UKPOL.CO.UK

Tag: 2025

  • PRESS RELEASE : Environment Agency secures over £526K in Proceeds of Crime case linked to Edvars Stancik [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Environment Agency secures over £526K in Proceeds of Crime case linked to Edvars Stancik [May 2025]

    The press release issued by the Environment Agency on 21 May 2025.

    An illegal enterprise in catalytic converters has brought confiscation orders for £526,215.04, at a Proceeds of Crime Award hearing.

    The case led by the Environment Agency was concluded at Lincoln Crown Court on Friday 16 May 2025.

    The ruling was made against Long Sutton-based Platinum Group Metals Recycling Ltd and director Edvars Stancik.

    Recorder John Hardy KC ruled that Stancik, 30, had made a benefit of £4,312,925.70 from his criminal activity while his company made a benefit of £4,344,827.60.

    The court heard assets of £495,280.88 were available from the company made up of cash in a bank account and seized catalytic converters.

    Stancik’s only asset was £30,934.16 from equity in a house he sold before his trial, the court was told.

    Recorder Hardy ordered those amounts to be confiscated and ruled that £100,111.65 should be paid to the Environment Agency to cover costs.

    At a previous hearing (4 September 2024), the company and Stancik were found guilty of running an illegal waste site at Long Sutton.

    The court heard that, between December 2019 and September 2021, Stancik, 30, acted as a director of the company and traded in catalytic convertors on a colossal scale.

    A jury heard that neither Stancik nor his company had obtained an environmental permit before buying and selling thousands of catalytic converters.

    Stancik stored the devices in containers in Long Sutton and were stored in an irresponsible manner giving rise to health risks.

    A warrant for the arrest of Stancik, who is believed to be living in Lithuania, has been issued.  He has been given 3 months to pay or face 5 years in jail.

    The Environment Agency continues to investigate ways of retrieving further proceeds.

    Peter Stark, Environment Agency Enforcement Team Leader, said:

    “Waste criminals should be aware how seriously we take their offending, including the benefit they obtain from their illegal activities.

    “Offenders won’t get away with concealing information or their assets, and due to the EA’s hard work, justice has been served.

    “Waste crime can be a blight on the environment, communities and to legitimate businesses.

    “We will continue to work with professional partners like Lincolnshire Police in this case to prevent, disrupt, investigate, and stop waste offending.

    “If anyone suspects that a company or its directors are doing something wrong, contact our 24/7 hotline on 0800 80 70 60 or report it anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

    The charges:

    Platinum Group Metals Recycling Ltd.

    • Operating a regulated facility, namely a waste operation, otherwise than in accordance with an environmental permit, contrary to Regulation 12(1)(a) and 38(1)(a) of the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016. (Relating to the site at St Thomas Court, Long Sutton).
    • Operating a regulated facility, namely a waste operation, otherwise than in accordance with an environmental permit, contrary to Regulation 12(1)(a) and 38(1)(a) of the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016. (Relating to the site at Lime Walk, Long Sutton)
    • Keeping controlled waste contrary to section 33(1)(c) and (6) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.) (Relating to the site at St Thomas Court, Long Sutton)
    • Keeping controlled waste contrary to section 33(1)(c) and (6) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. (Relating to the site at Lime Walk, Long Sutton)

    Edvars Stancik

    • Causing a company to operate a regulated facility otherwise in accordance with an environmental permit contrary to Regulation 12(1)(a) and 38(1)(a) by virtue of Regulation 41(1) and 41(3) of the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016. (Relating to the site at St Thomas Court, Long Sutton)
    • Causing a company to operate a regulated facility otherwise in accordance with an environmental permit contrary to Regulation 12(1)(a) and 38(1)(a) by virtue of Regulation 41(1) and 41(3) of the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016. (Relating to the site at Lime Walk, Long Sutton)
    • Causing a company to commit an offence, contrary to section 33(1)(c), 33(6) by virtue of s157(1) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. (Relating to the site at St Thomas Court, Long Sutton)
    • Causing a company to commit an offence, contrary to section 33(1)(c), 33(6) by virtue of s157(1) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. (Relating to the site at Lime Walk, Long Sutton)

    Background Information

    Catalytic converters are components in car exhausts.  They contain small amounts of precious metals contained within a metal case making them valuable.

    However, catalytic converters also contain carcinogenic fibres which, if ingested, can cause serious and irreversible lung disease.

    The dangerous fibres can attach to shoes and clothing and be transported from one place to another.

    It is therefore extremely important that catalytic converters are handled only under the strict conditions of an environmental permit, supervised by the Environment Agency.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Record pension scheme funding means up to £160 billion ready to boost growth [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Record pension scheme funding means up to £160 billion ready to boost growth [May 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 21 May 2025.

    The reforms will support the Government’s Plan for Change by boosting economic growth and securing the financial future of millions of UK savers.

    • Funding levels in the Defined Benefit (DB) pension sector have hit a record high, with three in four now in surplus and deficit payments down by over £10 billion a year
    • Increased resilience follows years of businesses creating security for members through building a larger surplus.
    • New freedoms to safely release surplus funding will unlock investments and benefit savers as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.

    Working people, pension scheme members and businesses are set to benefit from record highs in pension scheme funding.

    The majority of DB schemes are now running at a surplus which means the value of their assets exceed that of the promised pension benefits due to members.

    Thanks to the forthcoming Pension Schemes Bill – trustees and employers will soon be able to safely release part of this surplus to boost investment and benefit scheme members.

    Funding levels for DB pension schemes, sometimes known as “Final Salary” pensions, are current in their strongest ever financial position with the number of DB schemes sufficiently financed tripling since 2010.

    Minister for Pensions, Torsten Bell, said:

    The record funding levels for Defined Benefit pension schemes is excellent news for Britain’s employers and workers.

    Fast falling deficit payments offer employers a cashflow boost of over £10 billion a year, that can support higher wages and investment.

    And growing scheme surpluses can also be used productively. Currently some trustees are held back from sharing the benefits of a surplus, but our plans will allow all schemes to safely do so, delivering greater investment across firms and benefits for savers.

    In 2019, just 600 Defined Benefit schemes were financed sufficiently, meaning businesses could meet the costs associated with their schemes without dipping into operational budgets – by 2024 that figure had tripled to over 1,800.

    Because of this robust financial position, the additional payments businesses have had to pay to plug pension deficits has fallen from £16 billion in 2010 to under £5 billion in 2024. This is delivering an immediate cashflow benefit to firms and should support higher levels of investment and wages.

    The funding position of schemes in deficit has improved significantly, from a collective deficit of £500bn in 2019 to a deficit of just £140bn in 2024. Schemes running at a surplus have seen their collective surplus now rise to more than £160bn. Currently, many schemes cannot access their surplus – but the forthcoming Pension Schemes Bill will allow Pension trustees and the sponsoring employers to safely release some surplus to invest back into their businesses and unlock more money for pension scheme members. The upcoming changes will focus on member protection, and trustees will continue to be required to fulfil their duties towards scheme beneficiaries.

    These changes form part of a package of reforms in the upcoming Pension Schemes Bill that will secure the financial future of millions of UK savers and drive long-term economic prosperity.

    Additional Information

  • PRESS RELEASE : 78th World Health Assembly – UK National Statement [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : 78th World Health Assembly – UK National Statement [May 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 21 May 2025.

    The UK’s National Statement for the WHO’s World Health Assembly. Delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Simon Manley.

    Vice President,

    The UK is committed to supporting WHO and its critical leadership role across global health. Only the WHO has the mandate to set global standards in health.

    Even amidst our current challenges, there is a clear opportunity for the WHO to emerge more focused, more agile and more effective. We therefore support the WHO’s vital work on its Transformation Agenda and are pleased to endorse the increase in Assessed Contributions.

    Let me thank the DG and WHO staff for their critical work. And let me pay a particular tribute to the staff on the increasingly dangerous front line of health emergencies, from Kyiv to Khartoum, and from Kivu to Khan Younis.

    This week’s adoption of the Pandemic Agreement is a truly historic milestone for which we have all worked so hard. We must remain just as committed to tackling Anti-Microbial Resistance, which is already directly responsible for over a million deaths annually.

    Chair,

    The quality of WHO’s scientific and technical expertise is fundamental to its effectiveness. We are proud in the UK to host 48 WHO Collaborating Centres. We call for Taiwan to have meaningful access to all relevant technical WHO meetings, and for it to be allowed to observe the WHA as it did from 2009 to 2016.

    Vice President,

    Stronger health systems are at the heart of delivering health services for all and we can – and must – learn from one another. In the UK, we are on the cusp of launching our 10-year health strategy.

    We are committed to tackling non-communicable diseases, including the challenge of obesity, and creating a healthier, fairer food environment. We look forward to working together at the High-Level Meeting on non-communicable diseases.

    Vice-President,

    In the UK, we are proud to work as partners of the WHO and with our fellow Member States. Working together, we can, must, and will drive better health across the globe.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Board of Trade meet to help UK exporters take advantage of new trade deals [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Board of Trade meet to help UK exporters take advantage of new trade deals [May 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 21 May 2025.

    Revamped Board of Trade meet for the first time off the back of trio of trade agreements with India, US and EU.

    • New Board of Trade to meet for the first time to boost exports and grow the economy
    • Comes hot off the heels of three trade agreements in three weeks with US, India and the EU all aimed at supercharging UK exporters
    • Delivering on Plan for Change to fire up small business exporters and grow the economy

    As part of the Government’s plan to boost small business exporters, the newly revamped Board of Trade will meet for the first time today, just weeks after the UK signed two landmark deals with India and the US and a new EU agreement which will boost exports of food and drinks.

    Led by Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, the Board is poised to become a cornerstone of the Government’s Growth Mission, Plan for Change and the wider modern Industrial Strategy to support British businesses to thrive and grow.

    The Board meet fresh off the back of the third major trade agreement in as many weeks, ensuring the UK is facing out into the world again to boost business, support workers and grow the economy.

    This week’s deal with the EU means a new SPS agreement will make it easier for food and drink to exported by reducing the red tape that placed burdens on businesses and led to lengthy lorry queues at the border.

    The new deal with India is expected to be a shot in the arm to the UK’s exports of whiskies and gin, cosmetics, medical devices, advanced machinery and lamb and is expected to increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion.

    Trading with India will be quicker, cheaper, and easier thanks to improved customs processes and by promoting digital systems, which will be particularly important for SMEs who may have otherwise been unable to break into the Indian market.

    Meanwhile the groundbreaking US deal is expected to help grow on the existing £196 billion in annual exports from the UK, with tariffs slashed on the likes of cars and steel.

    Bringing together a powerhouse of business expertise to drive economic growth – the Board are tasked with supercharging UK exports, delivering targeted support for small businesses across the nation and helping firms utilise the exporting opportunities from the UK’s FTAs.

    The high-profile advisory body includes business leaders like Apprentice star Mike Soutar, BT Group Chief Executive Allison Kirkby, and Small Business Britain founder Michelle Ovens CBE, who will serve as ambassadors and advocates for British businesses.

    The meeting comes on the heels of historic trade breakthroughs with both India and the United States, which are set to deliver billions in economic benefits for British businesses and workers.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    “Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for British trade. This Board isn’t just a talking shop – it’s a hands-on, dynamic force that will help businesses of every size access global markets and seize the opportunities created by our landmark trade deals.

    “We’ve already secured the best deal India has ever agreed to, and our US agreement has slashed tariffs for our steel and automotive sectors, protecting hundreds of thousands of British jobs.

    “As part of our Plan for Change, we’re focusing that same determination on helping our small businesses – the beating heart of our economy – to trade more and grow more, supporting good jobs and higher wages across all parts of the UK.”

    The Board will advise on the delivery of the forthcoming Trade Strategy and Small Business Strategy, ensuring both align with the Government’s commitment to nationwide economic growth that raises living standards in every region and nation.

    It comes after the UK and India agreed a landmark trade deal worth £4.8 billion to the UK economy and £2.2 billion to wages every year and slashed tariffs across the board including on whisky, cosmetics, and medical devices.

    It comes also hot on the heels of the historic deal signed with the US, protecting jobs in the automotive, steel, aluminium, pharmaceutical and aerospace sectors – sectors that employ over 320,000 people across the UK.

    In addition, an estimated 260,000 jobs are supported by the auto industry in the wider economy and British farmers now have a major opportunity to sell their high-quality beef to a market of over 300 million people, helping farmers grow their businesses.

    The agreement laid the groundwork for greater trade in the future as we continue talks for a wider deal which will look to increase digital trade, better access for our world-leading services industries and improve supply chains.

    The first meeting of the Board comes as part of a wider series of measures to boost the number of high-growth SMEs across the country.

    The Government has already announced that it will launch a major consultation to tackle the scourge of late payments, while the Budget protected a million small firms from National Insurance increases, extended business rates relief and announced a new Business Growth Service to make it easier and quicker for SMEs to access and benefit from the right government advice and support for their business.

    Board of Trade Advisers

    Omar Ali, Board of Trade Adviser and Global Financial Services Leader at EY, said:

    “Global trade is fiercely competitive, and UK businesses that sell products and services to the world – especially small, entrepreneurial firms – must be supported as they contribute to the international market. Whether it’s UK financial services firms enabling better access to finance or improving digital infrastructure that protects trade, in today’s challenging economic climate, policies and action that enhance productivity and remove friction for SMEs are essential to boost exports and drive growth.”

    Catherine McGuinness CBE, a leading voice for financial and professional business services, said:

    “This is an auspicious time to meet, following the India and US trade agreements and the EU reset. I look forward to working with the Secretary of State and my fellow advisers to encourage the government to use trade levers to drive growth and help businesses to prosper across the UK.”

    Michelle Ovens CBE, Founder, Small Business Britain, said:

    “I am excited to work with the Board of Trade as it accelerates its vital work to boost exports and grow the economy. It is encouraging to see new deals struck in recent weeks and a real boost to energy and ambition. Almost all businesses in the UK are small businesses, and they have a major impact on the economy, employing millions and creating and supporting communities. I am really honoured to contribute to this mission and look forward to working together with all the Board Advisors and entrepreneurs themselves to show the world what the UK’s small business community has to offer.”

    Business reaction to the recent trade agreements:

    Bill Winters CBE, Group Chief Executive of Standard Chartered and Co-Chair of the UK-India Financial Partnership, said:

    “The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is a significant achievement. It will create new opportunities for UK and Indian businesses, enable greater access to one of the world’s largest and most dynamic markets, and drive growth and innovation across the UK-India corridor. We welcome this strong commitment to partnership and prosperity.”

    Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the BCC, said:

    “The US deal was met with a huge sigh of relief by many British businesses.  The reduction in the 25% tariffs on most of our automotive exports and the removal of levies on steel and aluminium were the biggest wins.

    “These sectors had been left reeling as jobs, investment and sales were all cut or put on hold. The framework agreement will give them some much needed certainty. They will be keen to see it quickly enacted so they can swiftly re-establish orders and supply chains.

    “With the India trade deal and the UK-EU Summit agreement also being recently agreed, the government should be congratulated on its recent achievements, but our economy still needs more. Global trading conditions remain precarious. Government must continue to pursue a bold trade agenda and help UK companies seize the opportunities in the fast-growing Indo-Pacific region.”

    On the UK-India FTA, Karen Betts, Chief Executive, The Food and Drink Federation, said:

    “We’re delighted the government has finalised its new Free Trade Agreement with India, which is testament to the hard work of the negotiating team. This is very welcome news for UK food and drink manufacturers, particularly for soft drinks, chocolates, biscuits, crispbreads and crackers, which will now all benefit from tariff-free access to one of the fastest growing markets in the world. The UK exported nearly £300m worth of food and drink to India in 2024, so this FTA represents a significant opportunity for British food and soft drinks.

    “The FTA will also provide UK manufacturers with greater access to ingredients produced in India, strengthening the supply chain resilience and competitiveness for our sector. We look forward to working with government to ensure that the full benefits of the agreement are realised across a wide range of UK food and drink manufacturers.”

    On the US deal, Karen Betts, Chief Executive, The Food and Drink Federation (FDF), said:

    “This is very positive news for the UK economy, and to be welcomed. There is obviously still the question of the 10% tariff that continues to apply to food and drink exports.  We hope that this deal creates the space and momentum for continued discussions about removing those tariffs too.

    “The US is UK food and drink’s third biggest export market, with £2.7bn worth of goods exported there in 2024, many of which are produced by small and medium sized businesses. Government can make a real difference here by providing greater practical guidance and support to help more food and drink businesses find new customers abroad.”

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK attends Kimberley Process Intersessional hosted by the United Arab Emirates [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK attends Kimberley Process Intersessional hosted by the United Arab Emirates [May 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 21 May 2025.

    The United Kingdom reaffirms commitment to the Kimberley Process and support for its tripartite framework following the 2025 Kimberley Process Intersessional.

    The United Kingdom thanks the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for hosting the Kimberley Process Intersessional from 12 to 16 May.

    A strength of the Kimberley Process is its tripartite nature, which brings together leading expert voices from governments, local communities and industry.

    We reaffirm our commitment to listening to and championing the voice of the Civil Society Coalition in the Kimberley Process and look forward to their contributions to the ongoing review and reform cycle.

    We are proud to be a founding member of the Kimberley Process and continue to support the Initiative’s efforts to address the evolving nature of conflicts.

    We look forward in particular to continuing collaboration with all Kimberley Process Participants and Observers on broadening the definition of “conflict diamonds”. This will ensure that the Kimberley Process remains relevant to emerging challenges.

    The Kimberley Process was designed to ensure that diamonds are not used to finance armed conflict. We regret that to date, the Process has not addressed the implications of Russia’s use of rough diamond revenue to fund their illegal war in Ukraine and will continue to press for this to be on its agenda.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Egypt – Mark Bryson-Richardson [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Egypt – Mark Bryson-Richardson [May 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 21 May 2025.

    Mr Mark Bryson-Richardson MBE has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Arab Republic of Egypt in succession to Mr Gareth Bayley OBE who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment. Mr Bryson-Richardson will take up his appointment during August 2025.

    Curriculum Vitae

    Full name: Mark Bryson-Richardson

    Year Role
    2023 to 2025 FCDO, Foreign Secretary’s Representative for Humanitarian Affairs in the Occupied Palestinian Territories
    2023 to 2025 Baghdad, His Majesty’s Ambassador
    2019 to 2020 DFID, Director Middle East, North Africa and Eastern Europe
    2014 to 2019 Stabilisation Unit, Director
    2013 to 2014 Baghdad, Deputy Head of Mission
    2013 Mogadishu, Deputy Head of Mission
    2011 to 2012 FCO, Head of Libya Group and Middle East Operations
    2008 to 2010 Kabul, Political Counsellor
    2006 to 2008 FCO, Head of Middle East Peace Process Team
    2006 to 2008 Khartoum, Deputy Head of Mission
    2000 to 2002 FCO, Cairo, Full Time Arabic language training
    1999 to 2000 FCO, European Union Department (Internal)
    1999 Joined FCO
  • PRESS RELEASE : Cash boost for coastal towns hosting clean energy infrastructure [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Cash boost for coastal towns hosting clean energy infrastructure [May 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 21 May 2025.

    Communities to receive funding for hosting clean energy infrastructure as part of plans to make Britain a clean energy superpower.

    • Britain’s coastal and rural regions to receive a cash boost for hosting the infrastructure needed to make Britain a clean energy superpower
    • communities hosting offshore wind and solar projects in line to receive money from energy developers, to be spent directly on local priorities and services such as community centres, sports facilities, and employment programmes
    • cash boost to regional and local economic growth as part of the Plan for Change

    Britain’s coastal and rural communities will receive a cash boost for new community facilities, better transport links and investment in apprenticeships, under government plans as part of the Plan for Change mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower.

    The proposals will require community benefits for families, businesses and local community groups who live near offshore wind, onshore wind and solar farms.

    They would enshrine in law a requirement for renewable developers to pay into community benefit funds, ensuring infrastructure projects contribute to residents’ lives, the local economy and growth as part of the government’s Plan for Change.

    This could include new grassroots football pitches in Welsh seaside towns, initiatives to get young people into employment on the Yorkshire coast to train the next generation of engineers, and funding for transport links and schools in the Scottish highlands.

    Coastal and rural areas will play a significant role in hosting the clean energy projects needed to get energy bills down for good and deliver energy security with homegrown power that Britain controls.

    In recognition, the funding will channel community investment into where it has real impact – with families in the area deciding where the money should be spent. The plans also set out how communities could own a stake in renewable energy infrastructure through shared ownership, resulting in profits being reinvested back into the community and the British people having a stake in the clean energy transition.

    The level of payments to communities will range depending on the size of infrastructure projects, from tens of thousands of pounds a year for small developments and up to millions of pounds per year for large-scale developments.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

    If you live near an offshore wind or solar farm, your local community should benefit from supporting this nationally critical mission.

    The Prime Minister’s mission to become a clean energy superpower is creating good well-paid jobs in these areas, building the infrastructure we need to get energy bills down for working people.

    Our Plan for Change will revitalise Britain’s coastal and rural communities creating community wealth, better facilities and energy security for the country.

    This will benefit every household in the country by getting the UK off fossil fuel dependency and protecting billpayers from price shocks with clean homegrown power.

    The announcement will build on measures introduced in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill where households within 500 metres of new or upgraded electricity transmission infrastructure will get electricity bill discounts of up to £2,500 over 10 years.

    The proposals seek input on which types of energy infrastructure should be required to pay into community benefit funds, which may include renewable and low-carbon electricity  generation, and energy storage.

    Community benefits are an established part of development for energy infrastructure in many countries, including Ireland, France, Germany, Italy and Spain.

    James Robottom, Head of Policy at RenewableUK, said:

    Renewable energy developers have a long history of providing a wide range of benefits for local communities, such as community benefit funds which support local initiatives, electricity discounts, employment initiatives and environmental projects.

    We welcome the government’s consultation and will engage with it to ensure that the benefits received by local communities hosting energy infrastructure are proportionate and continue to meet their needs. Renewable energy developers are good neighbours and remain committed to providing benefits at an appropriate level to enable local communities to thrive all over the country.

    This builds on Monday’s announcement to support coastal communities with the £360 million Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund, the new SPS (sanitary and phytosanitary) agreement that will slash red tape for UK seafood exporters and businesses, and a new twelve-year fisheries access agreement with the EU securing long-term certainty for British fishing fleets.

    The Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund will see investment in new technology and equipment to modernise Britain’s fishing fleet, deliver new training and skills to back the next generation of fishers and promote the seafood sector to export our high-quality produce across the world.

  • PRESS RELEASE : DIO completes major improvement project in the Falkland Islands [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : DIO completes major improvement project in the Falkland Islands [May 2025]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 21 May 2025.

    Completion of new accommodation and offices at Mount Byron marks major milestone for remote Falklands project.

    The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) has completed the final phase of a major improvement programme at one of the most remote sites on the Defence estate. A new modular accommodation block at Byron Heights in the Falkland Islands has now been handed over, marking the end of a four-year infrastructure project, delivered on behalf of Strategic Command.

    A contract was awarded to VolkerFitzpatrick to replace the original accommodation at Mount Kent, Mount Alice and Byron Heights, originally built in 1984. The new single-storey accommodation blocks now provide modern living and working environments for up to 12 people stationed at each location.

    Designed to support a continuous presence in extreme and isolated conditions, each site includes fully equipped bedrooms, catering services, office space, welfare and leisure facilities, a small gym, plant rooms and temporary transit accommodation, should there be a need for an increase in personnel.

    The new structures are well designed to meet the rigours of the Falklands winter in the mountains and are expected to provide a more energy efficient solution compared to the previous accommodation.

    Nick Andrews-Gauvain, DIO Project Manager, said:

    Building in the Falklands presents unique challenges, from harsh weather conditions to the complexity of an almost 8,000-mile logistic chain, meaning close teamwork between DIO and Volker-Fitzpatrick was vital. The team decided to complete the accommodation at Mount Kent first, allowing us to apply any lessons learnt to the more remote areas of Mount Alice and Byron Heights.

    We are pleased to have completed this project and I have no doubts these new blocks will improve experiences for service and civilian personnel based there.

    Sgt Winter is one of the personnel based at Mount Alice and has moved into the new accommodation. He said:

    The dedicated office space and improved connectivity have made a real difference in how we work, greatly increasing efficiency. The new accommodation has also had a big impact. Being away from loved ones is never easy, but having a comfortable and welcoming place to stay has greatly boosted morale.

    We’re also incredibly grateful to the VolkerFitzpatrick team. Not only did they deliver an excellent build, but they also seamlessly integrated themselves as part of the mountain family.

    A Strategic Command spokesperson said:

    The new accommodation is a major improvement, offering high-quality living and working conditions. Built to withstand extreme weather, including high winds and heavy snowfall, it has already proven its resilience.

    As one of the most remote sites Defence operates in, the construction is a remarkable achievement. It provides everything needed to support our personnel.

    Stuart Deverill, Managing DIrector, VolkerFitzpatrick, Building Division, said:

    Delivering this project is one of the most remote and challenging environments on the Defence estate and has been a true testament to the resilience, commitment and expertise of our team based in the Falkland Islands. From navigating extreme weather to coordinating complex logistics across 8,000 miles, every stage demanded careful planning and collaboration.

    We’re proud to have provided safe, modern and energy-efficient accommodation that will make a real difference from those stationed here.

    The completion of the accommodation at the Byron Heights site marks the final handover in the programme that enhances the UK’s capability to maintain a secure and sustained presence in the South Atlantic.

  • PRESS RELEASE : New Chair of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board appointed [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : New Chair of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board appointed [May 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 21 May 2025.

    Emily Norton will start the role from 1 June.

    Emily Norton has been appointed as the new Chair of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB).

    Emily, who has 25 years of experience in the food and farming sector, will take on the role for three years from 1 June 2025. She will succeed Nicholas Saphir, who is stepping down as Chair after more than five years in the role. AHDB is a statutory levy board funded by around 100,000 farmers and other businesses in the food supply chain. Established in 2008 and classified as a Non-Departmental Public Body, AHDB supports production of Beef, Lamb and Pork in England, Dairy in Great Britain and Cereals & Oilseeds in the UK.

    Appointments to the AHDB board are made by Defra Ministers, with the approval of Ministers in the Scottish, Welsh and Northern Ireland Governments.

    Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner said:

    “Emily Norton’s leadership and extensive experience in a diverse range of sectors will bring fresh perspective and strategic insight to the AHDB. I look forward to working closely with her as we continue to champion our world-class farmers and food producers – driving rural economic growth and strengthening food security.

    “I would also like to express my gratitude to Nicholas Saphir for his dedication, drive and expertise throughout his tenure.”

    Outgoing AHDB Chair Nicholas Saphir said:

    “I have served as AHDB chair for the last five years during which time it has been an honour and a pleasure to have worked with some amazingly dedicated and knowledgeable Board members and staff.

    “Together we have delivered a significant change in the way in which AHDB serves our levy payers. I leave AHDB, the Board and team, well positioned to play their part in providing ‘the key that unlocks the future of British agriculture’.

    “I’m delighted that Emily Norton will be stepping into the role as Chair of AHDB. Emily brings a wealth of experience through her background in running a family farming business as well as her work as a highly respected strategic and policy advisor.”

    Emily Norton, new Chair of the AHDB, said:

    “I am proud to take on the role of Chair at such a pivotal time for British agriculture.

    “My professional focus has always been on strengthening the resilience, sustainability, and prosperity of the UK’s food and farming sectors. I look forward to working with stakeholders across the industry to deliver on that mission as part of AHDB.”

    Biographical details

    • Emily Norton is a partner in an 80 ha arable farm in Norfolk and is owner and founder of Farm Foresight Ltd, a strategic advisory service for the rural sector.
    • She has previously held several executive roles including Head of Rural Research at Savills UK, and was Chair of the Oxford Farming Conference in 2023.
    • Emily has extensive board-level experience, with positions at the Soil Association Exchange, the Environmental Markets Board and the Duchy of Lancaster.
    • She is a member of the national policy committee of the Country Land and Business Association, a trustee at the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association and a member of the Farming Leadership Group of the Food, Farming & Countryside Commission.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Dangerous weapons to be taken off our streets [May 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Dangerous weapons to be taken off our streets [May 2025]

    The press release issued by the Home Office on 21 May 2025.

    More dangerous weapons will be removed from our streets through a new government surrender scheme in partnership with the Coalition to Tackle Knife Crime.

    Throughout July, knife crime activist and member of the government’s coalition, Faron Paul, will drive across London, the West Midlands and Greater Manchester in a purpose-built and fully secure van, encouraging young people to hand over dangerous and illegal weapons safely.

    This is the government’s most ambitious weapons surrender scheme to date and will also see a major expansion of anonymous surrender bins in partnership with knife crime charity Words4Weapons.  The Home Office is funding 37 new surrender bins across London, the West Midlands and Greater Manchester – the three highest areas of knife crime in England and Wales.

    Part of the government’s Plan for Change, these initiatives will give young people more options where they can securely hand over weapons, without needing to go to a police station, helping to keep our streets safer and take more weapons out of communities.

    Young people will also be encouraged to hand in all types of weapons, including Ninja swords – which will be banned in full from 1 August.

    Policing and Crime Minister Dame Diana Johnson said:

    This government is taking a different approach to tackling knife crime — one rooted in partnership with those who have first-hand experience of this devastating crime.

    We are committed to halving knife crime within a decade as part of our Plan for Change — and that demands bold, radical action.

    That is why we formed the Coalition to Tackle Knife Crime, not as a talking shop, but as a genuine, working partnership and these new initiatives are a direct result of that collaboration. I’m deeply grateful to Faron Paul and Sandra Campbell for their leadership in driving them forward.

    We know that young people involved in crime can have complex pasts and often deep-rooted mistrust in authority, and I truly believe it’s this kind of collaboration that will save young lives.

    Faron Paul is an anti-knife crime campaigner and CEO of Faz Amnesty, who survived two life-threatening knife attacks and now does vital work in helping young people hand in knives. He also acts as a mentor to young people caught in the vicious cycle of carrying knives. Faron uses social media to raise awareness of the consequences of carrying knives.  The surrender van being driven across the country will be fully purpose-built to ensure it is safe and secure and police officers will be on hand for additional support and security.

    Faron Paul, CEO of Faz Amnesty said:

    The launch of the UK’s first-ever amnesty van is a historic moment — not just for FazAmnesty, but for communities across the country. In partnership with the Home Office, this van allows us to take our mission directly to the people, giving them a safe, secure, and discreet way to hand in offensive weapons. For years, we’ve worked tirelessly to remove knives and other weapons from our streets, and this van is a major step forward in that mission. It’s more than just a vehicle — it’s a symbol of hope, change, and second chances. This is about saving lives, protecting our communities, and breaking the cycle of violence. I’m incredibly proud of how far we’ve come — and this is only the beginning.

    The Home Office has partnered with surrender charity, Words4Weapons, to manufacture these bins. Words4Weapons already have several weapons bins placed across London, Hertfordshire and Sheffield, and help to connect young people with local services to access the best possible help.

    The scheme will also include a limited compensation offering for Ninja swords handed in ahead of the ban on 1 August. Any members of the public wishing to surrender a Ninja sword in exchange for compensation will need to safely take the weapon to one of the designated police stations.

    Any member of the public found with one of these weapons following 1 August will be breaking the law and could face time in prison.

    Sandra Campbell, CEO of Words4 Weapons said:

    We are proud to partner with the Home Office on what is the most ambitious weapons surrender initiative to date. These bespoke Word 4 Weapons bins will provide communities with safe and anonymous disposal options. Each bin represents a proactive step towards saving lives and helping to restore neighbourhood trust. By making weapon disposals more accessible, we are not just removing dangerous items from the streets but supporting individuals to make alternative choices. We are grateful for the government’s support and pleased to contribute to this vital national initiative.