Tag: 2025

PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 60 – UK Core Group Statement to introduce Item 2 Resolution on Sudan [October 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 6 October 2025.

UK Core Group Statement to introduce Item 2 Resolution on Sudan. Delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Kumar Iyer.

Thank you Mr President,

On behalf of a core group of Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, and the UK, I present draft resolution L.18, which responds to the Humanitarian and Human Rights Crisis in Sudan.

Mr President, the UN Fact-Finding Mission’s findings are clear: the warring parties have committed war crimes, with the Rapid Support Forces’ actions constituting crimes against humanity. Civilians are targeted and killed on the basis of ethnicity and sexual and gender-based violence is perpetrated on an overwhelming scale.

Over 30 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance. Yet even as famine and cholera spreads across Sudan, access is deliberately blocked. The Rapid Support Forces’ continued siege on El Fasher and the Sudanese Armed Forces’ brutal reprisal killings, including 26 in just one village, demonstrate, yet again, a total disregard for international law.

Mr President, we would prefer not to have to present this resolution. The international community has repeatedly called for all parties to immediately agree a ceasefire, protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian access. And yet indiscriminate shelling and destruction of schools, hospitals and places of worship continues to intensify.

This Council cannot sit idly by as the world braces itself for yet further mass atrocities in North Darfur. We must stand united.

The UN Fact-Finding Mission is the only independent investigative body documenting and reporting on these violations across Sudan. Extending its mandate is crucial to ending the cycle of impunity that devastates Sudan.

There is sadly no credible international or national alternative. As the FFM itself has made clear, Sudan’s ‘national committee’ remains unwilling and unable to conduct thorough, prompt and impartial investigations. Without the FFM’s documentation efforts, the victims of these international crimes will not see justice.

Our Core Group held consultations and discussed this draft extensively with all delegations, starting with Sudan. We took on board many of the proposals made, including a number from Sudan. Yet unfortunately, despite our best efforts, these changes were not enough for the Sudanese authorities.

Mr President,

It is brave Sudanese local responders who continue to stand by the people of Sudan. I want to pay tribute to the commitment of these mutual aid groups who risk their lives to provide humanitarian assistance, and hope across the country.

The Sudanese authorities may not be in favour of this resolution, but the people of Sudan are. They want accountability. They want peace.

Let us show the people of Sudan that they are not forgotten, by voting in favour of this resolution.

October 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 60 – UK Core Group Statement to introduce Item 2 Resolution on Sri Lanka [October 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 6 October 2025.

UK Core Group Statement to introduce Item 2 Resolution on Sri Lanka. Delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Kumar Iyer.

Thank you, Mr. President.

I have the honour to introduce draft resolution L1 Rev1 on behalf of the core group comprising Canada, Malawi, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and the United Kingdom.

Let me begin by paying tribute to Dr. Kasipillai Manoharan, who sadly passed away during this session. Dr. Manoharan was a tireless advocate for justice following the killing of his son, Ragihar, one of five students murdered in Trincomalee in 2006 in an emblematic human rights case. Dr Manoharan’s unwavering pursuit of truth and accountability, including his campaign at the United Nations and his presence at this Council, inspired many. His passing is a solemn reminder that too many family members have passed away without seeing justice for their loved ones, or without knowing the fate of those who were disappeared.

For those who remain – survivors, families, communities – their call for truth and justice grows ever more urgent.

Mr. President,

This draft resolution acknowledges the steps taken and the commendable commitments made by the current Sri Lankan Government to address long-standing human rights concerns, and the deep wounds left by decades of ethnic conflict. We urge the Government to translate these commitments into tangible action.

The exhumation of mass graves holds the potential to deliver long-awaited answers to families. It is imperative that these investigations are conducted in a manner that, ensures they support future identification efforts and uphold the dignity of victims.

The establishment of an independent prosecutor’s office would mark a vital step toward dismantling the entrenched impunity surrounding conflict-era violations and abuses.

The repeal and reform of key legislation in line with international standards, notably the Prevention of Terrorism Act and the Online Safety Act, would demonstrate a meaningful shift in approach;

And an end to the surveillance and intimidation of human rights defenders and families of the disappeared is essential to rebuild trust and foster reconciliation.

As these efforts progress, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights continues to play a crucial role – through technical assistance, reporting, and its work to advance accountability.

We extend sincere thanks to the Sri Lankan delegation and to all delegations who have engaged constructively on this resolution. We have worked hard to strike the right balance between recognising progress and urging action on the challenges that remain.

We hope that all members of this Council will adopt this draft resolution without a vote.

Thank you.

October 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Officer for journalist safety now in every UK police force to promote media freedom [October 2025]
The press release issued by the Home Office on 6 October 2025.

Journalists now have a dedicated point of contact in every police force in the UK to get support when faced with abuse and threats of violence.
- New agreement to bolster reporter safety as part of the Government’s National Action Plan for the Safety of Journalists
- Plans to promote media freedom and protect press from harassment
Journalists across the country are being urged to make use of newly established dedicated contacts within every police force in the latest measure by the Government to promote media freedom and protect journalists.

Every police force in the UK now has a Journalist Safety Liaison Officer, as part of a strengthened partnership between the media, policing and Government to improve their safety.

Journalists routinely risk their personal safety while reporting from protests, crime scenes, and other volatile environments. Their presence on the ground is essential for challenging misinformation and highlighting issues that matter to communities across the UK. Yet in recent years, they’ve increasingly become targets – both online and on the ground.

Media Minister Ian Murray said:

Too often, journalists are put in harm’s way while fulfilling their vital role of delivering accurate news to the public.

It is only right that they feel supported and protected so they can focus on carrying out their jobs to the highest standard.

By appointing Journalist Safety Liaison Officers in every police force, I hope reporters will feel reassured knowing they have a direct point of contact if issues arise.

In recognition of the potential dangers journalists face, the Government and National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) have stepped up work over the past year to appoint Journalist Safety Liaison Officers (JSLOs).

In addition to those that already exist in Scotland and Northern Ireland, there is now an officer in all 43 forces in England and Wales, as well as one for the British Transport Police and Counter Terror Policing.

The officers will provide journalists and media employers with a single point of contact and provide practical support in response to abuse or intimidation. This includes safety guidance ahead of high-risk assignments, such as protests, and ensures crimes against journalists are consistently recorded and addressed.

The appointment of JSLOs is part of the Government’s National Action Plan for the Safety of Journalists, which aims to ensure journalists can carry out their role in informing the public and holding those in power to account.

It also aligns with Government plans for a Local Media Strategy to support local journalism. Resources are stretched in many local newsrooms across the country, and through the Strategy ministers want to make it easier for journalists to cover the issues that matter to local communities, conduct investigative journalism and report without fear or favour.

Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips, who co-chairs the National Committee for the Safety of Journalists, said:

I know first-hand what it feels like to be on the receiving end of threats and intimidation. But I also know my experience is not unique – too many people who put themselves in the public eye to do their jobs face the same.

My broader work on safeguarding has shown me how important it is to protect those who speak out, and that must include journalists. Their work underpins our democracy and they must be able to do it free from fear.

National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for media and communications, Deputy Chief Constable Sam de Reya, said:

Policing takes the safety of journalists extremely seriously, and this initiative demonstrates our commitment to protecting those who play a vital role in our democracy.

The National Action Plan for the Safety of Journalists has brought together partners across policing, government, and the media to tackle the threats journalists face.

Policing is proud to support this work, and we will continue to play our part in ensuring that journalists are protected and empowered to do their jobs without fear or intimidation.

The list of JSLOs is available to all journalists (including freelance journalists) and employers on request and has been circulated by the NPCC. Contact details for the relevant JSLOs can be found by contacting The Society of Editors, the News Media Association or The National Union of Journalists.

Additional quotes:

Dawn Alford, chief executive of the Society of Editors, said:

Improving communication and collaboration between the police and journalists is a vital step in ending impunity for crimes against journalists and the appointment of journalist safety officers across all UK forces sends a strong message to the perpetrators of this abuse.

Robust, independent journalism strengthens democracy and the safety and ability of journalists to report, without fear or favour, should be of paramount importance to anyone who values a free press and its ability to hold power to account.

News Media Association chief executive Owen Meredith said:

Journalists have a crucial role in reporting the stories that matter but, sadly, increasingly, they face an array of threats and intimidation designed to silence reporting.

This is completely unacceptable and those responsible should be held fully accountable for their actions.

The NMA strongly supports the aims of the National Action Plan for the Safety of Journalists. The new list of Journalist Safety Liaison Officers is a very welcome initiative which will facilitate support for journalists who find themselves on the receiving end of threats and direct intimidation.

Laura Davison, NUJ general secretary, said:

The introduction of JSLOs within police forces across the UK will be welcomed by journalists as important progress in the government’s ongoing work on the safety of journalists.

No journalist should ever face threats or abuse as part of their role, and ensuring designated contacts to approach serves as a crucial milestone in providing practical, vital support to journalists when needed most.
October 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Heroism and bravery rewarded in latest Gallantry Awards List [October 2025]
The press release issued by the Cabinet Office on 6 October 2025.

The latest Gallantry Awards have been announced today, with 20 extraordinary people being awarded one of three types of awards; The George Medal, The King’s Gallantry Medal and The King’s Commendation for Bravery.
- 20 extraordinary people have been awarded a Gallantry Award today for their courage and bravery.
- The awards include 2 George Medals, 3 King’s Gallantry Medals and 15 King’s Commendations for Bravery.
- The list includes Grace O’Malley-Kumar, Richard O’Brien, Alicia Richards and Molly Bulmer.
The latest Gallantry Awards have been announced today, with 20 extraordinary people being awarded one of three types of awards; The George Medal, The King’s Gallantry Medal and The King’s Commendation for Bravery.

Gallantry Awards are given out to people in recognition for their courage and bravery in the face of danger. Three of the awards on the list are being awarded posthumously, and will be presented to the individuals’ next of kin.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said:

This is what true courage looks like. In moments of unimaginable danger, these extraordinary people acted with selflessness and bravery that speaks to the very best of who we are as a nation.

We owe each of them – and their families – our deepest thanks. Their actions remind us of the strength and compassion that run through our communities.

I want to pay tribute to all of the recipients, including Grace O’Malley Kumar who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect her friend. Her legacy will live on as a powerful example of heroism.

Recipients receiving a gallantry award include:

Grace O’Malley-Kumar, who has received The George Medal for intervening in an armed attack in Nottingham on 13th June 2023.

Richard O’Brien has received the King’s Gallantry Medal for intervening in an armed attack in Barnet on 21 September 2021.

Alicia Richards and Molly Bulmer have received the King’s Commendation for Bravery after intervening in an armed attack at a school in Sheffield on 1 May 2024.

PC Mark Sutton and PC Thomas Dransfield have received the King’s Commendation for Bravery for rescuing a man falling from a bridge on 22 November 2023.
October 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Ministers confirm appointment of new Acas Council members [October 2025]
The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 6 October 2025.

Nicola Smith and Dave Penman have been appointed by ministers as worker members of the Acas Council.

Ministers at the Department for Business and Trade have confirmed the appointment of two new members to the Council of the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas) today.

Acas is an independent public body which provides free and impartial advice to employers, employees and their representatives on, employment rights, best practice and policies, and resolving workplace conflict.

It is governed by a Council which determines the organisation’s strategic direction, policies and priorities, with council members appointed based on their professional expertise in either business or trade unions.

Nicola Smith and Dave Penman have been added to the council as worker members.

Biographies

Nicola Smith
- Nicola has been Director or Policy at the Trade Union Congress since 2024. She was previously the Head of Rights, Social and Economic Affairs from 2023 to 2024; Interim Chief Executive, Timewise, from 2022 to 2023; and Assistant Director, Stakeholder Engagement, The Nursing and Midwifery Council, from 2020 to 2022. Nicola is also a Labour Market Advisory Board Member.
Dave Penman
- Dave has been General Secretary of the FDA since 2012, having joined as a National Officer in 2000. He has also been a member of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) General Council since 2012; and TUC Executive Committee since 2023. He is a Member of the TUC Finance Committee and a TUC Trustee.
October 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : New UK Connect Fund awards over £300,000 to community groups in Northern Ireland and Great Britain [October 2025]

The press release issued by the Northern Ireland Office on 6 October 2025.

Nine voluntary and community groups are the first to receive funding from the £1 million Connect Fund grant scheme.

Community projects to develop youth leadership across the UK, facilitate dialogue on Lough Neagh’s degeneration, and combat health inequalities and poverty are among the first successful applicants to the Northern Ireland Office’s (NIO) Connect Fund.

Nine community groups will receive funding totalling £300,000 from the Connect Fund’s £1 million pot to strengthen collaboration between groups in Great Britain and those in Northern Ireland.

Announced at the East West Council in June, the Connect Fund supports groups working on projects which directly affect Northern Ireland communities, helping them to tackle challenges and opportunities which also affect communities in Great Britain.

Among the recipients is CO3 – the Chief Officers Third Sector East West Forum – which will partner with organisations in London and Edinburgh to establish an East-West leadership forum for 30 Chief Executives from the voluntary and community sectors across the UK. This will include workshops and knowledge sharing at Corrymeela.

NIO Parliamentary Under Secretary of State Matthew Patrick visited CO3 to hear about their work and congratulate them on their successful application.

He said: “The Connect Fund promotes grassroots connections between community and voluntary organisations in Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK, to benefit local communities.

“From youth work to the environment, from leadership development to tackling inequalities and poverty, this fund will make a real difference – improving the quality of life of people across the UK.

“Importantly, it will also help to forge close, invaluable bonds of mutual support between community organisations in Northern Ireland and the wider UK, enabling knowledge exchange to tackle shared challenges.”

CO3 Chairperson Jacinta Linden said: “We are genuinely delighted to have been awarded a Connect Fund grant alongside our partners, the Association of Chief Executives of Voluntary Organisations (ACEVO), and Charity Leadership Scotland (formerly ACOSVO).

“As sector leaders, we so rarely have the chance to step back from the day-to-day and think strategically together in a safe and trusted space. This programme gives us that gift — the opportunity to share, collaborate, and learn across boundaries, and in doing so to ignite fresh ideas and lasting relationships.

“We are deeply appreciative of this support and excited for the potential it will unlock for our leaders, our organisations and, most importantly, the communities we serve.”

Another successful applicant, Belfast youth organisation YouthAction, will use its grant to join with groups in England, Scotland and Wales, strengthening East-West civic relationships through a Youth Leader Summit hosted in Belfast for young leaders aged 18-35. It will also hold a CEO Leadership Summit in England for existing cross-nation partners to strengthen organisational alignment across Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and England.

Meanwhile, Dungannon not-for-profit organisation South Tyrone Empowerment Programme (STEP) will use its grant to facilitate dialogue on shared environmental challenges, specifically the degeneration of Lough Neagh, partnering with organisations in Scotland, England and Belfast through field trips and stakeholder conferences.

October 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : New funds for local leaders to unlock jobs and boost innovation across the country [October 2025]
The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 6 October 2025.
- Local areas can now bid for support of up to £20 million each in government funding to grow existing regional science and tech expertise
- Investment will back local leaders who know their regions best, unlocking discoveries and creating hundreds of jobs as part of record £86 billion R&D settlement
- Builds on support already earmarked to local leaders in ten UK areas through Local Innovation Partnerships Fund – driving regional growth through Plan for Change
Local leaders across the country can now bid for support of up to £20 million each in a new competition, as the government backs regional expertise to deliver cutting-edge research that could save lives and create jobs (Monday 6 October).

Research funding body UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is inviting a broad range of local and regional partnerships to bid for government funding to support research and innovation projects in their area through the Local Innovation Partnerships Fund. The competition will back partnerships that can turn existing research breakthroughs into practical solutions that create jobs and improve people’s lives, supporting the government’s Plan for Change.

The fund is designed to help regions across the UK build on their existing strengths – whether that is developing technology that helps doctors diagnose diseases faster, creating cleaner transport solutions, or discovering innovations that spawn entirely new industries.

Local leaders, working alongside universities and businesses, are best placed to identify these regional opportunities and turn research breakthroughs into real-world solutions that benefit their communities.

Science and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said:

This fund is our Plan for Change in action. It empowers local leaders, researchers, and businesses with skin in the game to deliver transformational research that creates jobs and improves lives in their area.

Ten regions already have our support and will be able to deliver game-changing innovations to benefit their communities.

Now we’re extending this opportunity to the rest of the country, and I encourage partnerships everywhere to come forward, and show how they can unlock their local expertise to create tomorrow’s innovations.

Consortiums of various forms are encouraged to apply, to ensure regions across the length and breadth of the UK are supported to develop new innovations and drive regional growth.

Ten regions across the UK have already received backing through the Local Innovation Partnerships Fund. These include established innovation hubs in England such as Greater Manchester, West Midlands, and West Yorkshire, alongside Glasgow City Region in Scotland, Cardiff Capital Region in Wales, and an innovation corridor linking Belfast and Derry-Londonderry in Northern Ireland. Each of these areas has been earmarked for at least £30 million to invest in their regional innovation strengths, from advanced manufacturing and life sciences to digital technologies and clean energy, ensuring every nation of the UK benefits from this major government investment in R&D.

This approach builds on the successful Innovation Accelerators programme, which has already brought in more than £140 million of private investment and created hundreds of jobs. Greater Manchester teams are helping detect heart and lung diseases more quickly and cheaply, while Glasgow researchers are working to spot signs of colon cancer earlier to save lives. This shows how researchers, businesses and local leaders can work together to tackle the country’s biggest challenges while boosting local economies.

This funding forms part of the record £86 billion R&D settlement until 2030 and represents a key pillar of the government’s modern Industrial Strategy, supporting high-growth sectors in every region. For areas ready to unlock their innovation potential, this competition offers a transformative opportunity to secure the partnerships and investment needed to drive growth and improve lives across the country.

Notes to editors

UKRI will run a 2-stage selection process to identify the most promising partnerships.

Interested areas can submit expressions of interest and find out more about the eligibility criteria. UKRI will then work with shortlisted partnerships to co-develop detailed proposals that demonstrate how they can turn research into real-world solutions. An independent assessment panel will evaluate applications based on their potential for economic impact, strength of local partnerships, and alignment with national priorities.
October 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : New Rules strengthen media access in criminal courts [October 2025]

The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 6 October 2025.

From today (Monday 6 October 2025), changes to the Criminal Procedure Rules reinforce open justice by explicitly stating parties who apply for discretionary reporting restrictions in criminal cases, should notify the media of applications.

The updated Rules clarify that the responsibility for notification lies with the applicant, ensuring that journalists are informed and able to challenge reporting restrictions order applications where appropriate.

This formal recognition of the media as interested parties aims to prevent unjustified limits on Crown and magistrates’ Court reporting and improve transparency across the justice system. The changes follow collaborative work between the Criminal Procedure Rule Committee and media organisations including the Media Lawyers Association and News Media Association, with support from HMCTS’ Media Working Group.

The shared goal has been to ensure the Rules reflect the media’s vital role in holding the justice system to account.

Georgia Jerram, Chair of HMCTS’ Media Working Group, said:

As a society, we often rely on the media to be our eyes and ears in courtrooms. When journalists aren’t given clear and timely information about requests to the court for a reporting restriction, they are denied the opportunity to make a challenge. These changes will help ensure that open justice is not undermined in this way.

The requirement applies to discretionary reporting restrictions, such as those protecting vulnerable witnesses or ensuring fair trials and does not affect automatic restrictions (which are imposed by legislation and the court has no power to vary or remove) already in place for youth cases and certain offences. You can read the updated Criminal Procedure Rules or find out more about this work in a recent Inside HMCTS blog.

October 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Matthew Hood appointed as senior adviser to Secretary of State [October 2025]
The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 6 October 2025.
- Matthew Hood OBE has accepted a direct ministerial appointment to the Department of Health and Social Care
- Matthew will work closely with Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, and be focused on delivery of the government’s priorities and the work of the department’s delivery unit during this period of reform
The Secretary of State has made clear his plan for delivery during a period of reform and transformation of the Department of Health and Social Care and NHS England. Matt will work with the department’s delivery unit to help ensure that the government and department deliver on their commitments, co-ordinate across the health and care system and provide advice on emerging challenges.

Matthew is the former chief executive and co-founder of Oak National Academy. He has held senior roles in public service delivery and brings direct experience of leading organisations during periods of significant change.

The appointment is a paid role, which began on 17 September 2025.
October 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Government launches £1 million competition to take active travel innovation to the next level [October 2025]
The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 6 October 2025.

Organisations and businesses can bid for a share of £1 million funding to help them deliver initiatives that enable more people to walk, wheel or cycle.
- Active Travel Innovation Fund to award grants of up to £100,000 for successful bids
- fund will help start or scale engagement projects that will have a positive impact on walking, wheeling and cycling
- fund comes as part of government’s Plan for Change by backing bold ideas to boost the economy
Organisations and businesses can bid for a share of £1 million in funding to help them deliver bold and innovative initiatives that enable more people to walk, wheel or cycle, Active Travel England (ATE) has announced today (6 October 2025).

The Active Travel Innovation Fund is inviting applications from small to medium-sized businesses and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), with grants of up to £100,000 available for each successful project.

The funding is designed to help develop new ideas or to expand on successful initiatives that are already making a difference. Examples could include community projects that help under-represented groups make more active travel choices, partnerships between councils and local communities or businesses to promote sustainable travel, or digital tools that improve safety and accessibility.

This funding will support the government’s Plan for Change by backing entrepreneurs and creative and ambitious projects to kickstart economic growth.

Chris Boardman, National Active Travel Commissioner, said:

The Active Travel Innovation Fund will help turn great ideas into real improvements for people who walk, wheel, or cycle. Enabling more people get about under their own steam is one of the most important interventions we can make to improve the nation’s health, so it’s crucial that we support bold projects that will help us do this.

We’re excited to see the creativity and ambition of applicants and look forward to working closely with the selected organisations to deliver positive and lasting change to the way people travel.

The Minister for Local Transport, Lilian Greenwood, said:

Walking, wheeling, and cycling bring huge physical and mental health benefits. We are determined to make them easy and safe choices for people across the country.

The government is providing £1 million to back bold projects from small businesses and community groups to encourage more people to choose these healthier, more active, options for short journeys. We’re building a healthy, sustainable and joined-up network, a key part of our Plan for Change to boost local businesses, grow local economies and ease pressure on the NHS.

In addition to funding, successful applicants will receive practical support from ATE and the Government Grant Managed Service (GGMS). This could include help with building partnerships, connecting with new stakeholders, or setting up ways to measure and track the success of their projects.

The funding period of projects will run for 12 months, followed by an evaluation process, with each organisation asked to share a case study and final report into how the funds have made an impact.

Through the funding, ATE aims to create a wide network of partners to share ideas and collaboratively develop skills, while providing valuable feedback to ATE as they continue to champion and accelerate active travel in England.

Today’s funding comes after the government announced a £300 million funding package in February to help local authorities build new walking and cycling infrastructure, provide cycle training for children, and support community initiatives.

These improvements are expected to boost public health by cutting 43,000 sick days each year, easing pressure on the NHS, reducing congestion, and strengthening local economies.

The Active Travel Innovation Fund will help small to medium sized businesses and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to go even further by developing creative active travel solutions that meet the needs of their communities.
October 9, 2025