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Tag: 2024

  • PRESS RELEASE : Public urged to get flu vaccine as hospitalisation rates rise steeply [December 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Public urged to get flu vaccine as hospitalisation rates rise steeply [December 2024]

    The press release issued by the UK Health Security Agency on 12 December 2024.

    Flu positivity jumps to 17.1% as vaccine take-up rates lag behind levels needed to protect the NHS and levels of norovirus highest in a decade for the time of year.

    The government’s medical experts are calling on eligible groups to ensure they book their flu and COVID-19 vaccinations before the deadline on 19 December. People are urged to protect themselves before Christmas amid a recent rise in flu cases.

    The latest edition of the UK Health Security Agency’s (UKHSA) COVID-19, influenza (flu), Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and norovirus surveillance bulletin (formally Weekly Winter Briefing) shows that flu positivity in week 49 jumped to 17.1%, compared to 11.6% in the previous week.

    Hospitalisations as a result of flu also rose to 5.53 per 100,000 this week, compared with 3.98 per 100,000 in the previous week’s report.

    The national booking system for flu vaccination closes on 19 December and with NHS hospitals already managing record flu levels going into winter, top doctors, including the Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty, are urging those who are still eligible for vaccination to book their appointments immediately. After this date people will only be able to access the flu vaccine through their GPs and some pharmacies.

    The latest figures come as flu and COVID-19 vaccination uptake rates are still not at the levels we need to prevent further rises in admissions. Vaccine uptake currently stands at 37% for those in a clinical risk group.

    Alongside increases in cases and hospitalisation due to flu, the latest surveillance data shows that current laboratory reports of norovirus are more than double the 5-season average (see notes). This is the highest number of cases recorded between week 47 and 48 (747 laboratory reports) in a decade – since the data began reporting in this way in 2014.

    Norovirus has increased in all regions across England and all age groups, most notably in those aged over 65. This season the increase in reporting has begun earlier than usual, with activity between 18 November and 1 December 33.2% higher than the previous 2-week period.

    Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Advisor at UKHSA, said:

    The threat of an early flu season is materialising, alongside norovirus rates increasing rapidly. With winter vaccine uptake not yet reaching the high levels we aim for in some eligible groups – including healthcare workers, our forecasts for infection rates are not getting any brighter.

    It is vital that those eligible take up the free flu and COVID-19 vaccines before Christmas. In just one week it will be too late to book through the NHS online booking service. Taking up the vaccine will prevent putting your seasonal plans in jeopardy – and more importantly, prevent the risk of severe illness and hospitalisation.

    The elderly and those with weakened immune systems are most at risk of suffering more serious illness from flu or norovirus, so if you have flu-like symptoms or diarrhoea or vomiting, avoid visiting people in hospital and care homes to prevent passing on the infection in these settings.

    Professor Chris Whitty, Chief Medical Officer said:

    The latest data is clear that flu is rising rapidly, and we are approaching a serious flu wave.

    Flu can be unpleasant for many and life threatening for some. With the festive season approaching we can still reduce illness, hospitalisations and deaths by increasing vaccination rates – it is our best defence. Now is the time to get vaccinated if you are eligible.

    Duncan Burton, Chief Nursing Officer for England, said:

    The sharp rise in the number of patients in hospital with flu compared to last year shows just how important it is for anyone eligible to follow the lead of the millions of others and get vaccinated as soon as possible.

    Vaccines are a vital defence against serious illness and hospitalisation and keep you and your family protected, so with the festive period approaching and just a week to go to book if you are eligible and not yet vaccinated, then please do go online, use the NHS App or ring 119 as soon as you can to get an appointment.

    Several factors are likely contributing to the unusually high levels of norovirus activity we are seeing at the stage of the season, including changes in diagnostic testing.

    However, it is most likely that the emergence of an unusual norovirus genotype, GII.17 is driving the increases. This genotype has become the most commonly detected in England since April 2024, accounting for 63.2% of characterised samples during the 2024/25 season to date.

    Previously, GII.4 noroviruses have dominated globally with GII.4/Sydney/2012 variants persisting as the most frequently detected variant worldwide since the winter of 2012. There’s currently no indication that GII.17 causes more severe illness, but work is underway to conduct further assessment of severity.

    To reduce the spread of norovirus, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, as alcohol-based hand sanitisers are not effective against the virus. Stay at home for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop and disinfect surfaces using a bleach-based cleaner where possible.

    The UKHSA COVID-19, influenza (flu), RSV and norovirus surveillance bulletin also showed a slight decrease in RSV cases, while COVID-19 continued to circulate at low levels.

    Vaccination against RSV is being offered for the first time this year to anyone who is 28 or more weeks pregnant, along with people aged 75 to 79 years.

    The NHS website has information on symptoms, how to help yourself feel better at home, and when to seek medical attention.

    The week 50 flu, COVID-19 and RSV surveillance report and norovirus surveillance report have been published.

    Notes

    The 5-season average for norovirus is calculated from the same period during the 5 seasons of 2016/2017, 2017/2018, 2018/2019, 2022/2023 and 2023/2024, excluding years impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

  • PRESS RELEASE : LGBT veterans to receive up to £75 million in financial recognition for historic wrongs [December 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : LGBT veterans to receive up to £75 million in financial recognition for historic wrongs [December 2024]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 12 December 2024.

    Government has launched £75 million LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme after discussions with veterans.

    LGBT veterans will receive up to £70,000 each to acknowledge the historic wrongs they experienced in the Armed Forces – with the Government increasing the total amount available for payments up to £75 million, significantly above the level recommended in the Etherton Review into the treatment of LGBT veterans.

    The increase follows extensive engagement with LGBT veterans and demonstrates the Government’s commitment to supporting veterans alongside recognising the historic hurt caused.

    LGBT veterans who were dismissed or discharged because of their sexual orientation or gender identify will receive £50,000. As a result of the increased funding, additional payments of up to £20,000 will be available for veterans and Service Personnel who were negatively affected by the ban on LGBT personnel from 1967 to 2000 during their time in Service – this is an increase of 50% to the Financial Recognition Scheme.

    Ministers have also announced today (Thursday 12 December) that LGBT veterans, dismissed or discharged due to their actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity, can apply to have their rank restored and discharge reason amended.

    Defence Secretary John Healey said:

    The historic treatment of LGBT veterans was a moral stain on our nation.  Our Government is determined to right the wrongs of the past and recognise the hurt that too many endured.

    We have listened to veterans and will continue to deliver against the recommendations set out in the Etherton review. We will continue to support our veterans as we work to renew the nation’s contract with those who serve, and have served.

    This work was rightly started by the previous Government, and will be taken forward and delivered by this Government.

    The Financial Recognition Scheme and other restorative measures will be debated in the House of Commons today (Thursday 12 December), with a portal for applications opening tomorrow. Several veterans affected by the LGBT ban have been invited to watch the debate.

    Today’s announcements mark a significant step towards implementing Lord Etherton’s review, which looked at the appalling treatment of LGBT serving personnel between 1967 and 2000. With applications opening tomorrow for the Financial Recognition Scheme, which will leave only seven recommendations outstanding, the Ministry of Defence is working closely with other Government departments and stakeholders to ensure all remaining recommendations are delivered in 2025.

    The payments announced today (Thursday 12 December) will be exempt from income tax and means tested benefits, ensuring LGBT veterans benefit from the full amount available.

    Minister for Veterans and People Alistair Carns said:

    This response to Lord Etherton’s Review indicates the urgent action we’re taking to help redress the regrettable chapter in the history of the Armed Forces.

    The treatment of LGBT people is a shameful chapter in the history of our Armed Forces and we are working hard to address the wrongs of the past.

    We fully welcome our LGBT veterans back into Defence and acknowledge their vital contribution to keeping the nation safe.

    To help as many eligible people to apply as possible, the Ministry of Defence has set aside a £90,000 fund for key charities to support LGBT veterans with their applications.

    Four non-financial restorative measures, including the two announced today on rank restoration and the qualification of administrative discharges, will be extended to those who served before 1967. The other two are certificates of service being reissued and former Officers having their service details published in The Gazette.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK officials travel to Sudan [December 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK officials travel to Sudan [December 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 12 December 2024.

    The UK Special Representative to Sudan, Richard Crowder, led a UK delegation to Port Sudan this week – the first official UK visit to Sudan since the outbreak of the conflict in April 2023.

    Richard met with several members of the Transitional Sovereignty Council. He emphasised the importance of allowing unrestricted humanitarian access into Sudan and across conflict lines.

    He pressed for a resolution to the conflict, and for all parties to engage constructively in mediation talks, including complying with the Jeddah Declaration of Commitments to Protect Civilians.

    The UK will continue to call for the protection of civilians and condemns the recent attacks on a marketplace in Kabkabiya and shelling of Omdurman.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

    For over eighteen months, Sudanese civilians have endured unimaginable violence, and their suffering is a scar on our collective conscience.

    The UK has doubled our aid commitment, but every aid route must be open, accessible and safe. The UK will not stop working with our partners in Africa, the region and around the world to help. We will not forget Sudan.

    The UK delegation, which included humanitarian experts, also met humanitarian partners and saw the impact of UK aid on the ground in Port Sudan.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Courses key to government growth mission will stay [December 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Courses key to government growth mission will stay [December 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Education on 12 December 2024.

    Courses key to government growth mission will stay, with 70% of the remaining qualifications due for defunding to be saved.

    The government has today (12 December 2024) laid out the future of post-16 qualifications, protecting learner choice whilst cutting red tape to streamline the system.

    The move follows the rapid review into vocational qualifications that were due to be defunded by the previous government.

    Qualifications that will be key to the government’s growth mission in key subjects like manufacturing and engineering that were previously scheduled for defunding will remain until replacements become more established.

    This will ensure learners will continue to have a broad range of options available to help them get a foot on the career ladder.

    Retaining these courses will preserve a pipeline of talent into key sectors under the government’s Plan for Change – including the NHS.

    Around 70% of the remaining qualifications that were slated for defunding under the previous government will no longer be defunded as planned following the review.

    The government is taking a pragmatic approach to fix the foundations and deliver change. We are cutting red tape to allow learners to combine qualifications in the way that suits them, putting learners first and helping them to develop the skills this country needs in order to grow the economy.

    Qualifications that overlap with T Levels will be able to coexist where we continue to develop and improve qualifications so that they provide for the needs of learners, providers and employers, supporting the transition to T Levels as the large technical qualification of choice.

    Key courses that will stay include those that were scheduled for defunding in important sectors such as agriculture, environmental and animal care, engineering, manufacturing, health and social care, legal, finance and accounting, business and administration, and creative and design.

    All of these sectors will be at the forefront of the government’s ambitious plans to fix the foundations of the economy and deliver growth.

    Instead of blanket restrictions, the new approach is informed by more than 250 individual contributions from employers, colleges and awarding organisations.

    Minister for Skills, Jacqui Smith, said:

    Vocational and technical qualifications are crucial to our Plan for Change and our number one mission to grow the economy.

    This government is committed to the long-term delivery of T Levels as the best quality technical education option for young people.

    Qualifications are not one-size-fits-all, and we recognise we must take a pragmatic approach. Our ambitious programme must meet the needs of employers and our public services if we are to see our economy flourish.

    We took decisive action as soon as we came into government to ensure the best outcomes for learners and I am thankful to all those who contributed to the pause and review.

    In an oral statement today, the minister confirmed that over 200 qualifications that had either no or below 100 enrolments per year over the last 3 years will have their funding withdrawn from 1 August 2025.

    The minister also confirmed that a new T Level in Marketing will be available from 2025, as the government continues the rollout of the programme following the recent introduction of T Levels in Animal Care and Management; Craft and Design; and Media, Broadcasting and Production.

    This includes the recent announcement that more flexibility will be introduced for industry placements, ensuring even more students can take advantage of the opportunities available from this high-quality qualification.

    The Onsite Construction T Level is helping students progress into positive destinations, but will have no further enrolments, due to a lack of overall demand for large qualifications at level 3. Learners already enrolled can still complete their courses. We recently announced £140 million from industry to create Homebuilding Skills Hubs, which will enable thousands more apprenticeships in construction to be started every year. This will ensure these vital skills are rapidly developed in the areas that need them most, helping to meet the government’s milestone of 1.5 million homes being built in the next parliament.

    Notes to editors

    • After appeals, there were 539 qualifications in scope of the review. 216 qualifications have been defunded due to low or no enrolments for the past 3 years.
    • 52 qualifications had already fallen out of funding in 2024 to 2025; 6 had an operational end date on or before 31 July 2025; and 42 qualifications had direct replacements approved as part of the previous government’s reforms.
    • 157 of the 223 remaining qualifications, or around 70%, have been retained, with 66 qualifications removed through sector-by-sector analysis undertaken by the department.
    • Review of level 3 qualifications reform: provisional outcomes
    • Review of level 3 qualifications reform: equality impact assessment
  • PRESS RELEASE : £100 million public-private health research boost [December 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : £100 million public-private health research boost [December 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 12 December 2024.

    20 new clinical research hubs to be set up across UK to accelerate research into the next generation of treatments.

    • Funded through £100 million of public-private investment from pharmaceutical companies, boosting economic growth
    • New centres will shift research into the communities across the country, giving more people the chance to benefit from the latest innovative treatments

    Patients across the UK will have greater access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials as the government announces £100 million of public-private investment to set up 20 research hubs.

    Commercial research delivery centres (CRDCs) will act as regional hubs for pioneering clinical trials, creating opportunities to test innovative new treatments with the latest equipment and technology.

    They will be established in all 4 corners of the UK – England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

    These trials will build UK research delivery leadership into all conditions across multi-specialist centres. This includes cancer and obesity, as well as infectious diseases such as flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The CRDCs will support the rapid set-up of commercial studies so patients can begin accessing treatments undergoing trials as early as possible.

    In support of the 10 Year Health Plan, CRDCs will shift clinical trials into community settings, meaning those in under-served regions will be better able to participate in research. This will boost access to new treatments in the trial stage.

    Health Minister, Baroness Gillian Merron, said:

    This significant private investment in health research is a powerful vote of confidence in the UK’s leading research and life sciences sector.

    The new hubs will help shift research into smaller communities, allowing more people to access cutting-edge treatments faster.

    Prevention is better than cure – these trials will help unlock the next generation of treatments, boost economic growth and build an NHS fit for the future.

    The funding is part of a wider £400 million joint public-private investment scheme – the Voluntary Scheme for Branded Medicine Pricing, Access and Growth (VPAG) Investment Programme. It is a unique partnership between the government and the pharmaceutical industry to boost the global competitiveness of the UK life sciences sector and stimulate economic growth.

    The health of the nation and health of the economy are inextricably linked; the new CRDCs will bolster the UK as a powerhouse for life sciences and med tech, driving economic growth.

    The investment boost follows the Plan for Change unveiled by the Prime Minister last week, which sets out ambitious but achievable milestones for the missions that will drive real improvements in the lives of working people.

    As part of the 10 Year Health Plan, the government will shift care from treatment to prevention and this investment will support research into preventative vaccines and medicines, ultimately helping people live healthier lives for longer.

    Legislation has today been laid that will transform clinical trials in the UK by speeding up trial approvals while protecting patient safety. It is the biggest overhaul of regulations in 20 years and will remove administrative red tape and streamline processes to get clinical trials up and running as quickly as possible. The changes are being introduced by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and Health Research Authority (HRA).

    Science Minister, Lord Vallance, said:

    If we are to turn the latest advances in medical science into breakthrough treatments and therapeutics for patients, it is essential that leading businesses and private investment work in partnership with the NHS.

    This is especially important for clinical trials where the UK has a strong track record and can again become a leader.

    The Welsh Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Jeremy Miles, said:

    Investing in a Wales clinical research centre will help to strengthen our approach to clinical trials and increase the opportunities for people to access new and innovative treatments.

    Research studies can deliver real benefits to patient care, and we are committed to working in partnership across the UK to boost commercial global research.

    Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care in the Scottish Government, Neil Gray, said:

    I am thrilled Scotland will be home to 4 new CRDCs, strengthening our existing clinical research infrastructure and maximising collaboration with partners across the UK.

    It shows our continued commitment to supporting our NHS to deliver clinical research most effectively, improving research inclusion and fast-tracking the development of new medicines to patients.

    Health Minister for Northern Ireland, Mike Nesbitt, said:

    This programme is a significant boost for the research ecosystem in Northern Ireland. The funding of £12.6 million to establish a CRDC will support the Northern Ireland health research workforce to deliver commercial clinical trials to a broader range of people, not only in trusts and research facilities, but also in primary care and in the community.

    This will create more opportunities to participate in research for the whole Northern Ireland population and, in particular, for people less frequently represented in research.

    Professor Lucy Chappell, Chief Scientific Adviser at the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), said:

    Clinical trials help improve lives. Boosting the NHS’s capacity to deliver commercial clinical research through these new CRDCs will support recruitment across all communities and bring innovative treatments to patients.

    The effects of these centres will be felt right across the 4 nations, bringing investment into the UK’s life sciences sector.

    Richard Torbett, Chief Executive of the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI), said:

    The injection of funds from industry into this programme is an excellent example of industry and government working in partnership to improve health and drive growth. We know that industry clinical trials bring enormous benefits to the UK economy, generate revenue for the NHS and lead to improved patient outcomes in research-active hospitals.

    The CRDCs are geared to support industry clinical trials across many different care settings in the 4 UK nations. We look forward to the network of new CRDCs working closely with industry to offer more patients across the UK the opportunity to participate in studies of the latest cutting-edge treatments.

    Background information

    A full list of the centres can be found below:

    • University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust
    • Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
    • Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
    • University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust
    • Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust
    • Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
    • Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust
    • Barts Health NHS Trust
    • University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust
    • Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust
    • The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
    • London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust
    • Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
    • University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust
    • One Northern Ireland approach
    • NHS Lothian
    • NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde
    • NHS Tayside
    • NHS Grampian
    • One Wales approach

    VPAG is a voluntary agreement between DHSC, NHS England and ABPI, designed to improve patient outcomes, manage the NHS medicines bill, and support the life sciences industry. Launched as part of the scheme, additional investment from pharmaceutical companies will support implementation of the investment programme.

    See also UK secures £400 million investment to boost clinical trials.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Business Secretary to meet defence CEOs and encourages investors to see defence as a core engine of growth [December 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Business Secretary to meet defence CEOs and encourages investors to see defence as a core engine of growth [December 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 12 December 2024.

    Roundtable forms key part of Government’s pro-growth approach and Plan for Change.

    Today (12 December), the Business Secretary and Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry will hear from the defence industry hosting a CEO roundtable on driving investment into the sector. It will focus on navigating environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles and how they can pose challenges to growth and attracting investment.

    We are delivering on our Plan for Change by driving investment and reform to deliver growth. Today’s roundtable will discuss how to realise the economic potential of the defence sector, and changing perceptions of it among investors – which is essential to kickstarting economic growth and provide greater investment across the UK.

    Today’s roundtable will bring together CEOs from some of the UK’s most prominent defence companies, as well as trade associations for the UK’s defence, financial services and manufacturing sectors, with reps from major UK investment banks. This comes just a week after the Defence Secretary launched the Government’s Defence Industrial Strategy – by inviting investors, innovators, industry and trade unions to give their views on how to grow a better, more integrated, more innovative and more resilient defence sector.

    It forms a key part of the Business Secretary’s commitment to a ‘pro-growth, pro-business’ approach, and working together with industry to unlock investment into the UK’s key growth sectors and create high-quality jobs.

    Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    Our world-leading defence sector is vital to the economy, supporting thousands of high-skilled, high-paid jobs across the UK. With our Industrial Strategy we’re taking the pro-business, pro-growth approach the sector needs to drive investment in every part of the country.

    This government is committed to working together with industry to tackle the challenges they face to attracting investment, and that’s why roundtables like these are so important as we work to give investors the confidence they need for years to come.

    Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry Maria Eagle said:

    This government recognises the vital role of the defence sector as an engine for growth, strengthening our security and economy.

    Only a week after the Defence Industrial Strategy consultation launch, we are ramping up engagement with industry, working hand in hand to tackle shared challenges and identifying opportunities to innovate at speed. Our new Strategy will mobilise the private sector to help face down global threats, direct more public investment to British businesses and create jobs and growth in every nation and region of the UK.

    ADS CEO Kevin Craven said:

    Our defence sector not only underpins our national security and deterrence capability, but also provides jobs to more than 164,000 people directly throughout the country. For our sector to continue to deliver the social value it is renowned for – alongside its role as a key driver of economic growth – government’s engagement with industry is pivotal to strengthen the UK’s position as a place for defence companies to invest and grow, and from which to export.

    ADS welcomes the progress made by this government so far, and industry looks forward to seeing the results of our continued dialogue in securing UK advantage in an increasingly unstable geopolitical environment.

    The Government has identified defence as one of eight UK growth sectors its upcoming Industrial Strategy will prioritise for driving investment, supporting the Plan for Change ambitions. This is an important opportunity for the Business Secretary to hear from industry leaders on the challenges they face.

    He will also seek views on how the Government can work together with them to help boost investment and tackle challenges such as access to finance, invest-ability and reputation.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Courts reform to see quicker justice for victims and keeps streets safe [December 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Courts reform to see quicker justice for victims and keeps streets safe [December 2024]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 12 December 2024.

    Victims of crimes will see the perpetrators face justice more quickly under a once-in-a-generation review of criminal courts, the Lord Chancellor announced today (12 December).

    • Once in a generation reform to speed up justice for victims and keep streets safe
    • Part of the plan for change, the independent review of criminal courts will be led by Sir Brian Leveson
    • Backlog at record levels, new statistics show

    As newly released statistics show the Crown Court backlog has reached a record high, the review will look at what more can be done to make sure criminals have their day in court, without delay, get the punishment they deserve, and keep our streets safe.

    The review – led by Sir Brian Leveson – will consider the case for new “intermediate courts” where cases too serious for magistrates’ courts but not serious enough for the Crown Court could be heard by a judge, flanked by magistrates.

    Sir Brian will also be asked to consider whether Magistrates should be empowered to look at more cases, freeing up capacity in the Crown Court to consider the more complex, serious crimes. By reclassifying some offences and extending magistrates’ sentencing powers, certain trials could move to magistrates’ courts. This would build on the decision to allow magistrates to hand out custodial sentences for up to 12 months announced earlier in the year.

    It will also look at where technology can be used to drive efficiencies and improve how the Crown Court functions.

    The review comes as statistics published today show the outstanding Crown Court caseload has now risen to 73,105 – nearly double the 38,000 seen before the pandemic. This increase means more victims are facing unprecedented waits for justice, with some trials now being listed for 2027. Victims wait around a year on average for their case to be resolved; for rape victims it’s over two years.

    Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, said:

    The scale of the Crown Court crisis inherited by this government is unprecedented. Despite the efforts of judges, lawyers and court staff, we simply cannot continue with the status quo.

    To deliver the government’s bold Plan for Change and make our streets safer, we require once-in-a-generation reform of a courts system stretched to breaking point.

    In many cases, victims are waiting years to see their perpetrator put before a judge, and we know for many victims, justice delayed is as good as justice denied.

    We owe it to victims to find bold, innovative approaches that will speed up justice, deliver safer streets and send a clear message to criminals that they will quickly face the consequences of their actions.

    The review will build on previous reviews, such as the 2001 Review of the Criminal Courts in England and Wales by Lord Justice Auld and the 2015 report into Efficiency in Criminal Proceedings by Sir Brian Leveson.

    It is expected to report back with initial recommendations by Spring 2025.

    Sir Brian Leveson said:

    I am pleased to contribute to the important task of seeking to address the very real difficulties facing the criminal justice system.

    A challenge of this scale requires innovative solutions and I look forward to making my recommendations to the Lord Chancellor in due course.

    While the government has taken action to reduce pressure on the courts system, these figures show the scale of the challenge. Even if the Crown Court were to operate at maximum capacity, the backlog would continue to grow. Bold, innovative reforms are therefore the necessary solution.

    The reforms being looked at will not only make sure victims get the justice they deserve, but will also relieve pressure on the prison estate and drive down the record remand population.

    The plans form part of the government’s commitment to safer streets by reducing the courts backlog, speeding up trials for victims, and rebuilding public confidence in the criminal justice system.

    Further information

    • The review will be led by Sir Brian Leveson, a former High Court Judge and a previous President of the Queen’s Bench Division
    • In October the government doubled sentencing powers for magistrates’ courts in order to divert 2,000 cases away from the Crown Court and to ease pressure on the remand population in our prisons
    • The Lord Chancellor also increased the number of sitting days agreed by the previous government, from 106,000 to 106,500
    • Fees for criminal legal aid work in police stations and youth courts have been increased by £24 million
    • The government also announced its intention to consult on an increase to civil legal aid fees for housing and immigration cases
    • The government conducted an external audit on our Criminal Courts data, which has been published for the first time today since March. You can find the updated statistics.
    • Sir Brian Leveson will continue as normal in his role at the Investigatory Powers Commissioner’s Office
  • PRESS RELEASE : Chancellor – Every pound spent will deliver Plan for Change [December 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Chancellor – Every pound spent will deliver Plan for Change [December 2024]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 12 December 2024.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer launches second phase of the Spending Review.

    • Prime Minister’s Plan for Change at heart of Spending Review, which will drive reform and root out waste.
    • Every pound of government spending to be interrogated to ensure it represents value for money for working people.
    • External experts will scrutinise budgets, bringing ideas, expertise and innovation of the private sector into the heart of government.

    Government departments will be expected to find savings and efficiencies in their budgets, in a push to drive out waste in the public sector and ensure all funding is focused on the government’s priorities.

    Every single pound the government spends will be subjected to a line-by-line review to make sure it’s being spent to deliver the Plan for Change and that it is value for money, as the Chancellor Rachel Reeves today (Tuesday 10 December) launches the next round of government spending.

    It will be the first time in over a decade and a half that government departments have been asked to take such an approach, with what’s called a “zero-based review” last undertaken 17 years ago.

    Reeves will today begin her work with government departments and reiterate that they cannot operate in a business-as-usual way when reviewing their budgets for the coming years, as the new government continues to fix the foundations after inheriting a £22bn black hole, alongside crumbling public services and damaged public finances.

    Secretaries of State across government will need to allocate their budgets to ensure that government spending is focused on the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change, and that every pound of taxpayers’ money is spent well. The Chancellor will work with departments to prioritise spending that supports the milestones to deliver the Plan. This includes boosting growth to put more money in working people’s pockets, fixing the NHS, creating safer streets, making Britain a clean energy super-power and giving every child the best start in life while strengthening our borders, national security and the economy.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    By totally rewiring how the government spends money we will be able to deliver our Plan for Change and focus on what matters for working people. The previous government allowed millions of pounds of taxpayers’ money to go to waste on poor value for money projects. We will not tolerate it; I said I would have an iron grip on the public finances and that means taking an iron fist against waste.

    By reforming our public services, we will ensure they are up to scratch for modern day demands, saving money and delivering better services for people across the country. That’s why we will inspect every pound of government spend, so that it goes to the right places and we put an end to all waste.

    The Prime Minister has been clear that public services must reform if they are to be put on a sustainable footing in the long-term, so that outcomes can be improved for people who depend on services every day. Today’s announcement builds on the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster yesterday launching a £100 million fund to pioneer public service reform and deliver the Government’s Plan for Change, by deploying new test-and-learn teams into public services across the country. They will be empowered to experiment and innovate to fix the public sector’s biggest challenges, working towards the Government’s ambitious and far-reaching reform programme that will seek to break down Whitehall silos and galvanise government as it seeks to deliver the Plan for Change.

    Departments will ensure budgets are scrutinised by challenge panels of external experts including former senior management of Lloyd’s Banking Group, Barclays Bank and the Co-operative Group. Panels will bring an independent view to what government spend is or isn’t necessary, with a mixture of expertise from local delivery partners, think tanks, academic experts and private sector backgrounds.

    In letters sent by the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, departments will be advised that where spending is not contributing to a priority, it should be stopped. Although some of these decisions will be difficult, the Chancellor is clear that the public must have trust in the government that it is rooting out waste and that their taxes are being spent on their priorities.

    Work has already begun on evaluating poor value for money spend, with an evaluation into the £6.5m spent on Social Workers in Schools programme, which placed social workers in schools, finding no evidence of positive impact on social care outcomes, meaning the intervention was not considered cost-effective. The Government has made clear it will not shy away from taking the difficult decisions needed to fix the foundations, as shown by the Chancellor’s decisions at the Budget to balance the books.

    Departments will be expected to work closely together to identify how their work contributes to the Government’s missions, meeting in mission clusters throughout the process to agree priorities and links.

    Throughout this process, the ideas, expertise and innovation of the private sector will be sought out and brought right into the heart of government. An online portal has been launched to give businesses the opportunity to put forward policy proposals for the Spending Review, including on how government can deliver public services more efficiently or effectively. These representations will be collated and shared with departments for consideration in their submissions.

  • G7 – 2024 Statement on Syria

    G7 – 2024 Statement on Syria

    The statement made by the G7 leaders on 12 December 2024.

    We, the leaders of the Group of Seven (G7), reaffirm our commitment to the people of Syria, and lend our full support for an inclusive Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political transition process in the spirit of the principles of UN Security Council Resolution 2254. We call on all parties to preserve Syria’s territorial integrity and national unity, and respect its independence and sovereignty. We reiterate our support for the UN Disengagement Observer Force monitoring the Golan Heights between Israel and Syria.

    We stand ready to support a transition process under this framework that leads to credible, inclusive, and non-sectarian governance that ensures respect for the rule of law, universal human rights, including women’s rights, the protection of all Syrians, including religious and ethnic minorities, transparency and accountability. The G7 will work with and fully support a future Syrian government that abides by those standards and results from that process.

    Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of holding the Assad regime accountable for its crimes and will continue to work with the OPCW and other partners to secure, declare and destroy Syria’s remaining chemical weapons stockpiles.

    After decades of atrocities committed by the Assad regime, we stand with the people of Syria. We denounce terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms. We are hopeful that anyone seeking a role in governing Syria will demonstrate a commitment to the rights of all Syrians, prevent the collapse of state institutions, work on the recovery and rehabilitation of the country, and ensure the conditions for safe and dignified voluntary return to Syria of all those who were forced to flee the country.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK secures 150,000 tonnes of fishing opportunities in negotiations with the EU for 2025 [December 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK secures 150,000 tonnes of fishing opportunities in negotiations with the EU for 2025 [December 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 11 December 2024.

    • The UK fishing industry to benefit from 150,000 tonnes of fishing opportunities – 15,000 tonnes more than in 2024 – following negotiations with EU
    • £890 million in fishing opportunities secured for British fishing fleets, boosting growth
    • The agreements highlight all parties’ continued commitment to manage fisheries sustainably

    The UK fishing industry will have access to 150,000 tonnes of fishing opportunities – 15,000 tonnes more than in 2024 – following the conclusion of annual fishing negotiations with the EU.

    The agreement is worth up to £360 million for the industry.

    This follows the UK’s trilateral agreement with the EU and Norway last week, which secured UK fisheries 290,000 tonnes of fishing opportunities in the North Sea and surrounding waters.

    This is on top of 280,000 tonnes, worth around £240 million, from catch limits agreed earlier in the year on widely distributed stocks with coastal States in the northeast Atlantic.

    In total, this brings fishing opportunities secured for the UK fleet in 2025 in the main negotiating forums to 720,000 tonnes, worth up to £890 million based on historic landing prices.

    From these three negotiating forums, the UK has gained up to 120,000 tonnes more quota from the 2025 annual negotiations than it would have as an EU member state.

    Fisheries Minister Daniel Zeichner said:

    Through these sets of negotiations this Government has agreed deals securing quota for stocks totalling up to £890 million for the UK fleet in 2025.

    This is another example of how we are delivering on our Plan for Change, boosting our British fishing industry by supporting the lifeblood of many coastal communities.

    The UK’s approach to negotiations

    Sustainability has been at the heart of the UK’s approach to negotiations, pushing for decisions based on the best available science to protect key stocks and support the long-term viability of the UK fishing industry.

    Advice from scientists at the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) is the starting point for the UK’s approach and, where possible, catch limits have been set at or within these advised levels.  Economic and social considerations are appropriately balanced alongside this scientific advice.

    The outcome of annual fisheries negotiations will be published in the Secretary of State determination of fishing opportunities for British boats by the end of the year.

    Throughout the negotiations, the UK Government has worked closely with the devolved governments to ensure the benefits of the negotiations are spread across the UK.

    The UK fishing industry will benefit from:

    • Increased anglerfish quota;
    • the continuation of the plaice 7de swap with the EU that allows for other target fisheries to continue where plaice is caught as a bycatch;
    • an increase within scientific advice of some catch limits for seabass; and
    • securing the continuation of the Irish sea herring fishery.

    In other international fisheries negotiations this winter the UK has:

    • led conservation and management measures on porbeagle and Rockall haddock in the North-East Atlantic Fisheries Commission, both being adopted by consensus;
    • secured endorsement of our proposal for a retention ban of vulnerable mobulid rays and additional time next year for ongoing negotiations on bluefin tuna allocations in at the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tuna;
    • successfully strengthened commitments on several aspects of fisheries management in the UN’s Resolution on Sustainable Fisheries, including pushing for progress in combating harmful subsidies at the WTO, highlighting the importance of transparency in fisheries management, maintaining ambition for the plastics treaty, and emphasising the importance of the precautionary approach; and
    • played a key role in securing a Recommendation on Eliminating Government Support to Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing, within the OECD’s Fisheries Committee.

    Notes to editors

    Values based on full uptake of fishing opportunities and provisional 2023 landing prices. All figures are rounded and may change slightly once a full analysis has been completed.

    Bilateral fisheries negotiations between the UK and the Faroe Islands, and the UK and Norway are currently on-going.

    The Agreed Records for the negotiations can be found on gov.uk:

    Outcome of UK/EU bilateral negotiations 

    This deal set catch limits of around 70 total allowable catches (TACs), monitoring arrangement for non-quota stocks as well as other arrangements on seabass and albacore. The agreement also commits the UK and EU to work together to provide more sustainable fisheries management, including

    For non-quota stocks (NQS), the UK and the EU agreed a roll-over of access arrangements for 2025 to ensure continued access to fish NQS in EU waters. UK fleet landings for these stocks are historically worth around £30 million a year. We also agreed to roll-over existing joint management measures and increase within ICES advice some catch limits for seabass, and a roll-over of access arrangements for spurdog in the North Sea and albacore tuna.

    The speed with which the negotiations concluded this year is a sign of the effective implementation of the TCA since 2020, which has built on collaborative efforts through the SCF.

    Outcome of UK/EU/Norway trilateral negotiations

    This deal agreed catch limits on six North Sea fish stocks including cod, haddock and herring and further stocks in other waters around the UK.

    Read the relevant announcement on gov.uk