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Tag: 2024

  • PRESS RELEASE : “You could get Pension Credit” – Week of Action to drive take up [September 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : “You could get Pension Credit” – Week of Action to drive take up [September 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 1 September 2024.

    The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to launch Pension Credit Week of Action to boost take-up of vital benefit.

    • Joining forces with charities, broadcasters and a range of partners, the campaign will encourage pensioners to check their eligibility and apply
    • Up to 880,000 pensioners could be missing out on this cash boost worth on average up to £3,900 per year

    Hundreds of thousands of pensioners are being urged to apply for a benefit that could be worth on average £3,900 per year as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is launching a campaign to increase Pension Credit take-up on Monday 2 September.

    With as many as 880,000 pensioners missing out, the Pension Credit Week of Action aims to spread awareness and increase claims for Pension Credit, which from this year will also automatically passport eligible pensioners to receive the Winter Fuel Payment.

    Joining forces with charities, broadcasters, Local Authorities, and a range of partners, the campaign will tackle myths that may prevent people applying, for instance having a small private pension, savings or owning their own home.

    Families, friends and neighbours are being encouraged to reach out to retired family members to encourage them to check their eligibility and apply. 21 December is the last possible date to make a successful backdated claim in order to receive the Winter Fuel Payment.

    While around 1.4 million pensioners are already receiving Pension Credit, up to an estimated 880,000 households are eligible for the support but are not claiming it.

    Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, said:

    The £22 billion blackhole inherited from the previous governments means we are having to take tough decisions now to fix the foundations of our economy – including making the Winter Fuel Payments available to those most at need.

    1.3 million pensioners are already going to get help with fuel bills this year because they’re claiming pension credit – but thousands more are eligible. So, if you know someone who could get pension credit and help with their fuel bills, now is the time to help them apply for pension credit.

    Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall said:

    Thousands of pensioners are missing out on Pension Credit worth on average £3,900 per year. That needs to change.

    It’s easier than ever to check if you are eligible, including with our online calculator, and if your circumstances have changed since the last time you looked – I urge you to check again.

    Friends, families and neighbours can also encourage their loved ones to apply, so that they are not missing out on this vital benefit.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

    The legacy of failure on energy policy we have inherited means energy prices are set to rise in autumn. We must ensure that pensioners in the greatest need get access to help with rising bills.

    We will do everything in our power to increase take up of Pension Credit to the 880,000 households who are yet to claim – opening the door to other vital support such as the Winter Fuel Payment.

    The government will also continue our mission to deliver clean power by 2030, helping to finally give families the energy security they deserve and our country the energy independence we need.

    Pensioners whose weekly income is below £218.15 for a single person or £332.95 for a couple should check to see if they are eligible for this support which is worth £3,900 a year on average, using DWP’s online calculator.

    People with a severe disability, carers and those who are responsible for a child or young person who lives with them could get more. Pension Credit can also include extra amounts for certain housing costs, such as ground rent or service charges.

    This work is part of a wider plan to ensure economic stability for pensioners by protecting the Triple Lock and supporting households with their energy bills through the £150 Warm Home Discount and the Warm Homes Plan – upgrading millions of homes this Parliament.

    Over the next five years, more than 12 million pensioners could see their State Pension increase by over a thousand pounds as a result of the commitment to the Triple Lock.

    Background

    • Applications for Pension Credit can be made:
      • On the How to Claim page
      • Over the phone by calling 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm)
      • By printing out and filling in a paper application form
      • For more information visit the Pension Credit GOV.UK page.
    • The Winter Fuel Payment is worth £300 for households with someone aged 80 or over. Households with someone aged 66-79 will receive £200.
    • We will work with Local Authorities to bring together the administration of Pension Credit and Housing Benefit as soon as operationally possible.
    • People who have reached State Pension age before September 23, 2024 and are in receipt of Pension Credit, Income Support, Income based JSA, Income related ESA, Universal Credit, Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit, will be entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment – subject to eligibility conditions.
    • The regulations to means-test the Winter Fuel Payment will be laid on 22 August 2024. The qualifying week in 2024 for Winter Fuel Payments will be from 16 to 22 September.
    • Pensioners need to be entitled to Pension Credit for at least one day in week September 16 to 22 to be eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment for this winter.
    • 21 December is the last date for backdating a claim for Pension Credit to 22 September, assuming the claimant met the Pension Credit entitlement conditions throughout the previous three months.
    • Anyone who is entitled to Pension Credit for at least one day of the Winter Fuel Payment qualifying week will have automatic entitlement to Winter Fuel Payment. There are some exceptions which are detailed on GOV.UK: https://www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment/eligibility
    • People do not have to do anything extra to backdate their claim. If they make their application online, they will automatically be asked if they would like to backdate it. If they make their application over the phone the advisor will talk them through this.
    • Around 1.3 million households in England and Wales will continue to receive Winter Fuel Payments due to some other pensioner households being eligible and expected extra Pension Credit take up due to this reform.

    Pension Credit recipients by region (as of February 2024):

    North East 73,883
    North West 175,179
    Yorkshire and The Humber 118,633
    East Midlands 95,767
    West Midlands 130,427
    East of England 110,017
    London 190,496
    South East 147,763
    South West 111,251
    Wales 80,927
    Scotland 125,136

    Further Information

    Supportive statements:

    • Martin Lewis, founder of MoneySavingExpert, said:

    It’s a national tragedy that nearly a million eligible low-income pensioners who’ve paid into the system for years are still missing out on the crucial Pension Credit financial lifeline – a better name for it would be the State Pension Top Up.

    So whatever your age, take a second to understand how it works, so we can all ensure the message is spread to every nook and granny (and grandpas too).  Especially as the government has just severed Winter Fuel Benefits eligibility for millions, yet if you claim Pension Credit you’ll still get it.

    While for most single pensioners, you need total weekly income, including from savings, under around £218 (pensioner couples under £333) to be very likely to qualify, my rule of thumb is spend a few minutes to check even with weekly income up to £235 (pensioner couples £350) as there’s still a chance some may be eligible.

    Pension Credit can pay out £1,000s a year, but even if it’s only going to pay you thruppence, still claim it! As once you get it, it’s a gateway benefit that opens the door to other entitlements – including council tax reductions, free TV licences (if age over 75) dental and optical support and more.

    • Sir Steve Webb, Partner at pension consultants LCP and former Pensions Minister, said:

    I would encourage anyone on a tight budget to consider an application for Pension Credit.

    It can be claimed over the phone and could be the gateway to a range of valuable additional benefits, including reductions in energy bills, extra support when the temperature drops, free TV licences for those aged 75+ and continued receipt of the Winter Fuel Payment.

    Even if you are not sure if you will be entitled, it is worth putting in a claim, especially for those who are disabled or carers and might be entitled to additional amounts.

    • Juliet Tizzard, Director of External Relations at Parkinson’s UK said:

    Parkinson’s UK is pleased to support the DWP in raising awareness of Pension Credit,  which is a vital resource for older people on low incomes living with conditions like Parkinson’s.

    We know that very few people with Parkinson’s and their carers who are entitled to Pension credit, actually claim it. Our recent survey found that only 6% of eligible respondents received Pension Credit, leaving many without access to additional entitlements that could ease the financial strain of living with Parkinson’s.

    With the Winter Fuel Payment soon only being granted to those receiving Pension Credit, it’s more important than ever for everyone of pension age and above to check whether they are eligible to claim it.

    This Week of Action is crucial to raise awareness of Pension Credit and we urge everyone of pension age to check their eligibility to ensure they can access the support they are entitled to.

    • Sarah Pennells, Consumer Finance Specialist at mutual pensions provider, Royal London, said:

    Pension Credit is a valuable benefit for anyone over State Pension age who is on a low income. But with an estimated 880,000 people missing out, it’s important that anyone who thinks they may qualify for it, or anyone who thinks a family member may qualify, puts in a claim.

    Pension Credit not only provides additional tax-free income, but, because it’s a ‘gateway’ benefit, means that people who are eligible may also qualify for help with housing costs such as rent and council tax, as well as energy bills through the Winter Fuel Payment and Cold Weather Payment.

    Our research shows that one in five people over State Pension age are living on the State Pension alone, with many thousands not entitled to the full amount for a variety of reasons. Pension Credit could make a big difference to their standard of living in retirement.

    If you have a family member or friend over State Pension age, they could be missing out on tax-free payments worth thousands of pounds a year.

    • Nigel Peaple, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association (PLSA), said:

    Pension Credit can provide vital support to low-income pensioner households, but many people don’t claim it.

    If you think you, or someone you know, might be eligible, call the Pension Credit claim line, write to the Pension Service or put in an application on the Government website. Help spread the word; it could make a world of difference to someone.

    • A British Gas spokesperson said:

    Pension Credit Week of Action is the perfect opportunity to remind our customers of the vital support available to them. We are committed to ensuring pensioners are informed about their eligibility for Pension Credit and the additional help it provides. Our ‘You Pay: We Pay’ initiative further supports this by doubling contributions to help manage energy costs. By reaching out directly to customers who may be struggling, offering access to grants through the British Gas Energy Trust, and offering face-to-face advice through our Post Office partnership, we aim to make it easier for pensioners in need to access essential support.

    • Jackie Spencer, Head of Money and Pensions Policy at the Money and Pensions Service, said:

    One in three people who are entitled to Pension Credit don’t claim and, if you’re one of them, you could be missing out on extra income per year.

    It’s important to find out if you’re eligible for Pension Credit as it can not only help with your day-to-day living costs, but it can also entitle you to other grants, benefits and discounts. For example, households claiming Pension Credit can get a Winter Fuel Payment and Housing Benefit.

    • Jonathan Bland, Head Geek at Pension Geeks and founder of the Pension Awareness Campaign, said:

    With the Pension Season upon us, there is never a more fitting time to check whether or not you could be eligible for Pension Credit.

    You might be surprised – if you own a home, or have savings – you could still be entitled to the payment. It can also open the door to additional help with housing costs and heating bills, etc. Hundreds of thousands of people of people are missing out, so I’d urge everyone to take a few moments to check.

    • Dr Suzy Morrissey FCA, Deputy Director, Pensions Policy Institute, said:

    The PPI is excited to see that start of the Pension Credit Week of Action. This is a great initiative to help people become better informed about pension credit and their retirement income.  It is important that people receive all their entitlements and this Week of Action will help raise awareness.

    • Rachel Fletcher, Director of Economics and Regulation at Octopus Energy, said:

    We know many people are worried about the impact of rising fossil fuel prices this winter. Support is available, but often goes unnoticed – for example, 1 in 4 eligible pensioners currently don’t claim Pension Credit.

    Companies can help to make sure every pensioner gets the assistance they need. We are not only offering our own Winter Fuel Payments to pensioners this winter, but also training staff to spot when customers are missing out and help them get the benefits they deserve.

    • Pete Glancy, Head of Pensions Policy, Scottish Widows, said:

    Scottish Widows’ latest Retirement Report told us that the State Pension plays a vital role in meeting day-to-day costs for 75% of current retirees – and that future retirees are worried how they would get by if it wasn’t there.  That underlines how important it is that people understand what they are entitled too – and that pension credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income. It’s separate from the State Pension and you can get it even if you have other income, savings or own your own home.

    We welcome the Government’s efforts to draw attention to this important benefit.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Bluetongue virus restricted zone declared in Norfolk and Suffolk [August 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Bluetongue virus restricted zone declared in Norfolk and Suffolk [August 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 31 August 2024.

    A bluetongue restricted zone has been declared across Norfolk and Suffolk.

    Following several confirmed cases of Bluetongue virus BTV3 at premises across Norfolk and Suffolk, the UK Chief Veterinary Officer has declared a bluetongue restricted zone across the region to mitigate the risk of further cases of disease occurring.

    Rolling information on the latest situation and number of cases is here.

    The new restriction zone replaces the original Temporary Control Zone.

    It means that from 20.00 on 30 August all keepers of cattle, sheep, other ruminants and camelids in these hotspots will need to follow strict restrictions on animal and germinal product movements. Further information on these restrictions and the licences that are available is on gov.uk, alongside symptoms of bluetongue and how to spot it and report it.

    All infected premises have been placed under restriction and susceptible animals can only be moved under licence from infected premises.

    Essential moves of susceptible animals (cattle, sheep, goats, deer and other ruminants and camelids including llamas and alpacas) can take place without a licence within the Restricted Zone but cannot be moved out of the zone without a specific licence. A general licence to move animals to designated abattoirs is also available.

    Bluetongue virus is primarily transmitted by midge bites and affects cattle, goats, sheep, goats, deer and camelids such as llamas and alpacas. The impacts on susceptible animals can vary greatly – some show no clinical signs or effects at all while for others it can cause productivity issues such as reduced milk yield, while in the most severe cases can be fatal for infected animals.

    It does not affect people, and meat and milk from infected animals are safe to eat and drink.

    Surveillance is underway to understand if the virus is currently circulating in the UK and the extent of any undisclosed disease. Given the current temperatures and midge activity, which spread the disease, there is a high risk of onward spread in the UK.

    There have been a rising number of the cases in Northern Europe and the Chief Veterinary Officer recently called for increased vigilance and responsible sourcing of livestock.

    Farmers should continue to monitor their animals frequently for clinical signs and report suspicion of disease immediately, they should also make sure their animals and land are registered with APHA so keepers can be kept informed and animals easily located.

    Farmers are also reminded that free testing remains available for animals moving from the highest risk counties to live elsewhere in Great Britain or to be sold at a market within a high-risk county where there will be buyers from outside the high-risk counties.

    UK Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss said:

    Following an increased number of bluetongue cases, we have declared a restricted zone across Suffolk and Norfolk. This means all keepers in these regions must urgently act now to both prevent the disease spreading to their herds and any further. Farmers are urged not to move animals within the zone unless it is absolutely necessary.

    We have not taken this action lightly and we are clear that farmers and their vets must remain vigilant and report any suspicions to APHA immediately.

    In line with the disease control approach developed in advance of the virus being found, we are seeking to limit the spread of infection and the new restricted zone will increase the chances of being able to do this.

    We are committed to working with everyone affected to help them protect their animals and those of neighbouring farmers, and we will keep the size and nature of the zone under constant review as our understanding of the disease picture develops.

    Farmers can help minimise the risk of disease spread by not moving animals within the zone unless they really have to.

    BTV is a notifiable disease. Suspicion of BTV in animals in England must be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency on 03000 200 301.

    In Wales, suspected disease should be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency on 03003 038 268.

    In Scotland, you should contact your local Field Services Office if you suspect bluetongue. In Northern Ireland please report to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.

    More information about bluetongue is available here.

  • PRESS RELEASE : How we’re fixing the foundations of the country [August 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : How we’re fixing the foundations of the country [August 2024]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 31 August 2024.

    Here are some of the things we are doing to fix the foundations of this country.

    We want to create wealth everywhere, but first we must fix the foundations of our country.

    In the first few weeks of this Government, an audit found a £22 billion black hole in the public finances. It means we’ve had to take tough decisions, like means-testing the Winter Fuel Payment. Our Budget in October will be difficult.

    But we have already taken action to improve the lives of working people in every corner of the country, from unlocking planning decisions to help build 1.5 million new homes to setting up Great British Energy, to create good jobs and provide clean energy to cut people’s bills in the long term.

    Here are some of the things we are doing to fix the foundations of this country.

    Setting up a new National Wealth Fund

    Growth is the number one priority of this government. That’s why we set up the National Wealth Fund.

    It is a publicly owned investment fund that will help attract investment into our country, stabilise our economy and create wealth for future generations.

    It will help unlock private investment into the UK by directly investing in new and growing industries, and help create thousands of jobs in clean energy industries.

    Accelerating housing planning

    We’re overhauling our housing system to meet the needs of working people and put communities first.

    Our plan will include introducing mandatory planning targets to aim to deliver on our ambition to build 1.5 million new homes over the next five years.

    The new targets will boost housebuilding in areas most in need, to help more people buy their own homes, and help drive growth – making everyone in the country better off.

    Putting passengers first  We’ll put our rail system back on track with new laws to deliver for passengers.

    They will improve the railways by reforming rail franchising, establishing Great British Railways and bringing train operators into public ownership.

    Protecting taxpayer money

    We’ll introduce legislation that makes sure nobody can play fast and loose with public finances.

    A new Bill will strengthen the role of the Office of Budget Responsibility, meaning significant fiscal announcements must be properly scrutinised and that taxpayers’ money is respected.

    Protecting workers’ rights

    We’ll improve workers’ rights with new legislation – a significant step towards delivering this Government’s plan to make work pay.

    We will ban exploitative zero-hours contracts, end fire and rehire, and introduce basic employment rights from day one.

    And we’re changing the way the Minimum Wage is set so it keeps in line with the cost of living, in a move to put more money in working people’s pockets.

    Launching GB Energy

    Producing clean energy and creating good jobs will be our focus for the rest of the year. Great British Energy, a publicly owned, clean-energy company, will own, manage and operate clean power projects, such as wind farms, across the country.

    Great British Energy will be headquartered in Scotland and paid for by a windfall tax on oil and gas giants. It will invest clean power projects across the United Kingdom, such as wind farms, which are the cheapest forms of electricity generation to build and operate.

    This will help make our country energy independent, tackle climate change and save families money. And investing in clean domestic power will create jobs and build supply chains in every corner of the UK.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK to receive earlier flood and drought warnings using high-tech sensors and real time monitoring [August 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK to receive earlier flood and drought warnings using high-tech sensors and real time monitoring [August 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 31 August 2024.

    Researchers across the UK to use latest tech and major data bank to provide better flood and drought warnings.

    • Researchers across the UK to use latest tech and major data bank to better predict where devastating floods and droughts will strike
    • innovators will also pioneer new ways of tackling the worst of extreme weather to halt damage and cut eye-watering cost to the economy
    • sensors in UK rivers and real time monitoring will gather priceless data that goes towards modelling the potential impact and likely flashpoints

    Predicting where future flooding and droughts will strike next in the UK will be made easier under a new project for scientists using the latest tech and real-time data, Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle has announced today (Saturday 31 August).

    It will help key bodies, like local authorities and the Environment Agency, to stem the worst of extreme weather’s impact on communities, saving lives, homes, and businesses, and helping to cut the devastating cost of such events to the UK economy, estimated at £740 million a year.

    The Floods and Droughts Research Infrastructure, led by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH) and backed by £40 million, will be the first UK-wide network focused on understanding the impact of extreme weather conditions across the country, pinpointing where incidents are likely to occur and planning to limit their impact.

    The complexity of Earth’s climate makes forecasting floods and droughts a major challenge, with climate change only further complicating the picture. Researchers will use the latest technologies including sensors and real time computer monitoring, plus a huge bank of data including river profiles and near real-time monitoring of information including on atmospherics, ground saturation, water movement, abstraction and storage – taken together, this will form a clearer impression of where and when extreme weather will strike.

    Floods wreak havoc on communities by destroying homes, public infrastructure, and livelihoods like farming which in turn costs consumers. Similarly, droughts have a major impact on the water supply and UK eco-system, harming wildlife and their natural habitats which rely on regular rainfall.

    Researchers will be based at UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology’s offices throughout Great Britain, with further input from researchers in the British Geological Survey, University of Bristol and Imperial College London.

    Findings from the project will be shared with key bodies like the Environment Agency to steer the UK response to extreme weather. It will also act as a hub for researchers to pursue new innovations with discoveries shared across the world and marking the UK as a leader in the field.

    Science and Technology Secretary, Peter Kyle, said:

    Flooding and droughts can devastate UK communities, from leaving people stranded, to destroying homes, gardens, roads and businesses, and even claiming lives.

    With climate change sadly making extreme weather events more common and adding an eye-watering cost to the economy, there is no time to waste in backing our researchers and innovators to ensure we are better prepared for floods and droughts striking.

    This project will help drive that progress, with dedicated teams using the most advanced tech to crunch data gathered from our rivers and paint a clear picture of its likely impact – using the power of science and tech to keep the public safe.

    The new measures build on £5.6 billion of government investment into flooding from 2021 and 2027, with over 100 and coastal risk management projects helping to better protect thousands of people and properties from flooding from the sea, rivers and reservoirs.

    We will also shortly launch a new Flood Resilience Taskforce to turbocharge the delivery of new flood defences, drainage systems and natural flood management schemes, which will ensure we’re prepared for the future and help grow our economy.

    Floods Minister Emma Hardy said:

    In the case of extreme flooding and drought, preparation and prediction are everything.

    Our new institute will bring together a team of world-leading researchers and the latest technology to ensure our communities, businesses and farms are protected from these devastating events.

    Today’s funding also builds on wider UKRI projects tackling extreme weather in the UK and abroad, including support for businesses to ensure against its risks.

    It includes a project sponsored by the NERC linking the frequency and intensity of storms over Northern Europe using mathematical models that enable more accurate pricing of storm-related risks. Meanwhile the Lisflood-FP computer model developed by the University of Bristol has helped over one million Zambian farmers to insure themselves against drought risk through daily rainfall estimates for the continent of Africa.

    Another team at Bristol has pioneered the development of high-resolution flood prediction models, which has resulted in Fathom: a spin-out company with an annual turnover of more than £4 million. Its work includes protecting infrastructure valued at over $1 trillion, thanks to improved flood risk management in the UK and across the world.

    Executive Chair of NERC, Professor Louise Heathwaite, said:

    Earth’s changing climate means the number of extreme floods and droughts will increase in the UK, impacting homes, businesses and services. But predicting their location and measuring their intensity and impact needs the sort of scientific advances that this programme will bring to overcome the data and analytical constraints that are currently very challenging.

    The project will transform the way we understand the impact of these events by building a significant bank of data and improving our monitoring capability, and so helping to protect those affected.

    This is an example of how NERC is responding to climate challenges with research and innovation investments that will accelerate the green economy and deliver solutions to national priorities.

    Notes to editors

    The Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) has awarded £38 million from the UKRI Infrastructure Fund to establish the new institute.

    A further £1.2 million of funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council will go towards a three-year project to slash the time and cost involved in running computer models of projected flooding out to the year 2100. This will enable detailed assessments of a much wider range of potential scenarios than currently possible, taking into account the nature and extent of the impact on extreme weather in these areas, informing solutions much better matched to the specific needs of different parts of the UK.

    Between April 2022 and March 2023, the government worked with other risk management authorities to complete around 120 flooding and coastal risk management projects.

    These projects better protected people and properties from:

    • sea and tidal flooding (16,800 properties from 27 projects)
    • river flooding (6,500 properties from 59 projects)
    • surface water flooding (900 properties from 21 projects)
    • coastal erosion (1,100 properties from 7 projects)
    • reservoirs (1,100 properties from 1 project)
    • groundwater (35 properties from 2 projects)

    DSIT media enquiries

  • PRESS RELEASE : International Investment Summit Adviser appointed [August 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : International Investment Summit Adviser appointed [August 2024]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 30 August 2024.

    Ian Corfield has been appointed as an unpaid International Investment Summit Adviser by the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

    In this role, Ian Corfield will work with the Chancellor, her political advisers and officials in the Treasury, as well as relevant teams across Government, to advise and help on delivering the International Investment Summit on 14 October 2024.

    The summit itself is intended to advance opportunities for growth and investment across the country; make clear that the UK is open for business to trading partners around the globe; create a pro-business environment that supports innovation and high-quality jobs in the UK; and allow global business leaders to hear directly from the Prime Minister and Cabinet ministers on how the government will drive future investment.

    Ian Corfield will advise on delivering these objectives in relation to the agenda, engagement of key businesses, and the investment pipeline generated from the event.

    Ian Corfield will be in post until 31 October 2024. Declarations of interests have been made in the usual way.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Painting owned by the first Prime Minister of Great Britain at risk of export [August 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport on 30 August 2024.

    A temporary export bar has been placed on Le Rêve de L’Artiste by Jean-Antoine Watteau.

    • The painting, which was previously hung in Downing Street, is valued at over £6 million
    • Export bar is to allow time for a UK gallery or institution to acquire the painting

    A temporary export bar has been placed on Le Rêve de L’Artiste, a painting by influential 18th century French artist Jean-Antoine Watteau.

    The work, valued at £6,075,000 (plus VAT of £215,020), is at risk of leaving the UK unless a domestic buyer can be found to save the work for the nation.

    Watteau was one of the most original and influential French painters of his era. He was a leading figure in the development of the Rococo style and inventor of a type of painting known as the Fête Galante, often small cabinet pictures, exploring the psychology of love, usually within a landscape setting.

    His popularity in Britain amongst his contemporaries is evidenced through Le Rêve de L’Artiste being bought in 1736 by the first Prime Minister of Great Britain, Sir Robert Walpole.  The painting was hung in Lady Walpole’s dressing room in 10 Downing Street for the remaining years of his administration.

    Le Rêve de L’Artiste is an ambitious and complex picture featuring two dozen characters in a  surreal, structured environment depicting some of the artist’s own dreams. The painting is unlike much of Watteau’s other work which largely presents natural landscapes as idyllic and untamed.

    Arts Minister Sir Chris Bryant said:

    This painting was once owned by our first Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole, and was hanging for several years in 10 Downing Street, so Watteau’s Le Rêve de L’Artiste has a fascinating connection to British History, offering us insights into the tastes and development of art in Britain in the 18th century. It portrays the artist’s dream, but perhaps its surreal fantasia inspired political dreams as well. Either way, it is an important and unusual work by a genius.

    I hope a UK buyer has the opportunity to purchase this work so it can continue to be studied and enjoyed by the public.”

    The Minister’s decision follows the advice of the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest. The RCEWA Committee found that the painting met the third Waverley criterion for its outstanding significance to the study of the collections in which this picture was included as well as the early and highly unusual depiction of dream imagery.

    Committee Member Mark Hallett said:

    This beautiful, enigmatic painting showcases Watteau’s extraordinary originality, and provides us with one of Western art’s earliest and most profound representations of the process of artistic creativity. It gives us a fascinating insight not only into Watteau’s thinking as a painter, but into wider eighteenth-century concepts of inspiration and imagination. As such, Le Rêve de l’Artiste has a special, almost unique status in the artist’s output. This is a work that cries out for further research, interpretation and appreciation, and that fully deserves being retained for the nation.

    The decision on the export licence application for the painting will be deferred for a period ending on 29 November 2024 inclusive. At the end of the first deferral period owners will have a consideration period of 15 Business Days to consider any offer(s) to purchase the painting at the recommended price of £6,075,000 (plus VAT of £215,020). The second deferral period will commence following the signing of an Option Agreement and will last for six months.

    Notes to editors

    1. Organisations or individuals interested in purchasing the painting should contact the RCEWA on 02072680534 or rcewa@artscouncil.org.uk .
    2. Details of the object are as follows: Antoine Watteau (Valenciennes 1684–1721 Nogent-sur-Marne), The Dream of the Artist, about 1710. Oil on canvas, 95.5 x 121 cm.
    3. Provenance: Jacques Langlois (1681–1722), painter and dealer on the Pont Notre Dame, Paris; the inventory following his death on the 16th December 1722, included ‘Le Reve, du sieur Watteau, b.d.[bordure dorée]…120 l. [livres]’. Painting arrived in London, c. 17231; Sir Robert Walpole M.P., 1st Earl of Orford, Prime Minister of England (1676–1745). By 1736, as it is listed in that year in Walpole’s manuscript, A Catalogue of the Right Honourable Sir Robert Walpole’s Collection of Pictures, the painting is listed as hanging in Lady Walpole’s dressing room at 10 Downing Street, and described thus: ‘Watteau – A dream of Watteau’s, Himself asleep by a rock; Several Dancers & Grotesque figures in the Clouds – 2’ 1” – 2’ 7 ¼ ”’ (25 x 31 ¼ in). Sold Cock’s auction room, known as Messrs Cock & Langford, in the Great Piazza of Covent Garden, the Walpole sale, 28 April 1748, second day, lot 62, sold for £ 6.10/-, bought by; James Douglas, 14th Earl of Morton (1702–1768), on whose death, by inheritance to; Susan Elizabeth, Dowager Countess of Morton (1793-1849), widow of the 16th Earl; Sold her sale, Christie’s, 27th April 1850, lot 88, (The Painter’s Dream – a very elegant design), sold for £ 27.6/- to ‘Anthony’. (3rd most expensive painting in sale); James Goding Esq. (d. 1857); his sale, Christie’s, 21st February 1857, lot 503, (The Painter’s Dream- one of eight ‘Watteau’ in the Goding collection), sold for £ 36 to ‘Webb’, bought on behalf of; John Ashley Cooper (1808–1867), 4th son of 6th Earl of Shaftesbury, of 17 Upper Brook Street, Mayfair, London, on whose death, by inheritance to his wife; Julia Ashley, née Conyers (c.1818–1907); Her sale, Christie’s, 25th June 1904, lot 51, sold for £ 68.5/- to; Martin Colnaghi (1821–1908); subsequently sold for FF10,000 to; Renee Gimpel (1881–1945) and Nathan Wildenstein (1851 – 1934), who then sold it for FF150,000 to; David David-Weill (1871–1952), c. 1914, New York; Sold Sotheby’s, 10th June 1959, lot 41, bought for £ 1,200 by ‘Wallraf’ on behalf of Wildenstein & Co., London, thence sold in 1963 through the dealer Dudley Tooth to; Ivo Forde Esq (1949–2023); An English private collector, acquired 1993; Private collection.
    4. The Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest is an independent body, serviced by Arts Council England (ACE), which advises the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport on whether a cultural object, intended for export, is of national importance under specified criteria.
  • PRESS RELEASE : 32 of Malaysia’s brightest have been awarded the prestigious Chevening scholarship [August 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : 32 of Malaysia’s brightest have been awarded the prestigious Chevening scholarship [August 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 30 August 2024.

    32 of Malaysia’s brightest have been awarded the prestigious Chevening scholarship to pursue their postgraduate studies in the UK for the 2024/25 academic year.

    In addition to the existing number of Chevening scholarship awards, the United Kingdom (UK) government has also now launched a Chevening ASEAN Scholarship Programme. Every ASEAN member country and Timor-Leste will receive one additional Chevening scholarship award for the 2025/26 academic year.

    David Wallace, Acting British High Commissioner to Malaysia, hosted a pre-departure briefing and reception for the scholars this evening. He said:

    The Chevening Scholarship programme is a testament to the UK government’s commitment to nurturing Malaysia’s leaders of tomorrow. It provides an opportunity to experience a world-class education in the UK as well as gaining invaluable exposure and experiences along the way.

    ASEAN is an important partner to the UK. In 2022, the UK became a Dialogue Partner to ASEAN, the first new dialogue partner in 25 years. The Chevening ASEAN Scholarship Programme will enable more scholars from South East Asia (including Malaysia) to study in the UK. It also augurs well with Malaysia’s chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025.

    The Chevening award is the UK Government’s global scholarship programme that is funded and administered by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). This is complemented by generous sponsorships from Malaysian corporate partners namely CIMB Foundation, Yayasan Khazanah, PETRONAS and the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation. British universities also provide additional funding in support of the Chevening programme.

    Chevening partners in Malaysia

    Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr Jeffrey Cheah AO, Founder and Chairman of the Sunway Group said:

    It has been a pleasure and privilege for the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation to have been the sponsor of a Chevening Scholarship since 2018. Each year I am thrilled by the quality of the applicants, and especially that of the candidates for our Scholarship; and we are delighted to be able to provide the opportunity over the years to well-deserving Malaysians to enhance their professional and leadership skills at a UK university and partake of the many interesting activities that are provided by the Chevening Secretariat in London.

    Ahmad Shahriman Mohd Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Foundation said:

    CIMB Foundation is pleased to continue our collaboration with the UK for the Chevening Scholarship programme, a platform which provides life-changing opportunities for exceptional individuals to transform their lives through the power of education and networking. Aligned with our core impact area of Education, we firmly believe that the Chevening Scholarship plays an instrumental role in shaping the next generation of Malaysian leaders. The scholarship provides the recipients an edge through wide exposure and knowledge transfer, enhancing their value to the nation in returning to create positive and lasting change in their respective areas of specialisation.

    Intan Zalila, Chief Programme Officer of Yayasan Khazanah said:

    Our partnership with Chevening allows us to connect with a diverse pool of talented individuals who are poised to make significant contributions to society. We look forward to the continued success of our partnership with Chevening, as we work together to empower future leaders and make a lasting impact!

    Ruslan Islahudin, Vice President & Group Chief Human Resource Officer of PETRONAS said:

    Our alliance with the Chevening Scholarship reflects our commitment to empowering future leaders who are not only equipped with a world-class education but are also dedicated to driving sustainable solutions to global challenges in navigating a just energy transition. We are optimistic that these scholars will significantly contribute to the aspiration of shaping a more sustainable future by bringing innovative ideas and responsible business practices to the forefront here in Malaysia.

    The Malaysian scholars

    The current batch of scholars will be heading to the UK as early as September this year to pursue a wide range of postgraduate programmes at top UK universities, including subjects such as Early Years Education, Creative Writing Poetry, Global Health Policy, Cyber Defence and Information Assurance as well as Competition Law.

    Scholar Muhammad Farhan Shahmi bin Abdullah who will be attending University of Cambridge to study Sociology (The Sociology of Media and Culture) said:

    Misinformation and hate speech are ever-evolving threats in Malaysia, and preparing our youth to tackle them is crucial. I am driven to study Sociology at Cambridge to enrich myself with knowledge and skills in building effective, yet inclusive solutions to this conundrum. Certainly, interventions in sociology consider broader factors like culture and social dynamics, thus viewing social issues like misinformation and hate speech through a holistic lens. With the knowledge gained and network fostered from the Chevening experience, I aim to ultimately advocate for media literacy’s inclusion in the national school curriculum, making it a fundamental skill for all Malaysians.

    Lydia Hong Wen Xin who will be attending Imperial College London to study Climate Change, Management and Finance said:

    The field of climate change and finance is rapidly evolving, driven by urgent global demands to address climate risks and transition to sustainable energy systems. In Malaysia, recent initiatives like the target to achieve a 70% renewable energy mix by 2050 exemplify this momentum. Studying in the UK, with its environmental stewardship and cutting-edge research, offers an ideal platform to gain the expertise needed to contribute effectively to this global challenge. The holistic approach provided by my program enables me to communicate effectively across both business and scientific contexts.

    Rajwin Kanagarajah who will be attending the University of Cambridge to study Population Health Sciences said:

    One of the most pressing challenges in population health in Malaysia today is the growing burden of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease driven by lifestyle changes and an ageing population. This not only strains healthcare resources but also widens health disparities. Through this Chevening scholarship, I aim to gain expertise in public health policy, health economics and digital health solutions. Upon my return, I hope to contribute to Malaysia’s healthcare transformation by driving innovative, data-driven approaches in reducing disease burden, improving access to care and closing healthcare gaps on a national scale.

    Syamim S. who will be attending the University of Kent to study Autism Studies said:

    As an autistic person, equal opportunities are core to my Chevening journey. They allow persons with disabilities like myself equitable access to education. Personally, experiencing how such legislations may protect disabled persons is its own learning curve—one that I look forward to exploring further in the UK and adapting back home. I hope to build capacity within myself and my community through this academic and existential journey, moving Malaysia towards a better state of autistic and disability rights, benefiting everyone.

    Malaysia is the second largest recipient of Chevening awards in ASEAN and there are already over 2,000 members of the Chevening alumni in Malaysia.

    The UK government has recently reiterated that the UK welcomes international students. Malaysians who wish to get a scholarship to pursue a post-graduate degree in the UK can apply now until applications close on 5 November 2024. More information is available on www.chevening.org/malaysia.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government funded childcare offer to kick in from next week [August 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government funded childcare offer to kick in from next week [August 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Education on 30 August 2024.

    Hundreds of thousands of parents of children from nine months old take up new 15 government funded hours of early education from Monday.

    From Monday 2nd September, hundreds of thousands of eligible working parents of children from 9-months-old will begin to access 15 hours of government-funded early education per week.

    For parents of primary school aged children, new “wraparound” childcare places will be available before and after school, sounding the starting gun on long-term reform to deliver an early education and childcare system from the end of parental leave to the end of primary school, boosting parents’ work choices and children’s life chances.

    This comes as the government looks ahead to delivering the expansion to 30 funded hours from next September.

    The scale of the inherited delivery challenge is substantial. To deliver what parents have been promised requires an unprecedented rate of growth in childcare places and staff. This may mean some parents are not able to access their first-choice provider next year.

    However, this government is now taking the action needed to help deliver the additional places needed and will set out further plans to deliver the government’s commitment to use primary school classrooms to create new nurseries.

    Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said:

    “I’ve already said that early years is my number one priority. That’s why we are delivering the childcare rollout I know will be such a help to hard-pressed parents, with 15 hours of early education per week for 9-month-olds and above from next week, alongside more wraparound childcare for school children.

    “This inherited plan comes with significant delivery challenges – I must warn that for some parents it will not be plain sailing – and while I am excited to see children starting nursery for the first time, or parents being able to increase their working hours, the work for government starts now.

    “Over the next year, I will be working flat out with my team to ensure the next phase of the rollout is possible – doubling parents’ childcare entitlements to 30 hours a week.”

    Jason Elsom, Chief Executive of Parentkind said:

    “We welcome all help for families to ease the burden on family finances at a time when many families are really struggling.

    “Parents tell us that childcare costs are a major concern, and they support action to bring costs down and help families at that crucial time between the end of maternity leave and previous financial support kicking in. It is right we do everything we can to support parents, particularly when children are young.”

    Purnima Tanuku OBE, Chief Executive of National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) said:

    “We support the government’s commitment to investing in our youngest children’s futures. This is something that families really need in order to give their children the best start in life and also enable parents to work.

    “Supporting children early in their development means they have the foundations for learning and the necessary social skills to give them a brighter future, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. We are keen for all children to have access to early education and care – the early investment pays dividends in their later education in improving life chances.

    “Early educators are also best placed to identify children with additional needs early on which can make a huge difference so any additional training resources for them will be very welcome.”

    Nationally, around 85,000 more places are needed to deliver the rollout for September 2025 compared to 2023 – over double the increase in places seen in the past five years combined.

    These figures vary significantly on a local level, with around 20 local areas needing double the increase in childcare hours than the national average, and a handful of further areas needing three times the increase, showing the scale of the delivery challenge. Work is underway with local authorities to make sure the right local plans are in place to deliver for parents and families.

    The expansion in government funded hours is just one step towards the Education Secretary’s vision of an early education and childcare system that supports children to build on strong foundations and start school ready to learn.

    To make sure growth does not come at the cost of quality, the government has also announced an extension of the early years stronger practice hubs programme until at least March 2025. The programme supports nurseries by bringing groups together across local areas, to share evidence-informed practice, advice and build lasting local networks.

    This comes alongside additional resources for early educators to support children with special educational needs, with a new online training module and assessment guidance launching next month to enable them to better identify, assess and support children with additional needs.

    More primary school-age wraparound childcare places are also expected to become available from January 2025.

    As a result of the government funding provided, schools will be able to signpost parents to newly appointed wraparound leads in every local authority, who will be able to provide support if parents are unable to access the wrapround childcare they need.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Russian disinformation will not deter the UK from supporting Ukraine: UK statement at the UN Security Council [August 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Russian disinformation will not deter the UK from supporting Ukraine: UK statement at the UN Security Council [August 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 30 August 2024.

    Statement by Fergus Eckersley, Minister Counsellor, at the Security Council meeting on Ukraine.

    Since calling this meeting, and accusing the West of escalation, Russia has bombarded Ukrainian cities across fifteen regions, more than half the country, using hundreds of drones, cruise missiles, hypersonic ballistic missiles, glide bombs, and more.

    Some of these were procured from Iran and DPRK, in violation of UN Security Council Resolutions.

    Moscow’s intent is to terrorise the civilian population in Ukraine into submission. The latest attacks have caused widespread blackouts, cutting off access for ordinary people to power, heating and water. Imagine that happening to your country.

    Direct attacks on civilian infrastructure constitute a war crime. Ukraine has a right to defend itself, under Article 51 of the UN Charter, against Russia’s attacks.

    This does not preclude its right to project force into Russian territory, so long as action complies with international law.

    Russia cannot step up the war from its own soil, while increasing attacks on the civilian population, and expect Ukraine not to seek to remove the source of the threat.

    We will continue to provide Ukraine with the capabilities it needs to defend its people.

    Neither the UK nor our partners seek direct confrontation with Russia, nor a wider escalation of tensions.

    Let me be clear. There is only one aggressor here.

    It was Russia that willingly and deliberately tore into the security of Europe by illegally invading a sovereign country.

    It was Russia that unilaterally sought to annex a neighbour’s land, against every principle the international system, and all of us, rely upon.

    It was Russia that chose to use hypersonic missiles and other advanced weaponry against civilians and their infrastructure.

    And it was Russia that chose, at the start of this war, that chose to illegally seize the largest nuclear power plant in Western Europe at Zaporizhizhia even recklessly installing military equipment in the turbine hall and on reactor roofs.

    Russian disinformation and threats and false accusations will not deter the UK or our allies from our steadfast support for Ukraine, including providing it with the capabilities it needs to defend its people.

    We remain committed to securing a just and lasting peace for Ukraine and for Europe, in line with the UN Charter.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government to end badger cull with new TB eradication strategy [August 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government to end badger cull with new TB eradication strategy [August 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 30 August 2024.

    First Bovine TB strategy in a decade to end the badger cull and drive down TB rates to protect farmers’ livelihoods.

    Work on a comprehensive new TB eradication strategy has been launched today (30 August) to end the badger cull and drive down Bovine Tuberculosis (TB) rates to save cattle and farmers’ livelihoods.

    Over the past decade, TB has had a devastating impact on British livestock and wildlife. Over 278,000 cattle have been compulsorily slaughtered and over 230,000 badgers have been killed in efforts to control the disease, costing taxpayers more than £100 million every year.

    For the first time in over a decade, the Government will introduce a new bovine TB eradication strategy working with farmers, vets, scientists and conservationists to rapidly strengthen and deploy a range of disease control measures.

    The new strategy will mark a significant step-change in approach to tackle this devastating disease, driving down TB rates and saving farmers’ livelihoods and businesses. It will use a data-led and scientific approach to end the badger cull by the end of this parliament.

    The work to end the badger cull starts immediately and includes:

    • First badger population survey in over a decade: The last major badger survey was carried out between 2011-13, leaving policy makers with no clear idea of the impact culling techniques have on our badger populations. The Government will work at pace to launch a new survey this winter to estimate badger abundance and population recovery to illustrate the impact of widespread culling over the past decade.
    • New national wildlife surveillance programme: After a decade of culling, the prevalence of TB in remaining badger populations is largely unknown. The development of a new national wildlife surveillance programme will provide an up-to-date understanding of disease in badgers and other wildlife such as deer. Together with updated estimates of badger abundance, this will unlock a data-driven approach to inform how and where TB vaccines and other eradication measures are rapidly deployed to drive down TB rates and protect farmers’ livelihoods.
    • Establish a new Badger Vaccinator Field Force: Badger vaccinations create progressively healthier badger populations that are less susceptible to catching and transmitting TB. A new Badger Vaccinator Field Force will increase badger vaccination at pace to drive down TB rates and protect badgers.
    • Badger vaccination study: To supplement the Field Force, the Government will rapidly analyse the effect of badger vaccination on the incidence of TB in cattle to encourage farmers to take part and provide greater confidence that doing so will have a positive effect on their cattle.

    In addition, we will accelerate work on the development of a cattle vaccine, which is at the forefront of innovative solutions to help eradicate this disease. The next stage of field trials will commence in the coming months. Our aim is to deliver an effective cattle TB vaccination strategy within the next few years to accelerate progress towards achieving officially TB free (OTF) status for England.

    The full strategy will be co-designed with farmers, vets, scientists and conservationists. It will consider a range of further measures including boosting cattle testing, reducing the spread of disease through cattle movements, and deploying badger vaccination on a wider, landscape scale. This will build on Professor Sir Charles Godfray’s 2018 independent strategy review.

    Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs, Daniel Zeichner said:

    Bovine tuberculosis has devastated British farmers and wildlife for far too long.

    It has placed dreadful hardship and stress on farmers who continue to suffer the loss of valued herds and has taken a terrible toll on our badger populations.

    No more. Our comprehensive TB eradication package will allow us to end the badger cull by the end of this parliament and stop the spread of this horrific disease.

    Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss said:

    Bovine tuberculosis is one of the most difficult and prolonged animal disease challenges we face, causing devastation for farming communities.

    There is no single way to combat it, and a refreshed strategy will continue to be led by the very best scientific and epidemiological evidence. With the disease on a downward trajectory, we are at a crucial point. Working in collaboration with government and stakeholders will be the only way we achieve our target to eradicate bovine tuberculosis in England by 2038.

    John Cross, chair of the bTB Partnership said:

    As chair of the bTB Partnership for England, I am delighted to hear Minister Zeichner’s intention to refresh the current bTB strategy. Ten years after its launch, the time is right to look again at the tools we use to tackle this persistent disease.

    Bovine TB is the common enemy, not farmers or wildlife groups. Only by working together, will we reach our goal.

    The government will also publish additional information about animal and herd-level bTB risk – for example, the date and type of the most recent TB test completed in the herd of origin of that animal and how long the animal has been in the herd.

    This greater level of detail will be made available on ibTB – a free to access interactive map set up to help cattle farmers and their vets understand the level of bovine TB in their area and manage the risks when purchasing cattle.

    Today’s announcement ensures the government meets its manifesto commitment and represents a new direction in defeating this disease that will both protect the farming community and preserve wildlife.

    Further information

    Existing cull processes will be honoured to ensure clarity for farmers involved in these culls whilst new measures can be rolled out and take effect.

    The Bovine TB Partnership is a stakeholder-government collaboration established as a driving force for further progress towards disease eradication.  It is made up of experts from government (Defra, APHA and Natural England), as well as farmers, veterinarians, scientists, academics, and ecologists/conservationists, including representatives from the National Farmers Union, British Veterinary Association, British Cattle Veterinary Association, and the National Trust .