has made a real difference to the lives of women in Essan, employing up to 70 women in the area and establishing three cooperatives. Based in Milton Keynes, NTS has a turnover of £80,000 of which 10% is exports.

Shalom, Founder and Managing Director of Naturally Tiwa Skincare said:

It is a humbling feeling to be recognised in The King’s New Year Honours List 2024 and awarded an MBE for services to International Trade and Women in Business. I am proud to be a Department for Business and Trade (DBT) Export Champion, hence being nominated for this honour by DBT makes it even more special. It is a tremendous privilege, and I am immensely proud to lead organisations that play positive roles in the lives of people globally. This honour is a reflection of the fantastic work of all my colleagues at Naturally Tiwa Skincare, Naturally Tribal Nigeria, eMQT and the JE Family.

5. Kathy Caton – awarded an MBE for services to Trade and the community in Brighton

Kathy is the founder and Managing Director of Brighton Gin. From humble beginnings back in 2012, her company has made huge strides and now employs seven full time staff as well as supporting an increasing supply chain. The business exports successfully to 7 markets, including Australia and North America with more in the pipeline. As a vocal supporter of the benefits of exporting, she is proactive and always passes on her knowledge and experience. Kathy is an important player in the development, innovation and growth of the gin sector which is now the UK’s 5th largest food and drink export.

Kathy, Founder and Managing Director of Brighton Gin said:

I am so incredibly surprised – and humbled – to have been nominated for the honour, particularly regarding the kind things that people have had to say about the role of Brighton Gin in the local community and about supporting and encouraging diversity in the workplace and all the amazing things that that can bring.
January 4, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Outstanding contributions by British nationals abroad recognised on Overseas and International Honours List [December 2023]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 29 December 2023.

Award-winning singer-songwriter Leona Lewis among those recognised on the Overseas and International Honours list.

One hundred and twenty five people have received awards for their exceptional service to the UK overseas or internationally in His Majesty The King’s New Year Honours List, including for contributions to British foreign policy, international development, voluntary and charitable work.

Richard ‘Dicky’ Evans, Chairman of Hemingways Hospitality Ltd in Kenya is appointed a Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG) in recognition of his significant and sustained contribution as a British businessman overseas, building 2 hugely successful businesses in Kenya, and his sustained philanthropic contribution to the UK, especially to sport in Cornwall.

Also recognised in the list are a number of British women working in senior positions in the fields of international development and international relations, all of whom are appointed Companions of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG) for their exceptional and sustained career contributions. These include: Dr Fiona Hill, Senior Fellow at the Brookings institute in Washington DC; Susanna Moorehead, lately Chair of the Development Assistance Committee at the OECD; Jane Nelson, Director of the Corporate Responsibility Initiative at Harvard University; and Dr Sara Pantuliano, Chief Executive at the Overseas Development Institute.

The Singer and Songwriter Leona Lewis is recognised by being made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in recognition of her significant contribution to music and her philanthropic work. Throughout her outstanding career, she has broken down barriers for female musicians in the UK, and worldwide. She used her platform to raise awareness and funds to support important local, national and global charities.

Sir Philip Barton, Permanent Under-Secretary at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and Head of the Diplomatic Service, said:

At a time when the world faces many challenges, I am always impressed by the incredible work being done globally. The UK’s impact internationally depends on exceptional people like those honoured in His Majesty’s New Year Honours list. I congratulate everyone receiving an honour and thank them for their dedication and service.

The International and Overseas New Year Honours list also recognises a number of other contributions:

Taban Shoresh

Founder and Chief Executive Officer, The Lotus Flower, receives an OBE [Officer of the Order of the British Empire] for services to Refugees and Displaced Conflict Survivors in the Kurdistan region of Iraq.

Taban Shoresh, a Kurdish genocide survivor, and the founder of the Lotus Flower, is recognised for an exceptional and sustained contribution to supporting refugees and displaced conflict survivors in the Kurdistan region of Iraq.

With a political activist father during the reign of Saddam Hussein in Iraq in the 1980s, Taban and her family were imprisoned when she was just 4 before they narrowly escaped being buried alive and were flown out of the country by Amnesty International to build a new life in the UK. She later worked in an investment asset management company in London, but in April 2014, everything changed when she saw ISIS waging another genocide in the land of her birth. Giving up her successful career, she returned to Iraq as an aid worker, and upon arrival was delivering provisions to displaced Yezidis trapped on Mount Sinjar.

Back in London in 2016, she launched the Lotus Flower. What started with just her, then her Regional Manager and a burnt-out cabin in a refugee camp has since grown to be an organisation with several safe centres for women and girls, as well as more than 200 local staff. To date the organisation has helped more than 60,000 women, girls and community members through the delivery of projects which support business, education, peacebuilding, well-being and human rights.

On learning of her award, Taban Shoresh said:

I’m very happy and honoured with this recognition. I came here as a refugee at the age of six seeking safety. Fast forward many years and I’m delighted that I get the opportunity to give back and help those in need. I believe with more compassion, empathy and action we can all be change makers in this world.

Paul and Zoe Walker

Founders and Directors of Wildtracks in Belize, both receive MBEs [Members of the Order of the British Empire] for services to Conservation and Biodiversity in Belize.

Paul and Zoe Walker are widely recognised in Belize for working tirelessly towards the conservation of Belize’s endangered species, tropical forests and reefs. They founded their organisation, Wildtracks, in 1990, and continue to lead its activities more than 30 years later. As part of the Wildtracks conservation work, Paul and Zoe established the National Manatee Rehabilitation Centre in 1999 to provide rehabilitation care for orphaned and injured Antillean manatees rescued from Belize’s coastal waters. In 2010 they established the National Primate Rehabilitation Centre for Belize’s Yucatan black howler monkeys and Central American spider monkeys confiscated from the Illegal Wildlife Trade to ensure that these endangered primates can be returned to the wild.

Since its inception in 1990, Wildtracks has responded to numerous wildlife emergencies, rehabilitated 174 primates and returned over 100 back to the wild, reestablishing these species in critical forest areas. Wildtracks also collaborates with the Forest and Fisheries Departments of the Government of Belize and other national and international conservation organisations towards effective and sustainable management of Belize’s natural resources. Their work has brought great credit on the UK and its reputation in Belize and beyond.

On learning of their awards, Paul and Zoe Walker said:

We feel incredibly honoured to have been recognized for the work we do. This reflects the commitment of the Belize Government and the many conservation organisations and individuals we have collaborated with over the years, and of the volunteers and supporters who have made Wildtracks what it is today.

Deborah Edgington

Councillor for Tourism in Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, is also recognised with an MBE for services to British nationals in Fuerteventura.

Debbie Edgington is recognised for her outstanding contribution over the last 25 years, playing a crucial role as an elected local official in representing the views, needs and the integration of the British community in Fuerteventura, Spain. She has worked tirelessly to ensure UK nationals understand their rights under Spanish and EU law, and has taken an active role in supporting the large local British population during various crises, as well as during the UK’s departure from the European Union and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Debbie has also worked with the local community to raise over 60,000 Euros to support local charities and, as a Councillor, worked to help build a community centre and arranged regular activities, including free Spanish lessons, to support British nationals and other non-Spanish nationals in the area. During the COVID-19 pandemic for example, her contribution was vital in ensuring that vulnerable British nationals had access to food packages, clothes and emergency accommodation.

On learning of her award, Debbie Edgington said:

It is a great honour and a complete surprise to have been awarded an MBE, I feel immensely proud and humbled. I am always happy to assist others, especially when sometimes these can be the most difficult moments for people, this for me was always easier with the help and assistance I received from the fantastic team of Consulate staff, Las Palmas Gran Canaria.

Helen Banton

Representative, the Yorks and Lancaster Regimental Association, France. For services to Veterans and to Local Communities in France.

Helen Banton is recognised with a British Empire Medal (BEM) for her long-term voluntary contribution in support of veterans and to UK relations with local communities in France. For over 20 years, Mrs Banton has been a volunteer and France representative of the Yorks and Lancaster regimental association working on commemoration work. To mark the centenary of the Battle of Bapaume during World War One, she played a significant role in assisting the association organise a wide range of local events and help facilitate local arrangements to allow veterans and family members to travel to northern France to commemorate the occasion. Notably, and of more lasting effect, has been Mrs Banton’s dedicated and committed work to organise, largely single handed, the provision of a new disabled and access road to a series of World War One memorials including the Sheffield Memorial Park, Accrington Pals Memorial the Serre Road Cemeteries, near Puisieux in the Somme.

On learning of her award, Helen Banton said:

I am thrilled and humbled to accept this Honour on behalf of all those who work behind the scenes to keep alive the memory of our brave boys who gave their lives for our peace and freedom and those who continue to preserve it.

January 4, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Political Honours conferred [December 2023]
The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 29 December 2023.

The King has been graciously pleased to signify His intention of conferring the following Honours upon the undermentioned:

Dames Commander of the Order of the British Empire
- Rt Hon Karen Bradley MP; Member of Parliament for Staffordshire Moorlands, formerly was Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. For public and political service.
Knighthood in the Order of the Bath
- Rt Hon David Davis MP; Member of Parliament for Haltemprice and Howden, formerly Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union. For public and political service.
Knighthood
- Rt Hon Dr Liam Fox MP; Member of Parliament for North Somerset, formerly Secretary of State for International Trade and Secretary of State for Defence. For public and political service.
- Rt Hon Jeremy Quin MP; Member of Parliament for Horsham, formerly Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office, Minister for Crime, Policing and Fire for the Home Office. For public and political service.
The Prime Minister has recommended these honours to the King.
January 4, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Yet another brutal attack by Russia against the Ukrainian people – UK statement at the UN Security Council [December 2023]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 29 December 2023.

Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine.

Thank you President, and I join others in thanking Assistant Secretary-General Khiari as well.

Colleagues, it is with deep regret that we find ourselves sitting here to respond to yet another brutal attack by Russia against the Ukrainian people. Last night, Russia launched the largest wave of missile and drone attacks since the war started, using over 158 weapons of different types.

This was not a push on the front lines. These missiles were aimed at population centres across Ukraine: Kyiv, Lviv, Dnipro, Odesa, Kharkiv, Khmelnytskyi and many more cities. They struck homes, apartment buildings, shopping centres, and metros. A maternity hospital and regional oncology centre have been damaged. In short, civilian infrastructure.

These reports are unfortunately no longer surprising. But they are still shocking. Reports indicate at least 30 people have been killed and hundreds wounded – and the death toll is still rising. This toll would be much higher, if not for Ukrainian air defence systems, which have been supplemented by the international community.

This war, which Russia alone chose, continues to inflict a devastating human cost on ordinary Ukrainians. Earlier this month, during my visit to Kyiv, I met children recovering from injuries caused by Russian missile strikes in Kherson and at Kramatorsk railway station. These children lost limbs. They lost their parents. They lost their childhood. But these are brave and resilient children and they’re determined to rebuild their lives, their homes and their country. Russia’s illegal and brutal aggression will, however, last long in Ukraine’s history.

Last night’s attack was, as my Defence Secretary said, a desperate and futile attempt by Russia to regain momentum. They will not succeed. Ukraine has already forced Russia’s Black Sea fleet to retreat from its Crimea base. Ukraine is defending its territory. It has already retaken more than half the land seized by Russia since February 2022. And, as I said, is pushing back Russia in the Black Sea.

So again, we praise the bravery and resolve of the Ukrainian people and its armed forces. The United Kingdom continues to stand by them. We are sending hundreds more missiles to restock the air defence systems, which are helping to protect Ukraine’s civilians and its infrastructure from Russia’s brutal attack.

Our support will remain for as long as it takes and I join the Secretary-General in condemning these attacks in the strongest terms.

President, as this is likely the final meeting of the year, I want to express my appreciation to the Presidency for their excellent stewardship of the Council this busy month, and I’d also like to extend our gratitude to Albania, to Brazil, to Gabon, and to Ghana and the UAE. You have been excellent partners, you’ve made vital contributions to the Council’s work and each brought your unique perspective, and we will miss you.

Thank you.

January 4, 2024