Tag: 2023

PRESS RELEASE : Parents urged to check children’s MMR vaccine records following rise in measles cases [May 2023]

The press release issued by the UK Health Security Agency on 4 May 2023.

Parents are being asked to check children are fully up to date with their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations by checking their vaccine record in their red book.

Data published today by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows there has been a rise in measles cases.

Between 1 January and 20 April this year, there have been 49 cases of measles compared to 54 cases in the whole of 2022. Most of the cases have been in London, although there have been cases picked up across the country and some are linked to travel abroad.

Measles is a highly infectious disease that can lead to serious problems such as pneumonia, meningitis, and on rare occasions, long-term disability or death. Symptoms include a high fever, sore red watery eyes and a blotchy red-brown rash, and it is particularly easy to catch in environments when in close contact with others.

In recent years, the number of children vaccinated against measles has fallen. Uptake for the first dose of the MMR vaccine – which protects against measles, mumps and rubella – in children aged 2 years in England is 89% and uptake of 2 MMR doses in children aged 5 years is 85%. This is well below the 95% target set by the World Health Organization (WHO), which is necessary to achieve and maintain elimination.

During the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, uptake for routine childhood immunisations has fallen globally, leaving many children unprotected from serious infections and countries at increased risk of outbreaks. Measles is now circulating in many countries around the world and WHO has warned that Europe is likely to see a resurgence unless countries catch-up children who missed out.

Children are offered the first dose of the MMR vaccine when aged one year and the second dose aged 3 years 4 months. UKHSA is urging parents of young children, teenagers and adults to check they are up to date with their MMR vaccines, particularly before they travel this summer and before attending summer festivals where measles can spread more easily.

Healthcare professionals have been alerted to the recent rise in cases and asked to be vigilant to further cases whilst also working with communities to increase vaccination uptake.

Dr Vanessa Saliba, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said:

We are calling on all parents and guardians to make sure their children are up to date with their 2 MMR doses. It’s never too late to catch up, and you can get the MMR vaccine for free on the NHS whatever your age.

Vaccines are our best line of defence against diseases like measles, mumps and rubella and help stop outbreaks occurring in the community.

Measles spreads very easily and can lead to complications that require a stay in hospital and on rare occasions can cause lifelong disability or death, so it is very concerning to see cases starting to pick up this year.

During the COVID-19 pandemic we saw a fall in uptake for the routine childhood vaccinations, including MMR which leaves us vulnerable to outbreaks, especially as people travel abroad for summer holidays to places where measles is more common.

Measles is a highly infectious viral illness, so anyone with symptoms is advised to stay at home and phone their GP or NHS 111 for advice before visiting the surgery or A&E. This will help to prevent the illness spreading further.

NHS Director of Vaccinations and Screening, Steve Russell, said:

The NHS has an inspiring history of successful vaccination programmes that have proven time and time again they are the best tool in our arsenal against the spread of highly infectious diseases and since vaccination for measles cases was introduced, over 4,500 lives have been saved.

The MMR vaccine has helped prevent the development of potentially life-threatening illness among millions, and it is clear that when uptake falls, infections rise, so I strongly urge parents to review the status of their child’s vaccinations so they can keep them and others protected from measles, mumps and rubella.

To see if your child is up to date with their MMR vaccines, check your child’s personal child health record (PCHR), known as the red book, or contact your GP practice. If anyone has missed one or both doses of the MMR vaccine, contact your GP practice to book an appointment. It is never too late to catch up.

May 8, 2023
PRESS RELEASE : Negotiations begin for a new medicine pricing scheme [May 2023]
The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 4 May 2023.

The government, NHS England and the pharmaceutical industry will begin negotiating the successor to the voluntary scheme for branded medicines, pricing and access (VPAS).
Negotiations for a new voluntary scheme for branded medicines pricing to open between the government, NHS England and the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) today

Parties are negotiating an agreement that supports better patient outcomes and a healthier population, a financially sustainable NHS, while also supporting economic growth

A new voluntary scheme is expected to take effect from 1 January 2024, replacing the current scheme which ends on 31 December 2023

Negotiations for the successor to the voluntary scheme for branded medicines, pricing and access (VPAS) will begin today [Thursday 4 May] between the government, NHS England and the pharmaceutical industry.

For over 65 years the government and the pharmaceutical industry have worked together to help manage the affordability of medicines for the NHS and ensure rapid access and uptake of new medicines for patients, while also supporting the UK’s life sciences sector so that it can continue to deliver new innovations and economic growth.

In their first meeting, the government, NHS England and industry – represented by the ABPI – are expected to agree to a shared negotiation aim of working toward a mutually beneficial agreement that supports better patient outcomes and a healthier population, a financially sustainable NHS, and UK economic growth.

The success of the negotiations will be determined through securing a new voluntary scheme that:

promotes better patient outcomes and a healthier population, by:

securing NHS patients rapid access to new clinically and cost-effective medicines, through streamlined approvals and better commercial and funding arrangements which reward innovation, so that the UK is an internationally competitive location for launching new medicines

tackling unwarranted variation in the use, and patient access to, approved medicines across the country

encouraging the development of the innovative and cost-effective medicines

supports UK economic growth, by:

supporting the UK’s life sciences industry to help drive economic growth, particularly through its investment in research and development and clinical research

ensuring that the commercial environment for branded medicine suppliers to the NHS helps make the UK an internationally competitive place to invest

delivering a net benefit to the UK economy overall

contributes to a financially sustainable NHS by:

keeping the price of branded medicines affordable for the NHS

supporting the NHS and industry to develop sustainable financial and investment strategies

delivering value for money for the taxpayer and the NHS by securing resilient provision of safe and effective medicines at reasonable prices, and encouraging efficient competition in medicines supply

Health Minister, Will Quince, said:

These negotiations will ensure a new scheme continues to deliver value for money by providing significant savings for our health services, securing access to innovative lifesaving drugs for NHS patients, and helping to reduce waiting times – one of the Prime Minister’s 5 priorities.

The current voluntary scheme supports investment in NHS services and saves billions of pounds for the NHS, while also promoting innovations and a successful life sciences sector.

It’s vitally important that the successor to the current scheme delivers for the taxpayer, patients, the NHS, and life sciences.

Richard Torbett, Chief Executive at the ABPI, said:

These negotiations provide an opportunity to secure the UK’s place as a global leader in life science research and medical innovation while also ensuring the best outcomes for UK patients and a thriving economy.

Working together, we can boost UK science and create the conditions for innovative medicines to deliver their true value as an investment in the nation’s health, wealth, and productivity.

Sir Hugh Taylor, who chaired the Accelerated Access Review in 2014 to bring innovative technologies to the NHS, was appointed last month as Chief Negotiations Advisor for the VPAS scheme.

Sir Hugh Taylor, said:

The future voluntary scheme must continue to benefit the NHS and give its patients access to the best medicines, while supporting our life sciences sector.

I’m looking forward to reaching an agreement which not only benefits the NHS but will also encourage the pharmaceutical sector to continue investing in the UK.

The current scheme – which came into force in 2019 – is due to expire at the end of 2023. Negotiations are due to conclude in the autumn ahead of the new scheme starting on 1 January 2024.
May 8, 2023
PRESS RELEASE : 43rd Universal Periodic Review – UK statement on The Bahamas [May 2023]
The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 4 May 2023.

The UK delivered a statement during The Bahamas’ Universal Periodic Review (UPR) at the Human Rights Council in Geneva.
The United Kingdom commends The Bahamas’ initiatives to work towards ending Gender-Based Violence and sexual assault, particularly through the training of community residents to identify, address and find resolution to these issues.

We recognise The Bahamas’ unique challenges as a SIDS, and the further pressure on resources caused by Hurricane Dorian and COVID-19.

We also remain concerned by the issue of statelessness for those individuals born in the country who are not automatically afforded Bahamian citizenship.

We recommend that The Bahamas:

Continue efforts to improve prisoners’ detention conditions, health care and nutrition.

Take effective measures to prevent and end gender-based violence including high rates of domestic violence and femicide.

Review gender-neutral policies in the area of work, education, health and social services.

Thank you.
May 7, 2023
PRESS RELEASE : Green apprenticeships celebrated in honour of the Coronation [May 2023]
The press release issued by the Department for Education on 4 May 2023.

Six green apprenticeships are to be marked with the Coronation emblem in recognition of their sustainability credentials.

Six green apprenticeships have been hand-picked by industry experts to mark the Coronation in recognition of their sustainability credentials, the Department for Education has announced today (4 May 2023).

In honour of His Majesty The King’s Coronation, the apprenticeships have been selected for their contribution to creating a low carbon economy by ensuring the country’s workforce is equipped with the skills needed to support the transition to net zero.

The official Coronation emblem will be used by employers and Government to promote the six apprenticeships, which include Low Carbon Heating Technician, Sustainability Business Specialist and Countryside Worker. The apprenticeships are the gold-standard for green skills training, encouraging more people to take up the opportunity to gain the skills to build an exciting career in the green industry while meeting the skills needs of employers and boosting economic growth, one of the Prime Minister’s 5 priorities.

Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said:

As we work towards our net zero goals, it has never been more important to prioritise green skills and protect our natural environment. In recognition of the critical role education and skills play in responding to climate change, these green apprenticeships have been selected in honour of His Majesty The King’s Coronation.

These gold-standard, sustainable apprenticeships offer people the chance to embark on exciting new careers in industries from forestry to construction, and contribute to creating a more sustainable economy.

The six apprenticeships are:
- Countryside Worker (level 2)
- Forest Craftsperson (level 3)
- Low Carbon Heating Technician (level 3)
- Installation Electrician and Maintenance Electrician (level 3)
- Sustainability Business Specialist (level 7)
- Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Practitioner (level 4)
The six sustainable apprenticeships were designed by employers working with the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE), who considered the impact of each occupation on the environment and future workforce. They also reflect His Majesty’s longstanding commitment to ensuring natural assets endure for future generations, integrating renewable energy sources into our everyday lives, and applying sustainability into every aspect of our economy.

Jennifer Coupland, chief executive of IfATE, said:

These six apprenticeships represent the gold-standard for green skills and will pave the way for hundreds more.

We all have a role to play in tackling climate change. Thanks to vital input from a range of employers we are one step closer to putting the environment at the heart of apprenticeships.

We urge more employers to get involved and hope many students will consider these exciting career opportunities.

The six apprenticeships were selected from a list of over 200 identified by IfATE’s expert green skills panel, showcasing the variety of green apprenticeships available. The panel works with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and the Department for Education, supported by employers to make sure the right skills are in place to deliver the technology shift and nature-based solutions the UK needs.

To mark the announcement, the Education Secretary visited Richmond Park and met apprentices already working as apprentices on these six apprenticeships.

Andrew Scattergood, Chief Executive of The Royal Parks, said:

The Royal Parks charity was pleased to welcome the Secretary of State and apprentices from around the country to Richmond Park this morning. The development of green skills and the ability to access those development opportunities has never been more important.
May 7, 2023
Lee Anderson – 2023 Comments Saying Republicans Should Emigrate

The comments made by Lee Anderson, the Vice-Chair of the Conservative Party, on Twitter on 7 May 2023.

Not My King? If you do not wish to live in a country that has a monarchy the solution is not to turn up with your silly boards. The solution is to emigrate.

May 6, 2023
Rishi Sunak – 2023 Comments on the Coronation

The comments made by Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister, on 6 May 2023.

Today’s Coronation is a moment of extraordinary national pride. No other country could put on such a dazzling display. But it is not just a spectacle. It’s a proud expression of our history, culture, and traditions. It is a vivid demonstration of the modern character of our country. And a cherished ritual through which a new era is born. God Save The King.

May 6, 2023
Keir Starmer – 2023 Comments on the Local Election Results

The comments made by Keir Starmer, the Leader of the Opposition, on Twitter on 5 May 2023.

We’ve changed our party.

We’ve won the trust and confidence of voters.

And now we can go on to change our country: to cut the cost of living, cut waiting times and cut crime.

Let’s build a better Britain.

May 5, 2023
Andrew Bridgen – 2023 Comments on the Local Election Results

The comments made by Andrew Bridgen, the Independent MP for North West Leicestershire, on Twitter on 5 May 2023.

A dire night for the Conservative Party in the local elections. Ignore the will of people at your peril.

When the people are scared of the politicians that’s tyranny, when the politicians are scared of the people that’s democracy.

A lot of politicians will rightly be getting scared now.

May 5, 2023
John Redwood – 2023 Comments on the Local Election Results

The comments made by John Redwood, the Conservative MP for Wokingham, on Twitter on 5 May 2023.

Many former Conservative voters stayed at home in protest at high taxes, lack of control of our borders, and too much local and national government interference in their lives.

May 5, 2023
Simon Clarke – 2023 Statement on the Middlesbrough Mayoral Result

The statement made by Simon Clarke, the Conservative MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, on 5 May 2023.

We will get the results from our local councils today – likely this afternoon. However, overnight we have had the #Middlesbrough Mayoral result.

I want to pay tribute to outgoing Mayor Tees Issues by Andy Preston. Winning the Mayoralty from Labour in 2019 was an historic achievement, which most people would never have believed was possible in such a stronghold for the party. Since then, Andy and I haven’t agreed on everything, but he was a force for good in the town, championing inward investment and talking Middlesbrough up rather than talking us down.

There are many important parts of his legacy that I will work to build on and to defend, including critically the plans for town centre regeneration, where the new Mayoral Development Corporation delivered with Ben Houchen – Tees Valley Mayor has the powers and funding to transform areas like Gresham which Labour left in ruins.

There are also great new proposals like the new school being planned with Star Academies and Eton, which will give so many local children a fantastic head start in life if it goes ahead – again, I will do my utmost to make sure Labour do not now stop this for ideological reasons.

Putting yourself forward for election to public office takes courage and conviction, whatever political party you stand for, or none, and I wish Andy and his family all the best with new adventures.

It is also important to respect democracy and I will work as constructively as possible with the incoming Mayor Chris Cooke to deliver for Middlesbrough, and to defend the interests of everyone in south Middlesbrough and ensure we receive a fair deal from the new council.

May 5, 2023