Tag: 2025

Peter Swallow – 2025 Speech on the Mental Health Bill and Legislative Scrutiny

The speech made by Peter Swallow, the Labour MP for Bracknell, in the House of Commons on 22 May 2025.

It is an honour to present to the House the Joint Committee on Human Rights’ report into the Mental Health Bill. As Members will know, the Joint Committee is a cross-party body of both Houses, chaired by Lord Alton of Liverpool, whose remit is to examine matters relating to human rights within the UK, including through legislative scrutiny.

Over the course of our inquiry into the Bill, we have examined legal frameworks and witness submissions and, crucially, heard from those with direct experience of the mental health system. As part of our inquiry, the Committee convened a roundtable with individuals who had experienced detention under the Mental Health Act 1983. Their testimonies were powerful, candid and often harrowing. They spoke of the trauma of being sectioned, the overuse of medication and restraint, and the disempowerment from being detained in facilities that too often felt isolating rather than therapeutic.

Participants have since shared with us

“how important this visibility was to them, to see their evidence truly listened to and shared publicly”.

Hearing directly from people with lived experience was not just informative; it was essential. These conversations grounded our scrutiny in the realities faced by patients and families. The insights shared at that roundtable shaped our thinking and sharpened our final recommendations. As one participant told us:

“lived experience matters. Using it to inform policy should be the standard, not a shock.”

I take this opportunity to thank all those who contributed to the roundtable, often at the cost of revisiting past trauma. The Committee is also grateful for the expert work of the Committee’s legal counsel, particularly Alex Gask who led on this work, as well as Thiago Simoes Froio and Hafsa Saeed who led on the delivery of the roundtable event.

It became clear over the course of our scrutiny just how overdue the Mental Health Bill had become. It will introduce substantial changes to the Mental Health Act, which provides the legal framework for the detention and compulsory treatment of people with “mental disorders”—an outdated term, but one that remains part of our law. The changes introduced by the Bill will bring our mental health legislation into the 21st century, strengthen patient rights and help end practices that bring more harm than good.

When people hear about detention under the Mental Health Act, many instinctively think of those who have committed the most serious and violent crimes. They picture high-security hospitals such as Broadmoor, which happens to be located in my constituency. I have had the opportunity to visit Broadmoor. The work they do there is outstanding; it is vital, world-leading work that deals with some of the most complex and challenging cases in psychiatric medicine.

Let us be clear, though: the reality of detention under the Mental Health Act is not limited to high-security hospitals or individuals convicted of serious crimes. Many people detained under the Act are not criminals. Many of them are children, young people and adults with autism or learning disabilities who are detained not because they pose a danger to others, but because the support they need in their communities simply is not there. This is not just inefficient, it can often be deeply traumatising and raises significant human rights concerns.

That is why the Committee welcomes the major changes introduced by the Government’s Bill. It will end the detention of individuals under section 3 of the Mental Health Act solely on the basis that they are autistic or have a learning disability; tighten the criteria for detention and require decision makers to consider the nature, degree and likelihood of harm before deciding to detain; introduce the concept of a nominated person to replace the outdated nearest relative system; and remove police stations and prisons as places of safety for individuals in crisis. As stated in the evidence we received from witnesses, those are important, welcomed and long-awaited reforms. They reflect the breadth of the Government’s consultations and prove that the Government listened to the information they received.

While welcoming the Bill’s direction of travel, the Committee believes that there are areas where the Government could go even further to provide enhanced protections for human rights. That is why, based on the evidence we received during the inquiry, we have recommended a few key amendments. First, we recommend a new clause to ensure that children detained under the Mental Health Act are accommodated on adult wards only when that is demonstrably in their best interests.

Secondly, we recommend an amendment to clause 1 to include equity as a fifth guiding principle under the Act. This would refer specifically to addressing inequalities in treatments and outcomes on racial grounds in particular, and I welcome the Health Secretary saying on Second Reading of the Bill on Monday:

“People from ethnic minority communities, especially black African and Caribbean men, are more than three times as likely to be sectioned.”—[Official Report, 19 May 2025; Vol. 767, c. 783.]

In our report, we find that adding equity as a guiding principle would do more to address racial disparities.

Thirdly, we recommend an amendment to clause 32 to shorten the review periods for restricted patients who are discharged into conditions amounting to the deprivation of liberty. The first review will be required within six months, rather than 12, and subsequent reviews will take place annually, rather than every two years.

Those key amendments come amid a range of other recommendations. Recent case law shows that mental health patients in state-commissioned and funded but privately provided care do not come within the protection of the Human Rights Act. That loophole must be closed, and we recommend that the Government do just that.

We also heard evidence that the question of when the Mental Health Act and when the Mental Capacity Act should govern a patient’s deprivation of liberty and treatment is far too complex and raises human rights concerns, not least because depriving a person of their liberty on any ground can be justified only if the legal basis is clear. We therefore recommend that the Government carry out an urgent review and provide the clarity that is currently lacking on this question.

Another crucial area the Bill covers is the rights of children, who are particularly vulnerable when assessed or treated under the Mental Health Act. Many of the proposed changes to the law will be positive for children, including the introduction of an opt-out approach to receiving a report from independent mental health advocates, but we recommend that the Government consult on introducing a statutory test for assessing whether under-16s are competent to consent or to refuse consent to treatment—a cornerstone of compliance with a child’s human rights.

The Committee also deems it vital that prisoners whose mental health makes holding them in prison unsuitable are transferred promptly to an appropriate setting. Keeping them in prison may result in human rights breaches. In our report, we welcome the introduction in the Bill of a statutory 28-day timeframe for hospital transfer. Relevant data should be collected and made available to monitor and help to ensure compliance with that standard.

The Committee welcomes changes to restriction orders placed on a small number of offenders detained under a hospital order, but the Government should consider introducing more prompt and regular reviews by the mental health tribunal, to ensure that any loss of liberty is justified. Witnesses told us that, in the absence of effective support in the community, autistic people and people with learning disabilities could still end up in unjustified detention on other legal bases. The Government have stated that the change in the Bill will come into force only where there are strong community services in place, but it is vital that this does not delay the much-needed reform. We therefore welcome the Government’s commitment to provide a written ministerial statement annually to both Houses of Parliament setting out progress to date on implementation. On what more the Bill could do to improve the prospects of patients receiving timely care in the community, we also ask the Government to consider introducing an English equivalent to the right to a mental health assessment that applies in Wales.

The report makes it clear that much more is needed to fix the broken mental health system in this country, and I know the Government recognise that as well. This is a small, targeted Bill, which will not change everything, but the changes it will introduce are significant and long overdue. The Government have committed to introducing mental health experts in every school, to set up Young Futures hubs and to recruit 8,500 more mental health staff. By focusing on community-based interventions and driving down waiting lists for mental health support alongside the welcome changes in the Bill, we can turn the tide and fix our broken mental health system, so that the human rights of all those with mental health needs are properly protected and they can get the support they need.

I commend this report to the House.

May 29, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : UK Government launches newly digitised historic editions of world’s oldest English language daily newspaper [May 2025]
The press release issued by the Northern Ireland Office on 29 May 2025.

From today (Thursday 29 May) copies from three centuries of the historic Belfast title will become accessible to the public online for the first time.
- Belfast News Letter editions featuring key historical moments from the 18th-20th centuries now online, including the signing of the American Declaration of Independence.
- Project delivers Safeguarding the Union command paper commitment.
People around the world can now access newly digitised historic editions of the world’s oldest English language daily newspaper still in circulation, thanks to a UK Government project to highlight Northern Ireland’s cultural heritage.

From today (Thursday 29 May) copies from three centuries of the historic Belfast title will become accessible to the public online for the first time, strengthening understanding of Northern Ireland’s newspaper heritage around the world and delivering on commitments made in the Safeguarding the Union command paper.

First published in September 1737, the News Letter will mark its 288th anniversary as the oldest continuously published English language daily paper this year. The Northern Ireland Office has worked in partnership with the British Library and Findmypast to expand the online collection of the historic publication on the British Newspaper Archive dating to the late 18th, early 19th and 20th centuries.

Announcing the launch, Secretary of State Hilary Benn visited the British Library in London to view the new additions to the online archive. The British Library provided originals of the News Letter in microfilm and newspaper format, which were digitised by the online platform Findmypast, which has spent nearly 15 years working on a separate collaborative project to digitise the British Library’s vast newspaper collection.

The Secretary of State, Hilary Benn, said:

It was wonderful to be able to view the newly digitised editions of the Belfast News Letter at the British Library in London using the online archive.

Bringing Northern Ireland’s newspaper heritage to a global audience will encourage research, exploration and appreciation of Northern Ireland’s rich political and cultural history.

This UK Government project has opened up a unique resource to readers and researchers in nations around the world with historic links to Northern Ireland, including the USA.

The archive is available online through the British Newspaper Archive and on Findmypast, and can be viewed freely at the British Library sites in London and Yorkshire, as well as at any library or by any private individual around the world with a subscription.

Lee Wilkinson, Managing Director of DCThomson History, which owns Findmypast and the British Newspaper Archive, said:

We’re delighted to bring these historic News Letter pages to the public, enabling more people to access this rich resource documenting Northern Ireland’s past at the click of a mouse.

Over the past 15 years, through our unique relationship with the British Library, we have been able to bring millions of these key historical records to communities across the globe, so that families and researchers alike can uncover and understand their heritage.

Rebecca Lawrence, Chief Executive of the British Library, said:

We are thrilled to make all known surviving copies of the News Letter accessible for the first time through the British Newspaper Archive, in partnership with Findmypast and the UK government. As the world’s oldest English language general daily newspaper still in circulation, the historic Belfast title offers insight into centuries of life, politics, and culture in Northern Ireland and beyond.

The British Library is custodian of one of the world’s largest news archives, with over 60 million newspaper issues dating back to the 1600s, alongside growing collections of broadcast and digital news. Digitising all known surviving copies of the News Letter and making them available online preserves a vital piece of heritage and opens up the archive to researchers around the world.

David Montgomery, founder, National World, said:

Digitising The News Letter is an important step in preserving the paper’s iconic history of covering news from Northern Ireland and across the world for three centuries. By making historic copies of the paper available, we can recognise its continuing role in delivering quality journalism on stories that matter to its community.
May 29, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : More support for neurodivergent children in mainstream schools [May 2025]

The press release issued by the Department for Education on 29 May 2025.

Around 300,000 children across 1,200 primary schools to benefit from earlier and better neurodiversity support.

Around 300,000 children, including those with conditions such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, will be better supported to achieve and thrive as the government expands successful programme to help boost attendance and behaviour.

Backed by £9.5 million in government funding, the Partnership for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools (PINS) programme – which supports neurodiverse students by training teachers to identify and better meet their needs and improves parental engagement – will be extended for another year across a further 1,200 schools.

One in seven children are estimated to be neurodiverse, and a lack of specialist training and awareness to support them means they often face bullying, higher rates of suspensions due to challenging behaviour, absence, and poor mental health.

The positive impact of the PINs programme is already being seen in 1,600 primary schools which have previously taken part, with staff reporting increased attendance, improved behaviour, and better pupil wellbeing – which in turn benefits the entire school community.

It ensures mainstream primary schools are more inclusive, enabling more children with SEN to thrive with their peers, meaning special schools can cater to those with the most complex needs – in line with the Government’s vision for a reformed SEND system as part of its Plan for Change.

Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson said:

The impact on life chances when there is a lack of appropriate support for neurodivergent children can be devastating.

We want a different future for children with SEND: inclusive and tailored to meet their needs, so everyone has the chance to achieve and thrive, and excellence is for every child.

As part of our Plan for Change, we are determined to fix the broken SEND system and restore the trust of parents by ensuring schools have the tools to better identify and support children before issues escalate to crisis point.

Some neurodivergent children are highly sensitive to loud noises or bright lights, leading to sensory overload which makes it difficult to learn, while others have difficulty understanding social cues or communication, leading to feelings of isolation.

Others can find skills such as managing time difficult, impacting their ability to complete tasks, and some may experience hyperactivity or difficulties with emotional regulation, which make behaviour challenging. On top of this, some pupils ‘mask’, which can lead to increased anxiety and burnout.

Through the PINS programme, specialist education and health professionals provide vital training to school staff to better identify conditions and access interventions tailored to their specific needs, and to better understand how to interact with neurodivergent children in a supportive way.

Schools are also expected to host termly meetings with parents and carers, allowing them to feedback on the school’s approach to supporting children’s needs, increasing parental confidence.

Carfield Primary School in Yorkshire received support from a speech and language team and occupational therapist through the PINS programme which helped teachers better identify and support children’s needs.

They now open the school gates earlier and stagger their lunch time for pupils to ensure there is a calmer, more regulated school environment to avoid overstimulation. Plus, each child has a profile for teachers to understand their individualised needs.

Parent at the school, Abi Olajide, said:

My son was finding some aspects of school difficult and I felt isolated until I was invited to a parents’ forum which made me feel like I wasn’t alone and we were in it together.

We got the opportunity to encourage one another as parents and better learn how to support our children’s needs. My son’s class teacher is marvellous and is always giving updates on how he’s getting on. Before PINs, I didn’t know what to do but now the school and parents are all linked up and work in partnership.

My son has improved in reading and in his enjoyment of school and he is starting to have better relationships with his peers. I feel really grateful for PINs because of all the support my son is getting, and how well he is now doing at school.

Bethan Arthur, SENCO and Deputy Head Teacher at the school, said:

We have seen a massive improvement in the schools’ relationship with parents and a significant improvement in children’s attendance – from 93% to 95%, which has been supported by engaging with the PINS programme.

Tom Cahill, National Director for learning disability and autism at NHS England, said:

It is fantastic news that thousands more neurodivergent children are to be better supported to thrive in mainstream primary schools.

I visited a PINS primary school and saw first hand how health professionals can support schools in meeting the needs of neurodivergent children – I heard from parents who appreciated the support without the need for diagnoses or waiting lists.

Effective partnerships between local NHS systems, local authorities, schools and parent carer forums allows schools to access specialist health professionals to provide advice and training. Strengthening relationships between schools and parent carers ultimately leads to improved children’s experiences at school and provides us with a blueprint for the future.

Sarah Clarke and Jo Harrison, Directors and Co-Chairs of the National Network of Parent Carer Forums said:

The PINS programme has been an inspiring initiative, bringing together educators, health professionals, and parents to ensure neurodivergent children receive the support they need in their local schools.

Through close collaboration with families and Parent Carer Forums, the programme has strengthened communication and mutual understanding between schools and families, leading to reduced isolation for those with SEND and improved access to additional support services. This collective effort has created a powerful network of expertise dedicated to improving outcomes for all neurodivergent children.

The Government established its Neurodivergence “Task and Finish Group”, led by Professor Karen Guldberg, which brings together a group of experts to drive understanding of how to improve inclusivity and expertise in mainstream schools, in a way that works for neurodivergent children and young people.

Professor Karen Guldberg, the Chair of the Neurodivergence Task and Finish Group, said:

I welcome the expansion of the Partnerships for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools (PINS) programme. It focuses on strengthening the knowledge, understanding and skills of those who support neurodiverse children and young people in mainstream schools.

It is an excellent example of strong partnership work between education, health and parent carers to meet the needs of neurodiverse children and young people.

This comes as £740 million has been invested to encourage councils to create more specialist places in mainstream schools, driving inclusivity and enabling more children to achieve and thrive at their local school.

May 29, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Uruguay’s Deputy Chief of Staff and Interior Minister visited UK [May 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 28 May 2025.

On their first official visit to London, Deputy Chief of Staff Jorge Díaz and Interior Minister Carlos Negro held meetings related to justice and security.

The main objective of the visit was to learn from experiences that will contribute to discussions on the creation of a Ministry of Justice and Human Rights in Uruguay.

Between May 20 and 23, 2025, they met with government officials, academics, private sector companies, and non-governmental organizations, including two roundtables on cybersecurity and the space industry, in which more than 12 local counterparts participated. Additionally, they visited Parliament, the Supreme Court of Justice, the London Magistrates’ Court, and the Prosecutor’s Office.

Ambassador Mal Green stated:

The purpose of this invitation from the British government is to share experiences, ideas, challenges, and lessons learned to support the planning that the Uruguayan government is undertaking for the creation of its Ministry of Justice, as well as to exchange views on a priority for both countries: security.

I trust that the connections established will continue to deepen in the coming months through future virtual and in-person meetings, training, and technical cooperation.

Deputy Secretary Díaz expressed being pleasantly surprised by the level of pragmatism and professionalism with which security-related public policies and the Ministry of Justice operate in the United Kingdom, according to the official Presidency website.

The activity agenda included meetings with Lords who were involved in the formation of this Ministry, created in 2007, and its leadership, as well as with current authorities such as the Undersecretary of Justice, Lord Frederick Ponsonby. Frederick Ponsonby is a relative of John Brabazon Ponsonby, a British diplomat who played a decisive role in the independence of Uruguay in 1828.

This was the first official visit of authorities from Yamandú Orsi’s government to the United Kingdom, further strengthening the historical relationship and collaboration between both countries, which now spans nearly two centuries.

May 28, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Israel must immediately let aid into Gaza and enable the UN to operate – UK statement at the UN Security Council [May 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 28 May 2025.

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

I thank Special Coordinator Sigrid Kaag and Dr Sidwah for their briefings today, which painted a catastrophic picture.

Let me pay tribute to you and to your humanitarian and health worker colleagues working tirelessly to alleviate this suffering.

I will make three points.

First, the UK has always supported Israel’s right to defend itself. It suffered a heinous attack by Hamas on 7 October, and hostages have been through an unimaginable ordeal. We reiterate our call for their immediate and unconditional release and accountability for those responsible.

But as my Prime Minister has said, we strongly oppose the Israeli Government’s escalating military action in Gaza which is wholly disproportionate.

An immediate ceasefire, not more bloodshed, is the way to secure the release of the hostages and stop the endless cycle of violence.

Second, as we have heard again today, the level of human suffering in Gaza is intolerable. Civilians face starvation, displacement and trauma.

The UN warned of the risks from the Israeli Government’s plan for aid delivery. In Rafah yesterday, we saw this warning become a reality. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation lost control of its distribution centre, with multiple casualties reported and great distress for those desperately seeking aid.

In contrast, the UN has a clear plan to deliver lifesaving aid at scale. It contains robust mitigations against aid diversion. Brave humanitarians stand ready to do their jobs. 9,000 trucks wait at the border.

Our message to Prime Minister Netanyahu is clear: let aid in and enable the UN to operate, now.

We reiterate our support for the UN, OCHA and all its aid agencies.

We also reject the Israeli Government’s unacceptable intention to take control of the Gaza Strip. Permanent forced displacement is a breach of international humanitarian law.

Third, President, in the West Bank, violent settlers continue to assault and abuse Palestinians, forcing entire communities to flee. In Jerusalem, provocative visits to Holy Sites and inflammatory language by Israeli ministers are adding to the tensions.

On 20 May, the UK announced further sanctions on individuals and entities promoting violence against Palestinian communities in the West Bank.

We will continue to act against those committing these abuses.

President, the UK will not give up on a two-state solution, and we will continue to work closely with France, Saudi Arabia and all our partners towards a successful conference in June, which moves us towards this goal.

And finally, let me finish by condemning the horrific murders of Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim in Washington DC last week, and offering condolences to their families and to their colleagues.

May 28, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Russia’s continued contravention of OSCE principles – UK Statement to the OSCE [May 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 28 May 2025.

UK Counsellor, Ankur Narayan, says that in line with the OSCE Code of Conduct, the UK will continue to support Ukraine towards achieving a just and lasting peace, while continuing to urge Russia to return to full compliance – including withdrawing to within its own internationally recognised borders.

Thank you, Madam Chair, for hosting this FSC Security Dialogue on the Code of Conduct on Politico-Military Aspects of Security. Thank you also to the distinguished speakers for their interventions.

My statement today will focus on the purpose of the Code, which democratic control is designed to ensure implementation of. Namely, the commitment of States to abide by the Helsinki Final Act and to respond when these principles are breached in the OSCE region.

As per paragraph 1 of the Code, the “implementation in good faith of all commitments” are of “fundamental importance for stability and security”, and “consequently constitute a matter of direct and legitimate concern to all of them”. As we know, the Code spells these commitments out. Commitments such as “respect for each other’s sovereign equality and individuality”. Such as “the right freely to choose its own security arrangements … to belong or not to belong to … treaties of alliance”.

The Code explicitly states: “No participating State will attempt to impose military domination over any other participating State”. This includes not stationing armed forces in the territories of other States without a freely negotiated agreement … in accordance with international law.

Madam Chair, as detailed at the weekly FSC, Russia remains in breach of multiple commitments in the OSCE’s Zone of Application. Namely in Moldova, in Georgia and in Ukraine.

The Code is clear about what States must do in response: “In the event of armed conflict, they will seek to facilitate the effective cessation of hostilities and seek to create conditions favourable to the political solution of the conflict.” It adds that States are determined to “act in solidarity if CSCE norms and commitments are violated” and to “facilitate concerted responses”. It provides that States will: “consult promptly … with a participating State seeking assistance in realizing its individual or collective self-defence”. It also provides that States will “consider jointly the nature of the threat and actions that may be required in defence of their common values.”

In line with Code, we support Ukraine to defend itself, in line with the UN Charter and Helsinki Final Act principles. In line with the Code, we commend Ukraine’s steadfast commitment to reaching a just and lasting peace. And in line with the Code, we keep on calling on Russia to withdraw fully and unconditionally, from the whole territory of Ukraine, to inside its internationally recognised borders. And to return to the path of peace, starting with an immediate, unconditional ceasefire.

May 28, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : UK reaffirms its support for Ukraine’s self-defence, while President Putin rejects ceasefire as war deepens Russia’s economic and global isolation – UK Statement to the OSCE [May 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 28 May 2025.

UK Military Advisor, Lt Col Joby Rimmer, says that Russia’s invasion shatters European security and undermines peace. Despite President Putin’s claims, continued attacks show absolutely no intent to negotiate. The UK urges an immediate, lasting ceasefire to enable real dialogue and end the humanitarian crisis.

Thank you, Madam Chair. The United Kingdom remains resolute in its commitment to supporting Ukraine in the face of Russia’s ongoing illegal invasion. Our immediate priority is to secure a ceasefire as swiftly as possible – one that endures long enough to create the conditions necessary for meaningful negotiations toward a robust and lasting peace.

President Putin claims that he is interested in peace, all the while Russian attacks increasingly escalate the humanitarian crisis. These are not the actions of a government seeking peaceful resolution, but of one determined to prolong suffering and instability. Over the weekend, Russia launched a massive aerial assault involving 69 missiles and 298 drones, targeting over 30 cities and towns across Ukraine. At least 12 civilians, including children, were killed, and dozens more were injured. Kyiv was among the hardest hit, suffering casualties and significant damage during its Kyiv Day celebrations. A symbolic, cynical and deliberate act of aggression.

At last week’s Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC), Russia accused NATO of ‘pumping up military budgets and militarising at the expense of ordinary taxpayers.’ As it continues to escalate the conflict, the economic toll on Russia’s own population is becoming increasingly severe: Interest rates in Russia have surged to 21%, reflecting deep financial instability; 40% of Russia’s federal government spending in 2025 has been committed to defence; for the first time in post-Soviet history, defence spending has exceeded social spending; Russia has depleted two-thirds of the liquid assets in its National Wealth Fund; and due to international sanctions, Russia has lost an estimated $450 billion USD in energy revenues. These figures reveal a government that clearly prioritises war over the welfare of its own citizens. The Kremlin’s choices are impoverishing Russia. We stand ready to ratchet up the pressure on President Putin with new sanctions if our calls for a ceasefire are not answered now.

The UK stands by its economic and military support to Ukraine – a sovereign nation defending itself against an unprovoked attack. We would remind Russia, that alongside the billions already committed in aid and military assistance, the UK is also investing in Ukraine’s long-term recovery and reconstruction through non-military support. It is estimated that Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction will require $524 billion USD over the next decade. It represents the cost of rebuilding homes, schools, hospitals, and infrastructure destroyed by Russian aggression. It is a moral and strategic investment in the future of a free and democratic Ukraine.

The United Kingdom condemns Russia’s illegal invasion in the strongest possible terms. We will continue to stand with Ukraine – militarily, economically, and diplomatically -until peace is achieved, and Ukraine’s sovereignty is safeguarded. Russia’s invasion is a flagrant violation of international law, of the United Nations Charter and the principles enshrined in the 1975 Helsinki Final Act, to which Russia is a signatory. These principles include the sovereign equality of states, the inviolability of frontiers, and the prohibition of the threat or use of force. Russia’s actions have shattered the foundations of European security. Thank you, Madam Chair.

May 28, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : ‘Highly deceptive’ fraudster secured Covid loan funds under his wife’s name and claimed innocent member of the public was his boss [May 2025]
The press release issued by the Insolvency Service on 28 May 2025.

Bounce Back Loan fraudster also produced false invoice to liquidator.
- Shohid Ahmed applied for three Bounce Back Loans using his wife’s name, receiving £100,000 his Indian restaurant was not entitled to
- An invoice claiming to show £15,000 of the loan was spent on refurbishing the restaurant was revealed to be false during Insolvency Service investigations
- Ahmed also filed false documents with Companies House to suggest an innocent member of the public had taken over his business
A Bradford fraudster who secured £100,000 in Covid loan funds he was not entitled to and claimed an innocent member of the public was the director of his company has been jailed.

Shohid Ahmed used his wife’s name to apply for three maximum-value Bounce Back Loans on behalf of Red Square Restaurants Limited, an Indian restaurant on Huddersfield Road in Mirfield.

The 40-year-old received £100,000 of the £150,000 he fraudulently applied for in May and June 2020, with one of the applications refused.

Ahmed then used the personal details of a woman who rented a house from his father without her knowledge to create the illusion that she was the director of the company and had taken over the business.

He also produced invoices claiming to show the legitimate use of the Bounce Back Loans, one of which Insolvency Service investigators found to be fabricated.

Ahmed, of Bardsey Crescent, Bradford, pleaded guilty to offences under the Fraud Act 2006, Companies Act 2006 and Insolvency Act 1986 earlier this year.

He was sentenced to two years in prison at Bradford Crown Court on Tuesday 27 May.

Ahmed has repaid £5,000 of the Bounce Back Loans he illegally secured. The Insolvency Service is seeking to recover the remaining fraudulently obtained funds under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.

David Snasdell, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said:

Shohid Ahmed’s actions were highly deceptive and involved a range of serious offending.

He not only obtained two Bounce Back Loans for the restaurant he earlier had said was no longer trading, but implicated a totally innocent member of the public by creating the false impression that she was now the director of the company.

The Insolvency Service will not hesitate to prosecute Covid fraudsters such as Ahmed who have stolen from the public purse and caused harm to others.

Red Square Restaurants, which traded as Ruby’s Lounge, was incorporated in May 2018, with Ahmed’s wife as the sole director.

Ahmed himself was only officially director of the company for one day, being appointed and then resigning on 10 February 2020.

Despite not being the named director of the company, Ahmed made three Bounce Back Loan applications for Red Square Restaurants in the name of his wife as she had a better credit history than him.

Ahmed also claimed that the company was trading at the beginning of March 2020, to meet the requirements of the scheme.

That claim was contradicted by an application signed by Ahmed to strike the company off the Companies House register in early April 2020.

In the strike-off application, Ahmed said that the company had not traded in the previous three months.

Money from the Bounce Back Loans was also not used for the economic benefit of the business, as it should have been under the scheme.

Ahmed claimed that an invoice of £15,000 showed that money was spent on an interior redesign of his restaurant using a firm based in Stockton-on-Tees.

However, investigators found that the address for the design company Ahmed claimed to have used was actually a cafe which had been trading for 37 years.

Neither the cafe which occupied the unit or the landlord who manages the building had ever heard of the firm of interior designers.

A liquidator was appointed to wind-up Red Square Restaurants in July 2020.

Shortly before this, Ahmed filed false documents with Companies House claiming that a new director had been appointed on New Year’s Day in 2020.

Insolvency Service investigators spoke to the listed director who confirmed that she had no association whatsoever with Red Square Restaurants and had simply rented a house from Ahmed’s father.

However, Ahmed falsely claimed that she was the manager of the business who ran it day-to-day and had the power to recruit and dismiss members of staff.

Ahmed also falsely claimed that she had taken out both Bounce Back Loans and had access to the bank accounts where the money was deposited.

He added that he was a waiter and drew a salary of only £12,000.

Ahmed was disqualified as a company director for 11 years in December 2021 for his misconduct at Red Square Restaurants.

A restaurant under a different name now operates from the same address that Red Square Restaurants traded from. Shohid Ahmed is not a director of this company.

Further information
- Shohid Ahmed is of Bardsey Crescent, Bradford. His date of birth is 23 January 1985
May 28, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : 30 girls win opportunity to become Ambassadors For A Day [May 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 28 May 2025.

The Ambassador For A Day competition celebrates the potential of Lebanon’s young people as it gives girls the opportunity to shadow heads of missions.

On Tuesday 27 May, the British, Canadian and Jordanian embassies jointly hosted a reception to celebrate the thirty winners, from across various regions and backgrounds in Lebanon, of this year’s “Ambassador For A Day” competition. Each winner will spend one day shadowing an Ambassador, Senior UN or Lebanese official. This promises to be an unforgettable opportunity to build confidence, leadership, and diplomatic skills.

This year’s competition was launched on International Women’s Day (IWD) on 8 March. Over 300 girls aged 15-18 years old submitted entries on the International Women’s Day 2025 theme “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment”.

They answered the question: “If you were an Ambassador for a Day, what actions would you take to accelerate gender equality including equal rights, power and opportunities?’’

A huge thank you to the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, the British Council, Arab and Foreign Ambassadors, Lebanese Diplomats and UN Heads of Mission for supporting the initiative.

The British Ambassador to Lebanon, Hamish Cowell said:

Congratulations to 30 remarkable young girls whose creative and insightful entries inspired us. Your voices are powerful and your impact is real. Be proud of this incredible achievement — young leaders like you are shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for Lebanon.

The Canadian Ambassador to Lebanon, Stefanie McCollum said:

Inclusion is not limited to questions of gender equality. Canada believes that inclusion means taking into account the experiences of people facing discrimination based on gender, income, race, religion, language, ability and age, in everything that we do. I’m hopeful that you will carry on values of diversity and inclusion as you pursue your education, and eventually your careers.

The Jordanian Ambassador to Lebanon, Walid Al Hadid said:

Empowering women is not only a matter of justice, but a cornerstone of resilient and prosperous societies. No nation can truly thrive when half of its voices remain unheard. The creativity and determination shown by the 30 young participants reflect a spirit we deeply value, and one that resonates with Jordan’s continued efforts to promote rights, inclusion, and equal opportunity. Your voices matter, and I am confident you will help shape a more just and inclusive future.

May 28, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Commission launches ambitious Strategy to make Europe a startup and scaleup powerhouse [May 2025]
The press release issued by the European Commission on 28 May 2025.

Today, the European Commission has launched the EU Startup and Scaleup Strategy, ‘Choose Europe to Start and Scale’, to make Europe a great place to start and grow global technology-driven companies. The Strategy aligns with the broader ‘Choose Europe’ initiative, launched by President von der Leyen. This initiative focused first on the science component promoting a unified European approach to attract and retain talent, thereby strengthening Europe’s competitiveness.

Startups and scaleups are essential to Europe’s future, driving innovation and sustainable growth, creating high-quality jobs, attracting investment and reducing strategic dependencies. Yet, despite strong foundations, too many still struggle to take ideas from lab to market or grow at scale within the EU.

The Strategy addresses these challenges by supporting them throughout their lifecycle, from starting up to scaling up to maturing and succeeding here in the EU.

It identifies the key needs of startups and scaleups and is putting forward a set of actions in five main areas:
- Fostering innovation-friendly environment: As outlined in the Single Market Strategy, startups and scaleups need less fragmentation, fewer administrative burdens, as well as rules that are simpler and more supportive across the Single Market. The Commission will propose a European 28^th regime to simplify rules and reduce the cost of failure by addressing critical aspects in areas like insolvency, labour and tax law. The European Business Wallet will enable seamless digital interactions with public administrations across the Union through a unified digital identity for all economic operators. The forthcoming European Innovation Act will further support innovation by promoting regulatory sandboxes.
- Driving better financing: Startups and scaleups need better funding, a larger and more integrated EU venture capital (VC) market and greater involvement of European institutional investors. The Savings and Investments Union initiative will be key to unlocking more financing and investment opportunities in the EU. To complement this initiative, the Strategy aims to expand and simplify the European Innovation Council, deploy a Scaleup Europe Fund to help bridge the financing gap of deep tech scale-up companies, and develop a voluntary European Innovation Investment Pact to mobilise large institutional investors to invest in EU funds, venture capital funds and unlisted scaleups.
- Supporting market uptake and expansion: Startups and scaleups need a quicker journey from lab to market. The Strategy introduces a Lab to Unicorn initiative, which includes the European Startup and Scaleup Hubs to help connect university ecosystems across the EU. This includes a blueprint for licensing, royalty and revenue-sharing and equity participation for academic institutions and their inventors when commercialising intellectual property (IP) and creating spinoffs, along with guidance on State aid IP-related rules.
- Attracting and retaining top talent: To keep and attract top talent, startups and scaleups need better access to highly skilled individuals. The Strategy introduces the Blue Carpet initiative, notably focusing on entrepreneurial education, tax-related aspects of employee stock options and cross-border employment. The Commission will also promote the Blue Card Directive and encourage Member States to put in place a fast-track schemes for non-EU founders.
- Facilitating access to infrastructure, networks and service: Startups and scaleups need a shorter time-to-market and quicker commercialisation. The Strategy proposes to simplify and harmonise diverging access and contractual conditions for startups and scaleups to technology and research infrastructures through a Charter of Access for industrial users.
Next Steps

The progress will be monitored using global key performance indicators.

The Commission will report on the Strategy’s implementation by the end of 2027.
May 28, 2025