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Tag: 2025

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government announces preferred candidate for Chair of Equality and Human Rights Commission [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government announces preferred candidate for Chair of Equality and Human Rights Commission [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Office for Equality and Opportunity on 5 June 2025.

    • Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson announced as the government’s preferred candidate for the next Chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission.
    • Preferred candidate to appear in front of 2 Parliamentary committees – Women and Equalities Select Committee (WESC) and the Joint Committee on Human Rights (JHCR) – ahead of appointment confirmation.
    • Current chair Baroness Falkner’s term is due to end on 30 November 2025.

    The government’s preferred candidate for the new chair of the independent Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has been identified as Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson. This follows a full and open competition to recruit a new chair, in line with the Governance Code for Public Appointments.

    The current chair Baroness Kishwer Falkner’s term is due to end on 30 November 2025, after being extended an additional year to provide stability while a full recruitment campaign was undertaken.

    Dr Stephenson will appear before WESC and JCHR as part of pre-appointment hearings. The committees will provide advice to ministers before she is formally appointed.

    The appointment of Dr Stephenson will not impact the timelines or process for the updated statutory code of practice for services currently being developed by the EHRC.

    Minister for Women and Equalities Bridget Phillipson said:

    This government is clear that equality and opportunity are at the heart of our programme of national renewal.

    With the depth of her expertise in human rights and equality, Dr Stephenson is exceptionally suited to leading the EHRC and ensuring it continues to uphold the equalities framework in this country.

    I want to thank Baroness Falkner for her continued work throughout this time.

    Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson said:

    I am honoured to be named the Government’s preferred candidate to be the new chair for the Equality and Human Rights Commission.

    The EHRC plays an integral role in protecting and advancing equalities and I am deeply committed to furthering this work as chair. With over 30 years working on equalities and human rights, I am confident that I will bring a breadth of experience and insight to the role.

    I look forward to working with the team in the EHRC as well as stakeholders and the government to ensure equalities are upheld and all people are treated with respect and dignity.

    The government is committed to ensuring that people of all backgrounds can thrive. The EHRC plays a vital role in upholding and promoting equality and human rights across England and Wales.

    The EHRC is independent of the government and makes its own enforcement decisions, including about any inquiries and investigations it decides to conduct.

    The EHRC has launched a consultation on its updated draft statutory code of practice for services, public functions and associations. This opened on 20 May and will close on 30 June. The final draft code will be sent to ministers for approval before laying in Parliament.

    Notes to editors

    Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson has 30 years of experience working on equality and human rights issues within the UK and internationally, over 20 of these at Board and CEO level. She also holds a PhD in equality law.

    Positions she has held include:

    • Director of the Women’s Budget Group
    • Director of the Fawcett Society
    • Chair of Early Education and Childcare Coalition
    • Board member of Coventry Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre (CRASAC)
    • Board member of Coventry Police and Crime Board
  • PRESS RELEASE : Farmers to get fairer deals for combinable crops [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Farmers to get fairer deals for combinable crops [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 5 June 2025.

    New review aims to support fairer, more profitable deals for farmers.

    Arable farmers will benefit from a new government review tackling unfair practices in the combinable crops supply chain, helping to protect their business and income from unfair practices.

    Announced today as part of our New Deal for Farmers, the review is a major step towards ensuring producers have clear, fair, and enforceable contracts – covering pricing, supply volumes, data, and dispute resolution. It will back British farmers to get a fairer return for the food they produce.

    Combinable crops, such as cereals (like wheat and barley), oilseeds, and pulses, are harvested using a combine harvester. They provide essential ingredients for food, animal feed and fuel, making this sector a cornerstone of our food supply chain.

    Environment Secretary Steve Reed said:

    British growers work incredibly hard to produce world-class food, and deserve fair, transparent contracts that reflect that.

    This review is a major step forward in giving arable farmers a stronger voice, better protection and fairer returns for the food they produce.

    We’re proud of the vital work farmers undertake every day to feed our nation, which is why we’re investing £5 billion – the largest ever budget for sustainable farming.

    The government has already taken decisive action to secure a fairer deal for farmers. This includes slashing costs and red tape for businesses who export to and import from the EU, making supply chains more resilient and helping reduce costs for consumers, and backing British food with investment and action – aiming for at least 50% of food supplied in public sector contracts to come from local producers or those certified to higher environmental standards.

    We’ve also appointed former NFU president Baroness Minette Batters to lead reforms that put more money back in farmers’ pockets, as part of our Plan for Change

    This action builds on reforms already made in other farming sectors, including the Fair Dealing (Milk) Regulations, which came into effect on 9 July 2024, and the Fair Dealing (Pigs) Regulations have also recently received parliamentary approval.

    Collaborating with devolved governments, we will continue to develop a fairer, more transparent supply chain that benefits both farmers and the public.

    A formal public consultation will be launched, giving farmers and other stakeholders the chance to share their experiences.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Revamped Office for Investment cements UK’s position as top investment destination creating jobs and opportunities [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Revamped Office for Investment cements UK’s position as top investment destination creating jobs and opportunities [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 5 June 2025.

    The government has announced the launch of the revamped Office for Investment.

    • Bolstered OfI redoubles UK efforts to secure investment to drive economic growth as part of Government’s Plan for Change.
    • Since taking Office, Government has welcomed around £100bn in investment into the UK, with employment rising by almost 500,000 jobs.
    • New office ensures investment pitch aligns with UK’s modern Industrial Strategy, targeting investors in high-growth and foundational sectors.
    • Minister for Investment launches new Office with pitch to staff after PwC Survey rates UK as the 2nd best place in the world to invest.

    The UK’s highest growth sectors are gearing up for an inward investment boost as a new, revamped Office for Investment will provide enhanced high-end investor relations, commercial support and tailored opportunities for those looking to invest in the UK.

    Today [5 June], Minister for Investment Baroness Gustafsson CBE will launch the new Office for Investment which will be laser-focused on securing investment to drive economic growth, job creation and productivity across the UK, as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.

    The enhanced Office for Investment will be aligned with the Government’s upcoming modern Industrial Strategy, prioritising growth-driving sectors ranging from defence to clean energies, as well as foundational sectors such as steel, critical minerals and logistics.

    It will also actively pursue and manage major investment projects that support national growth missions and infrastructure strategies, helping to make the UK the best investment destination in the world.

    Minister for Investment Baroness Gustafsson CBE said:

    Securing investment is an integral part of this government’s Plan for Change, so I’m thrilled the Office for Investment will help drive even more investment into the UK, supporting job creation and boosting wages.

    Aligning with our upcoming modern Industrial Strategy, the OfI will deliver long-term growth right across the UK by providing support and stability for investors, giving them the confidence to plan not just for the next year, but for the next 10 years and beyond.

    By aligning investment resources under a single brand, the new Office for Investment will reduce confusion for investors and become increasingly proactive both at home and overseas in search of new potential investors for the UK.

    This announcement follows last year’s record-breaking International Investment Summit where the UK attracted £63 billion of new investments creating 38,000 jobs across the country.

    This builds on the latest PwC Global CEO Survey which rated the UK as the 2nd best place in the world to invest, after the USA.

    CEO of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry Karim Fatehi OBE said:

    Setting a new course for the Investment Office has the potential to drive greater investment in London and the rest of the UK – creating jobs, building businesses and supporting economic growth. To remain relevant in a competitive market we must create the best conditions for international investors to succeed and prosper in the UK.

    The UK is already the most open, stable and connected economy in the world. Securing trade deals with the United States, India and a new agreement with the European Union demonstrates the UK’s commitment to free and fair trade, and how this Government will support real change for the British people as part of the Plan for Change.

    The UK continues to attract major investments across a range of sectors, including digital and technology, reinforcing its position as a global innovation hub.

    These investments include:

    • £24 billion investment pipeline between The Crown Estate and Lendlease, unlocking housing and science innovation hubs, with 26,000 new homes and 100,000 new jobs.
    • £1 billion investment by logistics giant DP World to build two new shipping berths at the firm’s London Gateway port, creating more than 400 permanent jobs.
    • Universal’s multi-billion-pound investment in a major new theme park and resort in Bedford which is estimated to bring a £50 billion boost for the economy and create around 28,000 jobs across the creative, hospitality and construction industries.
    • £10 billion partnership with OCBC, Singapore’s second largest bank to facilitate investment from the Asia Pacific region into priority growth sectors including energy, infrastructure and real estate.
    • £4 billion investment by the Malaysian group YTL in the UK over the next five years, which includes transforming the greater Bristol area and delivering over 30,000 jobs across the UK.
    • £200 million investment from European defence company MBDA, creating 700 high-skilled jobs in Britain’s defence industry.
    • £50m investment deal between JATCO, Nissan and the Government to build a new manufacturing site in Sunderland.
    • £170 million investment by international manufacturer Knauf Insulation in a new facility in Shotton, North Wales, creating 140 new jobs.
    • £300 million investment from Rolls-Royce in the expansion of their Goodwood facility to meet the growing demand for bespoke upgrades.
    • £500 million by JLR in its Halewood facility to enable the production of electric vehicles, alongside existing combustion and hybrid models.
    • US company Knighthead’s £3 billion regeneration project in East Birmingham, creating 8,400 new jobs annually, paving the way for a new 60,000-seater stadium alongside a sports campus of training facilities, a new academy, and community pitches.
    • Heathrow Airport announcing a multibillion-pound investment programme to expand the airport, including new terminal buildings, aircraft stands, passenger infrastructure and work towards its third runway.
    • $5 billion investment from Oracle to expand its cutting-edge cloud infrastructure in the UK – an initiative helping to position the UK at the forefront of the AI revolution.
    • Vishay investing £250 million to establish the world’s first compound semiconductor facility.

    Notes to editors:

    • The Prime Minister also announced plans for an enhanced Office for Investment just before the International Investment Summit, building on the recommendations of the Harrington Review.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Report by OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities – UK and Canada joint statement to the OSCE [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Report by OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities – UK and Canada joint statement to the OSCE [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 5 June 2025.

    UK and Canada thank the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities for his active start in the role and urge continued prioritisation of support for Ukraine against Russian aggression.

    Thank you, Mister Chair.  I am delivering this statement on behalf of Canada and the UK.

    High Commissioner, dear Christophe, welcome back to the Permanent Council.  Since this is your first report in this capacity, allow us officially to congratulate you on your appointment and for hitting the ground running.  You have had a very active start to your tenure, as demonstrated by your comprehensive report today.

    The UK and Canada are strong supporters of your mandate and the work of your office in promoting the rights of persons belonging to national minorities.

    We commend your extensive engagement with – and visits to – a number of our participating States, including Moldova and Central Asia.  We welcome the transparency around your activities, which you have achieved without undermining the “quiet diplomacy” that is an important characteristic of your mandate.

    The UK and Canada greatly value your Office’s continued attention to the intersectionality of gender and national minorities.  It is in all our interests that we fully support women’s and girls’ full, equal and meaningful participation in all aspects of public life, including in peace and security.  We agree with you, High Commissioner, that greater gender equality in societies contributes to greater comprehensive security for us all.

    We also welcome that you have prioritised support to Ukraine, including an early visit.  We commend the strides that the Ukrainian authorities have made in strengthening the legal and policy frameworks for protecting national minorities and preparing the ground for inclusive education reforms.  This progress provides a promising foundation for Ukraine’s post-conflict recovery.

    High Commissioner, your office plays a crucial role which is as important today as it was when created more than 30 years ago. But like most of the OSCE’s tools, it can only play this role when the political will exists to permit it.

    The situation in Ukraine is a case in point.  Your predecessor noted prior to the full-scale invasion that Ukraine was “working to maintain the delicate balance between the interests and rights of all groups in society”.  Rather than engage in good faith dialogue, Russia has weaponised the issue of minorities. And the irony is that those Ukrainians who Russia claimed to be protecting, have suffered greatly from its invasion.

    The UK and Canada support your office’s continued focus on the situation in the areas of Ukraine’s sovereign territory temporarily under Russian control.  We condemn Russia’s systematic attempt to erase Ukrainian identity in these areas, including forced passportisation and the deportation of children.  The deeply concerning situation in Crimea, including widescale repression of Crimean Tatars, has been well documented by numerous independent organisations.

    High Commissioner, dear Christophe, we thank you and your team for your considerable efforts in the period covered by your report.  You can rely on the UK and Canada’s continued support for your institution in the years ahead.  Thank you.

    And thank you, Mister Chair.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Russia continues to frustrate peace efforts while trying to convince the world it is taking them seriously – UK statement to the OSCE [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Russia continues to frustrate peace efforts while trying to convince the world it is taking them seriously – UK statement to the OSCE [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 5 June 2025.

    Ambassador Holland calls out Russia’s latest tactics to frustrate efforts to end its war in Ukraine while trying to convince the world it is serious about peace. He confirms that the Kremlin’s delay tactics will only redouble the UK’s resolve to support Ukraine to secure a just and lasting peace.

    Thank you, Mister Chair.  The UK welcomes the second round of bilateral negotiations that took place earlier this week in Istanbul.  We thank Türkiye for again hosting the discussions and the United States for creating the momentum that got everybody to this point.  The agreement to a further large-scale prisoner exchange and the return of fallen soldiers is a further step towards building confidence.

    We regret, however, that Russia limited the progress that could be made at Monday’s talks by refusing to send, in advance, the memorandum setting out its position on ending this illegal war.  The memorandum, when it arrived, revealed no movement away from the maximalist terms that we have all heard before.  We also regret that the Kremlin continues to reject a complete, unconditional and immediate 30-day ceasefire.

    This is consistent with the tactics that Russia has employed for weeks over peace talks: to draw out the process and refuse to engage in a meaningful way; all while trying to convince the world that it is serious about peace.  We see it in this Council and at the United Nations where Russia makes nonsensical claims.  Among these is the allegation that those who materially support Ukraine’s sovereign right to defend itself from unprovoked aggression, are undermining peace efforts.

    Nobody in this room is fooled; we know who started this war, and we know who is resisting efforts to end it.  The UK is committed to securing a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.  Delay tactics from the Kremlin will only redouble our resolve to help Ukraine defend itself and to use our sanctions to restrict Russia’s war machine.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : National Drought Group meets after driest spring in 132 years [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : National Drought Group meets after driest spring in 132 years [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs on 5 June 2025.

    Expert group told England has now experienced driest March, April and May since 1893.

    The Environment Agency convened a National Drought Group meeting today (5 June 2025) to discuss the latest outlook and hear from water companies about steps they are taking to prepare for the summer.

    England has only seen 57% of the long-term average May rainfall and spring is the driest since the reign of Queen Victoria. However, the recent rain at the end of May and the start of June is helping to stabilise the position.

    The expert group will now meet monthly following a drought declaration in the north-west. Four other areas – the north-east, Yorkshire, east and west midlands – are also experiencing prolonged dry weather.

    The EA told the group it has stepped up its operational response. This includes more compliance checks on businesses who abstract water, such as manufacturers, and increased monitoring of river and groundwater levels.

    The regulator is also working with all members of the National Drought Group, including the National Farmers Union, to help farmers plan their water needs over the summer.

    Meanwhile, water companies updated the group on how they are implementing their drought plans, including increased communication with customers, and speeding up the fixing of leaks.

    United Utilities in the north-west has increased the rate of finding and fixing leaks by 70% in recent weeks after a strong response from the community in spotting leaks during the dry weather.

    Youlgrave Waterworks, a private firm which supplies 500 homes in Derbyshire, became the first company to introduce a hosepipe ban at the start of June. The major water companies report they have no current plans for hosepipe bans but are keeping this under review.

    Helen Wakeham, EA Director of Water and National Drought Group chair, said:

    It’s been the driest spring since 1893, and we need to be prepared for more summer droughts as our climate changes.

    The recent rainfall is having a positive effect, but it hasn’t been enough to stop a drought in the north-west and we must ensure we have enough water to last the entire summer.

    We are working with water companies, farmers and other abstractors to help them plan their water usage over the summer and urge people to be mindful about their daily use.

    The National Drought Group heard that without further substantial rain, some water companies may need to implement further drought measures this summer to conserve supplies.

    Water Minister Emma Hardy said:

    We face a water shortage in the next decade. That’s why the government is taking urgent steps to secure supplies into the future, as part of our Plan for Change.

    As an immediate step, we have convened the National Drought Group to make sure water companies are acting to conserve this precious resource and act in line with their drought plans.

    The Government has secured over £104 billion of private sector investment to fund essential infrastructure, including nine new reservoirs, and to cut leakage by 17% over the next five years.

    Dr Will Lang, Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office said:

    After the driest Spring for more than a century across England, the start of June has brought some much-needed rainfall with a mix of Atlantic weather systems interspersed with drier and sunnier periods expected to continue over the coming days.

    Most areas will experience showers at times with some seeing longer spells of rain.  From mid-June onwards, the forecast becomes less clear with signs of drier conditions becoming more dominant across southern England.

    Looking further ahead, the chance of a hot summer is higher than normal with an associated increased risk of heatwaves and related impacts. After the more unsettled and wetter start to June, the likelihoods of a wetter or drier than average summer remain evenly balanced.

    Periods of dry weather and low rivers can have several consequences for the environment and wildlife. Low oxygen levels in water can lead to fish kills, as well as more algal blooms and lower river flows prevent wildlife from moving up or downstream.

    The National Drought Group – which includes the Met Office, government, regulators, water companies, farmers, and conservation experts – heard:

    • Reservoir levels are now at 77%.
    • Fish rescues have been carried out on the Rivers Redlake and Tern in Shropshire.
    • Navigation issues have been noted with the Canals and Rivers Trust having to implement restrictions on the Leeds-Liverpool Canal and Lancaster Canal because of low water levels.
    • The quality of spring crops is becoming a concern because of the dry soil and poor grass growth for feed.
    • Applications for Local Resource Options (LRO) screening studies are now open for groups of farmers to explore ways to improve water availability and reliability.

    The Environment Agency is encouraging the public to report environmental incidents to their 24/7 hotline on 0800 80 70 60. Meanwhile angling groups are also asking members to report signs of environmental impacts.

    Notes to editors:

    A decision to declare drought is taken based on reservoir levels, river flows and moisture in the soil along with consideration of the long-term weather forecasts.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Survivors of rape and serious sexual assault given the right to have cases reviewed [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Survivors of rape and serious sexual assault given the right to have cases reviewed [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Attorney General’s Office on 5 June 2025.

    Victims of rape and serious sexual assaults who face their cases being dropped by prosecutors will, for the first time, be given the right to have it reviewed by a different prosecutor, as part of the Government’s pledge to halve violence against women and girls and its Plan for Change.

    • New pilot to empower victims by giving them the right to ask for a review if prosecutors plan to drop cases
    • Plans will restore confidence in the system and help get victims the justice they deserve
    • The changes are one step in the Government’s pledge to halve violence against women and girls in a decade, part of the Plan for Change

    Under the current system, criminal cases can be stopped at any point if a prosecutor decides there is no longer a realistic prospect of conviction.

    Through the changes announced today, for the first time, survivors of rape or serious sexual abuse will be offered the right for their case to be reviewed by a different prosecutor before any final decisions are made, and if that prosecutor determines there is enough evidence, the case will continue.

    The move will help to restore confidence in the justice system, get victims the answers they deserve and put perpetrators behind bars.

    Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP said:

    This Government is treating violence against women and girls with the seriousness it deserves, committing to halving this horrific crime as part of our Plan for Change.

    Part of that is about empowering victims and improving their experience of the criminal justice system. That’s exactly why I have worked with the CPS on a new pilot scheme for victims of rape and serious sexual assault, which will allow victims an enhanced right of review in cases where the CPS intends to offer no evidence, importantly prior to a case being stopped.

    Campaigners and experts tell me that this is what they want, and I want to thank them for their advocacy on this vital issue.

    There is much more to do. But this is a further step towards the criminal justice system that victims deserve, and one which will ultimately make Britain’s streets safer.

    Jade Blue McCrossen-Nethercott, campaigned for a change after the CPS dropped her case by offering no evidence in court. A subsequent VRR said the prosecution should have gone ahead but could not be reinstated.

    She said:

    I’m hugely excited about what this pilot could mean for victims, and I hope it proves successful enough to be rolled out across the country. This pilot is a crucial safeguard – one that could have completely changed the outcome in my case, and so many others like it.

    I was profoundly failed and let down by how my case was handled, but I’ve since seen people within the CPS who are genuinely working to make it better.

    Siobhan Blake, CPS lead for rape and Chief Crown Prosecutor of CPS West Midlands said:

    We know for rape victims, the prospect of their case being stopped can be absolutely devastating.

    Although they can request a review of our decision making now, if we have already stopped the case in court, there is nothing that can be done to reactivate the case if that review comes to a different conclusion. In those circumstance we offer an apology, but appreciate that for a victim an apology rarely goes far enough or feels like a just outcome.

    This pilot offers greater reassurance for victims. It means that they will be alerted to the prospect of their case being stopped earlier, so that they can ask for a review by a different prosecutor. If the original decision is reversed then the case will continue, but even if it can’t, we hope that victims will have more confidence in the process and the earlier scrutiny of our decision making.

    Rape cases are incredibly complex and sensitive. We have specially trained prosecutors who do an excellent job building strong cases. This pilot offers an earlier check and balance which provides extra reassurance for victims.

    The pilot, which launches this week, is starting in the West Midlands, with the intention for it to be rolled out nationwide if found to be successful.

    Today’s announcement is just one step in the Government’s commitment to restore confidence in the justice system and protect victims of sexual abuse.

    Since coming into office, the Government has already taken immediate action including putting domestic abuse specialists in the first five 999 control rooms under Raneem’s Law, launching new domestic abuse protection orders in select areas, announcing new measures to tackle stalking and investing nearly £20 million in funding for specialist services which support victims of abuse.

    Notes to editors

    When a prosecutor identifies a case which they believe is eligible for the pilot, they escalate to a senior manager and the review timetable will be set and a second reviewer found.

    A letter will be sent to the victim letting them know of the proposal to bring to the prosecution to an end and explaining why. They will then be given the chance to have that decision reviewed and given a set period to respond. If they request a review, the aim is that this will be completed within 20 working days.

    Where a case does not qualify for the pilot, victims will be still be able to request a review through the standard VRR scheme.

    Once a review is complete, a Local Case Management Panel will approve the decision either to proceed with the prosecution or to offer no evidence. The victim will be informed of the final decision.

    The pilot, which launches this week, is starting in the Rape and Serious Sexual Offences Unit of CPS West Midlands. The pilot has been designed to assess how the flexibility of offering an earlier review can be operated by the CPS.

    Care has also been taken to balance the interests of the victim, the defendant and the prosecutorial independence of CPS. This means that the CPS will decide when its internal review process is complete and when no evidence will be offered.

    The pilot also recognises the need to progress the review in a way that maintains fairness to a defendant.

    The pilot will run initially for six months with each case in scope evaluated individually before the pilot is evaluated and decisions are taken on next steps.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Measles outbreaks continue with risk of holidays causing surge [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Measles outbreaks continue with risk of holidays causing surge [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the UK Health Security Agency on 5 June 2025.

    Latest UKHSA data shows outbreaks continuing, with 109 cases confirmed in April and 86 so far in May.

    The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) today publishes its monthly update on measles cases in England, which shows outbreaks continuing, with 109 cases confirmed in April and 86 so far in May. Cases have predominantly been in unvaccinated children aged 10 years and under, with on-going outbreaks in a number of regions and London reporting almost half of all cases in the past 4 weeks.

    There has also been a global increase in measles cases including Europe over the last year and the Agency is concerned, that with travelling for holidays or to visit family this summer, there is a risk this could lead to another surge of measles cases in England.

    The latest measles epidemiology report on the UKHSA Data Dashboard today reports:

    • since 1 January there have been 420 laboratory confirmed measles cases reported in England
    • 109 measles cases were confirmed in April and to date 86 in May (number of laboratory confirmed measles cases by month of symptom onset, data reporting lags impact on most recent 4 weeks and therefore the figures are likely to be an underestimate)
    • the majority (276/420, 66%) of these cases were in children aged 10 years and under, but there are also cases being reported in young people and adults
    • London has seen the highest number of cases overall this year (162/420, 39%) and in the last 4 weeks (35/75, 47%)
    • a number of other regions are also reporting outbreaks – with 25% (19/75) of cases in the North West, and 11% (8/75) in the West Midlands in the last 4 weeks

    Since the introduction of the measles vaccine in 1968, at least 20 million measles cases and 4,500 deaths have been prevented in the UK.

    However, measles remains endemic in many countries around the world, and with declines in MMR vaccine uptake observed over the last decade, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, we have also seen large measles outbreaks in Europe and other countries.

    An analysis by the World Health Organization (WHO) Europe and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), reported 127, 350 measles cases in the European Region for 2024, double the number of cases reported for 2023 and the highest number since 1997.

    This year outbreaks have been seen in several other European countries, including France, Italy, Spain and Germany, and WHO recently reported that Romania, Pakistan, India, Thailand, Indonesia and Nigeria currently have among the largest number of measles cases worldwide.

    In England, the decline of the uptake of childhood vaccinations including MMR in the past decade (well below the WHO 95% target) means that many thousands of children are left unprotected with the risk of outbreaks linked to nurseries and schools.

    London has the lowest MMR uptake rates compared with other English regions (MMR2 uptake at 5 years is just 73.3% in London compared to English average of 83.9%).

    From Autumn 2023 to summer 2024, England experienced the biggest outbreak of measles since 2012, particularly affecting young children. Since the peak last year cases have declined but local outbreaks continue.

    Measles is one of the most highly infectious diseases and spreads rapidly among those who are unvaccinated. The UKHSA is concerned that more outbreaks may occur again on a larger scale this summer as families with unvaccinated children and adults travel to countries where there are outbreaks.

    It is important that anyone travelling for summer holidays or to visit family, especially parents of young children, check that all members of their family have received both their MMR vaccines.

    Getting vaccinated means you are also helping protect others who can’t have the vaccine, including infants under 1 year and people with weakened immune systems, who are at greater risk of serious illness and complications from measles.

    Dr Vanessa Saliba, Consultant Epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency:

    It’s essential that everyone, particularly parents of young children, check all family members are up to date with 2 MMR doses, especially if you are travelling this summer for holidays or visiting family. Measles cases are picking up again in England and outbreaks are happening in Europe and many countries with close links to the UK.

    Measles spreads very easily and can be a nasty disease, leading to complications like ear and chest infections and inflammation of the brain with some children tragically ending up in hospital and suffering life-long consequences. Nobody wants this for their child and it’s not something you want to experience when away on holiday.

    The MMR vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your family from measles. Babies under the age of 1 and some people who have weakened immune systems can’t have the vaccine and are at risk of more serious complications if they get measles. They rely on the rest of us getting the vaccine to protect them.

    It is never too late to catch up, if you’re not sure if any of your family are up to date, check their Red Book or contact your GP practice. Don’t put it off and regret it later.

    Dr Amanda Doyle, National Director for Primary Care and Community Services at NHS England, said:

    Tens of thousands of additional MMR vaccinations were delivered following NHS action last year to protect children against measles, mumps and rubella, and the recent increase in cases seen in England and Europe should act as an important reminder to ensure your child is protected.

    Too many babies and young children are still not protected against the diseases, which are contagious infections that spread very easily and can cause serious health problems. MMR jabs are provided free as part of the NHS routine immunisation programme – and I would encourage all parents to act on invites or check vaccination records if they think they may have missed their child’s vaccination.

    The first MMR vaccine is offered to infants when they turn one year old and the second dose to pre-school children when they are around 3 years and 4 months old.

    Around 99% of those who have 2 doses will be protected against measles and rubella. Although mumps protection is slightly lower, cases in vaccinated people are much less severe.

    Anyone, whatever age, who has not had 2 doses can contact their GP surgery to book an appointment. It is never too late to catch-up.

    It’s particularly important to check you’ve had both doses if you are:

    • about to start college or university
    • travelling overseas
    • planning a pregnancy
    • a frontline health or social care worker
    • if you work with young children or care for people as part of your work
  • PRESS RELEASE : New vision for UK ports will propel prosperity in Britain’s coastal communities [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : New vision for UK ports will propel prosperity in Britain’s coastal communities [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 5 June 2025.

    Have your say on the draft revised national policy statement for ports until 29 July 2025.

    • plans to boost expansion of maritime ports to propel economic growth and support jobs across the country, as part of the Plan for Change
    • new guidance will help ports save time and money on planning applications to expand sites, opening up jobs and opportunities in coastal communities
    • plans will secure the long-term future of the maritime industry, inviting private investment into coastal communities and supporting development of green technologies, delivering on the UK’s clean energy ambitions

    Coastal communities across England stand to benefit from proposals set out yesterday (4 June 2025), which will better support ports to deliver important national infrastructure more quickly, helping to boost local economies and jobs.

    The proposals aim to streamline the planning process for ports in England and expedite planning applications by more clearly outlining the existing needs for port facilities and how to design applications to meet the latest requirements to avoid process delays.

    For instance, updated proposals will more clearly outline how ports can meet obligations on noise and emissions, increasing the likelihood of achieving successful planning approvals and saving time and money during the planning process. Greater clarity, fewer delays and reduced costs will give ports the confidence they need to expand, creating more local, skilled jobs and driving money back into communities.

    The plans tie in with wider reforms, including the Planning and Infrastructure Bill and will see ports going further and faster with commercial projects, helping to secure millions of pounds in investment and supporting jobs across the country.

    By enabling ports to go further and faster with their infrastructure projects, the UK aims to build on the levels of investment already flowing into ports.

    Just last month, it was announced that £35 million is being driven into the Port of Liverpool to develop a new deep-water terminal, while just under £1 billion is being invested in the Port of Tyne to develop state-of-the-art infrastructure.

    Revisions to the national policy statement for ports (NPSP) will also see planning decisions judged and approved, against the need to kickstart economic growth and cement the UK as a clean energy superpower.

    Maritime Minister, Mike Kane, said:

    Ports are the lifeblood of the UK economy, keeping the country moving and trading, and are vital in unlocking prosperity and opportunity for our coastal communities.

    We are determined to deliver the projects that will make a real difference to local people, turbocharge economic growth and create jobs as part of our Plan for Change.

    The proposals have been published alongside the UK’s port freight demand forecasts, which show an expected rise in UK port freight tonnage overall, particularly of roll-on-roll-off cargo such as cars, buses, trailers, etc, as well as containers and dry bulks.

    Taking these forecasts into account, the revisions will help secure the long-term future of ports, ensuring they are equipped to handle growing trade demands and to best meet the needs of the country in terms of the movements of goods and people.

    Richard Ballantyne OBE, Chief Executive of the British Ports Association, said:

    The ports industry is optimistic about its long-term future, with significant growth expected in trade volumes and other sectors such as offshore wind. A refreshed ports policy statement is welcome recognition from government of the value of port development and expansion to the UK’s future prosperity. We hope it will speed up planning processes, delivering on shared industry and government economic growth ambitions.

    Geraint Evans, Chief Executive of UK Major Ports Group, said:

    Ports are central to delivering the government’s ambitions on economic growth and clean energy and the draft national policy statement rightly recognises the vital role our sector plays across the UK – alongside the need to unlock its full potential by speeding up consents for sustainable port development.

    With the right policy frameworks, major ports can double the levels of private investment – going further and faster – opportunity for coastal communities nationwide.

    Matt Beeton, Chief Executive of the Port of Tyne, said:

    Growth at our ports is vital to the UK economy. The government’s modernisation agenda will reset the maritime sector, attract significant investment, ensure our ports are fit for the future and boost generational employment opportunities.

    Claudio Veritiero, CEO of Peel Ports Group, said:

    Ports are the unsung heroes of the UK economy, and this is an extremely encouraging development. We have invested more than £1 billion in the last decade and intend to exceed that level of investment in the coming years.

    We want to be able to invest for the future, creating jobs and opportunities right across the country and anything that streamlines that process and allows us to create conditions for economic growth is to be welcomed.

    Professor Chris Shirling-Rooke MBE, Chief Executive of Maritime UK, said:

    We welcome this announcement, which will provide valuable support for our coastal communities. These regions represent a significant opportunity for economic growth and job creation, vital for strengthening our proud maritime nation. We appreciate the government’s continued commitment to the maritime sector and this announcement highlights just that.

    Industry and the wider public are now invited to give their views on the proposals as part of a consultation on the NPSP.

    This is part of the government’s determination to go lockstep with the sector, to ensure prosperity for industry as well as for people across the UK.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Former world darts champion Rob Cross banned as director over unpaid taxes [June 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Former world darts champion Rob Cross banned as director over unpaid taxes [June 2025]

    The press release issued by the Insolvency Service on 5 June 2025.

    Darts professional banned after company failed to pay hundreds of thousands of pounds in tax.

    • Former world darts champion Rob Cross has been disqualified as a director after his company failed to pay more than £450,000 in tax
    • The Insolvency Service also found Cross withdrew more than £300,000 from Rob Cross Darts Limited between March 2020 and November 2023 that should have gone to creditors
    • Cross has now been banned as a company director until June 2030 and entered into an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) last year in a bid to pay off some of the money he owes

    Former world darts champion Rob Cross has been banned as a director for five years after his company failed to pay more than £450,000 in tax.

    Cross, known for winning the PDC World Darts Championship in 2018 and five World Series of Darts titles, was the director of Rob Cross Darts Limited, which was set up for the 34-year-old to receive his earnings and prize money.

    However, between March 2020 and November 2023, Cross removed more than £300,000 in company money which should have been paid to creditors, including to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

    He had also taken out more than £400,000 from Rob Cross Darts Limited in the form of a director’s loan account by the time the company went into liquidation.

    In an attempt to repay part of his debts, Cross has entered into an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA), a legally binding agreement where he has committed to making regular payments to an insolvency practitioner. The monthly contributions Cross makes to the IVA will vary depending on the income he receives through his performances at darts tournaments during this year and future years.

    Kevin Read, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said:

    When directors fail to pay the correct amount of tax, it directly impacts the government’s ability to fund vital public services such as the NHS, schools, transport infrastructure, and our national defence.

    Rob Cross’s company owed more than £400,000 in corporation tax alone when it went into liquidation. For more than three years, he withdrew funds from the company which should have gone to HMRC and other creditors.

    This case demonstrates that we will pursue action against directors who deprive the public purse of much-needed funds. The rules apply equally to everyone in business, and we expect all company directors to comply with their legal responsibilities.

    Enforcing these rules consistently is crucial in maintaining a level playing field and preventing companies from gaining an unfair competitive advantage over compliant businesses that properly fulfil their tax obligations.

    Rob Cross Darts Limited was formed in May 2017, with Cross appointed as director on the same day.

    Insolvency Service investigations found that the company received just more than £1 million from Cross’s earnings between the start of March 2020 and the date of liquidation in November 2023.

    A total of £169,500 in sponsorships and £261,901 from his management company was also paid in to the company.

    However, in the same period, Cross withdrew funds of at least £306,403 from the company which he acknowledged was “to the risk and ultimate detriment of HMRC”.

    A further £665,419 was paid into the personal account of a connected party.

    By the time the company went into liquidation, it owed £403,896 in corporation tax, £49,071 in VAT, and £12,436 in PAYE and National Insurance contributions.

    The company had only paid £41,936 to HMRC between March 2020 and November 2023.

    Cross’s director’s loan account was also overdrawn by £423,608 when the company went into liquidation with liabilities of £579,805.

    The Secretary of State for Business and Trade accepted a disqualification undertaking from Cross, and his ban started on Thursday 5 June.

    It prevents him from being involved in the promotion, formation or management of a company, without the permission of the court.

    Further information

    • Rob Cross’s correspondence address is Level Street, Brierley Hill, West Midlands. His date of birth is 21 September 1990