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Tag: 2024

  • PRESS RELEASE : Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Chad – Ross Matthews [February 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Chad – Ross Matthews [February 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 February 2024.

    Mr Ross Matthews has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of Chad in succession to Mr Jon Dean who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.  Mr Matthews will take up his appointment during early summer 2024.

    Curriculum vitae

    Full name: Ross Harvey Sutherland Matthews

    Date Role
    2018 to 2023  Lisbon, Deputy Head of Mission
    2014 to 2017 FCO, Head, NATO Section, Euro-Atlantic Security Policy
    2010 to 2014 Buenos Aires, Head, Political Team
    2008 to 2010 FCO, Head, Operations Team, Crisis Management Department
    2006 to 2008 Yaoundé, Second Secretary Political
    2004 to 2005 FCO, Desk Officer, Australia/South Pacific
    2002 to 2003 FCO, Desk Officer, Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe
    2002 Joined FCO
  • PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister visits North Wales on Levelling Up tour [February 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister visits North Wales on Levelling Up tour [February 2024]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 22 February 2024.

    Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is in North Wales today to see how the Levelling Up agenda is helping to spread opportunity, create jobs and revitalise local communities across North Wales.

    He will today meet engineers in Anglesey to see the work that goes on behind the UK Government’s rollout of faster, more reliable broadband, as well as visit communities and businesses across the two-day tour of the region.

    The visit comes just as the UK Government announces that more than one million homes, businesses and public buildings can now access the best internet speeds on the market as a result of UK Government investment.

    Growth in gigabit coverage in Wales over the past year is among the fastest in the UK. Today nearly 70 per cent of Welsh premises have access to a gigabit capable connection. Before our rollout, only seven per cent of Welsh premises had access five years ago.

    Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said:

    Levelling Up is about providing people with better opportunities to work, travel and feel proud of where they live.

    Upgrading one million premises with high-speed gigabit broadband is part of our long-term plan to deliver a brighter future by connecting people, businesses and regions across the entire United Kingdom.

    We’re breathing new life into communities across North Wales through greater connectivity, a brand new freeport, more cash for high streets and a £1 billion investment into North Wales rail.

    As part of our Levelling Up agenda, the Government has stepped in to upgrade places which have been left out of the commercial rollout.

    Where previously many people would have struggled to stream TV shows or run small businesses, we are delivering greater connectivity – growing the rural economy, creating jobs and ensuring all communities across the country can reap the rewards of lightning-fast connectivity.

    This follows the Government’s recent delivery of major projects to spread jobs, prosperity and investment right across North Wales:

    • The new Anglesey Freeport, visited by the Prime Minister and First Minister last year, is expected to bring forward over a billion in private and public investment and create thousands of new, high-skilled jobs.
    • A major upgrade and electrification of the North Wales Main Line – backed by an unprecedented £1 billion investment – will bring parts of North Wales within an hour of Manchester.
    • A further £20m from the Levelling Up Fund will go to projects to develop and boost areas in Denbighshire, which will include regenerating Rhyl town centre, creating more community centres, improving cycle and footpaths, and improving routes between the town and coast.
    • The investment in Denbighshire is one of seven projects across Wales which have been allocated a total of £111 million from round three of the Levelling Up Fund.Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will visit North Wales today to see how the Levelling Up agenda is helping to spread opportunity, create jobs and revitalise local communities across North Wales.
  • PRESS RELEASE : UK departs Energy Charter Treaty [February 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK departs Energy Charter Treaty [February 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 22 February 2024.

    The UK government confirms its withdrawal from the Energy Charter Treaty after efforts to agree vital modernisation fail.

    • European countries have been unable to reach agreement on modernisation of the Energy Charter Treaty
    • UK joins France, Spain and the Netherlands in withdrawing from the Treaty
    • strong legal framework is already in place to ensure continued investment in UK energy sector

    The UK will leave the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT) after the failure of efforts to align it with net zero, the government has announced today (Thursday 22 February).

    Signed in 1994, the Energy Charter Treaty was designed to promote international investment in the energy sector, historically providing protections for investors in fossil fuels. Proposals to modernise the ECT better to support cleaner technologies have been subject to months of talks between European countries, resulting in a stalemate.

    Energy Security and Net Zero Minister Graham Stuart announced in September 2023 that the UK would be reviewing its membership of the ECT if plans to update it were not adopted.

    Today, the UK joins 9 EU member states, including France, Spain and the Netherlands, in withdrawing from the treaty. The decision will support the UK’s transition to net zero and strengthen its energy security.

    Minister of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Graham Stuart, said:

    The Energy Charter Treaty is outdated and in urgent need of reform but talks have stalled and sensible renewal looks increasingly unlikely.

    Remaining a member would not support our transition to cleaner, cheaper energy, and could even penalise us for our world-leading efforts to deliver net zero.

    With £30 billion invested in the energy sector just since September, we continue to lead the world in cutting emissions, attracting international investment and providing the strongest legal protections for those who invest here.

    Discussions around reform of the Energy Charter Treaty have gone on for several years. After 2 years of negotiations, in 2022, the UK helped broker a landmark agreement to modernise the ECT. This would have maintained its current benefits, while supporting the transition to cleaner energy by extending protections to renewables like carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) and hydrogen.

    However, this led to an impasse and the modernised ECT, which should have been adopted in November 2022, was rejected by 9 EU member states. This included France, Germany, Spain and the Netherlands – all of whom decided to withdraw. The European Parliament elections in 2024 mean modernisation could now be delayed indefinitely.

    After considering the views of businesses, industry and civil society, ministers will now instigate the UK’s withdrawal, which will take effect after one year, removing protections for new investments after this period.

    Shaun Spiers, executive director, Green Alliance said:

    Civil society organisations and parliamentarians from all political parties have been clear that the Energy Charter Treaty is an out-of-date agreement and undermines our efforts to tackle climate change. We welcome the UK’s decision to leave, which will strengthen global efforts to roll out cheap, clean renewable energy.

    Meanwhile, the UK remains an attractive destination for investors across all energy technologies, with government continuing to support investment in the North Sea oil and gas as part of the transition to net zero, alongside the drive towards renewables, such as wind power and hydrogen. The government is also committed to ensuring fairness for and support for UK investors operating abroad.

  • PRESS RELEASE : New UK sanctions mark 2 years since Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine [February 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : New UK sanctions mark 2 years since Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine [February 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 February 2024.

    The UK announces more than 50 new sanctions to mark 2 years since Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine.

    • UK announces more than 50 new sanctions to diminish Putin’s weapons arsenal and war chest
    • new targets include munitions manufacturers, electronics companies, and diamond and oil traders
    • these latest sanctions mark 2 years on from Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and demonstrate the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine for as long as it takes

    The Foreign Secretary, David Cameron, has today (22 February) announced more than 50 new sanctions targeting individuals and businesses sustaining Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine.

    Sanctions crack down on those supplying his depleted armoury with munitions such as rocket launch systems, missiles and explosives.

    These new sanctions also target key sources of Russian revenue, clamping down on metals, diamonds, and energy trade, and cutting off funding for Putin’s illegal war from every angle.

    Foreign Secretary David Cameron said:

    Ukraine has shown that it can and will defend itself. Putin mistakenly thought that because Russia’s economy is bigger than Ukraine’s, he would gain a quick victory. But the economies of Ukraine’s friends are 25 times bigger than Russia’s.

    And 2 years on, we stand united in support for Ukraine.

    Our international economic pressure means Russia cannot afford this illegal invasion. Our sanctions are starving Putin of the resources he desperately needs to fund his struggling war.

    Together, we will not let up in the face of tyranny. We will continue to support Ukraine as it fights for democracy- for as long as it takes.

    Today’s measures will disrupt Putin’s ability to equip his now struggling military with high tech equipment and much needed weaponry, as well as blocking him from refilling his war coffers – while Ukraine defends itself.

    This round of designations serves as a clear signal that 2 years on, the UK stands united with our allies in unwavering support for Ukraine.

    Today’s package forms part of wider UK action to restrict Putin’s war revenue streams and clamp down on his repeated attempts to evade western sanctions. We are preparing to bolster our existing powers to target malign Russian shipping activity and individual ‘shadow fleet’ vessels used by Russia to soften the blow of oil-related sanctions imposed by the UK alongside G7 partners.

    This week new measures to strengthen the existing Oil Price Cap also came into force and we have expanded the list of items critical to Russia’s war machine that we are seeking to prevent getting to Russia.

    The UK also launches its first sanctions strategy today, which sets out how our sanctions regimes are tackling malign activity and making a difference. We are in a more dangerous and uncertain world. Our latest Russia sanctions are one example of how our enhanced approach to sanctions enables us to respond. The new strategy sets out how we are working with allies and partners to address changing threats, to maximise our impact on the ground and to protect the UK.

    This comes as Foreign Secretary David Cameron is due to visit New York for a special UN session dedicated to Ukraine. While there, he is expected to meet Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba. His visit will mark the 2-year milestone of the illegal Russian invasion of Ukraine, and he is expected to underscore the UK’s unending support for Ukraine.

    Among those sanctioned today are:

    • companies linked to manufacturing munitions such as rocket launch systems, missiles, explosives and other critical goods used in military equipment. This includes Sverdlov State Owned Enterprise, the largest enterprise in the Russian ammunition industry
    • key Russian importers and manufacturers of machine tools, which are instrumental in manufacturing vital defence systems and components ranging from missiles and engines to tanks and fighter jets
    • oil trader Niels Troost and his company Paramount Energy & Commodities SA. Troost facilitates the unfettered trade of Russian oil outside the reach of UK and G7 sanctions, including through UAE-based Paramount Energy & Commodities DMCC, which the UK designated in November 2023
    • Fractal Marine DMCC, Beks Ship Management, and Active Shipping, which operate in the Russian energy sector as part of Putin’s shadow fleet
    • 2 Russian diamond companies and Pavel Alekseevich Marinychev, the new CEO of Alrosa, the largest state-owned Russian diamond producer, estimated to hold a 30% share in the global diamond market
    • 5 senior executives or owners of Russia’s top producers of copper, zinc and steel
  • PRESS RELEASE : Government launches consultation into the next UK night flight regime [February 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government launches consultation into the next UK night flight regime [February 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 22 February 2024.

    Proposed regime would continue to limit flights that take off and land at Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted between 11:30pm and 6am.

    • industry and local communities will have a say on night-time flying at Heathrow, Stansted and Gatwick
    • consultation recommends continuing current quotas and limits
    • updated guidance on night flight dispensations also published today to help airports and airlines better understand process for allowing night flights

    Residents and businesses are being asked for views on continuing the existing night flight regime for 3 of the UK’s busiest airports as part of a consultation launched today (22 February 2024).

    Starting from October 2025, the proposed regime would continue to limit the number of flights that take off and land at Heathrow, Stansted and Gatwick between 11:30pm and 6am every day.

    Whether travelling to visit loved ones, making connecting flights for business or simply preferring to fly at night to get a head start on the day, these night flights can be crucial for many passengers.

    Night flights are also a vital part of global aviation and provide significant economic benefit to the UK, helping keep the flow of people, goods and services moving and supporting thousands of jobs as a result.

    The consultation will seek views on proposals and give the industry a vital say on what would work best for them as they recover from the pandemic. It would also let local communities share any concerns about noise pollution or wider feedback on how the airports operate at night.

    However, as new technology continues to transform and innovate the aviation industry, aircraft are becoming quieter and will be less intrusive to the areas surrounding these big airports.

    The consultation comes with a recommendation of continuing the same quotas and limits on night flights, allowing the 3 noise-designated airports to continue their post-pandemic recovery and providing the best balance for both businesses and residents.

    Also published today is updated guidance on night flight dispensations to help airports and airlines, as well as local communities, better understand the process for applying special considerations to permit flights outside of usual restrictions.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Baby loss certificate launched to recognise parents’ grief [February 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Baby loss certificate launched to recognise parents’ grief [February 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 22 February 2024.

    Baby loss certificates for parents who experienced a loss of pregnancy before 24 weeks are now available for application from 9am today (22 February 2024).

    Parents who have experienced the devastation of losing a baby before 24 weeks of pregnancy can apply for a certificate to have their grief recognised from today.

    The government is launching a voluntary scheme to allow parents to record and receive a certificate to provide recognition of their loss. Parents can access this free service from 9am today (22 February 2024).

    The government is committed to ensuring bereaved parents feel supported through their grief and recognise their loss, acknowledging their pain and ensuring they feel heard. The certificates will not be compulsory – it remains the choice of all parents to manage the difficult time of a loss, however they see fit.

    Health and Social Care Secretary Victoria Atkins said:

    Losing a baby can be a hugely traumatic event and the introduction of certificates to formally acknowledge the loss of life is a positive step towards better supporting women and parents affected.

    I’d like to thank charities and campaigners for their continuous work in bringing awareness to baby loss and making the certificates launching possible.

    Improving women’s health care and maternity support is a priority, and this demonstrates progress in delivering our Women’s Health Strategy and ensuring parents feel supported during this heart-breaking experience.

    Delivering on baby loss certificates was part of the government’s response to the independent Pregnancy Loss Review. The review was commissioned in 2018 to consider the registration and certification of pregnancy loss occurring before 24 weeks gestation and on the quality of care.

    The review concluded that while it currently may not be possible to prevent many pre 24 week pregnancy losses from occurring, much more can be done to ensure each grieving parent receives excellent care and compassionate support.

    Improvement to maternity care and birth trauma support were announced as a priority area within the women’s health strategy for England in 2024 – a vital plan to improve the health and wellbeing of women and girls.

    Minister for the Women’s Health Strategy, Maria Caulfield, said:

    We have listened to parents who have gone through what can be an unbelievably painful experience of losing a baby, and that is why today we are introducing baby loss certificates to recognise their loss, as part of our wider long-term plan for women’s health in our country, the Women’s Health Strategy.

    I would like to thank the tireless work of campaigners and charities for their work in supporting this agenda and making the certificates a reality.

    To ensure all women get the support they need, the government is investing £25 million in women’s health hubs. Women’s health hubs provide integrated services for women in the community, enabling easier access to essential services for menstrual health, contraception, pelvic pain, menopause care and more.

    Kate Brintworth, Chief Midwifery Officer for England – NHS England, said:

    Compassionate and personalised care at every stage of pregnancy is vital, and I am pleased that women in England will now be able to access a baby loss certificate which recognises the impact and importance of early pregnancy loss to them and their families.

    The NHS is improving maternity and neonatal bereavement care across England, including by next month bereavement services will be available in almost every NHS trust, 7 days a week for women and families who sadly experience loss.

    The government recognises the tireless work of campaigners who have spoken publicly about their experience with loss, and charities including Tommy’s, Sands, the Miscarriage Association and the Mariposa Trust, for continuing to raise awareness of this important issue.

    Supportive stakeholder reaction

    Zoe Clark-Coates MBE BCAh, founder and CEO of the Mariposa Trust, co-chair and author of the Pregnancy Loss Review, said:

    Over the past 5 years, it has been my honour to co-chair and write the Pregnancy Loss Review on behalf of the Secretary of State for Health. The 73 recommendations that Sam and I submitted within the review offer a real opportunity to revolutionise baby loss care in England.

    My passion and long-term commitment is to help all bereaved families, and by the implementation of these recommendations, I believe we will make great strides in addressing the disparities in the care, support, education and training that currently exist. One of those pivotal recommendations was for the introduction of a new certificate of loss, which the Mariposa Trust (sayinggoodbye.org) has tirelessly campaigned for over the past 9 years. I’m thrilled that from today millions of families will finally get the formal acknowledgment that their baby existed and I hope this will help their grieving process.

    I would like to thank Dame Floella Benjamin for working with us to make this happen and the government for their commitment to bereaved families. My focus will now turn to the other 72 recommendations to ensure their successful implementation.

    Samantha Collinge, Bereavement Lead Midwife, George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust and co-chair of the Pregnancy Loss Review, said:

    Today marks a milestone moment for not just Zoe and myself, the co-chairs and co-authors of the independent Pregnancy Loss Review but for the millions of people who have experienced pre 24 week baby loss.

    Since I was appointed as a bereavement midwife in 1998 I have campaigned for a standardised care pathway that ensures that every parent experiencing baby loss (regardless of the gestation or type of loss) receives the physical and emotional care and support they deserve.

    The Pregnancy Loss Review with its 73 recommendations for improving care offers a real opportunity to change the landscape of pre 24 week loss and I feel enormously privileged to have co-led this piece of work.

    Miscarriage and other types of pre 24 weeks baby loss is often minimised and treated as a ‘clinical event’ or ‘just one of those things’ rather than the loss of a baby and sadly the emotional impact of the loss is often disregarded.

    Zoe and I hope that the introduction of a national certificate of baby loss will give bereaved parents the official recognition that their babies did exist and that their babies lives, however brief, really do matter.

    Ruth Bender Atik, National Director of the Miscarriage Association, said:

    We warmly welcome the introduction of optional certificates for those who have experienced pregnancy or baby loss since September 2018, and we very much look forward to the scheme being extended to losses prior to that date as soon as possible.

    For many, if not most people, even the earliest of losses can be deeply distressing, both emotionally and physically. It means the loss not only of this pregnancy but also of the hopes, plans and dreams that they had for this new life. And having no formal acknowledgement or marker of their loss can compound their grief.

    The new certification scheme will make a genuinely positive difference to many who have experienced pregnancy or baby loss, offering formal recognition of the tiniest of lives.

    Background information

    The certificate is available for either parent to access following a loss under 24 weeks since 1 September 2018. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age and have been living in England at the time of the loss.

    The certificate is an official but not legal document.

    We will look to expand eligibility for certificates pre-dating September 2018 as soon as we can.

  • PRESS RELEASE : One million premises upgraded to gigabit broadband by government [February 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : One million premises upgraded to gigabit broadband by government [February 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 22 February 2024.

    The government is rolling out gigabit networks faster than any other country in the EU.

    • Government has delivered faster, more reliable connectivity to an average of one building every six minutes since project began, as one million properties connected
    • majority are in hard-to-reach locations, where previously many people would have struggled to stream TV shows or run small businesses
    • comes as two more Project Gigabit contracts signed to connect around 32,400 premises in Gloucestershire and Yorkshire
    • further support announced through £70 million Future Telecoms Programme and Very Hard to Reach Alpha Trials to boost satellite connectivity

    More than one million homes, businesses and public buildings can now access the best internet speeds on the market as a result of the UK government’s rollout of faster, more reliable broadband – showing our plan to connect hard-to-reach communities is working.

    For over a decade the UK government has been investing in the construction of ‘gigabit-capable’ networks in areas that are too difficult or expensive for broadband suppliers to reach as part of their commercial plans.

    This long-term decision has helped to grow the rural economy, create jobs, and ensure those in rural and remote communities across the country can reap the rewards of lightning-fast connectivity, from hamlets surrounding Land’s End in Cornwall to a Royal Air Force radar station in the northern isles of Shetland.

    New data shows 1,006,800 homes and businesses have been connected, or are able to access, a better broadband connection thanks to UK government-funded programmes since the first upgrade was delivered in August 2012 – the equivalent of rolling out to one home, business or public building every six minutes.

    The majority of these premises are in hard-to-reach rural locations, where residents and businesses previously would have struggled to perform basic online tasks that others take for granted such as shopping or banking online, participating in a work video call, streaming a high-definition film or online learning.

    Thanks to upgrades delivered under government-backed broadband rollout programmes, these premises can now access more reliable services than traditional copper-based networks. Gigabit speeds mean households can download a high-definition film in under one minute, shop online across several different devices at once and utilise high definition video calls, such as with a GP, allowing for better healthcare.

    The million premises includes 5,300 public buildings – including schools, libraries, hospitals, police stations, council offices and more. The upgrades have helped boost productivity in public services and create better experiences for those who use them, while encouraging broadband companies to extend the network to surrounding homes and businesses – improving economic security and opportunity for everyone.

    Businesses – which have already increased turnover by £2.6 billion in areas targeted by our Superfast programme – will particularly benefit from gigabit capable technologies, with greater speed and reliability allowing them to bring in more orders and complete more work remotely anywhere in the UK, in turn boosting growth across our country.

    The UK government’s rollout is continuing to gather pace, with more than £77 million worth of Project Gigabit contracts signed today to connect around 32,400 rural premises across Gloucestershire, West and parts of North Yorkshire. Project Gigabit is a record £5 billion programme to ensure hard-to-reach areas are not left behind in the national upgrade to gigabit broadband.

    This forms part of the UK building gigabit networks faster than any country in the EU, thanks in part to government measures to stimulate competition and bust barriers to rollout.

    Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan said:

    Achieving a million gigabit-ready premises shows our plan to turbocharge British broadband is working. Thanks to our investment, rural communities held back by achingly slow internet can now tap into the best speeds on the market.

    The UK is rolling out gigabit networks faster than any country in the EU, with 8 in 10 premises now able to access upgrades. It is a track record that shows we are rapidly building the infrastructure Britain needs to improve lives and grow the economy.

    To mark the milestone, Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan is visiting the rural town of Wooler in Northumberland on Thursday (22 February) to see the impact of the government’s rollout. She will meet one entrepreneur who launched a successful hotel business as a result of the upgrades, as well as firms and employees who say the broadband boost has helped improve their productivity.

    Most of the 1 million premises are spread across hard-to-reach areas of the UK, including 68,800 in Scotland, 108,800 in Wales and 118,900 in Northern Ireland. Hundreds of thousands more will be connected in the coming months and years via Project Gigabit. Over £1.1 billion has already been signed in Project Gigabit contracts to connect more than 700,000 premises in England, from Northumberland, Durham and Cumbria to Cornwall, Norfolk and Suffolk.

    Clive Selley, Openreach CEO said:

    We’re proud at Openreach to be leading the UK’s digital transformation – investing £15 billion to build a new ultrafast, ultra-reliable full fibre broadband network throughout the country.

    In recent years, the UK’s telecoms sector has been supported by policies and regulation – including the super deduction – which encouraged this massive investment, and we’re on track to reach more than 25 million homes and businesses by the end of 2026, including millions in rural communities.

    Our network, in-turn, will support future growth and prosperity for everyone so we hope this supportive environment will continue and we’re working with partners across the industry to get the job done.

    Now, around 80 per cent of the UK is covered by gigabit broadband, up from just 6 per cent in 2019, and the UK is on track to achieve 85 per cent by 2025. Having the fastest connections also means the UK is fit-for-the-future, with broadband infrastructure designed to deliver for people’s needs for decades to come.

    Carolyn Dawson, CEO, Founders Forum Group, said:

    For founders, entrepreneurs and businesses, a reliable, high-speed internet connection can provide the rocket fuel that their ambitions need, supporting their day-to-day work and helping them to grow, so we have been delighted to see the success of Project Gigabit to date.

    When Founders Forum Group became the custodian of the much-loved Tech Nation brand last year, we inherited its remit to champion startups from all corners of the UK, and investments like this support the growth of innovative and exciting businesses in locations across country.

    For those building a business in Inverness or Eastbourne, the rapid rollout of these high-speed internet connections should be welcomed.

    Alex Veitch, Director of Policy and Insights at the British Chambers of Commerce said:

    It’s hugely welcome that more businesses across the UK now have access to gigabit broadband. Fast and reliable connectivity is fundamental to helping firms grow and thrive in a modern economy.”

    It’s vital that the rollout continues apace so many more firms in rural parts of the country can also reap the benefits of this important project. In the coming months, we will also be setting out our ambitions for bringing down existing barriers to broadband coverage, recognising the important role it plays for businesses.

    Julian David, CEO of techUK, said:

    This announcement underscores the crucial role that high-quality communications infrastructure plays in driving the UK’s economy, connecting society, and fostering prosperity.

    techUK is particularly pleased to see the continued investment in the innovative telecoms technology of tomorrow. These advancements are pivotal in shaping the future landscape of innovation, powering a plethora of emerging technologies, ranging from quantum computing to AI, automation, and edge computing.

    Today’s announcement comes as the government outlines details of UKRI’s £70 million Future Telecoms Programme, funded through the UKRI Technology Missions Fund and supporting one of five critical technologies, which will see 16 UK projects share £22 million to support development and commercialisation of cutting-edge tech solutions and lay the groundwork for the networks of the future.

    Meanwhile £40 million will provide further support for three existing Future Telecoms Research Hubs – led by Imperial College London, Oxford, and Cambridge Universities – alongside the creation of a dedicated national infrastructure for future telecoms testing and development linked to the UK National Dark Fibre Facility – to support research in 6G, developing new architectures and networks for end-to-end connectivity, embedding AI and computing and developing wireless access systems such as cell-free networks and optical wireless integration.

    Dr Kedar Pandya, UKRI Technology Missions Fund Senior Responsible Owner, said:

    The investment announced today will play an important role in advancing the telecoms technologies of tomorrow, supporting both early-stage research and market-ready solutions.

    It underlines the role the Technology Missions Fund and UKRI support plays in unlocking the potential of new technologies that will have a profound impact on society and the economy.

    The UK is also delivering high-speed, reliable connectivity to some of our very hardest to reach locations using satellite connectivity through the ‘Very Hard to Reach Alpha Trials’. These trials are testing the extent to which low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites can be used to deliver high-speed low latency broadband connections to areas which are typically beyond the building capability of internet service providers. This includes transforming connectivity for some of the country’s most important wildlife havens and sites of historical importance within protected landscapes.

    Further Information

    Premises are classified as passed by gigabit-capable broadband if it is possible to access a gigabit-capable service for the standard price and be connected in the standard timescale.

    All premise count figures are rounded to the nearest 100, meaning they may not sum due to rounding.

    The total number of premises connected have been funded via a range of active and legacy programmes, including the Superfast Programme, Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme, Gigabit Infrastructure Subsidy (Project Gigabit contracts) and Gigahubs.

    There are already alpha trials live in a number of areas including the Shetland Islands, Eryri National Park, and North Yorkshire, and today, the government unveils five additional trial sites in Scotland, Northumberland, and Norfolk. These will transform connectivity for some of the country’s most important wildlife havens and areas of historical importance, as the government leans on the UK’s tech ingenuity to drive forward new ways to meet connectivity challenges.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK supports full implementation of the peace agreement in Colombia and calls for security guarantees for former combatants – UK statement at the UN Security Council [February 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK supports full implementation of the peace agreement in Colombia and calls for security guarantees for former combatants – UK statement at the UN Security Council [February 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 February 2024.

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

    Thank you, President, and let me echo your appreciation to the Government of Colombia, the UN Secretariat, the United Nations Verification Mission led by SRSG Ruiz Massieu and to all the interlocutors we engaged with in Columbia.

    I’d also like to thank my co-leads Guyana Presidency and Switzerland for their close cooperation throughout the visit. And I’ll reflect upon the sessions led by the United Kingdom.

    In Bogota, the Security Council heard firm commitment as you said President, to the 2016 Peace Agreement and the importance of security guarantees for former combatants from Government entities in charge of peace implementation.

    The Council also met with the High Commissioner for Peace, Otty Patiño, to discuss the Government’s vision to broaden peace through dialogue. It was an opportune moment to discuss the ELN process given the recent ceasefire extension, which we mandated the Mission to monitor. The Council discussed the dialogue with the EMC which we’ve indicated a willingness to consider mandating the UN to support.

    The High Commissioner shared his vision of territorial transformation, extending the state’s presence in rural areas which you referred to,  and the importance of peace delivering benefits such as schools, healthcare, and infrastructure. The Council welcomed efforts to strengthen the humanitarian provisions of the ceasefires and encouraged further steps to alleviate the suffering of the civilian population.

    In our meeting with the signatories to the Peace Agreement in Agua Bonita, we welcomed their unwavering commitment to peace and also we met them in Bogota. The signatories called on the Government to accelerate the implementation of the Agreement including by appointing an entity at the highest level to coordinate efforts.

    The Council shared concern about former combatants’ insecurity and the 418 former combatants killed since the signing of the Agreement. We encouraged the Government to accelerate efforts to develop rapid protection plans.

    As you mentioned President, we also went to Buenaventura, and just to add to what you said, I think it’s worth saying that five years ago, the Council was unable to meet a female community leader because of fears for her security, and this time that very same leader – who is now the Vice President – accompanied us to her region, which I think shows the extent of the transformation underway in Colombia.

    This was an opportunity as you said President,  for Council members to focus on the Ethnic Chapter and to hear first-hand from those whose daily work focuses on building peace at local levels. And the Council also heard from youth representatives to understand their daily reality and their calls for educational and economic opportunities.

    As you said President, everywhere we saw the UN Verification Mission, UN agencies, Colombian Government, communities, and individuals working together to build sustainable peace. Peace is not an abstract concept – it’s a real social cause which is a whole of society effort.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : New UK strategy to deliver drones to armed forces [February 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : New UK strategy to deliver drones to armed forces [February 2024]

    The press release issued by Ministry of Defence on 22 February 2024.

    UK Defence Drone Strategy launched to deliver unified approach to uncrewed systems across all three military services, supported by £4.5 billion of investment.

    A new strategy backed by at least £4.5 billion of investment over the next decade will accelerate access to uncrewed systems for the UK Armed Forces, rapidly equipping them with innovative technology across air, sea, and land.

    The UK Defence Drone Strategy, born from lessons learned in Ukraine, will harness innovative capabilities across UK defence. It will enable the rapid experimentation, testing and evaluation of uncrewed platforms, unifying the approach of the British Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, integrated by UK Strategic Command, while crucially working in lockstep with industry.

    Drones are a game-changing technology that are constantly evolving, and it is crucial that the UK continues to invest in and maintain our position on the cutting edge of drone development to stay one step ahead of our adversaries.

    The new approach will see uncrewed systems delivered at pace into the hands of the British Armed Forces, equipping personnel with critical intelligence, reconnaissance, surveillance, strike and logistical capabilities. This will leave behind long development timelines and lengthy requirement discussions. Once operational, the systems will be able to be developed and upgraded – or ‘spiralled’ – to keep pace with the rapid evolution of technology and changing threat picture.

    Our initial priority remains the successful delivery of the Ukraine-UK uncrewed systems initiative, building on the UK’s donation of over 4,000 drones for Ukraine. The UK Defence Drone Strategy will help Armed Forces personnel meet the relentless cycle of battlefield adaptation, as has been repeatedly underpinned as Ukraine continues to successfully resist the Russian invasion.

    Minister for Defence Procurement, James Cartlidge said:

    The conflict in Ukraine has been an incubator for new ways of war and we need to learn and implement those hard-fought lessons.

    Rapidly being able to develop and upgrade uncrewed systems will be key to gaining battlefield advantage and we must seize this opportunity to grow and sustain such skills and capabilities in the UK.

    The strategy brings together a clear, unified focus – backed by billions in funding – while providing the flexibility to meet different requirements in the air, over land and at sea.

    Ultimately, this is about learning the lessons from the Ukrainian frontline to procure drones at scale for the UK’s Armed Forces.

    Of the £2.5 billion pounds to be spent on supporting Ukraine this coming financial year, more than £200 million will go towards supplying Ukraine with uncrewed systems. As the Defence Secretary announced last week, the UK will include work to scale up the Drone Capability Coalition’s provision of ‘first-person view’ (FPV) drones to Ukraine. This will help to scale the UK’s domestic drone industry across manufacturing and software development whilst giving Ukraine cutting-edge, battle-tested capabilities to defend their citizens and target the invading Russian forces.

    Working with international partners and leading uncrewed systems designers, the UK’s ambition to be a world-leader in uncrewed systems will enable exports in a rapidly growing global market and create onshore investment opportunities, supporting UK jobs and backing the Prime Minister’s priority to grow the economy.

    Commander of UK Strategic Command, General Jim Hockenhull said:

    This strategy, backed by significant investment, offers the opportunity to transform our approach to the acquisition, integration, and exploitation of uncrewed systems.

    The partnership with industry will be vital to ensure we harness innovation and generate world-leading capability.

    Integrating advanced uncrewed systems into our suite of capabilities will protect the force, deter our adversaries and, when necessary, help us to fight and win.

    Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), the procurement arm of the UK MOD, has played a key role in helping develop the new UK Defence Drone Strategy and will be pivotal in ensuring its successful ongoing delivery.

    Chief Executive, Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), Andy Start said:

    DE&S has supported the rapid procurement of large numbers of uncrewed aerial systems for Ukraine, and it is clearer than ever that unhindered access to battle-winning uncrewed systems is absolutely crucial in modern day combat.

    We are delighted to be working with frontline commands and industry partners to identify, test and deliver platforms that will give the UK Armed Forces the competitive edge they require to protect the nation and support our allies.

    A comprehensive partnership with industry is at the core of the Drone Strategy, and building on the UK’s extensive industrial, robotics and digital heritage. Through regular, clear industry engagements, we will incentivise industry to support the rapid manufacture and adaptation at a scale and capability able to deliver operational advantage for our Armed Forces.

    As part of the Strategy, we will work across government to make the UK more competitive in the global export market for uncrewed systems and their development.

    Today’s Strategy builds on the UK’s rich history of developing and operating uncrewed systems, including the use of Reaper MQ-9s by the Royal Air Force, and small to medium uncrewed aerial systems by the Army and particularly the Royal Navy who have developed a growing array of surface and sub-surface capabilities, including autonomous minehunters.

  • PRESS RELEASE : HMS Diamond crew celebrated as ship readies to return to operations [February 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : HMS Diamond crew celebrated as ship readies to return to operations [February 2024]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 21 February 2024.

    The Armed Forces Minister has praised the bravery and tenacity of the crew of HMS Diamond, who have been working hard to patrol the Red Sea.

    • Minister for the Armed Forces James Heappey visits HMS Diamond in Gibraltar.
    • HMS Diamond docked in Gibraltar to restock and resupply.
    • From November to the end of January, HMS Diamond patrolled the Red Sea ensuring freedom of navigation.

    The Armed Forces Minister has praised the bravery and tenacity of the crew of HMS Diamond, who have been working hard to patrol the Red Sea, intercepting smuggled weapons, and protecting global shipping.

    Visiting the vessel and her ship’s company over the past 24 hours, Minister for the Armed Forces James Heappey praised the efforts of Royal Navy personnel, who are currently docked in Gibraltar to restock and resupply after a demanding stint defending international shipping in the Red Sea.

    As part of Operation Prosperity Guardian, an international task force initiated to protect merchant shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, HMS Diamond arrived in the Red Sea in December to protect and support key shipping lanes following the Houthis’ illegal attacks.

    Since leaving Portsmouth at the end of November, HMS Diamond has sailed nearly 20,000 nautical miles on patrols, with her Wildcat helicopter having flown more than 53 hours of sorties over the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden making its crew the busiest in the Royal Navy.

    Minister Heappey toured HMS Diamond, meeting members of the ship’s company and her Commanding Officer and discussing the ship’s recent and future activity.

    Minister for the Armed Forces James Heappey said:

    HMS Diamond has played a vital role defending freedom of navigation, saving innocent lives, and protecting merchant shipping from illegal Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. It was a pleasure to visit the ship and her crew while they were alongside in Gibraltar.

    I am hugely thankful for British Forces Gibraltar’s support for HMS Diamond and, in turn, their contribution to Operation Prosperity Guardian.

    While on Operation Prosperity Guardian, the Type 45 Destroyer faced three separate Houthi attacks, during which she successfully destroyed nine drones using her Sea Viper missile system and guns. The warship, one of the Royal Navy’s most advanced, docked in Gibraltar to be restocked and resupplied, with fresh ‘victory marks’ on her flanks, depicting the nine downed drones.

    Since early February, Type 23 Frigate HMS Richmond has taken over HMS Diamond’s duties on Operation Prosperity Guardian while she restocks and resupplies in Gibraltar. Alongside the UK warship, the task force includes three US destroyers and a French warship, all working together to protect freedom of navigation, international trade, and human life by countering the Houthis in international waters.

    HMS Diamond’s visit to Gibraltar demonstrates British Forces Gibraltar’s critical role in supporting Defence’s overall ability to combat current and future threats.

    Defence is committed to investing in British Forces Gibraltar as one of Defence’s Global Hubs, key supporting operations, defence engagement and exercises.