Tag: 2024

PRESS RELEASE : Independent investigation ordered into state of NHS [July 2024]
The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 11 July 2024.

Professor Lord Darzi appointed to establish the state of the nation’s health service.
- Report will provide ‘raw and honest assessment’ of issues facing health service
- Work will be led by Rt Hon Professor Lord Darzi, OM, KBE, a lifelong surgeon and innovator, independent peer and former health minister
- Findings will feed into government’s 10-year plan to radically reform the nation’s health service
Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, has ordered a full and independent investigation into the state of the NHS, to uncover the extent of the issues facing the nation’s health service.

Mr Streeting says he wants a ‘raw and honest’ assessment that will deliver ‘the hard truths’.

Today (11 July 2024), he has appointed Professor Lord Darzi, a lifelong surgeon and innovator, independent peer and former health minister, to lead the rapid assessment, which will be delivered in September.

Its findings will provide the basis for the government’s 10-year plan to radically reform the NHS and build a health service that is fit for the future.

Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, said:

Anyone who works in or uses the NHS can see it is broken. This government will be honest about the challenges facing the health service, and serious about tackling them.

This investigation will uncover hard truths and I’ve asked for nothing to be held back. I trust Lord Darzi will leave no stone unturned and have told him to speak truth to power.

I want a raw and frank assessment of the state of the NHS. This is the necessary first step on the road to recovery for our National Health Service, so it can be there for us when we need it, once again.

Professor Lord Darzi said:

As every clinician and every patient knows, the first step to addressing any health problem is a proper diagnosis.

My work will analyse the evidence to understand where we are today – and how we got to here – so that the health service can move forward.

This is an important step to re-establishing quality of care as the organising principle of the NHS.

Amanda Pritchard, NHS Chief Executive, said:

Frontline NHS staff are doing an incredible job, despite the huge pressures they face, to deliver care to over a million people every day, but we know that they face huge struggles and patients are not always getting the timely, high quality care they need.

We will work closely with the government, independent experts and NHS staff to take a detailed look at the scale of the challenges and set out plans to address them – this comprehensive analysis will be an important step in helping us to build an NHS fit for the future.

The Health and Social Care Secretary’s promise to fix the broken NHS was backed by action this week as he met with key figures across the health service.

This included meetings with junior doctors to discuss ending the strikes, and talks with the British Dental Association about rebuilding NHS dentistry. He also visited a GP surgery in north London to see first-hand how the practice is delivering a patient-led service providing continuity of care – a key pillar of the government’s ambition to improve primary care.

Mr Streeting also set out his wider commitment to support the government’s growth mission by improving the health of the nation.

The aims are based on 3 key steps:
- cutting waiting times to get people back to work
- making the UK a life sciences and medical technology superpower
- creating training and job opportunities through the NHS to deliver growth up and down the country
July 12, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : The UK remains concerned about persistent levels of violence in Colombia – UK statement at the UN Security Council [July 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 11 July 2024.

Statement by UK Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Colombia.

President Petro, first let me thank you and all our interlocutors in Colombia for hosting the Security Council’s very valuable visit in February. We welcome your continued commitment to full implementation of the 2016 Agreement and to build sustainable peace in Colombia. The next two years of your Government will be critical. So we thank you for you report and your update on your fast track proposals.

The 2016 Agreement is a blueprint to transform Colombia and its territories which requires a whole of society effort. Now is the time to build consensus and accelerate efforts across all three pillars. We welcome the reinvigoration of high-level coordination mechanisms of the Agreement and we urge collective action between the Government and the State entities to demonstrate that commitment to peace delivers for all Colombians.

We welcome Colombia’s continued focus on addressing the root causes of conflict. We remain concerned about persistent levels of violence and threats, particularly in Cauca, Valle del Cauca, and Caquetá, and reports that areas for training and reintegration are closing due to insecurity. We strongly condemn the targeting of peace signatories, of human rights defenders, women and social leaders and indigenous communities. We call on Colombia to ensure their safety and security, as well as bringing the perpetrators to justice. We encourage Colombia to use the security guarantee mechanisms established in the Agreement and we look forward to the implementation of the public policy to dismantle illegal armed groups.

As you take forward building peace through dialogue, civil society participation is essential. We welcome the agreement with the ELN on the 25 May for their inclusion in the process. We also call upon the ELN to re-commit to ending the use of kidnapping and take concrete steps to protect communities. We note the recent divisions within the so-called EMC. And we welcome and recognise that some entities remain committed to the ceasefire. We call upon the EMC to refrain from violence and demonstrate their commitment to peace through dialogue.

President Petro, SRSG Ruiz Massieu, members of the Council, the United Kingdom will continue to partner and support Colombia along its path to sustainable peace. Now is the time to drive forward implementation to achieve lasting change.

July 12, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Science Minister outlines open-arms approach to international science at G7 Ministerial with several new agreements [July 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 11 July 2024.

Science Minister declares UK science and technology “open for business” as he was meets counterparts at the G7 Science and Technology Ministerial in Italy.
- Government takes first step to reset ties with key allies at G7 Science and Technology Ministerial in Bologna, Italy
- Ministers signalled significantly strengthened collaboration on research infrastructure that support cutting-edge science and innovation, benefitting researchers worldwide
- G7 Ministers reaffirmed their unwavering support for the science community in Ukraine, agreed to boost research security measures, and to strengthen our collaboration with African countries on R&D to support economic development
Science Minister Vallance declared UK science and technology “open for business” as he was warmly welcomed by counterparts in his first week as the UK’s new Science Minister at the G7 Science and Technology Ministerial in Bologna.

The UK has joined international partners in a commitment to boost research security and collaboration on large research infrastructure, biotechnology and key technologies such as AI supported by supercomputing. The Ministerial underpinned the government’s mission to accelerate innovation, investment and productivity through world-class science and research across the economy.

Representatives from the world’s leading economies also reiterated their unwavering support to Ukraine’s scientists, in the face of Russia’s illegal invasion, as well as a shared commitment to work with African countries on R&D to support their economic development.

This joint undertaking is part of the government’s plan to strengthen ties with international partners and rebuild the UK’s reputation as a strong, reliable partner, while harnessing the power of science and technology for global benefit.

The commitments made in Bologna will further allow us to collaborate with international partners and accelerate investments in cutting-edge technologies, creating the jobs of the future.

Science Minister Vallance, said:

Science is fundamentally international, and to succeed it depends on trust, collaboration and openness. But in an increasingly volatile world – and particularly in light of Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine – that trust and collaboration is under threat.

That is why the commitments we’ve made at the G7 are so important. Science can help deliver a safer, more prosperous world, but only when we take steps to keep research secure. When we work together to ensure data is open and accessible, when we pool our resources to develop cutting-edge long term research infrastructure and above all, stand in solidarity and support researchers who are under threat.

During the meetings with his counterparts, Minister Vallance recognised the incredible work of international research infrastructures such as CERN and the Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO). He further suggested that the UK will continue to review the possibility to host a new international research facility as part of the global effort to drive innovation through international collaboration in science and technology.

The Science Minister offered the UK’s support on the FAIR data accelerator pilot, which aims to help researchers make data more findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable.

The Ministerial also focused on biotechnology; a recognition of its importance to the future of the world economy, particularly as AI becomes more widespread, which is rapidly reshaping what is possible in the field. The G7 Ministers committed to promote responsible innovation of biotechnology, including its convergence with AI.

The UK is also working closely with other G7 members on computing capacity, such as through the UK’s recent access to world-class European supercomputing resources through the EuroHPC Joint Undertaking.

The G7’s focus on research security is an incredibly important step. R&D is the engine that powers sustained economic growth, which ultimately improves prosperity and living standards for all working people. But the world is growing more volatile and insecure, with the threats to the research community growing too. The risks posed by theft, misuse and exploitation of sensitive research are evolving – which is precisely why like-minded allies like the G7 need to set the agenda, globally, on proportionally managing this issue.

The UK’s deep and rich science and tech links with this year’s G7 hosts, Italy, exemplify the sort of longstanding international connections the government wants to reinvigorate, and harness to unlock a decade of national renewal. UK and Italian scientists already work together through the European Space Agency, Horizon Europe and the Square Kilometre Array space telescope project. This year, the UK’s Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) and Italy’s Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) celebrate the 40th anniversary of their partnership in pioneering neutron research.

Taken together, the seven G7 member states spent over $1.2 trillion on R&D in 2022 – and even more when the EU is accounted for.
July 12, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer meeting with Prime Minister Trudeau of Canada [July 2024]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 11 July 2024.

The Prime Minister met with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the NATO summit this afternoon.

They agreed on the importance of a strong UK-Canada relationship based on our shared values, and warmly welcomed the opportunity to deepen the partnership between our two countries.

The Prime Minister welcomed Prime Minister Trudeau’s leadership on Ukraine, including Canada’s significant financial support so far. Both leaders agreed we must continue to stand alongside Ukraine for as long as it takes.

Discussing the situation in Israel and Gaza, they both agreed an immediate ceasefire is vital in order to get hostages out, get humanitarian aid in and make progress towards a two-state solution.

The two leaders agreed to work more closely together on what we can do to strengthen our relationships with the Commonwealth, and agreed to keep in touch ahead of the next Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting later this year.

July 12, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Government announces first steps to reform water sector [July 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 11 July 2024.

Secretary of State for Environment Food and Rural Affairs Steve Reed has today (11 July 2024) announced a series of initial steps towards ending the crisis in the water sector.

As Ofwat publishes its draft responses on water company spending, the new measures represent a step change after years of failure to ensure the water industry cuts illegal sewage dumping and attracts major private-sector investment to upgrade infrastructure while prioritising the interests of customers and the environment.

This afternoon the Secretary of State will also meet with water company Chief Executives to make clear that under this government water companies will be answerable for their performance for customers and the environment. He will set out his plans to work in partnership with the sector and investors to attract investment, jobs, and clean up the nation’s polluted waterways.

He has today announced:
- He has written to Ofwat to ask them to make sure funding for vital infrastructure investment is ringfenced and can only be spent on upgrades benefiting customers and the environment. He also wants Ofwat to ensure that when money for investment is not spent, companies refund customers, with money never allowed to be diverted for bonuses, dividends or salary increases.
- Water companies will place customers and the environment at the heart of their objectives. The Secretary of State is clear that he expects companies to change their ‘Articles of Association’ – the rules governing each company – to make the interests of customers and the environment a primary objective.
- Consumers will gain new powers to hold water company bosses to account through powerful new customer panels. For the first time in history, customers will have the power to summon board members and hold water executives to account.
- Strengthened protection and compensation for households and businesses when their basic water services are affected. Subject to consultation, the amount of compensation customers are legally entitled to when key standards are not met will more than double. The payments will also be triggered by a wider set of circumstances including Boil Water Notices.
Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Steve Reed said:

We will never look the other way while water companies pump sewage into our rivers, lakes and seas.

This unacceptable destruction of our waterways should never have been allowed, but change has now begun so it can never happen again.

Today I have announced significant steps to clean up the water industry to cut sewage pollution, protect customers and attract investment to upgrade its crumbling infrastructure.

That change will take time. Over the coming weeks and months, this Government will outline further steps to reform the water sector and restore our rivers, lakes and seas to good health.

These steps sit alongside the Government’s manifesto commitments to put failing water companies under tough special measures to clean up our waterways.
July 12, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 56 – UK Statement on technical cooperation in Colombia [July 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 10 July 2024.

Interactive Dialogue on High Commissioner’s report on technical cooperation in Colombia. Delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Simon Manley.

Thank you, Mr. Vice-President.

We salute Colombia’s collaboration with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, a model for the entire region and beyond.

We support Colombia’s rural development and reintegration programmes and the transitional justice mechanisms. These measures have strengthened the security and participation of the communities in conflict-affected areas.

We support attempts to implement fully the 2016 agreement. Yet, as recognised by the Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons, several challenges remain, especially regarding human security, with over one million new displacements.

We take this opportunity to pay tribute to the courage of the victims still providing evidence for the ongoing work of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace.

We commend the International Human Rights expert’s advice that Colombia implements the Truth Commission’s recommendation for an independent mechanism to seek justice. We urge all parties to implement these recommendations, and to support their implementation.

That is why the UK also supports the High Commissioner’s provision of capacity-building mechanisms to support the Attorney General’s Office. These mechanisms will further the comprehensive implementation of the 2016 agreement, by supporting transitional justice.

Mr Salazar,

How will your Office integrate a local approach in the provision of technical cooperation and capacity building?

July 12, 2024
Jim Allister – 2024 Speech in the House of Commons at Start of New Parliament

The speech made by Jim Allister, speaking on behalf of the Traditional Unionist Voice, in the House of Commons on 9 July 2024.

I join in the congratulations and best wishes expressed to you, Mr Speaker-Elect. I have observed your speakership from a distance, and now I will have the benefit of observing it rather more close up. With me on my best behaviour, and with you at your tolerant best, I trust that we will have a mutually cordial relationship. I will certainly draw on your guidance and the experience that you bring to this House.

I come to this House on behalf of my constituents in Northern Ireland with a very clear message: Northern Ireland’s place within this United Kingdom must be restored. We must end the partitioning of our kingdom by a foreign border, and we must end a situation in which 300 areas of law in Northern Ireland are controlled not by this House, and not by Stormont, but by a foreign Parliament. That is an appalling constitutional affront, and my focus in this House will be on playing my part in seeking to redress that gross inequity.

July 12, 2024
Sorcha-Lucy Eastwood – 2024 Speech in the House of Commons at Start of New Parliament

The speech made by Sorcha-Lucy Eastwood, the Alliance MP for Lagan Valley, in the House of Commons on 9 July 2024.

Thank you, Mr Speaker-Elect. I warmly congratulate you on your re-election.

I am here as the new MP for Lagan Valley and representative for the Alliance party of Northern Ireland. My presence here demonstrates a changing, more shared and more integrated Northern Ireland. Of that, we in Alliance are very proud.

Mr Speaker-Elect, you have managed business smoothly and fairly, including ensuring that smaller parties have had their voices heard. Given the greater diversity of parties in this House, that leadership and precedent becomes even more important. I also want to put on the record how well you represented Parliament on the world stage, and at the time of the passing of our late Queen and the coronation of our new King.

I also want to associate myself with the Prime Minister’s remarks about this job being one of public service. All of us in this House owe a debt of gratitude to our constituents. I will never forget the constituents of Lagan Valley, and I join everyone in the whole House in looking forward to committing myself to public service for all.

July 12, 2024
Colum Eastwood – 2024 Speech in the House of Commons at Start of New Parliament

The speech made by Colum Eastwood, the Leader of the SDLP, in the House of Commons on 9 July 2024.

Thank you, Mr Speaker-Elect. I am very glad to be back and very glad to see the results of the election. Many people in Northern Ireland are delighted with it. We look forward to holding the new Government to account for the promises that they have made to the people of the north of Ireland.

I want to take this opportunity to welcome all the new Members—even the ones I profoundly disagree with. The one piece of advice I would give every new Member is to remember that the Speaker does not just chair the meetings; he is the boss. He is in charge of everything around this place and it would do well for you not to fall out with him. In fact, even a bit of sucking up is sometimes good. I want to take this opportunity, as I say that, Mr Speaker-Elect, to congratulate and thank you for all the fantastic work you did over the last Parliament. You were a champion, as you said yourself, for Back Benchers and for the smaller parties. Even when some of us pushed very close to the line, when we felt that certain things had to be put on the record of this House—he knows what I am talking about—you were there to protect us from some of the legal authorities who would like to get at us. Thank you very much for that.

Mr Speaker-Elect, I wish you all the best in corralling this new House. It is very diverse in terms of representation and in terms of opinion. I look forward to the end of tribal politics—I think that will be a sight to behold. Congratulations.

July 11, 2024
Adrian Ramsay – 2024 Speech in the House of Commons at Start of New Parliament

The speech made by Adrian Ramsay, the Co-Leader of the Green Party, in the House of Commons on 9 July 2024.

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker-Elect, and congratulations on the support you have received from across the House today. I can already say, on behalf of the new cohort of Green MPs, that we have been very pleased with the support you have given us. You have shown that you go out of your way to support new Members in this House, and to support MPs from all parties to be able to hold the Government to account and represent our constituents. I know that I speak on behalf of all the Green MPs—and, I am sure, all new MPs—in saying that we are very conscious that we are here first and foremost to be constituency MPs, to represent our residents. We appreciate your support in enabling us to do that.

May I associate myself with the remarks of the Prime Minister about the importance of politics being about public service? I very much hope that in this new Parliament we can all move to a less tribal form of politics, where we work together where we can agree and move things forward in the national interest.

Mr Speaker-Elect, thank you for your support, and congratulations.

July 11, 2024