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Tag: 2025

  • PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer call with the Amir of Qatar [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer call with the Amir of Qatar [June 2025]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 24 June 2025.

    The Prime Minister spoke to the Amir of Qatar His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani this evening.

    The Prime Minister began by reiterating the UK’s steadfast support for Qatar and underscored his deep concern at the volatile situation in the region.

    He paid tribute to Qatar’s Armed Forces for their response to Iran’s attack yesterday.

    The leaders agreed it was now vital all sides seized the opportunity presented by the ceasefire to secure a diplomatic way forward.

    Turning to Gaza, the Prime Minister and His Highness discussed the horrific situation on the ground and the need for all sides to agree an urgent ceasefire.

    The Prime Minister then updated on his discussions at The NATO Summit in The Hague.

    The leaders agreed to stay in close touch.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Foster + Partners to design national memorial to Queen Elizabeth II [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Foster + Partners to design national memorial to Queen Elizabeth II [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Cabinet Office on 24 June 2025.

    Foster + Partners is the winner out of five finalists in a competition to design the national memorial to Queen Elizabeth II in St James’ Park.

    • Their design proposal was selected from a shortlist of five concepts by acclaimed teams.
    • Includes a new bridge inspired by the late Queen’s wedding tiara, a Prince Philip Gate and new gardens.
    • Final plans for the memorial in St James’ Park will be announced next year.

    Foster + Partners has won the competition to design the national memorial to Queen Elizabeth II.

    Five finalist teams were asked to create a masterplan that would honour and celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s extraordinary life of service and provide the public with a space for reflection.

    Foster + Partners’ winning design concept celebrates Queen Elizabeth’s life through a time of great change, balancing tradition and modernity, public duty and private faith, the United Kingdom and a global Commonwealth. The design concept illustrates how she brought these dualities together: two gates, two gardens, joined by a bridge and unifying path.

    Foster + Partners’ design concept features figurative sculptures and a new Prince Philip Gate. It also features gardens – dedicated to the Commonwealth and the communities of the United Kingdom – to create spaces for reflection and coming together. Artistic installations will celebrate the nation’s diversity. A new bridge, replacing the existing Blue Bridge, will feature a cast-glass balustrade that recalls Queen Elizabeth’s wedding tiara.

    This design concept will be subject to change as it undergoes refining.

    The Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee’s selection panel found Foster + Partners’, design, balancing formal and informal elements, impressive and capable of creating an engaging landmark to endure for generations to come. The panel also valued Foster + Partners’ artistry, use of space, technical skills and their sensitivity to the memorial’s location.

    The winning team includes artist Yinka Shonibare and celebrated landscape designer, Michel Desvigne.

    Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Pat McFadden said:

    Queen Elizabeth II was admired around the globe. Foster + Partners’ fantastic design concept will be a beautiful memorial to Her life and legacy of public service. Situated in the heart of our capital, it will be a space to reflect on and celebrate our longest reigning Monarch for centuries to come.

    The panel selected Foster + Partners’ design concept from a shortlist of proposals by five leading multidisciplinary teams. During the competition the public were encouraged to give their views on the design concepts to commemorate the UK’s longest reigning Monarch.

    The Committee also consulted experts in arts, heritage, architecture, structural engineering, placemaking and accessibility to find the best concept to honour Queen Elizabeth.

    Committee Chair Robin Janvrin said:

    Selecting the winner was no easy task. All five of the shortlisted teams produced creative designs of the highest quality.

    Foster + Partners’ ambitious and thoughtful masterplan will allow us and future generations to appreciate Queen Elizabeth’s life of service as she balanced continuity and change with strong values, common sense and optimism throughout her long reign.

    Committee member Valerie Amos said:

    Foster + Partners’ design brings to life Queen Elizabeth’s many contributions to the lives of people across the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth. Their ambitious design will create a beautiful space for people to come together, reflect on her legacy and share stories for generations to come.

    Founder and Executive Chairman of Foster + Partners Norman Foster said:

    It is an honour and a privilege for our team to be awarded this project. Her Majesty loved history and tradition, so this is reflected in the inspiration of the original design of St James’s Park by Sir John Nash. Some of his principles have survived, whilst others have been lost and will be restored, creating a family of gardens joined by gently meandering paths.

    I knew The Queen on formal occasions but also enjoyed her informality when attending events as a member of the Order of Merit. We have sought to reflect these qualities of the formal and informal in our design, with an appeal across a wide range of ages and interests. To these ends, we have discreetly stretched the boundaries of art and technology with a deliberately gentle intervention. Our design will have the minimum impact on the nature and biodiversity of the Park and it will be phased to ensure that the precious route across it will never be closed.

    At the heart of our masterplan is a translucent bridge symbolic of Her Majesty as a unifying force, bringing together nations, countries, the Commonwealth, charities and the armed forces.

    Foster + Partners will now develop its initial concept in close partnership with the Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee. They will work together to select a sculptor to design the memorial’s figurative element. The Committee will announce the sculptor later this year.

    The memorial will be located in St James’s Park, an area of historical and constitutional significance, which also has a personal connection to Queen Elizabeth II. It will include an area of the Park adjacent to The Mall at Marlborough Gate, an area adjacent to Bird Cage Walk and replace the existing bridge between the two with a new crossing.

    The final design will be formally announced in April 2026, alongside a legacy programme, to coincide with what would have been Queen Elizabeth’s hundredth birthday year.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK Government supports research into Ukraine soil pollution [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK Government supports research into Ukraine soil pollution [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 24 June 2025.

    Royal Agricultural University to benefit from Defra funding to research the impacts of pollution on Ukraine’s arable soil due to the war with Russia.

    New research into the impacts of war on Ukraine’s farmland is set to launch with £500,000 funding from Defra to the Royal Agricultural University.

    Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner today set out how this research will support Ukraine’s farmers – guardians of the breadbasket of Europe. The research will fund UK researchers to analyse the impact of the war on Ukrainian soil, establish bespoke facilities in Ukrainian laboratories, and train specialists in Ukraine.

    Soil pollution caused by Russia’s illegal invasion is a pressing issue for Ukraine. Ukraine’s farmland has suffered significant damage from Russian bombardments and other war-related toxic pollutants, as heavy metals and chemicals are leached into the earth, leading to the degradation of soil health.  This damage to Ukraine’s soil presents real, and potentially long term, risks to the food production, yields and farmer safety.

    This research is vital to understanding the impacts of this pollution, as well as potential solutions. It is crucial to help develop Ukraine’s capacity to analyse and address soil health in the long term, strengthening the food security of Ukraine.

    The work will also support Ukraine and its crucial role in wider global food security. Before Russia’s illegal invasion, Ukraine was one of world’s top grain producers – the largest global exporter of sunflower oil, fourth largest exporter of maize, and the fifth largest exporter of wheat – with a significant portion of these exports going to developing countries that are dependent on global grain imports. Helping support Ukraine’s soil health, therefore plays an important role in supporting wider international grain food security.

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

    The UK’s support for Ukraine is ironclad.

    This research is vital, helping Ukraine in understanding the impact the pollution from war has had on its soils and give them vital tools to recover farmland.

    This funding forms part of our commitment in 100-year partnership with Ukraine to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with their farmers to deliver food production and environmental protection for the nation.

    Professor Mark Horton, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Enterprise at the Royal Agricultural University, said:

    The war in Ukraine has severely damaged soil health across bombarded agricultural regions, threatening future food production and the country’s long-term recovery. This research will enhance Ukraine’s capacity to restore and manage its soils, laying an early groundwork for a more resilient, productive, and sustainable agriculture.

    With this funding, the Royal Agricultural University will work closely with our Ukrainian partners to train local experts, establish state-of-the-art soil laboratories, and analyse thousands of soil samples across key farming regions.

    These efforts are essential to building the tools and capacity Ukraine needs to safeguard its soil, ensure food security, and support national regeneration.

    The Royal Agricultural University will work with Ukraine’s Sumy National Agrarian University in training experts in the country, establishing soil analysis functions in laboratories, and analysing over 8,000 soil samples across five regions, including Sumy and Kherson.

    This funding follows the launch of the UK’s Grain Verification Scheme, announced earlier this year alongside the 100 Year Partnership, to help track grain stolen from occupied areas of Ukraine.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK to deliver on 5% NATO pledge as Government drives greater security for working people [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK to deliver on 5% NATO pledge as Government drives greater security for working people [June 2025]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 23 June 2025.

    Working people will be more secure as the Prime Minister will make a historic commitment at the NATO Summit to spend 5% of GDP on national security.

    • UK to publish landmark National Security Strategy, to make the UK more secure in an era of radical uncertainty.
    • Comes as the Prime Minister announces that the UK expects to spend 5% of GDP on national security by the parliament after next.
    • Historic 5% commitment will be made up of both defence spending, wider homeland security and national resilience.
    • Report says it takes a whole of society approach to strengthen national security, creating jobs and opportunities for British people.

    Working people will be more secure as the Prime Minister will make a historic commitment today at the NATO Summit (Tuesday 24 June) to spend 5% of GDP on national security.

    This pledge to meet the NATO commitment on 5% comes as the government today publishes its National Security Strategy, drawing together all of the security work that has taken place since the General Election, with the relentless pursuit of British interests as its founding principle.

    Marking a step change with the approach of previous governments, the National Security Strategy directly answers to the concerns of working people, aligning our national security objectives and plans for economic growth in a way not seen since 1945.

    This will increase investment in security, defence and resilience, delivering jobs, wages and growth for the British people to raise living standards and put more money in working people’s pockets.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    We must navigate this era of radical uncertainty with agility, speed and a clear-eyed sense of the national interest to deliver security for working people and keep them safe.

    That’s why I have made the commitment to spend 5% of GDP on national security. This is an opportunity to deepen our commitment to NATO and drive greater investment in the nation’s wider security and resilience.

    After all, economic security is national security, and through this strategy we will bring the whole of society with us, creating jobs, growth and wages for working people – guided by my Plan for Change.

    The UK has long argued that investment in things like energy security and tackling smuggling gangs is vital to national security. That is reflected in the National Security Strategy and the Spending Review and is now expected to be recognised by NATO.

    With the new 5% commitment on national security, the UK expects a projected split of 3.5% (core defence) and 1.5% (resilience and security) to be agreed at the NATO summit, with a target date of 2035.

    Under NATO’s new estimate, the UK expects to reach at least 4.1% of GDP in 2027. All Allies will review the trajectory and the balance of spend between defence and wider national resilience in 2029, when NATO next reviews its capability plans.

    The National Security Strategy, with support from academics and other technical experts, reaffirms that the UK must become more competitive and robust in crucial areas like science, education, trade and frontier technology – or risk falling behind.

    In a more transactional world, the report determines that building our own sovereign, independent capabilities in strategically important areas will reduce our dependency on other nations, support British businesses to grow and shield the British public from strong headwinds in the global economy.

    As this government has said before, the benefits of our increased investment in defence will be felt directly in the pockets of working people. This will extend to good, stable work in communities across the country – from doubling the number of apprentices and creating 9,500 jobs Berkshire by investing £15 billion in our sovereign warhead programme, to delivering 200 new jobs in BAE Systems’ new artillery factory in Sheffield or supporting 800 defence jobs across the country to build up to 7,000 long range missiles for our Armed Forces.

    Drawing our priorities to make the UK more secure and economically prosperous further together, the government’s Industrial Strategy will also invest £86 billion in research and development to drive growth in technologies that will underpin our future economic and military competitiveness.

    The National Security Strategy is also a call to action that our entire society needs to become more resilient, recognising that national security means more than it used to – from the security of our borders to the health of our economy, from supply chains to food prices and from safety on our streets to the online world.

    Faced by this reality in a world of increasing ‘grey zone’ threats, we cannot take a piecemeal approach that enhances the security of one part of our critical national infrastructure but leaves gaps elsewhere for our adversaries to exploit. This requires us to fortify in the round our economy, industry, digital communications and transport and energy networks against cyber-attacks and sabotage that we have seen launched against our public services and businesses, causing uncertainty and inconvenience for working people.

    So, by stepping up we will meet the threats we face, following the clear objectives defined in the National Security Strategy to make every part of the UK more secure and resilient. We will become more unapologetic and systematic in pursuit of our national interests – delivering security for the British people.

    The National Security Strategy brings together:

    • Strategic Defence Review
    • Strategic Security Review
    • AUKUS Review
    • Resilience Strategy
    • China Audit
    • Industrial and Trade Strategies
  • PRESS RELEASE : Business leaders welcome the government’s modern Industrial Strategy [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Business leaders welcome the government’s modern Industrial Strategy [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 23 June 2025.

    Business leaders have welcomed the government’s modern Industrial Strategy – a 10-year plan to promote growth.

    Business leaders from across the UK have welcomed the government’s modern Industrial Strategy. The Strategy is a 10-year plan to promote business investment and growth and make it quicker, easier and cheaper to do business in the UK.

    The plan focuses on 8 sectors where the UK is already strong and there’s potential for faster growth: Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Energy Industries, Creative Industries, Defence, Digital and Technologies, Financial Services, Life Sciences, and Professional and Business Services.

    Joint statement from business groups:

    “The Industrial Strategy launched today marks a significant step forward and a valuable opportunity for the business community to rally behind a new vision for the UK—boosting confidence, sentiment, and enthusiasm for investment.

    “From start-ups and small businesses to large corporates, businesses need a more attractive, stable environment that enables faster, easier, and more certain investment decisions.

    “We welcome the Government’s engagement with businesses across the UK. Much of what we’ve shared has been heard and reflected in this strategy. While there’s more to do, we are ready to support the next steps.

    “We encourage businesses nationwide to get behind this strategy and champion the UK as the best place to live, work, invest, and do business.”

    Statement on behalf of:

    • Shevaun Haviland, Director General, British Chambers of Commerce
    • Rain Newton-Smith, Director General, Confederation of British Industry
    • Aaron Asadi, Chief Executive Officer, Enterprise Nation
    • Tina McKenzie, Policy and Advocacy Chair, Federation of Small Businesses
    • Stephen Phipson, Chief Executive Officer, Make UK
    • Michelle Ovens, Founder, Small Business Britain
    • Dom Hallas, Executive Director, Startup Coalition

    Advanced Manufacturing

    Dr Hayaatun Sillem CBE, Chief Executive, Royal Academy of Engineering:

    “We are delighted to see the announcement of new skills packages for tech, engineering and defence, recognising that the Industrial Strategy’s objectives simply cannot be delivered without a significant boost to investment in our engineering and tech talent base. These packages provide a much-needed opportunity for government to take a holistic view of the rapidly changing skills landscape, and to work with partners across industry and professional bodies to make sure the UK tackles its longstanding skills and diversity deficits in these crucial areas. Today is International Women in Engineering Day – a reminder that we still have much to do to deliver equitable participation in these high-value jobs, and better outcomes for people from all parts of the UK.

    “The Royal Academy of Engineering looks forward to supporting government in taking forward these recommendations, including through our new Skills Centre. We also welcome the publication of the Technology Adoption Review and hope that this will result in meaningful action to increase the capacity of the UK’s industrial base and public sector to deploy existing technologies at the scale and pace demanded in today’s tech-driven world.”

    John Harrison, General Counsel and Head of Public Affairs, Airbus:

    “Airbus welcomes the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy. Having worked closely with the Government to help shape this plan, we are delighted to see it deliver a long-term vision, built on a genuine partnership with industry.

    “The firm long-term commitment to the full innovation lifecycle, from R&D in the Aerospace Technology Institute to a focus on commercialisation and supply chain resilience, provides the confidence and stability needed to fuel innovation and anchor high-value manufacturing in the UK for decades to come. The significant new investment in skills is also critical, creating a strong pipeline of engineering and digital talent, which will be the foundation for developing the sustainable technologies of the future, from hydrogen-powered aircraft to next-generation space systems. We stand ready to help turn this ambitious strategy into a reality for British industry.”

    Clean Energy

    Dhara Vyas, CEO, Energy UK:

    “Energy UK welcomes the Government’s new Industrial Strategy and Clean Energy Industries sector plan, which rightly recognise the pivotal role energy will play across the whole economy, powering growth through digitalisation and electrification, boosting regional prosperity and delivering economic security and resilience.

    “Stable, affordable energy prices will help ensure that the UK remains a competitive place to do business, and in an increasingly uncertain global operating environment, clean power will deliver energy security. Focussing on priority technologies where the UK has global expertise will deliver a strong competitive advantage for our businesses and economy.

    “We know the investment necessary to decarbonise the economy will mostly be funded by the private sector. Clarity on Government policy, removal of the barriers to investment and targeted support are all essential to meet this ambition.”

    Sue Ferns, Senior Deputy General Secretary, Prospect Union:

    “Boosting clean energy is not only an important mission in its own right, it is central to the success of every other sector. It is welcome to see the government doubling down on this mission, focusing investment on key technologies like renewables and nuclear energy, and recognising the key role that trade unions play as partners in this strategy.

    “Securing the investment is important, but perhaps the biggest challenge in this area is around the workforce. The energy workforce is undergoing an unprecedented transition, which creates opportunities for many but also serious challenges that need to be addressed.

    “Delivering on this strategy in a way which creates prosperity and supports jobs will require the government’s forthcoming energy workforce plan to be as ambitious as possible and fully backed by all parts of government.”

    Martin Pibworth, Chief Executive Designate, SSE plc:

    “The government’s industrial strategy is a welcome signal of long-term thinking and ambition – doubling down on homegrown energy is the right thing for security, resilience and affordability, making the most of the UK’s competitive geographical and technical advantages in renewables in particular. It’s exactly the kind of commitment that gives industry the confidence to deliver at pace and scale, and with important decisions on energy policy expected in the weeks ahead, we hope to see a continued focus on unlocking investment that drives growth. As the UK’s clean energy champion, SSE is investing £17.5bn over five years to 2027 – building the infrastructure, creating high-quality jobs, supporting the supply chain and driving the innovation needed to deliver a net zero economy.”

    Creative Industries

    Caroline Norbury, Chief Executive, Creative UK:

    “The Sector Plan signals that the creative industries are central to the UK’s growth story. From freelancers to scale-ups, this is a step towards the joined-up support our sector needs – and Creative UK stands ready to work with government and industry partners to turn ambition into action.

    “As we move into delivery mode, it’s essential that all parts of the sector – from cultural organisations to creative tech firms – are empowered to grow, invest and contribute fully to the UK’s economic future.”

    Dana Strong, Sky Group CEO:

    “We warmly welcome the Government’s support for the UK’s creative industries in today’s Industrial Strategy. The media and entertainment sector is a cultural powerhouse and a key driver of growth, with the potential to add £10 billion to the economy and create 40,000 jobs by 2033. Seizing this opportunity is vital to maintaining the UK’s global leadership in creativity.”

    Alison Lomax, Managing Director, YouTube UK & Ireland:

    “We welcome the Creative Industries Sector Plan’s commitment to a robust framework for creatives across the UK. It’s particularly encouraging to see the government acknowledge the digital creator economy’s vital role in driving growth for our creative industries. By embracing new distribution models that boost our cultural exports, this vision will solidify the UK’s position as a global cultural superpower.”

    Defence

    David Lockwood OBE, CEO, Babcock International:

    “We welcome the release of the Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy today, setting out the strategic direction for critical sectors including advanced manufacturing, space and nuclear. The Government’s intent to back British businesses and invest in sovereign industries will lay the foundations for economic growth and unleash the potential of the growth sectors to drive prosperity across the UK. We look forward to the publication of the Defence Sector Plan, and working with the Government to bolster the British defence industrial base and safeguard our national and economic security.”

    Charles Woodburn, Chief Executive, BAE Systems:

    “The UK’s modern Industrial Strategy rightly recognises the importance of investing in skills and developing a workforce for the future. The UK’s defence sector is a powerhouse of skilled employment and training. Across the supply chain, it’s critical that we continue to invest in our people, just as much as we invest in technology, to ensure we can deliver the capabilities our armed forces need to stay ahead in an era of increasing instability.

    “That’s why, this year alone, BAE Systems is recruiting more than 2,400 new apprentices and graduates across the UK and we recognise the importance of government, industry and academia working together to develop the talent needed to support this critical high growth sector.”

    Paul Livingston CBE, Chief Executive, Lockheed Martin UK & NATO:

    “Lockheed Martin welcomes publication of the UK government’s Modern Industrial Strategy and especially its identification of defence, space, and digital technologies as core areas for driving economic growth and expanding mutually beneficial international partnerships with the United States, NATO and their allies. With 28 facilities spanning the length and breadth of the country we’re committed to combining the best skills, expertise and technologies from the UK and the United States to boost capacity, sustain jobs and deliver economic benefits in both countries.”

    Digital and Tech

    Antony Walker, Deputy CEO, techUK:

    “Today, the government has outlined welcome measures to boost confidence for the UK tech sector and the wider economy.

    “techUK has long called for the Industrial Strategy to focus on strengthening the conditions for growth of the UK tech sector and accelerating the adoption of new technologies across the economy and public services.

    “In an era of rapid technological change, the government must now work in true partnership with business to bolster investment and digital adoption across the whole of the UK economy and secure the country’s competitive advantage in key markets, including semiconductors and AI. techUK, and our members, stand ready to support this government to do so.”

    Allison Kirkby, Chief Executive, BT Group:

    “Long-term plans which have positive impact pay.

    “BT has invested over £24bn in the UK so far this decade and will invest a further £20bn before it’s done, to upgrade the country’s digital infrastructure.

    “That’s why we welcome the Government’s Industrial Strategy for the decade ahead.

    “And it’s great to see it give telecoms prominence: at the centre of a high-growth sector as well as a lever for growth in the wider economy.

    “We look forward to working more with Government on steps they can take to unlock further growth, and make sure the UK’s record-breaking fibre success story is followed fast by an acceleration in 5G too.”

    Emily Turner, UK CEO, HSBC Innovation Banking:

    “I welcome today’s Industrial Strategy, which sets out positive steps to back the UK’s growth driving sectors, particularly Digital and Technologies. This ten-year strategy will help position the UK as an open and attractive destination for talent and investment, at a time when global competition is particularly acute.  ”We look forward to working closely with our clients and the government to ensure the effective implementation of the sector plans to help realise the full ambition of the UK’s industrial strategy, while ensuring that it remains flexible to keep pace with technological developments.”

    Darren Hardman, CEO, Microsoft UK:

    “This is a really progressive plan from the Government. Cutting red tape, reducing energy costs, accelerating the delivery of new projects and ensuring the UK has a highly skilled workforce to take advantage of the AI economy. These are all critical factors in encouraging investment from businesses here in the UK and around the world.”

    Vishal Marria, Founder and CEO, Quantexa:

    “This Industrial Strategy is a key moment for the UK’s growth economy. By addressing structural headwinds like energy costs and grid access, the government is unlocking the potential of British industry. As a UK-founded data and AI company, we welcome the vision to make Britain the best place to build, scale, and invest. Lowering business electricity costs, accelerating clean energy, and prioritising digital skills are vital for sectors like technology, financial services, defence, and advanced manufacturing – all of which will rely on AI and trusted data to compete and lead. This strategy is the bold signal of confidence UK industry has been waiting for.”

    Financial Services

    Hannah Gurga, Director General, ABI:

    “Today’s Industrial Strategy delivers a clear long-term growth vision, commitment to genuine partnership with business and the regulatory certainty firms need to thrive. We’re pleased that financial services has been recognised as a key growth sector and look forward to working with government on the detailed sector plan.

    “The expansion of the British Business Bank’s capacity and its new £6.6 billion growth-capital commitment will unlock vital funding to support smaller UK businesses and drive growth.”

    Miles Celic OBE, Chief Executive Officer, TheCityUK:

    “The ambitions of today’s Industrial Strategy are laudable, highlighting the priorities for national growth.  Financial and related professional services are crucial to its success, from unlocking private capital for innovative businesses to increasing investible opportunities across the regions and nations.

    “We believe that supporting growth across whole country is particularly important and we are pleased to see the establishment of the Strategic Investment Opportunities Unit within the Office for Investment. This is the first critical step in the proposal we’ve been pushing to attract investors and capital.

    “Transforming both the planning and public procurement processes, making it easier for businesses to bring in global talent whilst addressing the skills shortfall here in the UK, and strengthening global market partnerships are vital for future proofing the economy and are steps where our industry has long called for action.

    “The detailed delivery plans for each of the eight sectors of the Industrial Strategy will be critical to realising its ambition. We look forward to seeing these. The vital issue now is delivery. We are committed to working closely with government and the regulators on the successful execution of these ambitions.”

    James Alexander, CEO, UKSIF:

    “We welcome the overarching ambition of the Industrial Strategy, which feels like a generational shift in thinking. This rightly recognises that government and investors need to work in partnership through a shared vision so we can make the UK the ‘sustainable finance capital of the world’.”

    Life Sciences

    Richard Torbett, Chief Executive, ABPI:

    “This strategy sets out a clear vision for how to grow the UK economy and is rightly focused on many of the key inputs the country needs to get right to create the conditions for success. The task now must be to move quickly from planning to delivery, rapidly boosting UK attractiveness for investment and returning the country to international competitiveness.   “For UK life sciences, a successful strategy means ensuring the UK is not only a cutting-edge place to research and develop the medicine of the future, but also a country which seeks to embrace and use the life-changing innovations we are developing. This will be the key litmus test for success in the upcoming life science sector plan and the NHS 10-year plan, where we hope to see more detail.”

    Steve Bates OBE, CEO, UK BioIndustry Association (BIA):

    “The Industrial Strategy has prioritised the life sciences sector because it will disproportionately drive economic growth over the next decade and help deliver an NHS fit for the future.

    “SMEs are the lifeblood of this innovative industry and a strength of the UK ecosystem, securing £3.7 billion investment last year, much of it from overseas. We are on the verge of creating a new generation of globally-impactful companies, so it is a smart move by Government to establish a dedicated support service to help 10–20 high-potential UK life science companies scale, attract investment, and remain headquartered in the UK.

    “The £4 billion British Business Bank Industrial Strategy Growth Capital initiative will bring new agility to support fledgling companies and cutting-edge technologies as part of the pro-innovation Industrial Strategy. We look forward to working closely with the Bank as they establish this programme for our sector.

    “These, alongside improved health data resources for innovators, faster clinical trials, more streamlined and joined-up medicines regulation and access pathways, and investments in medicines manufacturing, mean this Industrial Strategy and the upcoming Life Sciences Sector Plan deliver across the breadth of BIA’s priorities on behalf of our members. These plans are just the beginning, however, as we will now get down to the serious work of delivering these commitments in partnership with the Government.”

    Professor Andrew Morris CBE FRSE PMedSci, President, Academy of Medical Sciences:

    “Today’s Industrial Strategy represents a significant step forward for UK life sciences – placing the sector at the heart of our economic future and recognising health and wealth are inseparable. This bold vision acknowledges what the Academy of Medical Sciences has long argued: that our world-leading research institutions, the NHS and our exceptional scientific talent can drive national and regional renewal in ways no other sector can match.

    “We are particularly encouraged by the Government’s ambitious goal to make the UK the leading life sciences economy in Europe by 2030, and the third most important globally by 2035. This scale of ambition, combined with over £2bn of committed funding, demonstrates the recognition that life sciences uniquely delivers both economic prosperity and improved health outcomes for all.

    “The strategy’s focus on pillars for the life sciences – supporting world-class R&D, making the UK an outstanding place to start and grow life sciences businesses, and driving health innovation through NHS reform – provides the framework needed to unlock the sector’s full potential. We welcome the commitment to continue investing in discovery research alongside applied sciences, ensuring we maintain curiosity-driven research that underpins future breakthroughs.

    “Alignment with the forthcoming NHS 10-Year Health Plan offers unprecedented opportunity to ensure that cutting-edge innovations deliver rapid benefits for patients whilst driving economic growth. We look forward to the detailed life sciences sector plan that will translate these ambitions into action, and will continue working with Government to deliver this vision where scientific excellence drives both patient benefit and national prosperity as the UK achieves its full potential as a global leader in life sciences.”

    Professional and Business Services

    Malcolm Gomersall, CEO, Grant Thornton UK:

    “The publication of the Industrial Strategy is a welcome step forward in setting out a clear, long-term path for growth in the sectors that are powering our economy.

    “The strategy and the Professional and Business Services plan reflect our own investment priorities for the future, such as increased tech and AI adoption, fostering a highly skilled workforce in areas such as cyber security, digital and net zero transition and growing our specialist capabilities which support the expansion of our clients into international markets. I welcome the clear intention that the wider sector deliver this strategy in partnership with the Government through the Professional and Business Services Council.

    “As an employer of over 5,500 people in one UK’s fastest growing and most resilient sectors, ourown journey and track record over recent years has been remarkable. To achieve our ambitious growth plans, we know that we need to continue investing in the future, which means ensuring our people have the right skills and tools for a new era of business.”

    Jon Holt, Group Chief Executive and UK Senior Partner, KPMG:

    “The UK is the second-largest exporter of professional and business services, making our industry central to this country’s economic strength. We are at the forefront of the AI revolution, we are major employers of diverse talent and we support businesses of all sizes across the country. As a global success story it’s only right that we’re recognised as a high growth sector.

    “This industrial strategy makes bold choices and sets clear priorities. Its impact will come from a genuine partnership between Government and business, working together on wins to really unlock the growth, profitability and investment that will shape the UK’s future.”

    Rachel Taylor, Government and Health Industries Leader, PwC:

    “An industrial strategy without business is just a wish list. The UK Government’s new strategy sets a welcome direction – and business stands ready to turn ambition into action.

    “Skills are the new growth currency. The Strategy sets out a bold plan to close the UK’s skills gap, and this will make important steps in addressing business leaders’ concerns that we are losing top talent to other countries. We must work together – government, business and our world-class education institutions – to build the workforce of the future and keep that talent here.

    “Business is ready to lean in. With the right framework, we can unlock investment, drive innovation and deliver the growth and opportunity this strategy sets out to achieve.”

  • PRESS RELEASE : The UK unequivocally condemns the Taliban’s edict denying women their right to education – UK statement at the UN Security Council [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : The UK unequivocally condemns the Taliban’s edict denying women their right to education – UK statement at the UN Security Council [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 23 June 2025.

    Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Afghanistan.

    President, since our last Council briefing on Afghanistan, another school year has begun with secondary schools and higher education remaining closed to women and girls.

    It is now over three years since the Taliban’s edict denying them their right to education.

    The United Kingdom continues to unequivocally condemn this ban and urges its immediate reversal.

    Education is not the only sector from which half of Afghanistan’s population is barred.

    We remain deeply concerned by the Taliban’s shortsighted ban on women’s medical education and by the challenges Afghan women and girls face in accessing life-saving healthcare, including sexual and reproductive health services.
    As we heard from Ms Bahous, nearly 8 in 10 young Afghan women are excluded from education, employment and training opportunities.

    It is unacceptable that the Taliban’s restrictive edicts deny Afghan women and girls their rights and fundamental freedoms.

    The United Kingdom supports calls for greater accountability efforts, including the referral of Afghanistan to the International Court of Justice for violations of CEDAW, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

    The Taliban must also recognise the negative impact of their draconian policies on Afghanistan’s economic growth and long-term prosperity.

    As Director Bahous has highlighted, the Taliban’s ban on secondary education for girls is estimated to cost $1.5 billion by 2030

    During the last financial year, the UK distributed over $230 million in assistance to the Afghan people.

    Last week, in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organisation, we announced a new food security initiative, responding to climate-related challenges through the delivery of drought-resistant seeds and more nutritious crops, improved irrigation and training in sustainable farming practices.

    Half a million Afghans are set to benefit from this UK-funded programme.
    The UK has also continued to engage constructively with the UN-led process, including the comprehensive approach.

    But reliance on humanitarian assistance is not sustainable in the long term, and the UK’s continued engagement in a process in which the Taliban are not fully committed or willing to take meaningful steps towards meeting their international obligations is not guaranteed.

    We therefore urge the Taliban to reverse course and demonstrate their readiness to work towards an Afghanistan at peace with itself, its neighbours and the international community.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK’s key business groups back government’s modern Industrial Strategy [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK’s key business groups back government’s modern Industrial Strategy [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 23 June 2025.

    Joint statement from business groups in support of the Industrial Strategy.

    “The Industrial Strategy launched today marks a significant step forward and a valuable opportunity for the business community to rally behind a new vision for the UK—boosting confidence, sentiment, and enthusiasm for investment.

    “From start-ups and small businesses to large corporates, businesses need a more attractive, stable environment that enables faster, easier, and more certain investment decisions.

    “We welcome the government’s engagement with businesses across the UK. Much of what we’ve shared has been heard and reflected in this strategy. While there’s more to do, we are ready to support the next steps.

    “We encourage businesses nationwide to get behind this strategy and champion the UK as the best place to live, work, invest, and do business.”

    Joint statement from business groups on behalf of:

    Shevaun Haviland, Director General, British Chambers of Commerce

    Rain Newton-Smith, Director General, Confederation of British Industry

    Aaron Asadi, Chief Executive Officer, Enterprise Nation

    Tina McKenzie, Policy and Advocacy Chair, Federation of Small Businesses

    Stephen Phipson, Chief Executive Officer, Make UK

    Michelle Ovens, Founder, Small Business Britain

    Dom Hallas, Executive Director, Startup Coalition

  • PRESS RELEASE : Tech innovators backed to set up and scale up in Britain through Industrial Strategy [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Tech innovators backed to set up and scale up in Britain through Industrial Strategy [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 23 June 2025.

    Ambitious Digital and Technologies Sector Plan to help deliver government’s modern Industrial Strategy to drive national renewal and our Plan for Change.

    • Ambitious Digital and Technologies Sector Plan to help deliver government’s modern Industrial Strategy to drive national renewal and our Plan for Change
    • £670 million in investment to accelerate impact of quantum computers from energy to healthcare
    • Engineering biology researchers in line for £380 million to advance cutting-edge research such as in life-saving medicines and sustainable food

    Innovators driving future technologies like quantum computers to deliver new life-saving medicines and semiconductors powering the next generation of mobile phones are being backed by well over £1 billion to set up and scale up their businesses in Britain, Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle has announced.

    Investment will include landmark funding for the UK’s mission to develop quantum computers that could unearth game-changing discoveries for our health and environment, the establishment of a new national semiconductor centre laser-focused on helping firms to scale-up, and new backing for engineering biology researchers working on everything from new vaccines to eco-friendly fuels.

    The package will drive the Digital and Technologies Sector Plan within our modern Industrial Strategy published today (Monday 23 June), a pivotal moment in the government’s agenda for national renewal and in supporting our mission as part of the Plan for Change to deliver the highest sustained economic growth in the G7.

    To ensure the UK is in pole position to make the most of quantum computing’s potential to improve our everyday lives, £670 million will be dedicated to accelerating the application of this revolutionary technology.

    It makes the National Quantum Computing Centre one of the first organisations to receive a 10-year funding settlement, providing long-term certainty to researchers that marks Britain as the place to do business when it comes to cutting edge tech.

    By 2035, the UK aims to develop quantum computers capable of outperforming conventional supercomputers, potentially meaning new drugs for incurable diseases or better carbon capture technologies, supporting our missions of building an NHS that is fit for the future and making Britain a green clean energy superpower as part of the plan for change.

    Science and Technology Secretary, Peter Kyle, said:

    Britain is full of ambitious risk-takers driven by a desire to innovate and improve people’s everyday lives. It is on us in government to match that boldness by investing in our country’s immense potential and embracing businesses who can drive that change and grow our economy.

    From quantum computers that could revolutionise drug discovery and make the NHS fit for the future, to sustainable fuels that can make the UK a clean energy superpower, science and technology has a key part to play in delivering our modern Industrial Strategy to renew our country and support our Plan for Change.

    In engineering biology, a £380 million investment will support researchers working on everything from new life-saving medicines to cell-cultivated meats and climate-resilient crops, to protect our environment and strengthen food security.

    Of this, £184 million will help bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and commercial applications through infrastructure supporting innovators to scale up. The remaining £196 million will be invested in research and development through the National Engineering Biology Programme, bolstering the UK’s significant strengths in this field.

    Further initial investment includes:

    The commitment of £54 million to bring the world’s top science and tech talent to the UK. As the UK competes for the highest skilled individuals in priority industries, the launch of the government’s Global Talent Taskforce signals a greater focus on targeting and attracting the brightest and best talent to supercharge growth.

    A new UK Semiconductor Centre, backed by up to £19 million, will serve as a single point of contact for global firms and governments to engage with the UK semiconductor sector, helping our ambitious firms to scale-up, form new partnerships and strengthen the UK’s role in global supply chains – benefiting us all in helping to grow the economy.

    £35 million to scale up the recently announced Semiconductor Talent Expansion Programme – including new chip design courses for students, bursaries, schools outreach, and a proposed master’s conversion course to help more people move into the sector.

    £370 million for cutting-edge, UK-developed technologies to deliver advanced connectivity improving coverage for communities, providing connectivity across transport networks, and supporting defence applications – like drones.

    It includes a £240 million Advanced Connectivity Tech R&D programme, and a further £130 million will go towards strengthening the capabilities of the UK Telecoms Lab, enhancing the security and reliability of our networks.

    Building on a successful round of semiconductor Innovation and Knowledge Centres launched earlier this year, the government is providing funding for 2 additional centres, backed by £25 million.

    £10 million to expand Cyber ASAP supporting 25 academic teams annually, plus £2 million for Belfast’s Cyber AI Hub, aiming to support 28 academic spinouts by 2030.

    £6 million to extend Cyber Runway accelerator, supporting 60 startups annually with mentoring, skills development and networking to improve survival rates and growth.

    £24 million to promote CHERI blueprint adoption for designing secure next-generation chips.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer meeting with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer meeting with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine [June 2025]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 23 June 2025.

    The Prime Minister welcomed President Zelenskyy to Downing Street this afternoon.

    The Prime Minister began by sharing his condolences with President Zelenskyy on the deaths of five Ukrainians following Russian strikes overnight.

    Looking ahead to the upcoming NATO Summit in The Hague, the leaders welcomed the Secretary General’s focus on the Alliance’s steadfast support, including through significant pledges of financial support from Allies.

    The Prime Minister reiterated the importance of ensuring Ukraine’s Armed Forces had the defensive equipment they needed to push back Russian forces, while also working towards a just and lasting peace.

    Discussing how the UK and Ukraine could go further on military cooperation, the leaders discussed opportunities to expand industrial collaboration between defence companies in both countries.

    Turning to Coalition of the Willing planning, the leaders agreed the grouping should convene virtually in the coming weeks to update members on next steps.

    Both looked forward to seeing one another again at The Hague Summit tomorrow.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK Trade Envoy visits Pakistan to boost trade [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK Trade Envoy visits Pakistan to boost trade [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 23 June 2025.

    The UK Trade Envoy to Pakistan, Mohammad Yasin MP, has begun a 3-day visit to Karachi and Islamabad to encourage investment and long-term economic co-operation.

    The visit follows the UK’s launch of its Growth Mission and Modern Industrial Strategy. Invest 2035 sets out a ten-year plan to provide certainty and stability for businesses in high growth sectors such as clean energy, digital technologies, life sciences and advanced manufacturing.

    Over 200 British companies are operating in Pakistan, with the top five contributing around one percent of Pakistan’s GDP. The UK is Pakistan’s largest European trading partner and top source of foreign direct investment.

    Mohammad Yasin MP, UK Trade Envoy to Pakistan, said:

    “The UK and Pakistan already enjoy deep commercial ties, but there is much more we can achieve together. It is a place close to my heart, and I have seen over many years the enormous potential to help both our countries prosper. During my visit, I look forward to supporting efforts that unlock new opportunities and drive growth.”

    Mr Yasin will meet senior government stakeholders including Jawad Paul, Secretary for Commerce, and Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis. He will also meet business leaders to strengthen trade and encourage investment.

    Mr Yasin’s visit will help pave the way for the UK-Pakistan Trade Dialogue, due to launch later this year. The Dialogue will offer a platform to grow exports, increase investment flows, address business environment concerns and identify opportunities for greater market access.