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Tag: 2023

  • PRESS RELEASE : Foreign Secretary travels to Middle East to help prevent regional spread of conflict [October 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Foreign Secretary travels to Middle East to help prevent regional spread of conflict [October 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 19 October 2023.

    The Foreign Secretary is travelling to Egypt, Turkey and Qatar to help prevent the spread of conflict across the region.

    • James Cleverly plans to meet leaders in Egypt, Turkey and Qatar over the next 3 days to help prevent the conflict spreading across the region and to seek a peaceful resolution
    • he will push for agreement on humanitarian access to Gaza, the release of British hostages and foreign nationals, and securing safe passage for British nationals to leave Gaza
    • visit follows £10 million increase in UK aid funding for Occupied Palestinian Territories

    The Foreign Secretary today (18 October) begins a multi-country visit across the Middle East, as the UK works urgently to help prevent the conflict spreading across the region, while working towards a peaceful resolution.

    James Cleverly is planning to meet senior leaders in Egypt, Turkey and Qatar over the next 3 days, where he will discuss coordination on efforts to avoid a spillover in violence which would devastate the wider region.

    The trip has been planned to countries which are vital to international efforts to uphold regional stability, free hostages and allow humanitarian access to Gaza, with all 3 vital interlocutors in the Middle East. The Foreign Secretary will discuss the urgent need for the Rafah crossing to open so that lifesaving aid can reach those who need it and for Hamas to release the hostages.

    Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said:

    It is in no one’s interests – neither Israeli, Palestinian nor the wider Middle East – for others to be drawn into this conflict.

    I am meeting counterparts from influential states in the region to push for calm and stability, facilitate humanitarian access into Gaza and work together to secure the release of hostages.

    Since the Hamas attacks on 7 October, the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary have spoken to counterparts from almost 20 countries as part of extensive diplomatic efforts to sustain the prospect of peace and stability in the Middle East.

    Earlier this week, a £10 million aid package was announced by the Prime Minister in response to the escalating conflict in Gaza – with funding now being made available to agencies helping vulnerable civilians in the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs).

    This is an increase of more than a third on existing UK support to the OPTs. Half the new funding will support an appeal by the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine (UNRWA), which is responding to critical food, water, health, shelter and protection needs in Gaza.

    The UK remains committed to mitigating the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and calling for international humanitarian law to be respected, while standing alongside the people of Israel against the terrorist group Hamas.

    Last week the Foreign Secretary was the first foreign minister to visit the site of Hamas’s attacks on Israel.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Three Trustees reappointed to the Theatres Trust [October 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Three Trustees reappointed to the Theatres Trust [October 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 19 October 2023.

    The Secretary of State has reappointed Annie Hampson, Jane Spiers and Katie Town as Trustees of the Theatres Trust for three year terms commencing 14 September 2023.

    Annie Hampson OBE

    Reappointed from 14 September 2023 until 13 September 2026.

    Annie Hampson has 45 years senior planning experience and received an OBE for services to Planning in London in 2018. She retired as Chief Planning Officer and Development Director at the City of London in 2020 having previously been Planning Services and Development Director since 1989. Prior to that she occupied senior posts elsewhere in London.

    Annie has served as a Trustee for the Theatres Trust since 2020 with particular expertise in Planning. She is currently Chairman of the Diocesan  Advisory Committee for London which covers over 600 Churches and is Chairman of Wren 300- A Diocese of London Project to promote Sir Christopher Wren’s work and the social/educational opportunities his works provide. She is also a Judge for the International Property Awards.

    Annie has extensive knowledge of major projects, the development process, historic buildings, works of alteration, as well as operating and managing in Local Government.

    Jane Spiers

    Reappointed from 14 September 2023 until 13 September 2026.

    Jane Spiers is Chair of National Theatre of Scotland. She was Chief Executive of Aberdeen Performing Arts, (His Majesty’s Theatre, Music Hall and Lemon Tree) from 2012 – 2023 and inaugural Chief Executive of Horsecross Arts (Perth Concert Hall and Perth Theatre) from 2003 – 2012, leading the team through the construction and launch  of Perth Concert Hall and championing Perth Theatre redevelopment.

    Prior to this she was client lead for the redevelopment of the Stirling Tolbooth, centre for music and the arts. Jane is an honorary fellow of the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland, she is an RSA Fellow and she has a honorary D.Litt from Robert Gordon University.  She is a Non-Executive Director of Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust, Sage Gateshead and Peacock Printmakers.

    Katie Town

    Reappointed from 14 September 2023 until 13 September 2026.

    Katie Town is Executive Director of Theatre Royal Wakefield, a Grade II* listed Frank Matcham theatre in West Yorkshire. She has led the theatre since the end of 2015, taking the organisation through a process of rapid creative and organisational change, including building and opening a new extension and safely navigating the organisation through the Coronavirus pandemic keeping learning and community participation projects going throughout.

    Katie previously worked as General Manager for the National Theatre’s Learning Department. Originally qualifying as a non-practising barrister, Katie decided a career in the arts seemed much more interesting, initially working in the Business Affairs team at the Royal Opera House and then in a number smaller arts organisations, including Candoco Dance Company.

    Remuneration and Governance Code

    Trustees of the Theatres Trust are not remunerated. This appointment has been made in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments. The appointments process is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Under the Code, any significant political activity undertaken by an appointee in the last five years must be declared. This is defined as including holding office, public speaking, making a recordable donation, or candidature for election. Annie Hampson, Jane Spiers and Katie Town have not declared any significant political activity.

  • PRESS RELEASE : New veterans ID cards rolled out to service leavers [October 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : New veterans ID cards rolled out to service leavers [October 2023]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 19 October 2023.

    A new ID card for armed forces veterans, which will help them access specialist support and services, has started to be issued to service leavers.

    From today, any personnel who have left the military since December 2018 will automatically be given one of the new ID cards, which will allow them to maintain a tangible link to their career in the forces.

    The cards allow veterans to easily verify their service to the NHS, their local authority, and charities, helping them to access support and services where needed.

    All other veterans will be able to apply for a new ID card by the end of this year, to mark their time in the armed forces.

    Minister for Defence People and Veterans Tobias Ellwood said:

    We owe a huge debt of gratitude to the ex-forces community, and we are working hard to ensure they receive the support they deserve.

    These new cards celebrate the great commitment and dedication of those who have served this country, and I hope they can provide a further link to ex-personnel and the incredible community around them.

    Veterans UK – which manages pensions and compensation payments for the armed forces – local authorities, service charities, NHS and GPs will also benefit from the change, as they will not have to conduct time-consuming checks to identify individual veterans.

    The new ID card is one of three that are available to service leavers. Personnel leaving the armed forces are also able to keep their military IDs, known as the MOD Form 90, allowing them to maintain their emotional connection with their service. Additionally, veterans can access a range of discounts through the Defence Discount Service, the official MOD-endorsed service for the armed forces.

    Last year saw the launch of the Strategy for our Veterans, published jointly by the UK, Welsh and Scottish Governments, which sets out the key areas of support for those who have left the armed forces. The consultation closed on Thursday 21 February.

    All relevant government departments have a responsibility to ensure that the military community is treated fairly, and not disadvantaged by their service, as part of the Armed Forces Covenant. The new ID cards will ensure the process of validating service is as straightforward as possible, so that ex-forces personnel can access support for issues related to their service quickly, where needed.

    The cards will complement the NHS’ commitment to providing specialist health support for veterans in every part of the health service, enabling ex-service personnel in England, Scotland and Wales to access treatment where they have been affected by their service. Last year, NHS England announced that dedicated mental healthcare services are up and running in every part of the country, backed by £10 million of investment, with increasing numbers of GPs and hospitals becoming ‘Veteran Aware’, in order to fully address the needs of those who have served.

    Any veteran in need of support can contact the Veterans’ Gateway – the 24 hour service which signposts ex-forces personnel to the wide range of support available to them, including housing and financial advice, career guidance, and medical care from the NHS. Since being set up in 2017, the Veterans’ Gateway has already received over 20,000 contacts, advising ex-forces personnel and their families.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Barrier to employment lifted for thousands of ex-offenders [October 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Barrier to employment lifted for thousands of ex-offenders [October 2023]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 30 October 2023.

    Over 120,000 former offenders will find it easier to get work and turn their lives away from crime following a change in the law.

    • law change will help ex-offenders turn their back on crime and reduce reoffending
    • certain custodial sentences will no longer need to be declared removing a significant barrier to offenders rebuilding their lives
    • most serious offenders exempt from changes to keep the public safe

    These changes significantly reduce the time people with criminal convictions are legally required to declare them to most potential employers after serving their sentence and when applying for courses, insurance and housing.

    Under the previous rules, some offenders needed to disclose their sentences for the rest of their lives, even for crimes committed decades earlier, a significant barrier to them getting a job and rebuilding their lives.

    Now, custodial sentences of four years or more years for less serious crimes become ‘spent’ after a seven-year period of rehabilitation, as long as no further offence is committed.

    Offenders who have committed serious sexual, violent, or terrorist offences are excluded from these changes to ensure this does not result in an increased risk to the public.

    Stricter disclosure rules will continue to apply to jobs that involve working with vulnerable people, through standard and enhanced DBS checks.

    The Ministry of Justice has also brought in changes that will mean offenders serving shorter sentences for less serious crimes will need to declare their criminal record for shorter periods, helping turn their lives away from crime.

    Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary, Alex Chalk KC, said:

    Carrying the weight of life-long criminal records even after serving their time is a huge barrier for many offenders seeking to reintegrate into society and turn away from a life of crime.

    These reforms will help ex-offenders get the steady income, routine and purpose they need which cuts reoffending and ensures fewer members of the public become victims of crime.

    The reforms came into force on Saturday (28 October 2023) under the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022. They will immediately impact thousands of people with previously unspent convictions, and many more each year. Nearly 125,000 people sentenced in 2022 alone will benefit from these changes.

    Increasing the number of ex-offenders into jobs has formed a key part of the government’s work to reduce reoffending, which costs the taxpayer up to £18 billion each year. Research shows that former offenders in steady employment are nine percentage points less likely to commit further crimes.

    Rapid progress has been made to boost employment for prison leavers, with the number of ex-offenders who have been successfully steered into jobs within 6 months more than doubling from 14% to 30% since April 2021.

    The government has also recently announced reforms to give the lowest risk, and first-time offenders, the greatest chance to turn their lives around. By legislating that there should be a presumption against prison sentences of less than 12 months, these offenders will be punished in the community, repaying their debt to society by cleaning up our neighbourhoods and scrubbing graffiti off walls. This will help these offenders stay in work, connected to their families and better access the drug rehab and mental healthcare needed to properly addresses the root causes of their offending.

    Naomi, who has previous convictions but has since been supported into steady employment with charity Recycling Lives, knows from experience how a criminal record can hinder opportunities to move away from a life of crime. She said:

    This legislation is a massive step forward in improving rehabilitation opportunities and relationships between ex-offenders and employers.

    It’s about eradicating stereotypical views and allowing ex-offenders to blossom in the life they have worked hard to create.

    Unlock, a charity that supports ex-offenders to overcome the long-term disadvantages caused by their convictions, has also welcomed the law change. Dr Jo Easton, Joint Interim CEO, said:

    We see first-hand through our helpline and advice service that having to disclose a criminal record introduces multiple barriers in everyday life; especially finding a job, somewhere to live, insurance or even accessing higher education.

    While we are calling for even more fundamental reform to the criminal record system, these changes will make a huge difference for thousands of people, giving them the chance to move on with their lives much sooner.

    Employment Advisory Boards have been established at 92 prisons over the last two years, linking business leaders with their local prisons to offer their expertise on the skills, qualifications and training needed to help prisoners re-enter the workforce.

    Dedicated job experts have been recruited in every resettlement prison in England and Wales and the Prison Service has been hosting “Unlocked” job fairs which help match prison leavers with potential employers in sectors ranging from hospitality to construction.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Rishi Sunak meeting with the President of Israel Isaac Herzog [October 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Rishi Sunak meeting with the President of Israel Isaac Herzog [October 2023]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 19 October 2023.

    The Prime Minister met Israeli President Isaac Herzog in Israel today.

    He expressed his personal condolences for the horrific loss of life in Israel as a result of Hamas’ terrorism. He reiterated that the UK stands in solidarity with Israel and firmly believes in the country’s right to self-defence in line with international law.

    The Prime Minister and President Herzog agreed on the importance of getting urgent humanitarian support to ordinary Palestinians in Gaza who are also suffering. The Prime Minister welcomed yesterday’s announcement that Israel would not stop aid from entering Gaza. He expressed his sincere hope that further progress could be made on delivering crucial food, water and medicine.

    The Prime Minister conveyed his gratitude to President Herzog for the support Israel has provided to British nationals caught up in the attacks, including to the families of those who have been taken hostage. The leaders agreed to continue working tirelessly to secure their release.

    The Prime Minister and President Herzog stressed the imperative need to avoid further escalation of violence in the region. They agreed to continue working together to that end.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Air travel guidance refreshed to give passengers more clarity on their rights [October 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Air travel guidance refreshed to give passengers more clarity on their rights [October 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 19 October 2023.

    Updated guidance explains what passengers need to know about their rights and responsibilities when flying.

    • government refreshes air passenger travel guide to help passengers navigate their protections and rights when flying
    • formerly known as the aviation passenger charter, the travel guide has been given a makeover, making it easier for passengers to find the information they need
    • ahead of the busy half term, it’s vital that passengers know their rights and industry use their platforms to promote them – ensuring operators and passengers know exactly what’s expected of them

    As millions of people are expected to travel through UK airports over the upcoming half term, the Department for Transport (DfT) has today (19 October 2023) refreshed the newly named Air passenger travel guide, making it even easier for passengers to know their rights and responsibilities when they travel.

    Formerly known as the aviation passenger charter, it details what people can expect from airlines, travel agents, tour operators and airports, and what to do if things don’t go to plan.

    This includes advice on what to do if flights are cancelled or delayed, if baggage goes missing, and the rights of disabled passengers, as well as guidance on how to complain if passengers feel they have been treated unfairly.

    Not only does it help passengers in these stressful situations, the travel guide also provides general advice for all aspects of your journey, such as what to expect at passport control, what you can bring through UK customs and how to manage connecting flights.

    It also reminds passengers to regularly check the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FDCO) website for the latest security and safety advice before booking travel, as well as what counts as an extraordinary circumstance when compensation isn’t available.

    The advice also makes clear that while security checks are changing over the coming months, they should continue to be prepared to remove electronics and small liquids from their bags when travelling by air.

    Aviation Minister Baroness Vere said:

    Whether going on holiday, travelling for business or visiting loved ones, we all want our journeys to be smooth and without any hiccups, which is why the air passenger travel guide is so important.

    Having a one-stop shop of information and advice, which is clear and concise, will help improve the overall travel experience and make sure passengers are getting what they deserve.

    As part of a regular review to ensure it remains as useful as possible for passengers, the travel guide will also soon contain British Sign Language and easy-read versions and accessibility information is now in one collated and convenient section, making it easier for disabled passengers to find out how to book assistance at the airport and on the plane.

    Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive of ABTA – The Travel Association, said:

    There are lots of rights in place to protect people who are heading off on holiday, particularly if they are caught up in delays or cancellations. But your rights do vary depending on what you booked – with those on a package holiday enjoying greater protection.

    The air passenger travel guide gives a good outline of what travellers can expect and ABTA is also on hand to guide our members’ customers and offer additional cover through the ABTA code of conduct.

    DfT has recently committed to strengthen the powers of the Civil Aviation Authority and mandate alternative dispute resolutions that make it easier for consumers to escalate complaints.

    To encourage airlines and operators to promote the travel guide, Aviation Minister Baroness Vere has written to 30 partners in the aviation industry to encourage the use of the guide on individual booking websites – so from the moment they book, passengers have the information they need for their whole journey – without the need to go searching.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Tech start-ups boosted by access to skills and science from Exeter to Edinburgh [October 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Tech start-ups boosted by access to skills and science from Exeter to Edinburgh [October 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 19 October 2023.

    Seven organisations to receive funding for programmes supporting tech and digital businesses.

    • Start-ups across Britain given access to research, business coaching and help to secure funding after organisations receive a boost of up to £250,000
    • among them is new support for Sheffield health and wellbeing innovators and Welsh creative tech
    • partnerships with seven organisations including universities across the UK unveiled as part of Barclays Eagle Labs’ Ecosystem Partnership Programme

    Start-ups across the UK will receive access to the latest scientific research, business coaching and help to raise capital from universities and business experts. Announced today (Thursday 19 October), seven organisations are to receive funding to run programmes to support tech and digital businesses.

    Local programmes in cities including Edinburgh, Exeter and Sheffield will be match-funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology’s Digital Growth Grant, delivered by Barclays Eagle Labs. Each organisation has received up to £250,000 to match their investments in new and existing programmes that help local tech businesses.

    Minister for Tech and the Digital Economy, Paul Scully said:

    Britain’s innovative tech start-ups span the nation and drive global innovation forward. We are delighted to boost these programmes to provide on-the-ground support for founders in their local areas, giving them the help they need to thrive.

    Directly supporting businesses in this way is the cornerstone of our Digital Growth Grant, which champions a future where every corner of the UK benefits from the job creation and growth technology provides.

    The programmes provide a variety of support including access to digital services, entrepreneurship training, and access to networking and fundraising opportunities.

    Each programme has a specialist focus dependent on local specialisms, with Edinburgh backing “deep tech” start-ups which are converting scientific discoveries into businesses. Other regions are focussing support on tech start-ups helping tackle climate change, those supporting creative industries, or driving innovation in the NHS.

    Some of the successful programmes

    Greentech Accelerator, Wales: Tramshed Tech will run this 12-week programme to help climate tech businesses by providing training, expert advice, network support, with access to funding.

    Advanced Wellbeing Accelerator, Sheffield: With Digital Growth Grant funding, Sheffield Hallam University is able to run its third year of a start-up support scheme for high-potential health and wellbeing tech businesses, building on the regions fast-evolving digital health tech cluster.

    Venture Builder Incubator, Edinburgh: The expansion of this University of Edinburgh programme will give researchers access to a cut of £100,000, access to AI research facilities and a ‘National Robotarium’ to convert their inventions into innovations and businesses across robotics and more.

    Season 2 of the Ecosystem Partnership Programme opens for applications from October 19th, where organisations can apply for matched funding for activity being delivered between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025.

    Today also marks six months since Barclays Eagle Labs started leading the delivery of the Digital Growth Grant. In this time, Barclays Eagle Labs has initiated nine accelerator programmes, including the Black Venture Growth Programme for underrepresented founders, helping to foster and grow the digital economy.

    Matt Corbidge, Director, Barclays Eagle Labs said:

    We are proud to be able to support these projects which are designed to help early-stage tech entrepreneurs across the UK.  It’s vitally important that start-ups and scale-ups are supported particularly in growing sectors in AI, climate-tech and the digital space.

    Using our Ecosystem Partnership Programme, we’re allocating funding to organisations that are already plugged into their national and regional ecosystems.  We hope these projects will go a long way to supporting start-ups and scale-ups, which are vital to growing local economies throughout the UK.

    Notes to editors

    The full list of partners includes:

    • Conception X
    • Functional Skills UK
    • Sunderland Software City
    • SETsquared Partnership
    • Sheffield Hallam University
    • Tramshed Tech
    • University of Edinburgh

    The £12 million Digital Growth Grant builds on more than £42.2 million invested by the government to support tech startups and scaleups since 2016. The two-year grant, awarded to Barclays Eagle Labs, was launched in April 2023.

    Among a range of support initiatives, including growth programmes, mentoring sessions and learning materials, the grant funds the Ecosystem Partnership Programme, which allocates funding to business support organisations that are embedded in their local entrepreneurial ecosystem.

    The first round of funding under the Ecosystem Partnership Programme opened for applications in April 2023, for activity to be delivered by 31 March 2024. For more information on the Ecosystem Partnership Programme please visit the Barclays Eagle Lab website.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Misinformation and attempts to artificially manipulate information have the ability to impact billions – UK statement at the UN Fourth Committee [October 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Misinformation and attempts to artificially manipulate information have the ability to impact billions – UK statement at the UN Fourth Committee [October 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 19 October 2023.

    Statement by Mungo Woodifield, UK Spokesperson to the UN, at the UN Fourth Committee meeting on information.

    Thank you Chair.

    I would like to start, like others, by thanking the Department of Global Communications for their engagement with Member States and for their work on the development of the Code of Conduct for Information Integrity on Digital Platforms.

    Digital platforms have become crucial tools that have transformed the way in which we access information. Each year, the number of people online increases. And each year, we see developments and changes in digital platforms, from the growth of new social media to the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence, which brings with it both immense opportunities, but also serious risks.

    We all see the increased spread of mis and disinformation online. It is a pervasive threat. Mis and disinformation, and attempts to artificially manipulate the information environment have the ability to impact billions. It can threaten our freedoms, and cause harm to individuals and society, and as we have seen in recent weeks, it misleads people in times of crisis.

    Artificial intelligence has the ability to increase the volume, sophistication and spread of misinformation and disinformation online.

    Access to trusted information is the antidote and the UN has a vital role to play in providing accurate, impartial reporting based on facts. But the job is getting harder each year.

    The UK has four points on what we would like to see.

    First, Member States have a responsibility to protect the integrity of the UN as a source of trusted information. This is a Member-State led body and of course, we will have political disagreements and differing views on a range of issues, but when we do agree, we rely on the UN to communicate and implement those decisions. It cannot do that effectively if it is being undermined.

    Unfortunately, some Member States are spreading harmful disinformation at and about the UN. We remain very concerned by disinformation about UN Peacekeeping operations in the field. UN Blue Helmets are asked to do difficult work in the most challenging environments, and the spread of false allegations about their work poses real threats to UN staff and severely impedes their missions. We support plans by the DGC to develop an information integrity lab that can support UN operations in the field and quickly rebut these false allegations.

    Since their illegal invasion of Ukraine, Russia has been exploiting the Security Council as a platform for disinformation. This goes beyond the disagreements and contested debates between Council members. Without any precedent in Security Council history, Russia has invited dozens of individuals as briefers to spread conspiracy theories about what has happened in Ukraine, which has been proven demonstrably false time and time again by UN experts.

    Russia’s disinformation campaign distracts from the awful reality of its crimes on the ground and has degraded the level of discussion at the Security Council. The UK is committed to preventing that. We all need a UN that is trusted and taken seriously, so we will continue to expose disinformation when we see it, and hold Russia accountable for what it is doing.

    Second, Member States and platforms alike have a responsibility to keep pace with rapid developments in technology, to understand them and govern them, in order to keep the billions who use them safe. Platforms should take steps to improve transparency regarding algorithms and content moderation. For our part, the UK passed our Online Safety Bill this year, which we hope will make the UK the safest place in the world to be online. It places new duties on social media companies, improves child protection and increases user empowerment.

    In this vein, the UK strongly supports the development of the UN Code of Conduct for Information Integrity on Digital Platforms as a tool to support similar national efforts around the world. We encourage all Member States to work constructively with the DGC to keep up the momentum on its development.

    Third, the UK supports taking a human-rights-based approach to meeting the information challenge. While it is essential to counter mis and disinformation, we must ensure, as we do this, that we protect the right to freedom of expression. It is important the UN’s Code of Conduct respects the careful balance in international human rights law on the kinds of speech which must be prohibited, and those which must not be restricted.

    Finally, Chair, we must do more to tackle the widening digital divide which exacerbates information inequality. To ensure everyone has access to quality information means equipping users with the digital literacy skills to recognise and challenge mis and disinformation. Digital technologies are a crosscutting accelerator of development and a key enabler to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. The UK is playing our part to support an inclusive, responsible digital transformation.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government invests £200 million to drive innovation and get more zero emission trucks on our roads [October 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government invests £200 million to drive innovation and get more zero emission trucks on our roads [October 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 19 October 2023.

    New funding will create new jobs and provide crucial infrastructure to help the haulage sector decarbonise.

    • new funding to roll out up to 370 zero emission trucks across the country
    • investment will help deliver on our net zero commitments, create new jobs and grow the economy while also avoiding food price hikes caused by fluctuating petrol costs
    • more than £2 million also set to be given to small and medium-sized businesses in a separate competition to boost innovation and green tech in freight

    More zero emission trucks are set to drive on UK roads thanks to a £200 million boost to decarbonise freight vehicles, drive innovation and create new jobs as part of a week of government action to support the sector.

    With heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) alone contributing 20% to all transport emissions across the UK, the £200 million in government funding announced today (19 October 2023) will be invested across 4 innovative green projects to roll out up to 370 zero emission HGVs and help set road freight on the path towards net zero, driving innovation and creating new jobs.

    Delivered in partnership with Innovate UK, the £200 million government investment from the zero emission HGV and infrastructure demonstrator programme will also deliver around 57 refuelling and electric charging sites, providing the crucial infrastructure to help the haulage sector decarbonise.

    Roads Minister, Richard Holden, visited Voltempo in Birmingham yesterday – one of the recipients of the £200 million – whose eFREIGHT 2030 project is set to create up to 200 new jobs by 2030 and provide Birmingham with one of the UK’s first electric vehicle charging hubs dedicated to HGVs.

    The funding will help popular grocery companies such as Sainsbury’s and Marks & Spencer lower their transport emissions while protecting them from rising delivery costs associated with changing petrol and diesel prices. This could help prevent price hikes across supermarkets, allowing people to save money on food and groceries to help with the cost of living.

    This funding comes as part of the government’s commitment to make the right long-term decisions for a brighter future. Decarbonising the freight sector is a key part of building a sustainable future for the industry and achieving our net zero commitments in a fair and pragmatic way that lowers costs, creates jobs and grows the economy.

    Further to Voltempo, the other projects that will receive a share of the £200 million boost are Project Electric Freightway by GRIDSERVE, Project Zero Emission North (ZEN) Freight and Hydrogen Aggregated Logistics (HyHAUL) by Protium.

    Roads Minister, Richard Holden, said:

    Freight and logistics are the beating heart of our economy and it is only right that we celebrate the sector so that it gets the recognition and support it deserves.

    From boosting zero emission tech across freight to attracting the future generation of talent to the industry, we are working hard to drive innovation, create jobs and grow the economy by building a brighter, more innovative future for one of our most crucial industries.

    Decarbonisation Minister, Jesse Norman, said:

    The UK is at the forefront of the global transition to net zero and today marks another important milestone to decarbonise freight, one of the economy’s most vital industries.

    That’s why I’m pleased to reveal that we’re investing £200 million to roll out 370 zero emission trucks, and a further £2.4 million to pioneer green tech through the Freight Innovation Fund, as we work closely with the sector to create new jobs, grow the economy and reach net zero by 2050.

    The measures come during a week of action from the government, including ministers visiting multiple freight stakeholders, to understand how the sector can continue to drive innovation and play a crucial role in creating new jobs, growing the economy and helping the UK get closer to net zero.

    Richard Smith, Managing Director of the Road Haulage Association, said:

    We strongly welcome today’s announcement from the government on the zero emission HGV and infrastructure demonstrator programme.

    The £200 million commitment ministers are putting into this demonstrator significantly helps to de-risk the transition to net zero. The real-world demonstrators will answer many of the practical questions operators have and, in turn, give our members the confidence to invest in the zero emission lorries needed to drive down carbon emissions from our sector.

    This week has also seen the publication of the zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate. This sets out the percentage of new zero emission cars and vans that manufacturers will be required to produce each year up to 2030 as part of a new pragmatic and realistic pathway to 100% zero emission vehicle sales from 2035.

    Indro Mukerjee, CEO of Innovate UK, said:

    As the UK’s innovation agency, Innovate UK is committed to supporting innovative UK businesses working to decarbonise the UK’s road freight industry.

    Together with the Department for Transport (DfT), the £200 million in government funding will develop world-leading battery and hydrogen trucks and demonstrate, at a large scale, creating greener jobs and boosting our net zero economy.

    To further drive innovation in freight and logistics, an additional £2.4 million has also been unlocked through the second round of the Freight Innovation Fund (FIF). As part of the fund, the FIF Accelerator – open for applications from today – will help up to 10 small and medium enterprises develop new ways to make freight greener, more efficient and more resilient.

    The £7 million, 3-year FIF aims to scale up and roll out innovative technology across the industry to decarbonise freight. It is at the heart of the Future of Freight Plan, the first-ever cross-modal and cross-government vision to help the industry improve planning, boost innovation in data and technology and facilitate the transition to net zero.

    The first round of the FIF supported a series of groundbreaking projects, from using drones to deliver mail and services to the Orkney Islands, implementing AI and data to reduce costs, to deploying zero-emission technology to track and move freight across London.

    Nicola Yates OBE, Chief Executive Officer at Connected Places Catapult, said:

    Freight is a crucial sector for the UK and contributes around £127 billion to the economy, but it is not without its challenges. Reducing the sector’s carbon footprint, cutting journey times and easing traffic congestion are key areas of focus, alongside the development of efficient and better-connected logistics hubs.

    We are proud to be continuing our work with DfT as we open applications for the second cohort of the FIF accelerator programme. The companies chosen will benefit from access to funding and expert support to develop their technologies and innovations that promise to make the freight sector grow, become greener and work smarter.

    Freight Week will also see the launch of 2 calls for evidence to continue exploring new ways for the freight industry to decarbonise and become more efficient.

    The first is the call for evidence to inform and support the Development of the zero emission HGV and coach infrastructure strategy, which is due to be published in 2024. This will ensure the delivery of the infrastructure required to meet the 2035 and 2040 phase-out dates for non-zero emission HGVs.

    The second is the call for evidence on Volumetric concrete mixers (VCMs), which will consider whether a temporary weight allowance should remain, be removed or amended for the vehicles beyond the current deadline of 2028. It will consider the best options to reduce waste, limit costs and ensure fair competition while taking into account how to continue ensuring road safety.

    With DfT providing approximately £20 million per year in freight revenue grants, the government will also consider how to boost freight across a variety of modes.

    The Mode Shift Revenue Support and Waterborne Freight Grant will be reviewed to explore how to continue helping the sector decarbonise by shifting freight from road to rail or water through the 2 schemes.

    October also marks the start of Year 2 of Generation Logistics, backed by £645,000 in government funding across 2 years, which will be led by CILT and Logistics UK.

    Following a successful first year, Generation Logistics will now focus on raising awareness of the logistics sector and its career opportunities, specifically among young people in schools and colleges, in an effort to boost recruitment and retention of a more skilled and diverse workforce.

    Kate Jennings, Director of Policy at Logistics UK, said:

    Logistics underpins every sector of the UK economy and it is positive to see its importance being championed during Freight Week.

    As an industry committed to decarbonising, we welcome the investment through the FIF, as well as the outcome of the zero emission HGV and infrastructure demonstrator programme.

    Freight Week follows the decision to extend the fuel duty cut to March 2024 and the 33 unprecedented actions from DfT to support the haulage sector. These include up to £100 million in joint government and industry funding to improve roadside facilities for lorry drivers, and £34 million to create up to 11,000 skill bootcamps and increase the capacity for HGV driver tests by 90% compared to pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels.

    Michael Boxwell, Project Director of eFREIGHT 2030, said:

    eFREIGHT 2030 sets us on a journey to net zero within the heavy road freight industry. DfT support kick-starts the transformation, enabling us to create the charging infrastructure and bring in electric HGVs simultaneously.

    By early 2026, we will have 11 fleets deploying electric HGVs and a nationwide HGV charging network using British-built chargers. Each charge hub will provide at least 6 charge bays and 1,000kW charging. This demonstration programme combined with world-class infrastructure will give fleet operators confidence they can deploy electric HGVs at scale.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government agrees scope of inquiry into Lucy Letby’s crimes [October 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government agrees scope of inquiry into Lucy Letby’s crimes [October 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 19 October 2023.

    Health and Social Care Secretary publishes terms of reference for inquiry following murders and attempted murders committed by former neonatal nurse Lucy Letby.

    • Inquiry will look at experiences of families of all the babies named in the indictment; conduct of staff at the Countess of Chester Hospital, part of the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust; effectiveness of NHS management and governance structures; and NHS culture
    • Inquiry has powers to compel witnesses to produce evidence and is chaired by Lady Justice Thirlwall, one of the country’s most senior and experienced judges

    Health and Social Care Secretary Steve Barclay has today (19 October 2023) published the terms of reference for the statutory inquiry following the horrific murders and attempted murders committed by Lucy Letby.

    The inquiry is being set up at pace to ensure vital lessons are learned and provide answers to the parents and families impacted as soon as possible.

    Letby was convicted of murdering 7 babies and attempting to kill 6 others at the Countess of Chester Hospital. She committed these crimes while working as a neonatal nurse at the Countess of Chester Hospital between June 2015 and June 2016.

    Health and Social Care Secretary Steve Barclay said:

    Losing a child is the greatest sorrow any parent can experience, and I cannot begin to imagine the hurt and suffering experienced by the families affected by Lucy Letby’s horrific crimes.

    We have a duty to get them the answers they deserve, to hold people to account where they need to be, and to make sure lessons are learned.

    These terms of reference have been agreed following engagement with the families, and I am confident Lady Justice Thirlwall will ensure their voices are heard as the inquiry gets underway.

    The terms of reference are set by the Health and Social Care Secretary after consultation with the chair, who has engaged with the families and other stakeholders.

    The inquiry will cover 3 broad areas:

    • the experiences of the parents of the babies named in the indictment
    • the conduct of clinical and non-clinical staff and management, as well as governance and escalation processes in relation to concerns being raised about Letby and whether these structures contributed to the failure to protect babies from her
    • the effectiveness of governance, external scrutiny and professional regulation in keeping babies in hospital safe, including consideration of NHS culture

    It will not review the jury’s verdicts and will make no findings regarding liability in civil proceedings.

    The government confirmed in August 2023 that the inquiry would be placed on a statutory footing. This means it will have legal powers to compel witnesses, including former and current staff of the Countess of Chester, to give evidence. It also means evidence must be heard in public, unless the chair decides otherwise.

    Lady Justice Thirlwall is one of the country’s most senior judges and currently sits in the Court of Appeal. She has many years of experience as a senior judge and barrister.

    As chair, she will decide on the order in which the inquiry considers issues and how to manage the inquiry alongside any live police investigation and any criminal proceedings – whether that be retrials, trials, or an appeal.

    The chair will provide a final report, and if appropriate, interim reports as soon as practically possible.

    The inquiry is currently setting up its infrastructure at pace so that it can begin its investigations.

    Read the full Thirlwall Inquiry terms of reference.