Tag: 2025

Yvette Cooper – 2025 Statement on Gaza and Sudan

The statement made by Yvette Cooper, the Foreign Secretary, in the House of Commons on 18 November 2025.

I want to update the House on two of the world’s gravest conflicts—in Gaza and in Sudan—following recent resolutions in the UN and discussions at the G7, and on the action that the UK Government are taking to pursue peace.

First, I turn to Gaza. After two years of the most horrendous suffering, the ceasefire agreement led by President Trump with the support of Qatar, Egypt and Türkiye has been in place for six weeks. Twenty hostages are now home with their loved ones, and the remains of 25 more have been returned so their families can grieve. More aid trucks are entering Gaza. But the ceasefire is highly fragile, and there is still a long journey ahead to implement the commitments made at Sharm el-Sheikh and to get to a lasting peace.

Last night, the UN Security Council passed resolution 2803. The UK voted for this important resolution, which authorises the establishment of an international stabilisation force for Gaza, and transitional arrangements including the board of peace and a Palestinian committee. It underscores the essential need for humanitarian aid and reconstruction, and points the way to a path to Palestinian self-determination and statehood. Crucially, it is supported by the Palestinian Authority, and Arab and Muslim partners in the region and beyond. The resolution is a critical staging post that sustains the unity around President Trump’s 20-point plan.

Momentum must now be maintained. It is essential that an international stabilisation force and trained Palestinian police can be deployed quickly to support the ceasefire and to avoid a vacuum being left that Hamas can exploit. We will also need the urgent formation of a Palestinian committee alongside the board of peace. As we made clear at the UN last night, these transitional arrangements must be implemented in accordance with international law, and respecting Palestinian sovereignty and self- determination. They should strengthen the unity of Gaza and the west bank, and empower Palestinian institutions to enable a reformed Palestinian Authority to resume governance in Gaza, because Palestine must be run by Palestinians.

The work to implement the first phase of the ceasefire agreement must continue. That means work so that Hamas releases the bodies of the remaining three hostages taken in the terrorist attack on 7 October, so that their families can properly grieve. We urgently need a major increase in humanitarian aid, because aid into Gaza is still a trickle rather than a flood. Two weeks ago, I visited warehouses in Jordan holding UK aid for Gaza, including one run by the World Food Programme with enough wheat to feed 700,000 people for a month; yet it still sits there because the Jordanian route into Gaza is still closed. People there told me that there were 30 more warehouses nearby, with food, shelter kits, tents and medical supplies—less than 100 miles from Gaza but still not getting in.

I welcome the very recent improvements in aid flows, and that one more border crossing, Zikim, is now partially open. But it is not nearly enough. We need all land crossings open—including the Rafah border with Egypt— with longer and consistent hours, and urgent work is needed immediately in all parts of Gaza to rebuild basic public services and to provide shelter as winter draws in. Medical staff must be allowed to enter and leave Gaza freely, and international non-governmental organisations need certainty that they can continue to operate. I spoke to the King of Jordan and to doctors in Amman about a maternity and neonatal field hospital unit that stands ready to be moved into Gaza—but, again, they cannot yet get it in. The Israeli Government can and must remove the restrictions and uncertainty now.

As well as working with the US and others, we are drawing on distinct UK strengths to support a lasting peace. We are providing expertise on weapons decommissioning and ceasefire monitoring, based on the Northern Ireland experience. We are supporting on demining and unexploded ordnance, including with £4 million of new UK funding for the United Nations Mine Action Service, and we are funding to surge in experts, including from British organisations such as the HALO Trust and Mines Advisory Group, whose impressive work I recently saw at first hand. On civil-military co-ordination, we have UK deployments into a dedicated US-led hub for Gaza stabilisation efforts.

Beyond Gaza, stability in the west bank is essential to any sustainable peace, and I am concerned that the PA faces an economic crisis induced by Israeli restrictions that are strangling the Palestinian economy. The Netanyahu Government should be extending, not threatening to end, the arrangements between Israeli and Palestinian banks—arrangements that are crucial to the everyday economy for Palestinians. This is crucial for stability, which is in Israel’s interests too.

The pace of illegal settlement building continues. We have seen further appalling incidents of settler violence during the olive harvest. While I welcome Israeli President Herzog’s expression of concern, the response of the Israeli authorities is still completely insufficient—practically and legally. Tackling settlement expansion and settler violence is vital to protecting a two-state solution, in line with the UK’s historic decision to recognise the state of Palestine.

Let me turn now to Sudan, where the worst humanitarian crisis in the 21st century is still unfolding, right now. The UN humanitarian chief, Tom Fletcher, who has just visited the area, has described it as:

“the epicentre of suffering in the world”

and he is right. Over 30 million people need lifesaving aid. Twelve million have been forced from their homes. Famine is spreading. Cholera and preventable disease are rampant. In El Fasher, following advances by the Rapid Support Forces, there are horrifying scenes of atrocities, with mass executions, starvation, and the systematic use of rape as a weapon of war—horrors so appalling they can be seen from space.

As the United Nations Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs has put it, El Fasher is a crime scene. Satellite pictures show discolouration of sand consistent with pools of blood, multiple clusters of objects consistent with piles of human bodies, and the apparent burning of bodies and operations to dispose of bodies in mass graves. Further horrors will yet unfold unless greater action is taken.

A year ago, Britain tabled a resolution at the UN Security Council demanding humanitarian access and civilian protection, but it was shamefully vetoed by Russia. Six months ago, at our London-Sudan conference, the UK brought together international partners and secured £800 million in funding, but the situation continues to deteriorate, including with North Kordofan now under threat and fighting moving to El Obeid.

We need a complete step change in efforts to alleviate the suffering and bring about peace. That means more aid to those in need. The UK has committed over £125 million this year alone, delivering lifesaving support to over 650,000 people—treating children with severe malnutrition, providing water and medicine, and supporting survivors of rape—but the challenge is still access.

The RSF still refuses safe passage to aid organisations around El Fasher. The Sudanese armed forces are bringing in new restrictions that stand to hinder aid. Both sides must allow unhindered passage for humanitarian workers, supplies and trapped civilians. We are urgently pressing for a three-month humanitarian truce to open routes for lifesaving supplies, but aid will not resolve a conflict wilfully driven by the warring parties, so we desperately need a lasting ceasefire underpinned by a serious political process.

At the Manama dialogue conference in Bahrain two weeks ago, I called for the same intense international efforts to address the crisis in Sudan as we have seen around Gaza. At Niagara last week, I joined our G7 partners in calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, for the unimpeded access of humanitarian aid, and for external actors to contribute to the restoration of peace and security. We are engaging intensively with the Quad countries—the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the United States—which have now together called for an immediate humanitarian truce, and an end to external support and arms that are fuelling conflict. I strongly support Secretary Rubio’s latest comments regarding the need to end the weapons and support that the RSF is getting from outside Sudan.

Last Friday, the UK called a special session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, in which a UK-drafted resolution was passed, securing international consensus for an urgent UN inquiry into alleged crimes in El Fasher, because impunity cannot be the outcome of these horrifying events. We need to ensure that teams can get in to investigate those atrocities and hold the perpetrators to account, and I have instructed my officials to bring forward potential sanctions relating to human rights violations and abuses in Sudan.

The UK will play its full part to ensure that it is the Sudanese people, not any warring party, that determines Sudan’s future. Wars that rage unresolved do not just cause untold harm to civilians; they radiate instability, undermine the security of neighbouring states, and lead migrants to embark on dangerous journeys. We are striving to meet those urgent humanitarian needs, and striving to secure not just the absence of conflict, but the presence of lasting peace. From Gaza to Sudan that can only be done through international co-operation, and through countries coming together for peace. I commend this statement to the House.

November 26, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : UK Government gives voice to nature at COP30 climate conference [November 2025]
The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 24 November 2025.

UK accelerates global leadership on nature at COP30.
- First company – a British startup – contributes to the Cali Fund paving the way for others to do the same and mobilise private sector finance for nature at scale
- Minister for Nature works with global partners to mobilise finance for nature, promote sustainable farming for food security and takes action to protect our oceans.
The UK Government has taken bold and ambitious action to protect and restore nature at the COP30 climate meeting.

UK representatives have championed the protection and restoration of critical ecosystems around the world, and the essential work we’re doing back home to restore our forests, landscapes and seas for the British people as part of the Plan for Change.

During COP30, the first payment to the Cali Fund – by a British business – was announced. This marks a major milestone since its launch earlier this year. The Fund enables companies – such as pharmaceutical and biotech companies – to share profits with Indigenous Peoples and local communities who protect the nature that provides genetic resources for their products.

The UK is working closely with the private sector and other governments to support effective implementation of the Fund, including through the Friends of the Cali Fund, and this first contribution is a real milestone in these efforts.

UK-based startup Tierra Viva AI proudly kickstarts contributions to the Cali Fund, paving the way for others to follow and contribute to the Fund at scale.

Nature Minister Mary Creagh said:

British families are already feeling the impact of climate change – from flooding that destroys homes to heatwaves that put vulnerable people at risk.

We cannot tackle nature loss and climate change in isolation; in Brazil we have built the global coalition for ambitious action on nature which is the only way to protect our home for future generations

Ruth Davis, Special Representative for Nature said:

The UK has demonstrated technical expertise and worked alongside our global partners to put nature on the agenda, but there is more to do, and we must now amplify the momentum for action at scale on climate and nature.

This isn’t just about doing the right thing for the planet. Building a stronger and fairer global economy will unlock enormous economic opportunities – we know that investing in nature creates jobs and accelerates growth with new opportunities attracting millions in investment.

At COP30, the UK government has made further commitments to halt and reverse nature loss This includes:
- Launching the UK-Brazil Fertilisers Declaration – a global push to cut emissions from fertiliser production and use. It’s about improving food security and protecting jobs and growth by supporting farmers’ resilience and boosting agricultural productivity.
- Joining the Saltmarsh Breakthrough – protecting these vital coastal ecosystems which anchor key marine food chains, shield communities from floods and lock away more carbon than most forests.
- Becoming a Food Waste Breakthrough Country Champion – driving the global goal to halve food waste by 2030 and cutting methane emissions by keeping food waste out of landfills.  
- Nature actions – COP30 showcased the UK’s role in advancing the global ‘nature actions agenda’. The summit saw the Independent Advisory Panel on Biodiversity Credits launch its Nature Markets Policy Forum with the UK, France and Indonesia joining as founding members, helping to unlock innovation and investment in high integrity nature credit markets.
- Congo call to action – The UK also furthered its long-standing partnership with the Congo Basin region, joining a Call to Action, to ensure the world recognises the importance of Congo’s forests and funds solutions developed by Congolese institutions and communities.
The UK’s leadership at COP30 echoes our commitments to support the environment at home.

We announced that the second National Forest will be in the Oxford-Cambridge corridor, where millions of trees will be planted as part of a wider commitment to allocate over £1 billion this parliament to tree planting. This will support nature recovery, green jobs, and net zero goals.

Further detail on this government’s plan to restore the environment will be set out in the upcoming Environmental Improvement Plan, which will outline the next phase of the UK’s nature recovery ambitions.
November 26, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Chancellor appoints infrastructure and planning adviser to clear path for new investments [November 2025]
The press release issued by HM Treasury on 24 November 2025.

Leading lawyer, Catherine Howard, appointed to advise Chancellor on the next phase of planning and infrastructure reforms as she vows to ‘do what it takes to get Britain building’.
- Extra expertise at the Treasury to help government kickstart economic growth to deliver an economy that works for working people – and rewards working people.
- Comes as part of government commitment to create conditions to attract long-term private sector investment into UK infrastructure, including landmark planning reforms and backing of a third runway at Heathrow
Leading planning lawyer Catherine Howard has been appointed to advise Chancellor Rachel Reeves to help drive through the next phase of the government’s planning reforms with new Housing Secretary, Steve Reed, to ‘get Britain building.’

The Chancellor has vowed that the Autumn Budget will focus on building an economy that works for working people by taking action to reduce inflation, keep a grip on the public finances and kickstart economic growth.

With the Planning and Infrastructure Bill going through Parliament and barriers to private investment being torn down, the Chancellor is pushing ahead to create the conditions to secure vital long-term investments in UK infrastructure and support Britain’s economic renewal.

Specialising in major infrastructure projects, Catherine is currently a Partner at Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP, with expertise in Development Consent Orders which provide planning permission for nationally significant infrastructure projects, environmental regulation, and Judicial Reviews.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

I am determined we do what it takes to get Britain building, unlock private investment and deliver an economy that works for working people – and rewards working people.

I look forward to working with Catherine to deliver this.

Catherine Howard said:

It is a privilege to take on this position as the Chancellor’s Infrastructure and Planning Adviser, helping the government to achieve a step-change in how we deliver major infrastructure and housing.

With the right framework in place, good decision-making can enable swift progress – improving our natural environment and supporting the government’s Growth Mission. The Planning and Infrastructure Bill makes major strides towards this goal. I look forward to working with stakeholders to consider how we build on this important agenda.

Catherine was initially appointed to work up to four days a week on an unpaid basis until the Autumn Budget. Catherine’s term has been extended until the 1 January 2026 to continue to support the governments planning agenda. Her terms of appointment remain unchanged.

Established processes for the declaration and management of interests have been followed in respect of this appointment. Catherine has confirmed she has not taken part in any political activity in the last five years.
November 26, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : ‘We see you’: Armed forces on patrol around the UK in response to Russian activity [November 2025]

The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 24 November 2025.

Royal Navy intercepts Russian warship and tanker in the Dover Strait and English Channel whilst RAF P-8 maritime surveillance aircraft deployed to Iceland to patrol North Atlantic.

The UK Armed Forces are on patrol from the English Channel to the High North amid increased Russian activity threatening UK waters.

In the past fortnight, Royal Navy patrol ship HMS Severn intercepted Russian corvette RFN Stoikiy and tanker Yelnya off the UK coast, in a round-the-clock shadowing operation as the Russian vessels sailed through the Dover Strait and westward through the English Channel.

HMS Severn later handed over monitoring duties to a NATO ally off the coast of Brittany, but continued to observe from a distance and remained ready to respond to any unexpected activity.

Commander Grant Dalgleish, HMS Severn’s Commanding Officer, said:

This tasking shows the value of our patrol ships and reinforces the Royal Navy’s close liaison with our NATO allies in safeguarding the British people and protecting the internationally recognised waterways.

I’m immensely proud of the way the ship’s company reacted to this activation, especially coming so quickly after a demanding period of regeneration and operational training.

This comes as the UK has seen a 30% increase in Russian vessels threatening UK waters in the past two years.

On Wednesday, the Defence Secretary confirmed that Russian spy ship Yantar – used for gathering intelligence and mapping undersea cables – was operating on the edge of UK waters north of Scotland. In a clear message to Putin, the Defence Secretary said: “We see you. We know what you are doing. And we are ready.”

As Yantar lingered in UK’s wider waters, its crew directed lasers at the RAF P-8 pilots tracking it in a reckless and dangerous act. While tracking Yantar, Royal Navy frigate HMS Somerset and other civilian ships in the area experienced GPS jamming in a further demonstration of unprofessional behaviour, intended to be disruptive and a nuisance. HMS Somerset’s combat capabilities were not affected.

The UK has a wide range of military options at its disposal to keep UK waters safe. Three RAF P-8 Poseidon aircraft have deployed to Keflavik Air Base in Iceland in the largest overseas deployment of the RAF P-8 fleet so far.

The P-8s from 120 Squadron are conducting surveillance operations as part of NATO’s collective defence, patrolling for Russian ships and submarines in the North Atlantic and Arctic.

While in Iceland, RAF crews are working closely with NATO allies including the US and Canada, reinforcing the UK’s NATO-first approach and commitment to Euro-Atlantic security in this new era of threat.

These operations reaffirm the UK’s unwavering commitment to national security and protecting critical undersea infrastructure, underpinning this Government’s Plan for Change.

Wing Commander Higgins, Officer Commanding 120 Squadron, said:

This deployment to Iceland highlights the enduring importance of the North Atlantic and Arctic to the security of the Alliance.

Operating the P-8A Poseidon, we continue that legacy by contributing to NATO’s collective defence and ensuring the security of this strategically critical region.

The UK is stepping up on defence and security, backed by the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War, including £4 billion on boosting our drone capabilities and over £1 billion on strengthening air and missile defence to protect the UK homeland.

These latest operations come less than a month after HMS Duncan tracked the movements of Russian destroyer Vice Admiral Kulakov, and frigate HMS Iron Duke was dispatched to monitor Russian Kilo-class submarine Novorossiysk.

Last month, two advanced RAF surveillance aircraft conducted a 12-hour mission along Russia’s border to monitor NATO’s eastern and northern flanks. A Rivet Joint electronic intelligence aircraft and a P-8 maritime patrol aircraft, supported by a US Stratotanker, collectively flew 10,000 miles from the High North, past Belarus and Ukraine, and into the Black Sea.

Both aircraft use advanced sensors to detect Russian activity and deliver critical intelligence for analysis.

This increase in UK Armed Forces activity comes alongside new sanctions. Last week, the Foreign Secretary announced that the UK, US, and Australia are sanctioning Media Land – a Russian cyber crime group responsible for facilitating cyber-attacks on UK-based companies.

November 26, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : More targeted R&D investment towards driving UK growth and jobs unveiled by Technology Secretary [November 2025]
The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 24 November 2025.

UKRI will deploy significant taxpayer backing to support government priorities, investing billions in UK expertise and innovation for growth and renewal.
- The UK’s public research funding body will deploy a significant portion of £38.6 billion in taxpayer backing to support government priorities, investing billions in UK expertise and innovation for growth and national renewal, Science and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall says
- UKRI to invest £8 billion for specific government priorities and £7 billion for innovative company growth, to build and keep titans of future industries like quantum based in UK, building strong foundations for our economy
- Part of a package of announcements aimed at boosting funding and the in-flow of international talent into high-growth sectors of the future
Record public research funding will be explicitly directed towards supporting promising scale-ups, turbocharging economic growth and job opportunities through our Modern Industrial Strategy, and improving lives, as part of a shake-up of public R&D announced today. The move reinforces the government’s push for national renewal, a Britain built for all, and a fairer economy that works for and rewards working people – work which will be further cemented through announcements at the Budget, later this week.

Addressing research funders and major business leaders from the UK and beyond, the Science and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said today (Monday 24 November) that public R&D funding had for too long been spread thinly across multiple priorities and projects and now was time for ‘doing fewer things, better’. She outlined a ‘no-compromise’ approach that prioritises funding for the companies with the highest potential to grow into industry titans and into the sectors where the UK already retains a competitive advantage. Setting these priorities clearly, will support the national effort to build strong foundations for our economy and secure our country’s future.

UKRI is the country’s largest public research funder, giving it a central role in ensuring public money is invested in ambitious, pioneering research that will benefit the whole of the UK and provide a clear return on investment for hardworking taxpayers.

Addressing the UKRI Growth Summit in London, Science and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said:

Scientific research and development is fundamental to building a better Britain: from new treatments for cancer, to breakthroughs in clean, affordable energy.

There is no route to stronger growth in this country, no answer to how we pay our way, or compete with the rest of the world, without science, technology and innovation leading front and centre. But we must be smarter about what we prioritise, for these efforts to succeed.

That is what today is all about. And by increasing funding for critical technologies like AI and engineering biology where the UK already excels, we can go even further.

£9 billion of UKRI’s record £38.6 billion settlement will go towards backing the fields of research in which the UK is among the strongest in the world, like AI and quantum, which could deliver breakthroughs in healthcare or pioneering cybersecurity tech to keep our country safe from threats. Funding for engineering biology will increase nearly three-fold, to £644 million, while funding for AI will more than double to £1.6 billion.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimates that breakthroughs in AI alone could boost productivity by as much as 1.5 percentage points a year, which could be worth up to an average £47 billion to the UK each year over a decade. Quantum computing meanwhile could add over £11 billion to the UK’s GDP by 2045.

£8 billion will be allocated to funding research into the government’s priorities, including the Industrial Strategy’s priority areas and others like climate resilience and flood defence.

While another £7 billion will specifically fund innovative company growth to unlock the next generation of UK industry titans, building on the example set by:
- Cambridge-based Paragraf, which has raised around $140 million since it was founded in 2018 as a leader of graphene, powering products like electric cars and medical scanners more efficiently
- IFast, a diagnostics firm, working to detect antibiotic resistance much faster than traditional methods.
- Ceres Power, a clean energy company behind cutting edge fuel cell technology for hydrogen production, employing around 600 people and with a market capitalisation of over £700 million.
The third area that will see funding is £14 billion specifically for curiosity-driven research, which has been at the heart of great discoveries for generations – from the internet to medical breakthroughs that can treat a range of genetic diseases.

Universities will be key beneficiaries from UKRI’s record funding for R&D. Their core block grant and commercialisation funding from DSIT will grow in line with expected inflation over the Spending Review period.

Attracting top science and research talent to the UK, especially in the 8 key sectors of the Modern Industrial Strategy, is essential for achieving cutting-edge breakthroughs that economic growth, jobs, and entire new industries will be founded upon. Today the Science Secretary has also revealed the progress being made in those efforts – with the first 4 world-leading researchers relocating to the UK through the £54 million Global Talent Fund. These lead researchers are expected to also bring up to 10 individuals to support their research projects from abroad.

These leading researchers will be based across the country, and are spearheading work that could transform our health and wealth, ranging from efforts in neurobiology – which could give new insights into Alzheimer’s – to better ways of tackling the pests and diseases that could cost the global agriculture industry over £400 billion in losses every year if left unchecked.

This comes alongside additional leading scientists and academics being welcomed to the UK via other DSIT funded flagship talent and grant schemes delivered through UKRI and the UK’s 4 National Academies.

Alongside this transformative reform to R&D funding and work bringing in the best international talent, the government is also today announcing a raft of further announcements that will help support our R&D sector to turbocharge economic growth in the UK:
- Launching the competition to find the next Chair of UKRI’s Board, as Sir Andrew MacKenzie’s term concludes after adeptly leading the UKRI Board since 2021. We are seeking a leader committed to protecting and growing curiosity-driven research, addressing government priorities and tackling the UK’s biggest challenges. They will also play a key role in enabling R&D-intensive companies to start up, scale up and stay in the UK while helping to leverage the private sector backing that can take discoveries to the next level
- Setting UK researchers 2 ambitious challenges as part of our R&D Missions Accelerator Programme, backed by £4 million in the first year, on industrialising and digitalising construction and developing the infrastructure for our creative content exchange
- Launching the latest round of Innovate UK’s Women in Innovation Awards, with £4.5 million available for up to 60 women – building on findings showing that if men and women started and scaled businesses at the same rate, this could add up to £250 billion to the UK economy
- Trebling the government’s investment in the UK’s world-leading Metascience Unit to £49 million. The unit supports research into how we can increase the impact and efficiency of investment in science
UKRI CEO, Professor Sir Ian Chapman said:

The record investment in R&D shows government’s commitment to putting UK research and innovation at the forefront of our national success. At UKRI, our mission is clear: to advance knowledge, improve lives, and drive growth. We will invest strategically in areas where the UK can achieve a significant market share globally. Research and innovation must be central to boosting the UK’s economy and delivering real improvements to people’s lives and livelihoods.

Notes to editors

Universities will see their core flexible research and commercialisation funding grow in line with expected inflation over the next 3 academic years.

Applications for Innovate UK’s Women in Innovation Awards are open until 4 February 2026.

One of the Metascience Unit’s early successes has been the trial of Distributed Peer Review – a novel method of assessing research proposals in which applicants themselves participate in the review process. UKRI will now expand the use of Distributed Peer Review across the organisation, enabling researchers from all disciplines to access funding more quickly and experience fewer delays between proposal development and project initiation. And we are launching a new £6 million grant opportunity for UK-led metascience projects.

Global Talent Fund details

Attracting international talent is the catalyst for creating British jobs, boosting investment, and increasing productivity – just what our economy needs. The £54 million Global Talent Fund is enabling leading scientists and their teams to relocate and thrive in the UK. The Fund is designed to attract a total of 60-80 individuals in top research teams to the UK, working in the 8 high priority sectors critical to our modern Industrial Strategy like life sciences and digital technologies.

This work is supported by the Global Talent Taskforce, which is driving efforts to ensure the UK remains a world leader in attracting and retaining exceptional talent. By bringing the very best minds to the UK, working in fields that will be critical to our health, business, and everyday life, we can pave the way for the products, jobs and even industries that define tomorrow’s economy, to be made and grow in Britain.

The Fund is being delivered by 12 of the UK’s leading universities and research institutions.

Talent recruitment through the Fund is already underway, with the following researchers and academics having joined, or being set to join, institutions in the UK:
- Professor Baljit Khakh, joining Cardiff University as the new Director of UK Dementia Research Institute, from UCLA, United States. His exceptional work in the fields of neurobiology and neurodegeneration have seen him honoured with the H.W Magoun Distinguished Lectureship, the 134th UCLA Faculty Research Lecture, NIH Director’s Pioneer Award and election to the Fellowship of the Royal Society (FRS) – the highest accolade in UK science.
- Professor Armin Raznahan, who is being appointed to the W. A. Handley Chair in Psychiatry at the University of Oxford. Professor Raznahan is a child and adolescent psychiatrist, and will be joining Oxford’s Merton College from his current role at the US National Institute of Mental Health Intramural Research Program (NIMH IRP). His work is focused on improving outcomes for young people with mental health problems.
- Dr Hassan Salem joining the John Innes Centre, from the Max Planck Institute for Biology, Germany. Dr Salem’s research focuses on the relationship between plants an insects, including pests and the diseases they carry – a critical area of work for food security. Crop losses caused by plant diseases and pests could cost the global economy over £400 billion a year if left unchecked.
- Dr Sven Truckenbrodt, who has joined the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology from a research not-for-profit in California, United States. Sven is pioneering work on ‘molecular connectomics’: a new way of mapping how the brain works – which could change how we understand mental health problems. In his career to date he has invented new ways of mapping and tracking brain activity. The Global Talent Fund has allowed Sven to obtain highly specialised microscopes at the cutting edge of available technology, perfectly tailored to his research needs.
The Global Talent Fund, administered by UKRI, is just one part of over £115 million funding that is being dedicated to attracting the very best scientific and research talent to the UK. This includes the expanded Encode: AI for Science Fellowships and the Turing AI Fellowships, which is embedding world-class AI researchers into UK labs, ensuring the UK remains a global hub for cutting-edge research and innovation.

It sits alongside additional DSIT funded flagship talent and grant schemes open to international research talent delivered through UKRI and the UK’s 4 prestigious National Academies. For example, the Royal Society’s Newton International Fellowships and the British Academy’s International Fellowships which are both aimed at attracting outstanding international early-career researchers to the UK.

Today, the Medical Research Council (MRC) is announcing additional funding of up to £8.5 million to expand its ‘early independence’ Career Development Award (CDA) and Clinical Scientist Fellowship (CSF) schemes, making it easier for international researchers to build careers in the UK.

Just last week, the Academy of Medical Sciences announced their latest 3 Professorship Awards, funding top-level researchers working on child mental health, heart disease and cancer to continue their work in the UK.

The Royal Society also recently announced a cohort of exceptional researchers awarded early career fellowships open to domestic and international talent and worth more than £83 million. These early career schemes are supported by DSIT and include the University Research Fellowships, Dorothy Hodgkin Fellowships and Newton International Fellowships.

The Royal Society recently announced its first awards for the Faraday Discovery Fellowships and the Royal Academy of Engineering are also expected to announce their first awards for the Green Future Fellowships in due course – both schemes are open to international talent, and have launched additional Accelerated International Application routes for exceptional non-UK-based researchers.
November 26, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Government acts on top business concern and cuts electricity bills for thousands of manufacturers by up to 25% [November 2025]
The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 24 November 2025.

The Government launches a consultation on the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme to cut electricity bills for 7,000 manufacturers and boost finance access with a £4 billion British Business Bank plan.
- Business Secretary sets out vision for optimism and economic growth at keynote speech to CBI’s annual conference.
- Government powers ahead with slashing electricity costs for over 7,000 British businesses by up to 25%.
- British Business Bank to improve access to finance and increase its pace of investment with focus on Industrial Strategy sectors.
Over 7,000 British businesses will see their electricity bills slashed by up to 25 percent, alongside increased support on access to finance for high potential firms, as Government takes bold action to tackle the biggest issues facing British businesses.

Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle will set out his big and bold offer of enhanced support in a keynote speech to a room of bosses from some of the UK’s top firms at the CBI Conference in London.

He will announce the launch of an 8-week consultation for the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS) that will determine eligibility and deliver one of the key promises in the government’s modern Industrial Strategy.

The scheme will cut energy prices for thousands of businesses, from April 2027, in high growth industries like automotive and aerospace and foundational sectors in their supply chains, like chemicals. British industrial electricity prices are currently some of the highest in the G7, making it harder for British firms to compete on the global stage.

He will also address another major concern among bosses who struggle to secure access to finance in order to grow and scale up their business. The Business Secretary will today back a new five-year plan for the Government-owned British Business Bank, ensuring it can invest larger amounts in successful domestic scale-ups, who currently have to look overseas for finance.

This will increase the Bank’s pace of investment by two thirds, with a £4 billion boost for the most promising businesses in Industrial Strategy sectors to scale up and stay here. Over five years, the Bank’s total activities are projected to support 180,000 UK businesses, 370,000 new jobs, and add £68 billion of gross value added to the UK. economy.

Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle said:

In recent years, our most promising innovators and industries have been hamstrung by some of the highest electricity prices in the G7 and poor access to finance. That’s been a drag anchor on growth. A drag anchor on innovation.

I have listened to business on both these issues and today we’re taking action. This is just the start, and in the months ahead I will be going further to address business concerns, reverse our industrial decline and make the UK the best place to start and scale a business.

High energy prices have consistently been raised as one of the top issues for businesses. 65% of respondents in Make UK and PWC’s 2025 Executive survey said high energy costs reduce their ability to compete and that it is a ‘dominant concern for manufacturers’, whilst 64% of businesses in the latest business confidence survey from the Adam Smith Institute said high energy costs are a ‘major concern’.

Now, the support provided through BICS will help level the playing field for thousands of companies, delivering on the central aim of the modern Industrial Strategy to back Britain’s leading sectors to attract new investment and deliver economic growth across all regions of the UK as part of the Plan for Change.

The scheme will support hundreds of thousands of skilled jobs across the country, reducing eligible companies’ bills by around £35-£40 per megawatt hour, or up to 25 percent.

By bearing down on costs across the energy system, we expect to deliver BICS and ensure that the scheme is delivered in line with our wider priorities to deliver affordable power for businesses and households. For example, the proposals in DESNZ’s recent consultations on RO/FiT indexation, if implemented, could contribute to that goal.

BICS follows the uplift to the discount on electricity costs provided through the British Industry Supercharger scheme announced just last month, which will launch in 2026 and increase the discount on electricity network charges faced by businesses in sectors like steel, cement and glass from 60 to 90 percent.

Louise Hellem, CBI Chief Economist, said:

Businesses have long warned that soaring energy prices are not just a cost burden, they’re an investment barrier. This consultation marks another welcome step forward in tackling a significant drag on economic growth.

Supporting firms to electrify is also critical to accelerating the energy transition and safeguarding the UK’s industrial competitiveness.

Government must now move quickly, in partnership with industry and energy suppliers, to set clear eligibility rules, delivery mechanisms and funding streams to close the industrial electricity price gap between the UK and its G7 peers.

Kevin Craven, CEO of ADS said:

We welcome the Government’s commitment to tackling high industrial energy costs and improving access to finance, recognising the importance of these issues particularly for our aerospace sector. ADS called for action in its Autumn Budget submission and today’s measures are a positive step forward.

There is no doubt that the business environment remains challenging and we look forward to working with Government to shape these interventions and address wider cost pressures. Continuing this momentum into the new year will be vital for ensuring UK industry stays competitive.

Ben Martin, Policy Manager, British Chambers of Commerce said:

This scheme is a positive step forward and will provide vital support to businesses in energy intensive industries. This consultation, to determine eligibility, is a key part of the process and will provide certainty for firms in understanding future costs for the coming years.

Notes to editors
- The scheme applies to Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) only, since energy policy is largely devolved in Northern Ireland.
- The consultation launched today will close on 19 January, and government will then publish its response to the consultation within 12 weeks of this date.
- Eligible businesses must operate in frontier manufacturing industries within the government’s eight priority sectors or in foundational manufacturing industries supplying those frontier industries and meet the required level of electricity intensity.
- BICS will provide eligible manufacturing businesses with exemptions from the indirect cost of the Renewables Obligation (RO), Feed-In Tariffs (FIT) and Capacity Market (CM) schemes, to reduce cost pressures and support the long-term viability of our most strategically important industries.
- PWC / Make UK: Executive Survey 2025, A Strategy for Growth – Risk and Opportunities
- Adam Smith Institute Business Confidence Survey 2025.
- The British Business Bank’s 5-year plan is available here: https://www.british-business-bank.co.uk/about/research-and-publications/five-year-strategic-plan.
November 26, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Millions to benefit from new health and wellbeing quiz [November 2025]
The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 24 November 2025.

Millions of Brits could boost their mood by spending 5 minutes taking a Healthy Choices Quiz launched by the government and the NHS.
- Government launches free 5-minute health quiz that reveals personalised steps to boost your mood and energy
- Research shows how 19 million people could boost their mood by making lifestyle changes, all while helping shift the NHS from treating sickness to preventing it
- Radio and TV presenters Melvin Odoom and Rickie Haywood-Williams share how taking the easy quiz gave them tips and advice to improve their health
Millions of Brits could boost their mood by making a simple healthy lifestyle change, according to new research ahead of the launch of a new online quiz today.

The 5-minute Healthy Choices Quiz, launched by the government and NHS, will give people across England personalised steps to boost their health, mood and energy.

The interactive mobile-friendly quiz has been designed to identify healthy changes that people can make and signpost to an array of trusted NHS resources to support healthier living.

Research from University College London estimates that 19 million adults in their middle years could boost their mood by making a healthy change. Increasing physical activity can improve mental wellbeing in just 4 weeks.

The quiz supports the government’s 10 Year Health Plan to shift the NHS from treating sickness to preventing it, and from analogue to digital healthcare – putting people in control of their own health through modern technology.

Health Minister Ashley Dalton said:

Taking this quick and easy quiz could be the first step for people to live healthier and happier lives.

We’re doing our part to cut smoking, obesity and provide better mental health support – this quiz gives people the chance to help themselves by taking advantage of expert NHS advice at the touch of a screen.

This simple, free and easily available quiz will bring expert NHS advice to your fingertips as part of our 10 Year Health Plan to move from treating sickness to preventing it.

The campaign aims to encourage adults – particularly those aged 40 to 60 and from more deprived backgrounds – to take control of their health and identify where they need support.

The quiz asks questions on a range of topics including nutrition, movement, smoking, vaping, alcohol consumption, mental health and sleep.

Users receive an overall score out of 10, along with tailored advice and links to free NHS apps and tools such as the Active 10 app to improve fitness or the NHS Every Mind Matters webpage which offers simple and practical advice to ease anxiety, manage stress, lift your mood and sleep better.

Radio DJs and TV presenters Rickie Haywood-Williams and Melvin Odoom are backing the campaign and feature in a short film where they share candid stories about their own health journeys and reveal their quiz results. They talk about the steps they have taken to improve their health, their motivations and the benefits they have experienced.

Rickie Haywood-Williams said:

Since becoming a dad, I’ve been more focused on my health – especially now my youngest is 3. I’ve started walking more and cycling when I can, and I’ve noticed a massive improvement both mentally and physically. Like most people juggling busy schedules, I still struggle with sleep and routine. I’ve got into the habit of eating late, and that’s one thing I’m trying to change.

That’s why I think the Healthy Choices Quiz is such a brilliant tool. It’s quick, easy and gives you a clear picture of where you’re at with your health. It gave me loads of practical tips that I can actually fit into my life. It’s not about being perfect – it’s about taking that first step and understanding how to start making changes that really make a difference.

Melvin Odoom added:

As I’ve got older, staying healthy has become a bigger priority, but it’s taken some trial and error to figure out what works for me. I’ve always loved running but going solo or training for marathons never stuck. Joining a running club changed everything – the social side and sense of community keep me coming back, and now being active is something I genuinely enjoy. I’ve also made changes within my lifestyle, like cutting down on drinking. Now I only have a drink on rare occasions, and the difference in my mood and energy is huge.

Eating better is still a work in progress, but the Healthy Choices Quiz gave me a fresh perspective – especially on things like fibre, which I hadn’t really thought about. It’s helped me figure out realistic changes that really fit my lifestyle, and given me some tools to get started.

A new review by University College London, using Health Survey for England data, highlights how millions could improve their health and wellbeing by making healthy lifestyle choices such as quitting smoking, drinking less alcohol, eating more healthily or moving more.

Dr Radha Modgil, NHS GP and broadcaster, said:

As a GP, I know how important it is to make healthy changes that fit into your everyday routine, but knowing where to begin can be tough – that’s why I’m excited about the new Healthy Choices Quiz.

It’s a simple first step that helps you understand where you’re at and gives you manageable tips that can boost your energy, lift your mood, and improve your physical and mental wellbeing.

Whether you’re building on progress or just getting going, you’ll be supported by free NHS apps, tools and advice that can help you move towards a healthier, happier future in a way that feels right for you.

The Healthy Choices Quiz is designed as an additional tool to help empower adults to live happier and healthier lives.

Other examples include a new digital NHS points scheme where people are rewarded for taking positive actions to improve their health. As announced in the 10 Year Health Plan, we will soon begin engaging with businesses to determine which behaviours should be incentivised.

Background information

Watch Melvin and Rickie taking part in the quiz.

Those who have tried the quiz are already seeing the benefit.

Melissa, 41, from London, said:

As a busy mum juggling work and family life, it’s easy for healthy habits to slip. I used to be really active, but after becoming a parent, I’ve had to rethink how I stay well. I’m now focusing on small, realistic changes – like improving my sleep and making better food choices when I’m low on energy.

Tools like the Healthy Choices Quiz are great for helping people like me find simple ways to get back on track. It’s pointed me in the direction of making healthier food choices, and shared some great advice on how to sleep better. I’d recommend others give it a go.

Craig, 49, from London, said:

Staying active is really important to me – whether I’m running, walking, or just making sure I hit my step count – but I’m always looking for ways to do a bit better. Taking the Healthy Choices Quiz gave me a fresh perspective and introduced me to NHS tools I hadn’t used before, like the Drink Free Days app.

They’ve helped me think more about balance, especially when it comes to food and alcohol, and I like that they offer flexible options that fit around my lifestyle. I’m not aiming for perfection, just small changes I can stick with and that feel achievable.

Ian, 59, from the West Midlands, said:

After years of walking miles every day as a postman, walking has remained a simple, low-impact way for me to stay active. I enjoy tracking my steps and often set myself goals to achieve, which makes it a little more fun when walking in adverse weathers. I know there’s still room to improve my lifestyle, but I’m taking it one step at a time.

Recently, I’ve started making changes to my diet by cutting out sugary snacks for healthier options. I’m always looking for ways to keep improving, and tools like the Healthy Choices Quiz offer helpful ideas to build on what I’m already doing.

Kristina, 41, from the West Midlands, said:

Life gets so busy and it’s so easy to forget about yourself, but it’s important to feel empowered in the choices you make. For me, I love going outside and moving when I have a spare moment – even if it’s just for a dog walk. I use it as a time to reflect and it has made a real difference to my mental health.

Taking the Healthy Choices Quiz was the first step that helped me understand where to start and how to feel healthier and happier – especially if, like me, you didn’t know where to begin.

Joanne, 45, from the south-east, said:

As someone with a busy professional and family life, when it comes to a healthy lifestyle it’s not about being perfect – it’s about doing what you can do, when you can. Life can feel like a loop of sleep, work, repeat, but it’s vital to break that cycle and make time for yourself every day, whether that’s walking, running or enjoying a nourishing meal.

I’d recommend the Healthy Choices Quiz as a first step for anyone looking to feel healthier and happier.

Dr Richard Piper, CEO at Alcohol Change UK, said:

Too many of us still struggle to understand the link between the alcohol we drink and the impact it is having on our daily lives – from poorer sleep and worsening mental health to long-term conditions. This is made harder by the myths and misinformation across health and lifestyle content, including alcohol. 

That’s why free, quick and easy interactive tools from trusted sources like this new Healthy Choices Quiz are an effective way to help more of us connect the dots between our lifestyles, including drinking habits, and our physical and mental health. Alcohol Change UK is proud to support the NHS and provide additional free, impartial tools and advice for anyone looking to change their relationship with alcohol.

Douglas Twenefour, Head of Clinical at Diabetes UK, said: 

Eating a healthy diet, moving more and cutting back on alcohol can lower a person’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It can also be really beneficial for people living with all types of diabetes – helping them reduce their risk of serious complications, such as heart attacks and strokes.

The Healthy Choices Quiz gives people a clear snapshot of their mental and physical health, offering practical tips that can make a real difference to their overall wellbeing.

Dell Stanford, senior dietitian at the British Heart Foundation, said:

Making small changes to your diet can have a big impact on your heart health. Eating more fruit, vegetables, wholegrains and pulses while cutting back on foods high in salt, sugar and saturated fat is one of the most effective ways to protect your heart.

Alongside this, being physically active and avoiding smoking are also important steps people can take to maintain good heart health. This quick, 5-minute quiz is a useful way for people to understand what changes could make the biggest difference for them.

But individual action alone isn’t enough. We also need to create a healthier environment where nutritious, affordable options are the easiest choice for everyone. This includes making healthy food more accessible so improvements are within reach for all.
November 26, 2025

PRESS RELEASE : Schools to cut bills with Great British Energy solar panels [November 2025]

The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 17 November 2025.

Schools across England to cut bills with Great British Energy solar panels.

23 schools have now installed Great British Energy solar panels and are cutting their energy bills with clean, homegrown power
Full list announced of over 250 schools across England that are set to benefit from Great British Energy and UK government funding for solar panels
Millions in savings will be reinvested into education

Pupils across the country will benefit from more money for textbooks and teaching, as Great British Energy’s solar rollout continues to help schools cut their energy bills.

As part of an expanded scheme to fund solar panels for NHS sites, military sites and schools, over 250 schools across England have signed agreements to benefit from a share of up to £100 million in funding from Great British Energy and government for new solar panels and other energy efficiency measures.

23 schools have now installed Great British Energy solar panels and are cutting their energy bills, from Notre Dame RC School in Plymouth to Christ The King RC Primary School in Manchester. This has allowed savings to be reinvested in school services as part of the government’s clean energy superpower mission, enabling communities to reap the benefits of homegrown, clean power.

This is part of the government’s drive to make all public buildings more climate resilient. The government is building all new schools to be climate-resilient and net-zero in operation as part of the School Rebuilding Programme.

Rocketing energy bills in recent years have eaten into school budgets. This has been driven by the UK’s dependency on global fossil fuel markets over which government has no control. By enabling schools to generate their own electricity, it is estimated schools will save millions, far more than installation costs.

Energy Minister Michael Shanks said:  

Great British Energy is helping schools to save money on bills, meaning more money for textbooks and technology. 

Across the country, solar panels are going up on rooftops to power classrooms with clean, homegrown power.  

This is our clean energy superpower mission in action, protecting our public services with lower bills and energy security.

Great British Energy’s CEO, Dan McGrail said:  

Great British Energy’s ongoing solar rollout delivers tangible benefits to the people that need it most in our hospitals and schools.

This not only provides clean energy to communities, it also ensures that the public own and benefit from these projects through energy security, good jobs and above all, real tangible local outcomes such as more funds to support teaching and health.

Education Minister Josh MacAlister said:   

Solar panels are slashing schools’ energy bills by thousands of pounds year after year, with the money going straight back into the textbooks and resources pupils need to succeed. 

This is part of our wider work to drive national renewal, rebuilding more than 750 schools in every corner of the country.

The scheme will target schools and colleges with buildings that are able to accommodate solar panels in areas of England most in need. As part of this, the government has selected schools that will be primarily clustered in areas of deprivation in the North East, West Midlands and North West, as well as at least 10 schools in each region of England.

Each region includes a further education college which will work with the contractors appointed to promote careers in renewables to support growth in the construction and renewables workforce. This could be through work placements, skills bootcamps and workshops.

This follows the government’s commitment to curriculum reforms which will strengthen climate and sustainability education across geography, science, citizenship, and design and technology – from year one through to a new Natural History GCSE – helping to ensure pupils understand the planet, take action on climate change and develop the skills for a greener future.

This is alongside all nurseries, schools and colleges being called upon to put in place a climate action plan, while empowering young voices through Youth Sustainability Champions to help advise, evaluate and champion sustainability in education.

The rollout of these solar panels marks progress in Great British Energy and government’s Local Power Plan that will ensure the benefits of the government’s clean energy mission are felt at a local level, with energy security, good jobs and economic growth – while also helping to rebuild the nation’s public services.

Mark Greatrex, Chief Executive of the Bellevue Place Education Trust, London said:

We are delighted to have Kilburn Grange School and Halley House School enrolled in the Great British Energy’s solar programme in addition to other Bellevue Place Education Trust schools. Last year, all our schools collectively achieved a 9.4% reduction in energy consumption, saving £299K in energy bills, which we can invest back into the education provision for our pupils.

Nicola Malone, Head Teacher of Christ the King Roman Catholic Primary School, Salford said:

We are very proud that Christ the King is benefitting from the Great British Energy Solar Partnership programme. The solar installation will make a lasting difference for our school, whilst showing our children the value of sustainability and emphasising our shared responsibility for the world around us.

Notes to editors

We are announcing 255 schools, these are subject to site surveys and may change:

School name	Postcode	Local authority	Region	Complete?
Bishop Lonsdale Church of England Primary School and Nursery	DE22 3HH	Derby	East Midlands
Lees Brook Academy	DE21 4QX	Derby	East Midlands
Sharley Park Community Primary School	S45 9BN	Derbyshire	East Midlands
Clowne Junior School	S43 4BS	Derbyshire	East Midlands
Castle Mead Academy	LE3 5QT	Leicester	East Midlands
Melton Vale Sixth Form College	LE13 1DN	Leicestershire	East Midlands
The Joseph Whitaker School	NG21 0AG	Mansfield	East Midlands
St Gregory’s Catholic Primary School	NN3 2AX	Northampton	East Midlands
Firbeck Academy	NG8 2FB	Nottingham	East Midlands
Bluecoat Beechdale Academy	NG8 3GP	Nottingham	East Midlands
The Bulwell Academy	NG6 8AQ	Nottingham	East Midlands
The Suthers School	NG24 3NH	Nottinghamshire	East Midlands
Samworth Church Academy	NG18 2DY	Nottinghamshire	East Midlands
Carlton Academy	NG4 3SH	Nottinghamshire	East Midlands
Northampton Academy	NN3 8NH	West Northamptonshire	East Midlands
St Marys C of E Academy	SG5 4DL	Central Bedfordshire	East of England	Complete
Roydon Primary Academy	CM19 5HN	Essex	East of England	Complete
Avanti Meadows Primary School	CM23 1FQ	Hertfordshire	East of England
Manor Drive Primary Academy	PE4 7EP	Peterborough	East of England
Manor Drive Secondary Academy	PE4 7EP	Peterborough	East of England
Westfield Primary Academy	CB9 0BW	Suffolk	East of England	Complete
Kedington Primary Academy	CB9 7QZ	Suffolk	East of England
Laureate Community Academy	CB8 0AN	Suffolk	East of England
Place Farm Primary Academy	CB9 8HF	Suffolk	East of England
Harris Academy Chafford Hundred	RM16 6SA	Thurrock	East of England	Complete
Harris Garrard Academy	DA18 4DW	Bexley	London
Kilburn Grange School	NW6 7UJ	Brent	London	Complete
Harris Primary Shortlands	BR2 0HG	Bromley	London
Harris City Academy Crystal Palace	SE19 2JH	Croydon	London	Complete
Harris Primary Academy Benson	CR0 8RQ	Croydon	London
Halley House School	E8 2DJ	Hackney	London	Complete
St Mark’s Church of England Academy	CR4 1SF	Merton	London
St Helen’s Catholic Primary School	E13 8DW	Newham	London
Harris Academy Bermondsey	SE16 3TZ	Southwark	London
City of London Academy (Southwark)	SE1 5LA	Southwark	London
Culloden Primary	E14 0PT	Tower Hamlets	London
Mowlem Primary School	E2 9HE	Tower Hamlets	London
St John’s Catholic School & Sixth Form College	DL14 6JT	County Durham	North East
Bowburn Primary School	DH6 5FP	County Durham	North East
St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Blackhill	DH8 8JD	County Durham	North East
Prince Bishops Community Primary School	DL14 8DY	County Durham	North East
Howletch Lane Primary School	SR8 2NQ	County Durham	North East
Durham Gilesgate Primary School	DH1 1PH	County Durham	North East
Newker Primary School	DH2 3AA	County Durham	North East
Oakley Cross Primary School and Nursery	DL14 9UD	County Durham	North East
Ropery Walk Primary School	SR7 7JZ	County Durham	North East
Westlea Primary School	SR7 8JU	County Durham	North East
Ebchester CofE Primary School	DH8 0QB	County Durham	North East
St Cuthbert’s Catholic Primary School, Crook	DL15 9DN	County Durham	North East
St Bede’s Catholic School and Sixth Form College	DH7 0RD	County Durham	North East
West Cornforth Primary School	DL17 9HP	County Durham	North East
St John’s Church of England Aided Primary School	DL4 2EQ	County Durham	North East
Wyvern Academy	DL3 9SH	Darlington	North East
Cardinal Hume Catholic School, Gateshead	NE9 6RZ	Gateshead	North East
Brougham Primary School	TS24 8EY	Hartlepool	North East
West View Primary School	TS24 9BP	Hartlepool	North East
Lynnfield Primary School	TS26 8RL	Hartlepool	North East
St Hild’s Church of England School	TS24 9PB	Hartlepool	North East
Corpus Christi RC Primary School	TS3 8NL	Middlesbrough	North East
St Alphonsus’ Catholic Primary School	TS3 6PX	Middlesbrough	North East
Middlesborough College	TS2 1AD	Middlesbrough	North East
St Gerard’s RC Primary School	TS8 9HU	Middlesbrough	North East
Sunnyside Academy	TS8 0RJ	Middlesbrough	North East
Tyneview Primary	NE6 3QP	Newcastle upon Tyne	North East
Gosforth Academy	NE3 2JH	Newcastle upon Tyne	North East
Chillingham Rd Primary School	NE6 5XX	Newcastle upon Tyne	North East
Riverside Primary School	NE29 6DQ	North Tyneside	North East
Benton Dene Primary School	NE12 8FD	North Tyneside	North East
St Thomas More Roman Catholic High School	NE29 8LF	North Tyneside	North East
The Blyth Academy	NE24 4JP	Northumberland	North East
Bede Academy	NE24 2SY	Northumberland	North East
Jarrow Cross CofE Primary School	NE32 5UW	South Tyneside	North East
Hebburn Lakes Primary School	NE31 2SL	South Tyneside	North East
Westoe Crown Primary School	NE33 3NS	South Tyneside	North East
Mortimer Community College	NE33 4UG	South Tyneside	North East
Fairfield Primary School	TS19 7PW	Stockton-on-Tees	North East
Thornaby Academy	TS17 9DB	Stockton-on-Tees	North East
Christ’s College	SR4 8PG	Sunderland	North East
New Silksworth Academy Junior	SR3 1AS	Sunderland	North East
Venerable Bede Church of England Academy	SR2 0SX	Sunderland	North East
Unity Academy Blackpool	FY2 0TS	Blackpool	North West
Blackpool Gateway Academy	FY1 6JH	Blackpool	North West
St George’s School A Church of England Academy	FY4 4PH	Blackpool	North West
Marton Primary Academy and Nursery	FY4 5LY	Blackpool	North West
St James CofE Primary School, Farnworth	BL4 9QB	Bolton	North West
Acton C of E Primary Academy	CW5 8LG	Cheshire	North West	Complete
Broken Cross Primary Academy and Nursery	SK11 8UD	Cheshire East	North West
The Fallibroome Academy	SK10 4AF	Cheshire East	North West
Upton Priory School	SK10 3ED	Cheshire East	North West
The County High School, Leftwich	CW9 8EZ	Cheshire West and Chester	North West
Newtown Primary School	CA2 7LW	Cumberland	North West
Petteril Bank School	CA1 3BX	Cumberland	North West
The Whitehaven Academy	CA28 8TY	Cumberland	North West
Park Brow Community Primary School	L32 6QH	Knowsley	North West
Malvern Primary School	L14 6XA	Knowsley	North West
Brownedge St Mary’s Catholic High School	PR5 6PB	Lancashire	North West
Morecambe and Heysham Westgate Primary School	LA4 4XF	Lancashire	North West
St Francis of Assisi Catholic Primary School	WN8 9AZ	Lancashire	North West
Mount Carmel Roman Catholic High School, Hyndburn	BB5 0LU	Lancashire	North West
Charles Saer Community Primary School	FY7 8DD	Lancashire	North West
Four Oaks Community Primary School	L5 1XP	Liverpool	North West
Croxteth Community Primary School	L11 0BP	Liverpool	North West
Stockton Wood Community Primary School	L24 3TF	Liverpool	North West
North Liverpool Academy	L5 0SQ	Liverpool	North West
The Trinity Catholic Academy	L5 8UT	Liverpool	North West
Dixons Croxteth Academy	L11 4SG	Liverpool	North West
Benchill Primary School	M22 8EJ	Manchester	North West	Complete
Ladybarn Primary School	M20 4SR	Manchester	North West
Whalley Range 11-18 High School	M16 8GW	Manchester	North West
Christ The King RC Primary School Manchester	M40 1LU	Manchester	North West	Complete
Dixons Brooklands Academy	M23 9BP	Manchester	North West	Complete
The East Manchester Academy	M11 3DS	Manchester	North West
Co-op Academy Belle Vue	M12 4BA	Manchester	North West
Co-op Academy Medlock	M13 9UJ	Manchester	North West
Cravenwood Primary Academy	M8 5AE	Manchester	North West
Manchester Academy	M14 4PX	Manchester	North West
Oasis Academy Aspinal	M18 7NY	Manchester	North West
Horton Mill Community Primary School	OL4 1GL	Oldham	North West
Oasis Academy Leesbrook	OL4 5JE	Oldham	North West
Littlemoor Primary School	OL4 2RR	Oldham	North West
Lyndhurst Primary and Nursery School	OL8 4JD	Oldham	North West
Oasis Academy Clarksfield	OL4 1NG	Oldham	North West
Oasis Academy Oldham	OL8 4JZ	Oldham	North West
Cardinal Langley Roman Catholic High School	M24 2GL	Rochdale	North West
The Albion Academy	M6 6QT	Salford	North West
Dukesgate Academy	M38 9HF	Salford	North West
Co-op Academy Swinton	M27 6JU	Salford	North West
Litherland High School	L21 0DB	Sefton	North West
Litherland Moss Primary School	L21 0DB	Sefton	North West
Cowley International College	WA10 6PN	St. Helens	North West
The Sutton Academy	WA9 5AU	St. Helens	North West
Tameside College	OL6 6NX	Tameside	North West
The Heys Primary School	OL6 9NS	Tameside	North West
Greenfield Primary Academy	SK14 1QD	Tameside	North West
Laurus Ryecroft	M43 7LJ	Tameside	North West
Oasis Academy Broadoak	OL6 8QG	Tameside	North West
Lime Tree Primary Academy	M33 2RP	Trafford	North West	Complete
Broadoak School	M31 4BU	Trafford	North West
Lostock High School	M32 9PL	Trafford	North West
Padgate Academy	WA2 0LN	Warrington	North West
Beamont Collegiate Academy	WA2 8PX	Warrington	North West
Dallam Community Primary School	WA5 0JG	Warrington	North West
Meadowside Community Primary and Nursery School	WA2 9PH	Warrington	North West
Priestley College	WA4 6RD	Warrington	North West
Kirkby Stephen Grammar School	CA17 4HA	Westmorland and Furness	North West
St Gabriel’s Catholic Primary School	WN7 2XG	Wigan	North West
St Mary’s Catholic College	CH45 3LN	Wirral	North West
Woodchurch High School	CH49 7NG	Wirral	North West
Co-op Academy Hillside	CH43 9HG	Wirral	North West
Co-op Academy Portland	CH41 0AB	Wirral	North West
The Island Free School	PO38 1BG	Isle of Wight	South East
Goodwin Academy	CT14 9BD	Kent	South East
Burnt Oak Primary School	ME7 1LS	Medway	South East
Oasis Academy Skinner Street	ME7 1LG	Medway	South East
Charles Warren Academy	MK6 3AZ	Milton Keynes	South East	Complete
The Milton Keynes Academy	MK6 5LA	Milton Keynes	South East
Iqra Slough Islamic Primary School	SL2 5FF	Slough	South East
Rickley Park Primary School	MK3 6EW	South East	South East
Oasis Academy Sholing	SO19 8PH	Southampton	South East
Whiteknights Primary School	RG2 8EP	Wokingham	South East	Complete
Peasedown St Johns Primary School	BA2 8DH	Bath and North East Somerset	South West	Complete
St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School	BH12 4DZ	Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole	South West	Complete
St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Axminster	EX13 5BE	Devon	South West	Complete
St White’s Primary School	GL14 3GD	Gloucestershire	South West
All Saints’ Academy	GL51 0WH	Gloucestershire	South West
Notre Dame RC School	PL6 5HN	Plymouth	South West	Complete
St Boniface’s RC College	PL5 3AG	Plymouth	South West	Complete
Holy Cross Catholic Primary School	PL4 9BE	Plymouth	South West	Complete
Lipson Co-operative Academy	PL4 7PG	Plymouth	South West
Oliver Tomkins Church of England	SN5 8LW	Swindon	South West
Tame Valley Academy	B36 8QJ	Birmingham	West Midlands
Prince Albert High School	B42 2TU	Birmingham	West Midlands
Nelson Mandela School	B12 8EH	Birmingham	West Midlands
Ark St Alban’s Academy	B12 0YH	Birmingham	West Midlands
Bloomsbury	B7 5BX	Birmingham	West Midlands
Hallmoor (SEN school)	B33 0DL	Birmingham	West Midlands
Thornton Primary School	B8 2LQ	Birmingham	West Midlands
Richard Lee Primary School	CV2 5FU	Coventry	West Midlands
Finham Park 2	CV4 9WT	Coventry	West Midlands
Charter Academy	CV4 8DW	Coventry	West Midlands
Hill Farm Academy	CV6 3BL	Coventry	West Midlands
Moseley Primary School	CV6 1AB	Coventry	West Midlands
Potters Green Primary	CV2 2GF	Coventry	West Midlands
Dudley College	DY1 4AS	Dudley	West Midlands
Ellowes Hall Sports College	DY3 2JH	Dudley	West Midlands
Weobley High School	HR4 8ST	Herefordshire, County of	West Midlands
Weobley Primary School	HR4 8ST	Herefordshire, County of	West Midlands
Eaton Valley Primary School	B71 4BU	Sandwell	West Midlands
Bleakhouse Primary School	B68 9DS	Sandwell	West Midlands
Glebefields Primary School	DY4 0SX	Sandwell	West Midlands
Hanbury Primary School	B70 9NT	Sandwell	West Midlands
High Point (SEN school)	WS10 0JS	Sandwell	West Midlands
Oxon CofE Primary School	SY3 5BJ	Shropshire	West Midlands
Shrewsbury College	SY1 1RX	Shropshire	West Midlands
Greswold Primary School	B91 2AZ	Solihull	West Midlands
Bishop Wilson Church of England Primary School	B37 7TR	Solihull	West Midlands
Stafford Manor High School	ST17 9DJ	Staffordshire	West Midlands
Samuel Allsopp Primary and Nursery School	DE14 2LU	Staffordshire	West Midlands
Poppyfield Primary Academy	WS12 4RY	Staffordshire	West Midlands
Thistley Hough Academy	ST4 5JJ	Stoke-on-Trent	West Midlands
Ormiston Meridian Academy	ST3 7DF	Stoke-on-Trent	West Midlands
Woodloes Primary School	CV34 5DF	Warwickshire	West Midlands
All Saints Bedworth CofE Academy	CV12 9HP	Warwickshire	West Midlands
Tudor Grange Primary Academy Meon Vale	CV37 8QR	Warwickshire	West Midlands
George Eliot Academy	CV11 4QP	Warwickshire	West Midlands
Ash Green School	CV7 9AH	Warwickshire	West Midlands
Kingsbury School – Tamworth	B78 2LF	Warwickshire	West Midlands
St Michaels C of E Academy	CV12 9DA	Warwickshire	West Midlands
Ormiston SWB Academy	WV14 0LN	Wolverhampton	West Midlands
Rakegate Primary School	WV10 6US	Wolverhampton	West Midlands
Lanesfield Primary School	WV4 6BZ	Wolverhampton	West Midlands
Holy Trinity Catholic Primary School	WV14 7PD	Wolverhampton	West Midlands
Oak Meadow Primary School	WV11 2QQ	Wolverhampton	West Midlands
Ormiston NEW Academy	WV10 6SE	Wolverhampton	West Midlands
Moons Moat First School	B98 9HR	Worcestershire	West Midlands
Carnforth School	WR4 9HG	Worcestershire	West Midlands
Honeywell Primary School	WR2 5QH	Worcestershire	West Midlands
St George’s CofE School	DY10 2BX	Worcestershire	West Midlands
Hollymount School	WR4 9SG	Worcestershire	West Midlands
Wolverley CE Secondary School and Sixth Form	DY11 5XQ	Worcestershire	West Midlands
Feversham Primary Academy	BD3 9EG	Bradford	Yorkshire and the Humber	Complete
Upton Primary School	WF9 1JS	Wakefield	Yorkshire and Humber
Girlington Primary School	BD8 9NR	Bradford	Yorkshire and the Humber
Trinity Academy Akroydon	HX3 6PU	Calderdale	Yorkshire and the Humber
Trinity Academy St Peter’s	HX6 1HB	Calderdale	Yorkshire and the Humber
Trinity Academy	DN8 5BY	Doncaster	Yorkshire and the Humber
De Warenne Academy	DN12 3JY	Doncaster	Yorkshire and the Humber
Don Valley Academy	DN5 9DD	Doncaster	Yorkshire and the Humber
Marshlands Primary School	DN14 5UE	East Riding of Yorkshire	Yorkshire and the Humber
Withernsea High School	HU19 2EQ	East Riding of Yorkshire	Yorkshire and the Humber
Kingsway Primary School	DN14 5HQ	East Riding of Yorkshire	Yorkshire and the Humber
Northfield Infant School	YO25 5YN	East Riding of Yorkshire	Yorkshire and the Humber
Appleton Primary School	HU5 4PG	Kingston upon Hull, City of	Yorkshire and the Humber
Francis Askew Primary School	HU4 6LQ	Kingston upon Hull, City of	Yorkshire and the Humber
Sirius Academy North	HU6 9BP	Kingston upon Hull, City of	Yorkshire and the Humber
Aspire Academy	HU9 5DE	Kingston upon Hull, City of	Yorkshire and the Humber
Liberty Academy	HU9 5YB	Kingston upon Hull, City of	Yorkshire and the Humber
Estcourt Primary Academy	HU9 2RP	Kingston upon Hull, City of	Yorkshire and the Humber
Trinity Academy Leeds	LS9 7QL	Leeds	Yorkshire and the Humber
Cockburn School	LS11 5TT	Leeds	Yorkshire and the Humber
Oasis Academy Nunsthorpe	DN33 1AW	North East Lincolnshire	Yorkshire and the Humber	Complete
Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy	DN34 5AH	North East Lincolnshire	Yorkshire and the Humber
Ormiston Maritime Academy	DN34 5AH	North East Lincolnshire	Yorkshire and the Humber
The Vale Academy	DN20 8AR	North Lincolnshire	Yorkshire and the Humber
South Ferriby Primary	DN18 6HU	North Lincolnshire	Yorkshire and the Humber
Graham School	YO12 6QW	North Yorkshire	Yorkshire and the Humber
Redscope Primary School	S61 2PL	Rotherham	Yorkshire and the Humber
Thorpe Hesley Primary School	S61 2PL	Rotherham	Yorkshire and the Humber
Arbourthorne Community Primary School	S2 2GQ	Sheffield	Yorkshire and the Humber
Oasis Academy Don Valley	S9 3TY	Sheffield	Yorkshire and the Humber
Oasis Academy Fir Vale	S4 8GA	Sheffield	Yorkshire and the Humber
Oasis Academy Watermead	S5 8RJ	Sheffield	Yorkshire and the Humber
West End Academy	WF 94QJ	Wakefield	Yorkshire and the Humber	Complete
Burton Green Primary School	YO30 6JE	York	Yorkshire and the Humber
Carr Infants School	YO26 5QA	York

November 18, 2025

PRESS RELEASE : The use of starvation as a weapon of war is unacceptable – UK statement at the UN Security Council [November 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 17 November 2025.

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Chargé d’Affaires to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Conflict-related Food Insecurity.

Famine in the 21st century is not a natural disaster – it is a man-made tragedy. The evidence is clear: nearly 300 million people face acute food insecurity, most in countries affected by conflict. Across Sudan, Gaza, the Sahel, Yemen and Myanmar, conflict has devastated harvests, shattered supply chains, and uprooted families from the land they depend on.

I will make three points.

First, the Security Council has a responsibility to address conflict, to prevent escalation, and to support efforts towards inclusive and sustainable peace. We have the tools.

Resolutions 2417 and 2573 are unequivocal: starvation as a weapon of war and attacks on civilian infrastructure are unacceptable. We urge all Member States to strengthen monitoring, reporting, and accountability for violations, and to uphold their obligations under these resolutions.

Second, international humanitarian law must be upheld. The United Kingdom calls on all parties to conflict to comply fully with international humanitarian law and allow rapid, unimpeded humanitarian access. When aid is blocked or delayed, it is the most vulnerable who suffer first – families are cut off from food and children face acute malnutrition.

In April, the UK launched the Conflict, Hunger and International Humanitarian Law Handbook, offering practical guidance to minimise food insecurity during conflict.

Third, we must act to prevent hunger wherever it occurs. Conflict breeds hunger, but hunger can also fuel instability and further conflict. The UK’s Resilience and Adaptation Fund, alongside our humanitarian financing, is supporting longer term solutions in fragile and conflict-affected states – building local systems that protect people, markets, and livelihoods in the face of climatic and other shocks.

We are investing in climate resilient agriculture, supporting local food systems, and championing the participation of women and youth in building resilient communities.

The UK remains committed to supporting food security and tackling conflict-driven hunger. We are the largest bilateral donor to the Food and Agriculture Organization and, this year alone, contributed over $540 million to the World Food Programme for critical interventions including in Palestine and Sudan.

The UK will continue to press for sustained humanitarian access and invest in resilience – so that conflict does not condemn communities to hunger. We all must use the tools at our disposal to break this cycle.

November 18, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Crime-cutting jobs plan sees hundreds of firms join hiring drive [November 2025]
The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 16 November 2025.

Britain’s biggest businesses have joined the Government’s hiring drive to get prison leavers into work in effort to cut crime as part of the Plan for Change.
- Over 300 businesses join efforts to plug labour shortfalls and grow the economy
- New job matchmaking tool to be rolled out across prisons in England and Wales
- Employment to help ex-offenders turn backs on crime and reduce reoffending
Over 300 top British businesses have signed up to the Government’s recruitment initiative in the last 12 months, joining household names like Greggs, Iceland and Kier in helping fill some of the estimated one million vacancies in the UK job market.

The Prison Service has also unveiled bold new plans to deploy a digital job-matching tool that will connect prisoners with employment opportunities and support them through the application process, as part of a wider tech drive to link potential employers with untapped talent behind bars.

In the last 12 months, the proportion of prison leavers serving sentences of 12 months or more who were employed within six months of release has more than doubled, rising to an all-time high of 38 per cent, compared with 15 per cent in 2021.

This announcement was made by the Prisons and Probation Minister at the Ministry of Justice’s annual employment advisory conference (Thursday 13 November), where business leaders from across the country met to explore how they can support prison leavers into work.

Minister for Probation, Prisons and Reducing Reoffending, Lord James Timpson, said:

I know firsthand the value of employing ex-offenders. It slashes reoffending, prevents crime before it happens, and helps grow the economy by filling vital gaps in the UK job market.

That’s why we’re investing in rehabilitation and supporting prisoners into jobs to give them a real chance to turn their lives around, as part of our Plan for Change.

Data shows that prison leavers in full-time employment are roughly 10 percentage points less likely to re-offend when released from custody, which means less crime, and fewer future victims. More than 90 per cent of surveyed businesses who employ prison leavers report they are motivated, have good attendance and are trustworthy.

In a further move to cut crime, well known coffee shop firm Gourmet Coffee has become the latest high street name to hire ex-offenders and offer recruits tailored training to help them stay on the straight and narrow.

Liz Garnell, Co-owner of Gourmet Coffee:

For me, everyone deserves a second chance. It’s not just to rebuild their lives, but for them to contribute their skills, of which we have tapped into with great success at HMP Styal.

Earlier this year the Government launched Employment Councils which bring together probation, prisons, local employers and DWP under one umbrella for the first time. The new bodies will broaden employment support for offenders in the community.

This initiative supports the government’s broader mission to fix the foundations of the justice system by cutting crime, reducing reoffending and helping people rebuild their lives through the power of work.
November 18, 2025

Tag: 2025

Nature Minister Mary Creagh said:

Ruth Davis, Special Representative for Nature said:

Commander Grant Dalgleish, HMS Severn’s Commanding Officer, said:

Wing Commander Higgins, Officer Commanding 120 Squadron, said:

Notes to editors

Global Talent Fund details

Background information

Notes to editors