Tag: 2024

PRESS RELEASE : Regional de-escalation a priority as Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary travel to the Middle East [July 2024]
The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 31 July 2024.

The Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary have travelled to the Middle East to call for an end to conflict in Gaza and de-escalation in the wider region.
- Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary use their first official joint visit to the Gulf to progress efforts to end the conflict in Gaza and call for de-escalation in the wider region
- they will meet UK personnel working in the region to showcase the strength of the UK-Qatar defence relationship
- David Lammy and John Healey will commit to strengthening and expanding UK-Qatar cooperation on growth and security
The Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary have arrived in Qatar to drive forward efforts to bring the conflict in Gaza to an end and to press for de-escalation in the region.

In a joint visit, the Foreign Secretary David Lammy – in what will be his second trip to the Middle East since becoming Foreign Secretary – and the Defence Secretary John Healey will reiterate the UK’s support to Qatar for the country’s role in mediating and end to the war in Gaza – including efforts to deliver an immediate ceasefire agreed by both sides.

They will reiterate the UK’s calls for de-escalation in the wider region, warning that rising tensions and destabilisation would be in no one’s interests. This follows the Foreign Secretary’s condemnation of the strikes in the occupied Golan Heights at the weekend which tragically claimed at least 12 lives.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

Escalation and destabilisation are in no one’s interests.

It is absolutely vital that we engage closely with partners like Qatar, who play a key role in mediating the conflict in Gaza, so that we can bring this devastating war to an end.

The UK and Qatar have a long-standing and close partnership, and we will also look to build lasting stability and security in the region, and advance our shared priorities, like deepening economic ties, to drive UK growth and seize the opportunities of the clean energy transition.

Defence Secretary John Healey said:

De-escalation must be our primary focus as this region stands at a crossroads. The loss of innocent life in recent weeks and months is unbearable. This has to end.

All sides must step back from conflict and step-up diplomacy. We will work with important partners like Qatar as our government leads a renewed push for peace.

During their time in Qatar, the Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary will meet with UK Armed Forces personnel who are helping to protect UK security interests and support regional stability.

They are expected to meet with the Emir of Qatar, HH Sheikh Amir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, HE Dr Khalid Al Attiyah, where the ministers will recommit to building upon the strong UK-Qatar relationship, including growth and security.
August 15, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Government commits to a genuine living wage for working people [July 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 30 July 2024.

In a move to put more money in working people’s pockets, the government has today [Tuesday 30th July] overhauled the remit of the Low Pay Commission (LPC).
- Government takes first step to deliver on the promise of a genuine living wage for working people.
- Ministers overhaul the Low Pay Commission’s remit to factor in the cost of living when recommending minimum wage rates.
- Discriminatory age bands set to be removed so that all adults can benefit as work gets underway on the plan to Make Work Pay.
In a move to put more money in working people’s pockets, the government has today [Tuesday 30th July] overhauled the remit of the Low Pay Commission (LPC).

This will, for the first time, ensure the independent body takes into account the cost of living when it makes future recommendations to government on the minimum wage.

The Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

For too long working people have faced the worst of the cost of living crisis, but this Government is taking bold action to address it and make work pay.

The new remit to the LPC is the first of many vital steps we will take to support more people to stay in work and improve living standards.

Our focus remains on putting more money in working people’s pockets and boosting economic growth.

The Business and Trade Secretary and Deputy Prime Minister have also instructed the LPC to narrow the gap between the minimum wage rate for 18–20-year-olds and the National Living Wage. This will be the first step towards achieving a single adult rate.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

Economic growth is our first mission, and we will do everything we can to ensure good jobs for working people. But for too long, too many people are out of work or not earning enough.

The new LPC remit is an important first step in getting people into work and keeping people in work, essential for growing our economy, rebuilding Britain and making everyone better off.

The advent of the minimum wage has been one of the most effective and successful policy interventions of the last 25 years, and this announcement is the next step in achieving the promise of a genuine living wage for working people.

In addition to the cost of living, the remit of the LPC will continue to also consider the impact on business, competitiveness, the labour market and the wider economy.

TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said:

Hard work should pay for everyone. These are significant first steps towards making the minimum wage a real living wage and will make a difference to millions. We welcome the Government’s decision to ask the Low Pay Commission to be more ambitious next year and into the future.

We also support the Government’s commitment to ending discriminatory age bands for minimum wage workers. Young people face the same cost of living pressures as other adult workers and will welcome their pay being brought into line.

The Secretary of State and Deputy Prime Minister have written to the Chair of the Low Pay Commission. The letter and the full remit can be found here.

This builds on the Government’s Plan to Make Work Pay, which sets out a significant and ambitious agenda to ensure workplace rights are fit for a modern economy, empower working people and deliver economic growth.

These changes are the first steps in realising the Government’s mission to grow the economy and raise living standards across the country.

Peter Jelkelby, Chief Executive and Chief Sustainability Officer, IKEA UK & Ireland:

People are at the heart of IKEA’s success, and we recognise the challenges they face from inflationary pressures and rises in the cost of living. IKEA are committed to paying a fair, sustainable rate of pay based on the true cost of living and what’s happening in the wider economy.

IKEA has been a proud member of the Living Wage Foundation since 2016 and is the largest accredited retailer. Our business relies on a skilled, engaged, and committed workforce, so ensuring that living wages reflect the true cost of living is a powerful route to providing security and stability for our co-workers and their families.

Emma Jones, CBE, founder and CEO of small business support platform and membership community, Enterprise Nation, said:

Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and we know they are facing unprecedented pressures. We wholeheartedly support the principle of a living wage for all workers and look forward to continuing to work with the Government to recognise the unique challenges faced by micro-businesses.

We want to create an environment where both businesses and workers can thrive and will continue to advocate for a balanced approach that will ensure the survival, growth and success of small enterprises.

Notes to editor
- The Secretary of State Jonathan Reynolds made a statement to parliament today on the Low Pay Commission remit. See the full Written Ministerial Statement here: https://questions-statements.parliament.uk/written-statements/detail/2024-07-30/hcws43
- The Government sets the minimum wage rates each year following the advice of the LPC. These recommendations are made by the LPC each October – for minimum wage rates to apply from the following April – in line with the parameters set out in the annual remit from the Department for Business and Trade.
- We recognise the importance of providing sufficient notice of changes to the minimum wage, so the timelines remain unchanged in the new remit. We have asked the LPC to report back by the end of October, and the rates will increase in April 2025. Employers and workers alike can be confident that they will have sufficient advance knowledge of next year’s increases.
- The LPC is an internationally renowned, independent body. The Government commends their expertise and diligence in seeking to agree new rate recommendations by consensus, and we fully expect they will strike an appropriate balance.
- The Government continues to support HMRC in their approach of minimum wage enforcement and compliance. In addition to requiring the repayment of arrears and issuing penalties, publicly naming employers who have failed to comply with the law remains an important part of our toolkit.
- This is a core part of the Government’s mission to grow the economy and raise living standards across the country.
- The Plan to Make Work Pay was first announced in the Labour Manifesto here: https://labour.org.uk/updates/stories/a-new-deal-for-working-people/
August 15, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : New redress scheme opens for postmasters with overturned convictions [July 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 30 July 2024.

Postmasters whose convictions have been overturned by the Post Office Offences Act can now apply to a new redress scheme.
- This new redress scheme has been specifically designed for postmasters whose conviction was not already overturned by the courts.
- Victims will have the choice of taking a fixed settlement of £600,000 or having a fully detailed assessment.
Postmasters whose convictions have been overturned by the Post Office Offences Act (including that passed by the Scottish Government) can now apply to a new redress scheme.

From today, postmasters are invited to come forward and register for the scheme, known as the Horizon Convictions Redress Scheme (HCRS). Once eligibility is confirmed the new scheme will provide swift and fair redress, allowing those affected to rebuild their lives.

Many victims have been traumatised by the Post Office Horizon Scandal and this scheme aims to ensure that postmasters receive redress without unnecessary bureaucracy.

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

Postmasters have suffered immeasurably so I hope today’s new redress scheme brings some relief to postmasters who have waited far too long to get back the money that is rightfully theirs.

Any postmaster who thinks they are eligible for this scheme can come forward and register. We know that every case is different, and this government fully supports the right of every postmaster to choose what is best for them.”

Postmasters eligible can either accept a fixed settlement of £600,000 or those who believe their losses exceed that amount can choose a full claim assessment route. This will mean their application will be fully examined by a team of dedicated caseworkers in the Department for Business and Trade.

The scheme will be delivered by the Department for Business and Trade with a key aim of providing as much transparency as possible about how it will operate and how decisions will be taken on redress. Guidance has been published today which will allow postmasters to see how much redress they may be eligible for and what will be taken into account when assessing applications.

Following Royal Assent of the Post Office Offences Act, hundreds of postmasters had their convictions overturned providing they met the following criteria:
- Prosecutions were brought about by the Post Office or Crown Prosecution Service (or in Northern Ireland, the state prosecutor or the police).
- Offences were carried out in connection with Post Office business between 1996 and 2018.
- Offences were for relevant offences such as theft, fraud and false accounting.
- Offences were against sub-postmasters, their employees, officers, family members or direct employees of the Post Office working in a Post Office that used the Horizon system software.
- The conviction has not been considered by the Court of Appeal
The Department for Business and Trade will work closely with the Ministry of Justice to confirm the eligibility of individuals registering for the scheme and postmasters with overturned convictions will begin to receive written confirmation of their exoneration from the Ministry of Justice from this week.

The letters will also explain how criminal justice agencies will be amending their court and criminal records. If there is insufficient evidence to confirm that a conviction can be quashed, postmasters may receive a request to submit further information.

Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice Shabana Mahmood, said:

Justice must be a reality, not an ideal. Today we begin putting this into practice by overturning the convictions of the innocent postmasters affected by this inexplicable and unprecedented miscarriage of justice.

I pay tribute to those hard-working men and women for their courage and determination. I am pleased today we can begin to right this wrong and ensure they are quickly and fairly compensated.”

The Government has committed to paying all reasonable legal fees for postmasters’ legal representation to ensure more of their own money is not spent on this appalling scandal.

The independent inquiry continues its work of uncovering the truth behind the Horizon scandal so that the right people can be held to account, and justice can be served.
August 15, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : All aboard – Kenyan Marines getting into Ship-shape [July 2024]

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

The Kenyan Marine Commando Unit (KMCU) has taken part in action-packed training exercises delivered by the UK Royal Marines, as part of a visit to Kenya by HMS LANCASTER, a British Royal Navy Frigate.

After Royal Marines from 42 Commando delivered training and practical demonstrations, Kenyan Marines-in-the-making took on the challenge of completing visit, board, search, and seizure exercises – tactics frequently used to counter piracy, terrorism, and smuggling.

These exercises are in addition to the basic training that the KMCU receive and show the UK and Kenya’s continued commitment to build a strong, capable, and adaptable Kenya Defence Forces as an anchor of regional stability and security.

The creation of the KMCU is a five-year partnership between the UK and Kenya to establish a self-sustaining training cycle through which the Kenyan Navy will be able to train their own Marine Commandos.

The KMCU made history in May 2023 when the first-ever cohort of Kenyan Marines completed a rigorous training programme which largely mirrors that undertaken by the Royal Marines.

The US Military have also played an integral role in the creation of the KCMU by ensuring this specialist and formidable force are equipped to the highest standard.

British High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, said:

It’s fantastic to see that the UK and Kenya have taken advantage of this opportunity to add serious value to the Kenyan Marines training programme – a great example of how our security partnership is making a real difference to Kenya’s military capacity and capability. Together, we’re going far – making Kenya, the UK, and the region safer and more secure.

Commander Chris Sharp Royal Navy, Commanding Officer HMS Lancaster (Port):

HMS Lancaster’s visit to Kenya is a fantastic opportunity for Lancaster’s Royal Marines to train and exercise boarding operations with the Kenyan Marine Commando Unit, contributing to the UK and Kenya’s joint commitment to improve regional stability and security.

HMS LANCASTER visited the Port of Mombasa for a short operational break from patrols and as part of Combined Task Force 150, where it has recently conducted drug busts and completed other maritime security serials. It will then return to her long-standing presence in the Gulf region, focussed on promoting peace and stability. Her visit to Mombasa provides an opportunity to demonstrate the close, historic relationship between the UK and Kenyan Armed Forces.

The UK-Kenya Strategic Partnership is an ambitious five-year agreement delivering mutual benefits for the UK and Kenya and keeping our people safe; it is underpinned by the Defence Cooperation Agreement that provides the framework for this training programme.

August 15, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Thailand hosts 40th anniversary celebration of Chevening awards [July 2024]
The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 30 July 2024.

40 Thai Cheveners received awards to recognise and celebrate their significant impact and contributions to Thai society.

In January 2024, the British Embassy Bangkok, in partnership with Thailand Chevening Alumni Association, hosted the Chevening 40th Anniversary Celebration at the British Club Bangkok, presenting awards to honour 40 Thai Cheveners for their significant impact and contributions to Thai society and to broaden UK-Thailand relations.

The event welcomed Cheveners from various sectors, ranging from international relations, human rights, sustainability, journalism to business and more. Dr Lalida Pariyakanok, the Director of Thai Red Cross Eye Bank, who was the very first cohort of Chevening recipients in Thailand was also present at the event. It was an opportunity for Cheveners in Thailand to reconnect and share their experiences and expertise.

British Ambassador to Thailand, Mark Gooding, said:

Our Chevening Alumni are leaders in their fields, working tirelessly for Thailand’s advancement and have effectively become a vital pillar of the UK-Thailand relationship, especially where we work together on shared goals. The insights, access, frank opinion, and friendship that you give me, and the Embassy team are invaluable to our work in Thailand. I am truly proud of our Chevening community, and I believe we should continue to identify opportunities to support each other’s efforts.

From studies to success: How Chevening scholarships change lives

In the special panel discussion, Chevening Alumni shared their experiences from their Chevening years, which led to their current success in various sectors.

Pongsadhorn Pokpermdee, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Public Health (2000-2001 Chevening cohort) said:

Chevening Scholarship is a gateway to many opportunities. Getting to this doorway might not be simple, but its challenges are the building blocks of my self-confidence. Studying in a UK university and being surrounded by international friends encourages creative thinking and enriches our learning techniques. Having encountered a variety of ways of thinking in an open society allows me to consider how we may improve our communities.

Karuna Buakumsri, Journalist (1996 to 1997 Chevening cohort) said:

One of the interviewers asked me how I could be sure that I could make positive contributions to the Thai society. At that time, I said I do not know yet, but I would like a chance to prove myself […] Receiving Chevening Scholarship has been a commitment for me to prove myself that I would do my best. Chevening Scholarship led to new friendships. The change of environment also broadened my horizon and allowed me to understand more about humanity.

Kornkanok Wathanabhoom, Mekong legal Advisor, Earthrights International (2018 to 2019 Chevening cohort) said:

Chevening Scholarship is an opportunity for everyone. You do not have to be the best in class, but you must have determination and dedication to become a leader in your field and develop your potential. If you look at the programmes, they are diverse and interesting. The knowledge we gained empowers us to enhance our capabilities, benefiting our careers and our country. As society advances, Thailand will thrive.

Chatchavej Chitvarakorn, Managing Partner, Siam Premier International Law Office Limited (2003-2004 Chevening cohort) said:

Even though I am in the private sector, I am proud to have been one of the catalysts that help drive the country’s business and economy forward. What I have gained from the scholarship is the methods of thinking. Chevening is a significant fully funded scholarships programme. The work we put in led us to have communities of Chevening scholars not only in Thailand but also in many other countries with similar networks.

The evening concluded with the Chevening networking reception where Cheveners had a chance to reconnect while enjoying what the British traditional food had to offer.
- Chevening Scholarship, a fully funded UK government scholarship, started off as a ‘Pym Package’ in 1983 after the UK Foreign Secretary at the time. Since then, there have been 57,000 Chevening scholars, including over 600 Chevening scholars from Thailand. Cheveners around the world have made significant contributions to their home countries around the world
- the scholarships support one-year taught master’s degrees at UK universities for individuals with demonstrable potential to become future leaders, decision-makers, and opinion formers
- the Chevening programme accepts applications annually from August to October. You can find more information at https://www.chevening.org/apply/
August 15, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Separated Afghan families to be reunited [July 2024]

The press release issued by the Home Office on 30 July 2024.

Afghan families separated during the evacuation from Kabul in August 2021 will no longer be left in limbo as the government today confirms the expansion of the UK’s flagship Afghan resettlement scheme, the Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme (ACRS).

Afghans who were evacuated to the UK under Pathway 1 of the ACRS who travelled without their immediate family members can now refer their closest family members. This includes children who were under the age of 18 at the time of the evacuation, and spouses or partners, for relocation to the UK. Children evacuated without their parents will also be able to make a referral to relocate their parents or siblings here, and can be supported to complete their application by a trusted adult.

UK-based Afghans will be able to submit a referral for their family members via an online form which will be available from today (Tuesday 30 July). The window for referrals will remain open for 3 months until 30 October 2024. The government will consider additional family members in exceptional circumstances.

Immigration and Citizenship Minister Seema Malhotra said:

It’s been almost 3 years since the evacuation of Kabul, and yet there remains an urgent need to ensure that those who assisted our efforts in Afghanistan by upholding democracy, freedom and human rights, often at huge personal risk to themselves and their families can be reunited.

It is our moral duty to ensure that families who were tragically separated are reunited and are not left at the mercy of the Taliban, which is why I have expanded ACRS so that those who were left behind can be resettled in the UK. Afghans did right by us, and we will do right by them, ensuring our system is fair and supports those most-at risk and vulnerable.

Operation Pitting, which took place between 13 and 28 August 2021, was one of the UK’s largest airlifts with over 15,000 people evacuated from Kabul in 2 weeks. The speed and unprecedented circumstances of the evacuation led to people being evacuated to the UK without their immediate family members.

During Operation Pitting, the UK ‘called forward’ for evacuation a number of people identified as being particularly at risk including female politicians, members of the LGBT+ community, women’s rights activists and judges. These people were resettled in the UK under Pathway 1 of the ACRS which prioritises the resettlement of vulnerable Afghans who are eligible. The scheme remains open and the government will continue to work with the UNHCR, likeminded partners, and countries neighbouring Afghanistan to support people’s safe passage to the UK.

Under the expansion of the scheme, family members will also need to attend a visa application centre to submit their biometrics and travel documents before their visa is issued and they can travel to the UK.

Afghan citizens resettlement scheme: Separated Families Pathway – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

August 15, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : New legislation will increase representation of female bishops in the House of Lords [July 2024]
The press release issued by the Cabinet Office on 30 July 2024.

The Government will extend measures to speed up increasing the representation of women bishops within the Lords Spiritual for a further five years.
- Lords Spiritual (Women) Act 2015 (Extension) Bill will extend existing rules aimed at increasing the number of women bishops in the House of Lords.
- Women bishops have been introduced to the Lords more quickly since original legislation came into force in 2015.
- Baroness Smith says the new bill “I have no doubt that any new female bishops will have an important role in parliamentary business in the months to come.”
The Government will extend measures to speed up increasing the representation of women bishops within the Lords Spiritual for a further five years. The term ‘Lords Spiritual’ refers to the 26 Church of England diocesan bishops who sit in the House of Lords.

The new bill, which has been requested by the Church of England, will ensure that vacant seats are filled by women bishops if an eligible female diocesan bishop is available. With the first female Diocesan Bishop having been appointed in 2015, this is to address the temporary inequality created by a system based on longevity of service. There are exceptions for the five great sees (Archbishop of Canterbury, the Archbishop of York, Bishop of London, Bishop of Durham, and Bishop of Winchester) who have an automatic entitlement to sit in the House of Lords.

The measures have seen six women bishops enter the House of Lords more quickly since the passage of the Lords Spiritual (Women) Act 2015 than otherwise would have been the case. The original legislation had been due to expire in May 2025 and its extension will allow more time to achieve greater representation.

The extension to be granted under the Lords Spiritual (Women) Act 2015 (Extension) Bill to May 2030 will postpone a return to the previous process, which saw seats allocated to the longest serving bishops.

Diocesan bishops are appointed by The King on the advice of the Prime Minister based on nominations from the Crown Nominations Commission.

The Rt Hon Nick Thomas-Symonds MP, Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office (Minister for the Constitution and EU Relations) said:

This Government is working to ensure our Parliament represents the country that it serves – taking steps to address gender inequality is a vital part of that work.

As a result, it’s important that steps like this are taken to ensure more female bishops are able to bring a greater range of experience to the House of Lords.

The Rt Hon Baroness Smith of Basildon, Lord Privy Seal and Leader of the House of Lords, said:

We are pleased to support the Church of England in this matter. Lords Spiritual play a key role in the House of Lords and I have no doubt that any new female bishops will have an important role in parliamentary business in the months to come.

Six female bishops have been introduced to date and, as a direct result of this bill, we look forward to welcoming even more to the second chamber in the years ahead.

Rt Reverend Rachel Treweek, Bishop of Gloucester, said:

I welcome the decision to extend the measure aimed at increasing the number of women who serve as Lords Spiritual. We have made progress on this in recent years but there is still more work to be done.

Bishops in the House of Lords seek to speak to the hopes and needs of all people across the communities they serve. By better reflecting those communities we can carry out that service more effectively.

This extension of this system is being delivered following a request from the Church.
August 15, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Our plan to build more homes [July 2024]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 30 July 2024.

New targets will boost housebuilding in areas most in need.

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.

Bringing back mandatory housing targets

As part of our plan, we will update the National Planning Policy Framework to bring back mandatory housing targets and set a higher expectation for how many homes must be built.

Our new housing targets will make sure local authorities plan for the homes that are proportionate to the size of existing communities, with an uplift in areas where house prices are the most out of step with local incomes.

Our approach also includes making clear our expectation that all authorities have up-to-date Local Plans, meaning they will be required to plan for the number of homes their communities need, so local people can engage in how, not if, homes are built.

This plan will set us on a course to reach our target of 1.5 million new homes, driving growth and creating wealth in local communities.

What is the National Planning Policy Framework?

The National Planning Policy Framework sets out the government’s planning policies for England and how these should be applied.

That includes policy on proposals affecting the green belt and the circumstances where there could be development on land within the green belt.

If local authorities can’t meet their housing targets, they will need to look to brownfield land in the green belt and their grey belt, prioritising land near stations and existing settlements.

Green belt development will be held to higher standards with new “golden rules”, including that half of the homes built must be affordable.

What are our golden rules?

Grey belt sites will only be built on if they meet the Government’s ‘golden rules’ that half of homes are affordable, the plans enhance the local environment and the necessary infrastructure is in place, such as schools and GP surgeries.

Making it easier to build digital infrastructure

We’ll also make it easier to build laboratories, digital infrastructure, and gigafactories to make batteries for electric vehicles.

To deliver this, we’ll update our National Planning Policy Framework, requiring local authorities to identify sites to meet the needs of a modern economy.

Our long-term plan for housing

Our Planning and Infrastructure Bill will include measures to speed up the delivery of high-quality homes and infrastructure.

And we are committed to delivering the biggest boost to affordable and social housing in a generation.

We will also build the next generation of new towns. Built where they will deliver for local people and unlock economic growth, the New Towns programme will deliver much-needed quality and genuinely affordable housing.

August 15, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Armed Forces awarded largest pay increase in decades to ‘renew nation’s contract with those who serve’ [July 2024]
The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 30 July 2024.

Government Armed Forces Pay Announcement confirms starting Armed Forces salary will be in line with National Living Wage for the first time.

The government will “renew the nation’s contract with those who serve”, as it confirms that Armed Forces personnel will receive a 6% pay rise – the largest in 22 years.

This year’s pay award recognises the extraordinary sacrifices made by Armed Forces personnel to protect and serve the UK – and will help address recruitment and retention challenges.

It will also see new recruits awarded the largest increase for more than 20 years, meaning that, for the first time, the starting Armed Forces salary will be in line with the National Living Wage.

It comes as the new government sets out a clear commitment to improving service life and making military careers more attractive. In the recent King’s Speech, the government announced the creation of a new Armed Forces Commissioner – a strong, independent voice for service personnel and their families.

The Defence Secretary has also pledged to bring the Armed Forces Covenant fully into law. Taken together, these measures show a government getting on with the job of supporting Britain’s service personnel and tackling recruitment challenges.

Defence Secretary John Healey said:

We will renew our nation’s contract with those who serve. Our new government’s first duty is keeping the British people safe. And the strength of our defence lies in the serving men and women of our forces.

This pay award will benefit every member of the Armed Forces. It is an important step towards turning around the declining morale and recruitment crisis we have faced in recent years. A clear demonstration of our government’s commitment to improving service life.

This is a first step and we know there is so much more to do. Our new Armed Forces Commissioner will be a strong, independent voice for service personnel and their families, and we will place the Armed Forces Covenant fully into law.

I want to attract the brightest and the best into our Armed Forces, because only with strong national security can we build a confident, prosperous country.

Chief of the Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, said:

This year’s pay award is testament to the hard work and extraordinary dedication of the Armed Forces at a pivotal time for our security. Alongside a comprehensive benefits package, it aims to ensure our people feel properly recognised and rewarded.

The significant increase in starting pay for new recruits underlines the enormous stock we place in those young people who step forward to serve their nation. As the world becomes more contested and uncertain, this Award will help us to recruit and retain the high calibre people we need to keep the country safe and help it prosper.

The independent Armed Forces Pay Review Body and Senior Salaries Review Body recommendations for 2024 have been fully accepted by the Government and will be backdated to 1 April 2024.

Highlights from the 2024 Pay Award are:
- Initial Pay (payable to Other Ranks during their first six months or until completion of initial training; whichever is sooner) will increase to £25,200 from 1 April 2024.
- Most Service Personnel up to and including 1-star rank and others in the Armed Forces Pay Review Body’s remit group (including Medical and Dental Officers) will receive an overall 6% pay increase (against 1 April 2023 rates) back dated to 1 April 2024.
- The lowest paid personnel (OR2-01) have been awarded a higher level of investment. In April 2024 they received a 7.25% pay increase, both ensuring they received National Living Wage uplifts at the same time as other public sector workforces and providing a pay rise of c.£1,700 per year for around 6,700 personnel.
- The MOD had also implemented small increases to OR2-02/3 rates on 1 April 2024; This group will see a further uplift under the pay award, providing them with an overall 6% increase above 1 April 2023 rates.
- All members of the senior military (2-star rank and above) will receive a 5% consolidated increase to their base pay.
- The pay award will also see increases to other targeted forms of remuneration.
- The nominal average salary in the Armed Forces will see an annual increase of c.£2,800, as well as an annual increase of c.£1,878 in the starting salary for an officer.
- Service Personnel receive a comprehensive benefits package including subsided food, medical and dental care, accommodation, and childcare.
August 15, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : New Government drives forward trade talks to turbocharge economic growth [July 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 29 July 2024.
- Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds set to deliver trade negotiations with international partners, including the Gulf Cooperation Council and India
- Government will launch new trade strategy to help deliver its growth mission, with UK businesses and economic growth at the centre
- UK was the world’s 4th largest exporter in 2022, with British goods and services in high demand across the globe
Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds has announced the Government’s intention to deliver trade talks, starting with the Gulf Cooperation Council, India, Israel, South Korea, Switzerland and Turkey.

The Government is putting economic growth at the heart of everything it does to improve the livelihoods of hardworking British people.

Restarting talks is the first step towards agreeing the high-quality trade deals the UK needs to give businesses access to international markets, boost jobs and deliver that growth.

With exports totalling £855 billion, the UK was the world’s 4th largest exporter in 2022. High-quality British goods and services are admired globally and the Government is committed to using every lever available to help British businesses sell around the world.

FTAs are not the only tool to drive economic growth through trade. The Government also plans to publish a trade strategy which aligns with our industrial strategy, enhances our economic security and supports our net zero ambitions.

Through this trade strategy, resetting our relationship with the EU, supporting more small businesses to export and tearing down unnecessary barriers to trade, jobs and communities will be supported in every part of the UK.

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

Boosting trade abroad is essential to deliver a strong economy at home. That’s why I’ve wasted no time taking stock of progress and getting ready to press on with trade talks with our international partners.

From the Gulf to India, our trade programme is ambitious and plays to the UK’s strengths to give British businesses access to some of the most exciting economies in the world.

Our teams will be entering negotiating rooms as soon as possible, laser-focused on creating new opportunities for UK firms so they can support jobs across the country and deliver the growth we desperately need.

This announcement will kickstart the process of getting negotiators back into the room with counterparts as soon as possible, with the first round of trade talks under the new government expected to take place during the Autumn.

The UK’s trade programme aims to deliver deals that will benefit the UK economy and boost trade with some of the most dynamic economies in the world.

For example, a trade agreement with the Gulf Co-operation Council would be a substantial economic opportunity, with at least £19 billion total already invested in each other’s economies as of 2021. An agreement with the GCC could potentially boost this further, ensuring British companies can make the most of this booming market and British customers get even more choice.

India, with which the UK is negotiating a Free Trade Agreement and Bilateral Investment Treaty, is projected to be the world’s third largest economy by 2027. A trade deal would give UK businesses better access to its burgeoning market of middle-class consumers, projected to grow to over a quarter of a billion consumers by 2050.

It comes after the Foreign Secretary visited India this week to discuss economic and global security.

Chairman of Tata Sons Natarajan Chandrasekaran said:

I am delighted that the new government has moved so quickly to restart trade negotiations with India. As one of the largest international investors in the UK, the Tata Group supports any action that strengthens the British economy. And as two of the world’s greatest trading nations with deep historical ties, India and the UK should be close economic partners, to the benefit of the citizens and businesses of both countries.

CEO of KOC Holding AS Levent Çakıroğlu said:

I believe that the negotiations for a new FTA can foster greater competitiveness, offer business opportunities across various sectors, and will strengthen bilateral trade ties between our two countries.

In the upcoming negotiations, there is room for improvement for both economies in services and investment sectors, but I believe automotive and home appliances business will continue to form the backbone of the trade between Türkiye and the UK in the future.

CEO of Roche Thomas Schinecker said:

Roche welcomes the UK government’s decision to resume talks about a free trade agreement between the United Kingdom and Switzerland. Free trade is essential for economic growth and stability.

Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce William Bain said:

Businesses are eager to open the doors to closer trade links with our key partners and will welcome the government’s renewed commitment to seek free trade agreements.

Reaching new or upgraded deals could offer new opportunities for businesses, of all sizes, to grow and invest for the future, especially in sectors like spirits, business services, climate friendly technology and pharmaceuticals.

Director General of the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade Marco Forgione said:

The news that the Government has kicked off trade talks with these key economies so quickly is extremely positive. Making international trade easier and helping more UK businesses expand into international markets is central to getting growth into the economy.

We know there’s real business interest in making international trade easier and we stand ready to work with the Department to ensure businesses, particularly SMEs, are armed with the know-how to turn these opportunities into reality.

The Government is also committed to the CPTPP trading group, using our membership in the UK and her allies’ interests and ensuring businesses can take advantage of the deal when it enters into force.

Background
- Source for UK exports statistics: ONS UK trade, May 2024. Figures relate to the 12 months to May 2024.
- Source for world exports rankings: UNCTAD Goods and Services (BPM6) – Exports and imports of goods and services. Rankings relate to 2022.
- Source for UK-GCC FDI: ONS Foreign direct investment involving UK companies: 2021
- Source for growth in India’s economy: IMF World Economic Outlook, April 2024
- Source for middle class consumers: Global Trade Outlook – Department for Business & Trade, February 2023. Note: Middle class consumers are defined as having an annual income of at least $13,205 and are calculated by applying current income distributions to extrapolations of nominal GDP per capita, prices, and population.
August 15, 2024