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Tag: 2025

  • PRESS RELEASE : Irregular migration of people – UK statement to the OSCE [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Irregular migration of people – UK statement to the OSCE [July 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 24 July 2025.

    Ambassador Holland updates the Permanent Council on the UK’s newly introduced Global Irregular Migration Sanctions Regime.

    Thank you, Mr Chair.

    Fifty years ago, the Helsinki Final Act recognised the movement of migrants as a key issue for both States and individuals. Twenty years ago in Ljubljana, our Ministers acknowledged in Ministerial Council Decision 2/05 that migration was becoming increasingly diverse and complex, requiring both national and transnational responses. They identified ways the OSCE could contribute and tasked the Secretary General and OSCE structures to address migration across all three dimensions.

    That same year, Ministers adopted the Border Security and Management Concept. While reaffirming that border security is a matter of national sovereignty, we committed to enhancing mutually beneficial inter-State cooperation to address terrorism, organised crime, illegal migration, and the trafficking of weapons, drugs, and people. These threats remain persistent. We must respond nationally and through cooperation. Protecting our borders is protecting our national security.

    In the UK, our Border Security Command is building a more coherent and controlled system to tackle threats, including Organised Immigration Crime (OIC). Our newly established OIC Domestic Taskforce will strengthen how these crimes are investigated and prosecuted by police, law enforcement, and the justice system.

    We are also focused on the enablers of OIC. The online environment must not be a safe haven for criminal networks. The UK is committed to working with online platforms to prevent their use in facilitating irregular migration.

    To support this, we are strengthening our legislative framework. Our Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill introduces new counter-terror-inspired powers to target those who supply, or handle items used in immigration crime. It also enhances data-sharing powers to support law enforcement and immigration operations, both domestically and with international partners.

    On 22 July, we introduced the world’s first standalone Global Irregular Migration Sanctions Regime. This innovative tool enables us to impose sanctions related to people smuggling, human trafficking, and organised immigration crime.

    As Chair of the Security Committee, I look forward to September’s events marking the 20th anniversary of the Border Security and Management Concept. It will be a timely opportunity to reflect on how our practices must evolve to meet emerging challenges while upholding fundamental rights and OSCE principles, and I invite interested participating States to join us in considering how we can build on the OSCE’s mandates in this area.

    Thank you, Mr Chair.

  • PRESS RELEASE : New flood warning service rolled out across Greater Manchester [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : New flood warning service rolled out across Greater Manchester [July 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 24 July 2025.

    Flood warning service expanded to provide early warning of flooding to communities in Cheadle, Stockport and Platt Bridge. Residents can register for free.

    The Environment Agency has expanded its flood warning service across Cheadle, Stockport and the Platt Bridge area of Wigan to ensure more people than ever across Greater Manchester are warned about any imminent risk of flooding.

    The new flood warnings cover almost 800 homes and businesses and will see a warning message issued when flooding is forecast and then again to warn users if impacts are likely.

    Flood warnings tell people about the risk of flooding to their home or business, and help people make informed decisions about how to respond. There are three types of warning – Flood Alert, Flood Warning and Severe Flood Warning.

    Residents can register for the new service for free and choose to receive notifications via phone call (voice recording), text or email and by fully registering, people can also sign up to receive warnings for multiple locations.

    Improving the Service

    The new flood warning areas have been added as part a result of new modelling and data – part of the Environment Agency’s drive to continually improve the flood warning service it provides across the country.

    Several of the new locations to receive flood warnings were places that flooded over the New Year period.

    Laila Berry, Flood Resilience Team Leader at the Environment Agency, said:

    We know all too well the devastating impact that flooding can have, which is why protecting people and communities is our top priority.

    Our staff use the latest technology to monitor rainfall, river and tide levels 24 hours a day to forecast flooding.

    The extension of our flood warning service will allow even more people across Stockport, Cheadle and Wigan to take action and stay safe if flooding is likely to occur.

    “We would encourage all of those people in new flood warning areas to fully register their preferred details via Gov UK or Floodline for free, for both their safety and peace of mind.”

    Be Prepared for Flooding

    Householders are encouraged to prepare if they receive a Flood Alert which could mean packing a bag that includes medicines, insurance documents and anything else they wouldn’t want to lose if flooding were to take place.

    A Flood Warning calls on people to act now which means turning off gas, water and electricity and moving family and pets to safety. A Severe Flood Warning means you are in immediate danger and should follow advice from the emergency services.

    The accuracy of flood warnings improves over time as the Environment Agency gather more data and get a better understanding of how the river reacts to heavy rainfall. In the short term in new flood warning areas, there may be a higher than normal occurrence of false alarms, due to them always being issued on the side of caution.

    There are over 1.6 million users registered to receive flood warnings at the touch of a button across the country. These flood warnings are generated from river level data which is collected via an extensive monitoring network across England.

    The data is combined with weather forecasts, river models and other information to produce location specific flood forecasts.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Latest reforms and developments in Moldova – UK statement to the OSCE [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Latest reforms and developments in Moldova – UK statement to the OSCE [July 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 24 July 2025.

    Ambassador Holland welcomes Moldova’s continued efforts to safeguard electoral integrity and counter foreign malign interference.

    The United Kingdom reaffirms its strong support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Moldova, and for its European trajectory. As Moldova prepares for its parliamentary elections on 28 September, we commend the Moldovan people’s commitment to democratic reform and resilience. Moldova continues to play a constructive role in promoting stability and security across the European continent.

    Today, we are honoured to welcome President Maia Sandu to the United Kingdom for meetings with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and His Majesty King Charles III. Her visit underscores the deepening partnership between our countries and our shared commitment to democratic values, security, and prosperity.

    We remain deeply concerned by the Russian Federation’s ongoing hybrid aggression against Moldova, including information manipulation, cyberattacks, and malign political interference. These actions aim to destabilise Moldova’s democratic institutions and obstruct its sovereign choices – behaviour that is incompatible with OSCE principles.

    We welcome Moldova’s efforts to safeguard electoral integrity and counter foreign malign interference, and we encourage continued cooperation with OSCE institutions.

    The UK continues to support Moldova’s institutional reforms, including strengthening the judiciary and anti-corruption efforts, to help build a resilient, democratic society anchored in European values. Moldova’s future must be decided by its citizens, free from coercion or intimidation.

    Thank you, Mr Chair.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Report by the Acting Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe – UK Response [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Report by the Acting Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe – UK Response [July 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 24 July 2025.

    Ambassador Holland welcomes the OSCE Programme Office’s engagement with the Government of Tajikistan during the reporting period, and its continued focus on promoting gender equality, fostering cross-border cooperation and supporting penal reforms.

    Thank you, Madam Chair.

    I warmly welcome Ms. Turcan to the Permanent Council and thank you for stepping into the leadership role during this transitional period. Strong leadership and reliable resourcing are essential for OSCE field missions to function effectively. We again urge participating States to resolve the budget impasse and ensure all OSCE institutions – including the Border Management Staff College – are adequately funded.

    I would like to highlight several areas of the Programme Office’s work that are of particular importance to the UK.

    First, the Mission’s efforts to promote gender equality and support survivors of domestic violence through Women’s Resource Centres and police capacity building. These centres provide vital shelter and services, helping women escape cycles of abuse and rebuild their lives. The UK remains deeply committed to addressing gender-based violence.

    Second, the Programme Office’s role in fostering cross-border cooperation and regional security. We commend Tajikistan and the Kyrgyz Republic for their leadership in peacefully resolving border disputes. These diplomatic achievements underscore the value of dialogue. The UK remains committed to working with Tajikistan, its neighbours, and the OSCE to address regional challenges, including those stemming from Afghanistan.

    Third, we commend the Mission’s work in the human dimension, particularly on penal reform and embedding human rights in government training. We also welcome efforts to strengthen media standards. We note with regret that ODIHR’s observation mission were unable to implement their mandate for the elections in March and encourage all relevant parties to facilitate the required access in the future.

    I would also like to commend the Government of Tajikistan for their continued leadership on climate and water security, not least demonstrated by their co-hosting of the International Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation earlier this year resulting in the adoption of the Dushanbe Declaration. As climate change makes water access more competitive and harder to manage, cooperation and solutions become more vital.

    Finally, we support Tajikistan’s ambitions for sustainable economic growth. Achieving this requires a stable, transparent investment climate grounded in the rule of law. This will attract quality foreign investment and create clean, inclusive growth for Tajik citizens.

    Madam Chair, in closing, I thank Ms. Turcan again for her report and wish her continued success.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : 50 years on from the signing of the Helsinki Final Act Russia fails to live up to its promises – UK statement to the OSCE [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : 50 years on from the signing of the Helsinki Final Act Russia fails to live up to its promises – UK statement to the OSCE [July 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 24 July 2025.

    Ambassador Holland commits to continuing to highlight and condemn Russia’s attacks against Ukraine for as long as Russia insists on carrying them out. Doing so is necessary because of the obvious humanitarian imperative but it is also a question of living up to our promises to one another when we signed the Helsinki Final Act.

    Thank you, Mr Chair.

    Mr Chair, there have been 120 Permanent Councils and 46 Special and Reinforced Permanent Councils since Russia launched its illegal full scale war of aggression on Ukraine in February 2022.  The UK has spoken on each of these occasions, highlighting Russia’s violation of the Helsinki principles and the Final Act.

    Next week we gather in Helsinki to mark 50 years of the signature of the Final Act. This should have been a moment to reflect on its positive and historic legacy; alongside the UN and Paris Charters, it has set the standards by which we should treat each other and our citizenry. Instead we are travelling to Finland with drones still pummelling Ukrainian civilian targets indiscriminately and an unapologetic Russia refusing to take the outstretched hand of peace offered to them by the victim of their aggression, Ukraine.

    The UK deeply regrets that there is still no sign of a let up in these attacks on civilians. One of the latest of these was an attack on the entrance to a metro station providing shelter to Ukrainian civilians escaping Russian bombardment. The Russian State evidently want as many Ukrainian people to be terrorised as possible. The UK will continue to highlight and condemn them for as long as Russia insists on carrying them out. As well as an obvious humanitarian imperative, doing so is also a question of living up to our promises to one another when we signed the Helsinki Final Act.

    Thank you, Mr Chair.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Business leaders welcome the UK-India Free Trade Agreement [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Business leaders welcome the UK-India Free Trade Agreement [July 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 24 July 2025.

    Business leaders have strongly welcomed the signing of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement, as Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds and India’s Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, signed the landmark trade deal.

    The £4.8bn trade deal will unlock economic growth for each region and nation of the UK, and is widely backed by large and small businesses across aerospace, financial and professional services, food and drink, and the automotive sector.

    Business Groups

    Rain Newton-Smith, CEO, CBI said:

    In an era of rising protectionism, today’s announcement sends a powerful signal that the UK is open for business and remains resolute in its commitment to free and fair trade.

    A trade agreement with India – one of the world’s fastest-growing economies – is a springboard for long-term partnership and prosperity. UK firms can take advantage of this new platform to scale, diversify and compete on the global stage.

    The CBI looks forward to working closely alongside the Confederation of Indian Industry to turn ambition into action and negotiation into real-world impact. Ensuring this agreement delivers tangible benefits for businesses on both sides will be critical to meeting the UK’s growth ambitions.

    William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the BCC, said:

    The signing of this agreement is a clear signal of the UK’s continuing commitment to free and fair trade. It will open a new era for our businesses and boost investment between two of the world’s largest economies.

    Currently around 16,000 UK companies are trading goods with Indian companies, and there is high interest in our Chamber Network to grow that.  This deal will create new opportunities in the transport, travel, creative and business support sectors alongside traditional strengths in finance and professional services.

    Policy Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), Tina McKenzie, said:

    India is the fourth largest economy in the world, and today’s trade deal provides exciting growth potential for UK small businesses.

    Already one-in-seven (14%) of our members who export have India among their overseas markets, and this deal opens the way for that number to grow. It’s welcome that the agreement includes a specific small business chapter.

    Encouraging more small firms to trade internationally, and making it easier for those who already do to increase their international trade, is an important flank in the quest for economic growth. Reducing barriers is key to achieving that.

    Richard Heald OBE, Chair, UK-India Business Council, said:

    The UK-India FTA marks a historic milestone in the bilateral relationship.

    Businesses across both countries have long called for an agreement that reduces barriers, enhances market access, and creates a clear framework for long-term, sustainable growth. We congratulate both governments for their commitment and ambition in bringing this complex negotiation to fruition. Success in the FTA will support further economic growth for the world’s 5th and 6th largest economies. It will catalyse collaboration into other areas too.

    Aerospace

    Tufan Erginbiligic, Rolls-Royce CEO, said:

    India is an important market for our business, with over 90 years of partnership with Indian industry and the Indian Government.

    We welcome the provisions in this Free Trade Agreement, including those that bring closer alignment with international standards for trade in civil aerospace.

    These agreements will benefit Rolls-Royce and our customers, paving the way for future aerospace growth in India.

    Financial and professional services

    Ian Stuart, CEO of HSBC UK, said:

    Today’s signing of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement marks an important milestone for both countries.

    This is a vibrant and fast-growing corridor and will bring huge opportunities for both British and Indian businesses as they seek to grow internationally.

    As the world’s largest trade bank with deep roots in both countries, we look forward to supporting our clients to take advantage of the full benefits of this historic agreement.

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

    This landmark agreement between the UK and India – two of the world’s largest and most dynamic economies – is a tremendous achievement.

    It will drive greater innovation, unlock growth, and build prosperity across this long-established corridor of trade, capital and investment.

    As one of the largest and oldest international banks in India, we welcome the certainty the FTA provides for UK services and the meaningful opportunities that lower tariffs will create for businesses large and small in both markets.

    Rohan Malik, EY EMEIA and UK & Ireland Government & Public Sector Managing Partner, said:

    Over the past decade, total trade value between the UK and India has more than doubled from £16.6bn to £40bn and this agreement will further strengthen the flourishing economic relationship between the two countries.

    Enhanced access to one of the world’s largest markets should offer considerable advantages for financial and professional services businesses, unlocking commercial opportunities and supporting growth across two strategically significant sectors of the UK economy.

    Adam Gagen, Global Head of Government Affairs at Revolut, said:

    As a UK fintech with significant business in India, we welcome the announcement of this UK-India FTA.

    It is an important partnership to bring these two vital economies closer together and to foster improved trade links, better investment flows and more jobs.

    Revolut looks forward to working with the UK Government to maximise the value of this FTA and we strongly congratulate the hard work of DBT for getting this over the line.

    Nicola Watkinson, Managing Director for International, TheCityUK, said:

    India is a market with huge growth potential and a strong FTA between our two markets will open up valuable new trade and investment opportunities for UK businesses.

    The UK financial and related professional services industry is well placed to support India’s growth ambitions through the provision of services in areas such as green finance, risk management and capital market development, as well as benefit from India’s digital innovations.

    We welcome the formal signing of the FTA and look forward to continuing to build on its foundations to forge a strong and lasting partnership with India.

    Automotives

    Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said:

    The UK-India trade agreement represents a significant achievement, partially liberalising the Indian automotive market for the first time.

    While the highly complex deal confirms some compromises, its entry into force will provide commercial opportunities for UK manufacturers who will be able to access vastly reduced tariffs on internal combustion vehicles from day one, and on electrified vehicles and parts in the longer term.

    To ensure maximum and timely benefit, we now need rapid ratification and renewed efforts to agree fair and workable solutions on tariff-rate-quotas administration.

    A JLR spokesperson said:

    We welcome this free trade agreement between the UK and India, which over time will deliver reduced tariff access to the Indian car market for JLR’s luxury vehicles.

    India is an important market for our British built products and represents significant future growth opportunities.

    Food and drink

    Nik Jhangiani, Interim Chief Executive, Diageo, said:

    This agreement marks a great moment for both Scotch and Scotland, and we’ll be raising a glass of Johnnie Walker to all those who have worked so hard to get it secured.

    Jean-Etienne Gourgues, Chivas Brothers Chairman and CEO, said:

    Signature of the UK-India FTA is a sign of hope in challenging times for the spirits industry.

    India is the world’s biggest whisky market by volume and greater access will be an eventual game changer for the export of our Scotch whisky brands, such as Chivas Regal and Ballantine’s.

    The deal will support long term investment and jobs in our distilleries in Speyside and our bottling plant at Kilmalid and help deliver growth in both Scotland and India over the next decade.

    Let’s hope that both governments will move quickly to ratification so business can get to work implementing the deal!

    Mark Kent, Chief Executive of the SWA said:

    The Scotch Whisky industry has long championed a free trade agreement between the UK and India.

    The signing of the FTA is an historic moment and is an important milestone to reducing tariffs on Scotch Whisky in a growing market.

    This will contribute to the government’s growth objective, by laying the foundations for further investment and jobs.

    George Hyde, Head of Trade, The Food and Drink Federation:

    We’re pleased to see the details of the new Free Trade Agreement with India, with tariffs for iconic British products, including chocolate, breakfast cereals and biscuits set to be phased out over the next decade.

    We also welcome that this agreement protects the UK’s sugar and rice milling sectors, reflecting the vital role these industries play in boosting local economies.

    With exports of UK food and drink to India already worth nearly £300 million annually, improved access to this growing market will help strengthen the competitiveness of our sector and help future-proof the nation’s food security.

    We look forward to working with government to help businesses make the most of this opportunity.

    Nick Spencer, Export and Travel Retail Manager at Southwestern Distillery Ltd, said:

    There are tremendous hurdles for UK spirits producers in terms of entering and succeeding in the Indian market.

    The extremely high import tariffs are probably the most significant barrier to entry we have experienced anywhere internationally.

    The FTA is a fabulous step forward. Since its announcement, we have already received significant new interest from Indian importers and the prospect of success in the Indian market now looks much brighter.

    Stephen Davies, Chief Executive of Penderyn Distillery, said:

    We are developing our business and brand awareness in both domestic and travel retail sectors in India. It’s an exciting and developing market for us.

    The agreement to reduce tariffs will provide a better platform for us and our industry to develop links and build business over the next five years.

    These are exciting times.

    Medtech

    Gordon Sanghera, CEO of Oxford Nanopore Technologies, said:

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is more than a policy document it’s a foundation for action.

    India’s deep scientific talent, clear ambition and growing global influence make it one of the most exciting places in the world to build long-term partnerships in science and healthcare.

    And this moment, with the FTA in place, gives companies like ours the confidence to invest, to scale and to co-create in ways that weren’t possible before.

    Deepak Nath, Chief Executive Officer, Smith+Nephew, said:

    Given the size of the Indian economy and its healthcare system, India is an important location for Smith+Nephew. The Free Trade Agreement offers the potential to build trading links in the healthcare sector.

    We hope that the Free Trade Agreement will enable Smith+Nephew’s innovative medical technologies to support more healthcare professionals to return their patients to health and mobility.

    Philip McKee, Sales Manager at Biopanda, a Belfast-based medtech manufacturer which exports in vitro test kits for clinical laboratories, veterinary practice, and food safety laboratories, said:

    Biopanda have been supplying a range of diagnostic products to the Indian market throughout the past ten years. We value the business we have done already throughout India and with the introduction of the UK-India FTA this should benefit in increased trade with the removal of export barriers.

    This will hopefully increase the market access, allowing our distributors throughout India to provide a larger range of our highly accurate clinical diagnostic products at a lower price to the consumer.

    Manufacturing

    Graeme Macdonald, JCB Chief Executive, said:

    India is a great country in which to do business. JCB has been manufacturing machines there since 1979. So, we know India very well and the opportunity for British businesses in that huge market is significant.

    It’s the fifth largest economy in the world and is tipped to become the third largest by 2028. This Free Trade Agreement should give British businesses the confidence they need to enter the market, trade more easily and benefit from the massive opportunity.

    Professor Carl Stephen Patrick Hunter OBE, Chairman Coltraco Ultrasonics Limited & Director-General The Durham Institute of Research, Development & Invention, said:

    Coltraco Ultrasonics is strongly supportive of the India FTA Trade Agreement and proud to have modestly contributed to and advising the British negotiating team on various chapters.

    The UK private sector can now, because of the India FTA, the Windsor Framework CPTPP, and a variety of other UK FTAs, look out to the world, balancing our exporting and investment opportunities between the USA, the EU and Asia Pacific.

    It is a tremendous success and we thank British and Indian Civil Servants for their public service in the UK-India FTA.

    Mark Ridgway OBE DL, CEO of Rhodes Group, said:

    As a manufacturer of advanced metalforming machinery used in the forming and lightweighting of aircraft, India is a strong market for Group Rhodes and offers significant growth potential. The recent UK-India trade deal not only sets the scene for reduced tariffs on machinery but also serves to both enhance our competitiveness as a UK exporter and reduce the complexity of trade with this fast-growing market.

    Importantly, the UK-India FTA recognises UK origin content of at least 20% as qualification as a ‘local supplier’ in India. This provides equal treatment in the Indian government procurement process and the opportunity for Group Rhodes to build on its existence reference sites within the Indian aerospace sector.

    Idir Boudaoud, Founder and CEO at Sensoteq, said:

    India is a key growth market for Sensoteq — its vast and rapidly evolving manufacturing sector aligns perfectly with our mission to improve machine reliability through smarter monitoring. This trade deal is a real breakthrough for us.

    Simplified and transparent customs procedures, modernised rules of origin, and stronger IP protections mean we can enter the market with greater speed, confidence, and security.

    This agreement gives businesses like ours the access and assurance needed to thrive in one of the world’s most important industrial markets.

    William Crawford, Director of Concrete Canvas Ltd, said:

    India is a dynamic and vibrant economy and an increasingly important market for Concrete Canvas products. A UK-India FTA will help to accelerate our plans for growth by reducing trade barriers and making us more competitive.

    This is welcome news for both UK and Indian businesses!

    Creative Industries

    Richard Masters, Premier League Chief Executive, said:

    India continues to be incredibly important to the Premier League and our clubs. It is a vibrant country that presents exciting opportunities and significant potential. The opening of our office in Mumbai earlier this year was a significant milestone for the Premier League, demonstrating our commitment to build on longstanding work to engage local fans, develop grassroots and elite football and further promote the game in India.

    The continued growth of the Premier League and UK businesses in India will have a positive impact on our domestic economy. We welcome the signing of this new trade deal which will support UK businesses operating in India.

    Richard Pring, Co-Founder at Wales Interactive, said:

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement has the potential to strengthen creative partnerships and streamline production across borders. With India’s vast film and television industry, it creates new opportunities for studios like ours to collaborate with international talent and share our interactive stories and games with even wider audiences.

    Digital and Tech

    Simon Hansford, Chief Commercial Officer at Civo, a cloud provider founded in Hertfordshire, said:

    The UK-India trade deal is a game-changer for UK businesses. Significant tariff reductions on our exports will mean our products can be more competitive and accessible in India’s rapidly growing market. Guaranteed access to India’s public procurement market and simplified customs processes could be transformational for many.

    This deal offers substantial benefits, boosting confidence and creating new avenues for growth in areas that were previously challenging to navigate, making it easier for UK SMEs to trade and thrive internationally.

    Clean Energy

    Neil Spann, CEO of Power Roll, said:

    As a UK clean energy company committed to fostering global impact, the UK-India trade agreement marks a significant milestone for us.  It lowers barriers to entry and enhances our ability to collaborate with Indian partners in one of the world’s most dynamic renewable energy markets. India’s ambitious solar targets and drive for domestic innovation align perfectly with our flexible solar technology and long-term growth strategy.

    As one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and a key player in the global renewable energy transition, India presents a major opportunity for UK clean energy technology. This trade deal enables us to position UK flexible solar as a key solution to India’s energy goals. We are excited to continue to build upon our existing relationships with valued collaborators by expanding our presence in India following a successful visit earlier this year.

    Transport

    Chris Woodroofe, Manchester Airport Managing Director, said:

    We are proud this new route with IndiGo will deliver growth here in the North, and for the UK as a whole.

    Boosted by the new UK-India FTA, the direct connectivity it provides will unlock opportunities for the region’s businesses to trade with India and will facilitate investment into the UK.

    That will help turbo charge the Government’s Industrial Strategy by boosting innovation and productivity in the sectors that will sit at the heart of the country’s future prosperity.

    Textiles

    Bill Leach, Global Sales Director, John Smedley Ltd, said:

    India is one of the fastest growing luxury markets in the world, and we are very excited about the UK- India Free Trade Agreement coming to fruition.

    John Smedley knitwear is already sold in over 50 countries around the world, and now that the FTA has been signed, we shall very much look forward to ensuring that an ever-increasing number of discerning luxury consumers in India will enjoy greater access to The World’s Finest Knitwear.

    We are thankful to DBT for their significant efforts in bringing this FTA to successful conclusion.

    Cosmetics

    Dr Emma Meredith OBE, Director-General, CTPA (Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association), said:

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) represents a significant opportunity for the cosmetics and personal care industry.  Tariff reduction and the commitments to ongoing cooperation will enhance market access and create new opportunities for growth for UK brands and manufacturers.  CTPA welcomes the strengthening of the bilateral ties through the negotiation process, a great first step in the delivery of substantial benefits for our sector.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Simon Lewis appointed as Chair of UK Anti-Doping [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Simon Lewis appointed as Chair of UK Anti-Doping [July 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 24 July 2025.

    The Secretary of State has appointed Simon Lewis as the new Chair of UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) for a term of 4 years.

    Simon Lewis

    Simon has been appointed as Chair of UK Anti-Doping and his term will commence on 4 August 2025.

    His background is primarily in the Legal Sector where he has practised as a barrister, in various relevant areas of law, and where he now sits as a fee-paid judge. Simon has served in a number of non-executive board-level roles: within workplace relations (at Acas); professional regulation (at Social Work England and at the Bar Standards Board); healthcare (at a mental health and community NHS trust); higher education (at England’s leading university for improving social mobility); sport governance; and charity. He has also acted in a range of independent regulatory roles across various sectors: within healthcare, sport, and finance/business.

    Simon grew up in Wales and then Yorkshire, playing representative sports, before graduating from the University of Cambridge.

    On his appointment, Simon Lewis said:

    “It is an honour to be appointed as Chair of UKAD. Having worked extensively across regulatory and sporting landscapes, I’m excited to be able to govern and support an organisation so inextricably involved in both.

    “I want to ensure UKAD continues to bolster the UK’s strong reputation for clean and healthy sport across the four nations. I’m arriving at an important and busy time, with a host of major sporting events approaching, including the Women’s Rugby World Cup, the Winter Olympics and Paralympics, and the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. I look forward to working with the team, engaging with a wide range of stakeholders, and supporting UKAD’s goal to protect clean sport.”

    Lisa Nandy, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport said:

    “I’m delighted to welcome Simon Lewis as the new Chair of UKAD. Simon has extensive experience in sport and law, which will ensure UKAD continues to deliver with professionalism and integrity.

    “Sport is part of our national story and as part of our Plan for Change we want to remove barriers to participation at grassroots and support athletes in elite settings. Upholding the values of clean sport and fair competition are absolutely vital in achieving this and as we welcome Simon, I’d like to thank departing Chair Trevor Pearce for all of his work during his tenure.”

    Jane Rumble, Chief Executive of UKAD said:

    “We are very pleased to welcome Simon to UKAD. Simon brings his deep and relevant legal and sport governance experience to us at a pivotal time. In addition to a busy sporting calendar of major events UKAD will also soon shape and deliver a new multi-year Strategic Plan. UKAD is also preparing for the launch of the 2027 World Anti-Doping Code.

    “On behalf of us all at UKAD we are looking forward to giving Simon a warm welcome as he takes up stewardship of our committed and brilliant team.

    “I would also like to thank our outgoing chair Trevor Pearce, who has been with us for nearly nine years, for his excellent stewardship at the helm of our organisation.”

    Remuneration and Governance Code

    The Chair of UK Anti-Doping is remunerated at a rate of £20,640 per annum. This appointment has been made in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments.

    The appointments process is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Under the Code, any significant political activity undertaken by an appointee in the last five years must be declared. This is defined as including holding office, public speaking, making a recordable donation, or candidature for election. Simon has not declared any significant political activity.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK-India Technology Security Initiative – Anniversary Statement [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK-India Technology Security Initiative – Anniversary Statement [July 2025]

    The press release issued by the Cabinet Office on 24 July 2025.

    Statement on the one-year anniversary of the landmark UK-India Technology Security Initiative.

    On the occasion of the one-year anniversary of the landmark UK-India Technology Security Initiative (TSI), the UK and India reaffirmed their shared commitment to harness frontier technologies to drive economic growth and strengthen national security.

    Both parties welcomed the Initiative’s achievements to date and underscored the transformative potential of the TSI to deliver cutting-edge innovations and generate investment across the entire technology value chain.

    The TSI has already enabled industry, academia and government to deliver new strategic opportunities. Over the past year, both sides have:

    • Launched a flagship £7 million joint research programme on Future Telecoms in 2024 to support joint Open RAN and 5G/6G testbed development.
    • Formalised collaboration between key telecoms lab facilities – India’s Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and the UK’s Smart RAN Open Network Interoperability Centre (SONIC) for bilateral collaboration in telecom innovation, testing and emerging technology.
    • Accelerated development in responsible and trustworthy AI, including through the first UK-India Conference on AI opportunities, held in Bengaluru in February 2025.
    • Completed the successful first phase of the world’s first UK-India Critical Minerals Supply Chain Observatory. Phase Two, supported by £1.8 million of new funding, will deliver the world’s largest digital data infrastructure on the critical minerals value chain and establish a new satellite campus at the Indian School of Mines in Dhanbad.
    • Strengthened our partnership in FEMTECH – Women-Orientated Health Tech by collaboration between National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
    • Initiated several new partnerships between private sector from both sides in the fields of Telecoms, Critical Minerals, Advanced Materials and AI.

    To further our strategic collaboration, both sides will:

    • Harness together, the benefits of the global AI revolution and boost economic growth through a UK-India joint centre for AI that will promote trusted real world AI innovations and widespread adoption.
    • Advance next generation, secure-by-design telecommunications through joint research, development and innovation, strategically collaborating on advanced connectivity and cyber resilience. Establish an India-UK Connectivity and Innovation Centre to pioneer AI-driven telecoms, non-terrestrial networks and secure 5G and 6G. Work together through international fora like ITU and 3GPP for 6G.
    • Secure resilient and sustainable critical mineral supply chains to power the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Establish a UK-India Critical Minerals Guild to transform financing standards and innovation. Together, the two sides will prioritise processing, R&D, recycling, managing risk to supply chains, market development etc. and will champion circular economy principles and advance traceability.
    • Use the UK-India biotechnology partnership to unlock the potential in biofoundries, bioprinting, biomanufacturing, bio-based materials, advanced biosciences and drive innovation across health, clean energy and sustainable agriculture. Explore the possibility of setting up a UK-India Biotechnology Accelerator.

    The UK and India continue to work together across other TSI commitments including the collaboration on Graphene and 2D Materials Technology.
    In recognition of the TSI’s success, the two leaders agreed to expand the TSI into new frontier domains, particularly to unlock engagement on futuristic, secure and strategic technologies. This expansion will further align UK and Indian national security priorities and unlock new opportunities for industry and researchers.

    Both parties called on industry, including start-ups and academia to further catalyse the UK-India technology partnership and to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the TSI.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister secures thousands of British jobs and £6 billion in investment and export wins as historic trade deal with India signed [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister secures thousands of British jobs and £6 billion in investment and export wins as historic trade deal with India signed [July 2025]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 24 July 2025.

    Today, the Prime Minister will welcome nearly £6 billion in new investment and export wins.

    • Thousands of jobs created for Brits through new Indian investment and export wins worth almost £6 billion
    • New figures show that £4.8bn trade deal will unlock economic growth for each region and nation of the UK – delivering on the government’s Plan for Change
    • UK and India also agree to ramp up joint efforts against organised crime and illegal migration with new framework to tackle trafficking, document fraud and remove barriers to return

    Today, the Prime Minister will welcome nearly £6 billion in new investment and export wins, which will create over 2,200 British jobs across the country as Indian firms expand their operations in the UK and British companies secure new business opportunities in India. These deals will drive jobs in high-growth sectors like aerospace, technology and advanced manufacturing – supporting engineers, technicians and supply chain workers, in every corner of the UK.

    It comes as the Prime Minister is set to meet the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, today for the signing of the landmark UK-India trade deal. From Coventry to Carlisle, new analysis shows communities across every region of the UK will benefit from its £4.8 billion increase to UK GDP each year.

    Thanks to the deal, British workers will enjoy a collective uplift in wages of £2.2 billion each year and could also see cheaper prices and more choice on clothes, shoes, and food products.

    The UK already imports £11 billion in goods from India, but liberalised tariffs on Indian goods will make it easier and cheaper to buy their best products. For businesses, this could mean potential savings when importing components and materials used in areas such as advanced manufacturing or luxury and consumer goods.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    Our landmark trade deal with India is a major win for Britain. It will create thousands of British jobs across the UK, unlock new opportunities for businesses and drive growth in every corner of the country, delivering on our Plan for Change.

    We’re putting more money in the pockets of hardworking Brits and helping families with the cost of living, and we’re determined to go further and faster to grow the economy and raise living standards across the UK.

    India’s average tariff on UK products will drop from 15% to 3% which means British companies selling products to India from soft drinks and cosmetics to cars and medical devices will find it easier to sell to the Indian market.

    Whisky producers will benefit from tariffs slashed in half, reduced immediately from 150% to 75% and then dropped even further to 40% over the next ten years – giving the UK an advantage over international competitors in reaching the Indian market.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    The billions brought to our economy from the trade deal signed today will reach all regions and nations of the UK so working people in every community can feel the benefits.

    The almost £6 billion in new investment and export wins announced today will deliver thousands of jobs and shows the strength of our partnership with India as we ensure the UK is the best place in the world to invest and do business.

    This government is proving time and again that we can deliver on our mission to grow the economy, put more money in pockets and boost living standards under our Plan for Change.

    The two Prime Ministers have also signed a renewed Comprehensive and Strategic Partnership, which will see closer collaboration on defence, education, climate, technology and innovation. This comes exactly one year since the countries signed the landmark UK-India Technology Security Initiative, which sees joint work on telecoms security and unlocking investment across emerging technologies – telecoms, critical minerals, AI, quantum, health/bio tech, advanced materials and semiconductors.

    The UK and India have also agreed to strengthen cooperation in tackling corruption, serious fraud, organised crime, and irregular migration through enhanced intelligence sharing and operational collaboration. This includes committing to finalising a groundbreaking new criminal records sharing agreement, facilitating the exchange of criminal records to support criminal proceedings, maintain accurate watchlists and enable the enforcement of travel bans. These measures represent a significant step forward in joint efforts to combat organised immigration crime.

    Aligned with the UK’s recent Industrial and Trade Strategies, the deal will support the sectors which drive the most growth for the economy. The UK’s large and varied manufacturing sectors will benefit from tariffs cut on aerospace (as high as 11% reduced to 0%), automotives (up to 110% down to 10% under a quota) and electrical machinery (from up to 22% down to either 0% of a 50% reduction).

    A reduction in tariffs, combined with a reduction in regulatory barriers to trade between the UK and India are estimated to:

    • Increase UK exports to India by nearly 60% in the long run – this is equivalent to an additional £15.7 billion of UK exports to India when applied to projections of future trade in 2040.
    • Increase bilateral trade by nearly 39% in the long run, equivalent to £25.5 billion a year, when compared to 2040 projected levels of trade in the absence of an agreement

    The clean energy industry will have brand new, unprecedented access to India’s vast procurement market as the country makes the switch to renewable energy and continues to see growing energy demand.

    For financial and professional business services, locked in access will offer certainty to expand in India’s growing market and measures such as binding India’s foreign investment cap for the insurance sector, ensuring UK financial services companies are treated on an equal footing with domestic suppliers.

    Meanwhile, 26 British companies have secured new business in India. Airbus & Rolls-Royce will soon begin delivering Airbus aircraft – with over half powered by Rolls-Royce engines – to major Indian airlines as part of around £5 billion worth of contracts recently agreed. These orders will help sustain hundreds of jobs across their respective sites in Filton, Broughton and Derby.

    18 firms have confirmed new investment including Zerowatt Energy, AI powered energy intelligence platform is setting up its Global HQ in Leicester. The firm will invest £10m and create 50 new jobs across Leicester, Manchester, Edinburgh and London over the next three years.

    Other UK and Indian businesses who have confirmed almost £6 billion in new investments and export deals today creating over 2,200 jobs across the UK includes:

    • Carbon Clean, a UK-based leader in carbon capture, with projected UK export contributions of £83 million over the next five years, has invested £7.6 million in a Global Innovation Centre in Mumbai. This ODI and export wins will unlock 250 jobs across London, Glasgow and Huddersfield as well as 100 jobs in Mumbai.
    • AI and data services company, DCube AI, is investing £5 million in the UK, unlocking 50 jobs across Manchester and London in the next three years to strength its technology offering to UK customers.
    • Occuity, an innovative UK AI healthcare company has partnered with Remidio Innovative Solutions Pvt. Ltd., a leading Indian manufacturer and distributor of ophthalmic medical devices to bring Occuity’ s cutting-edge ophthalmic screening technologies to India, improving access to innovative and non-invasive eye screening and leading to an export value of £74.3 million over 5 years.
    • Johnson Matthey has secured recent contracts of over £20 million for process licensing, engineering, and catalysts supply in India and will invest £4 million in a new plant at Taloja (Maharashtra ) to manufacture novel homogenous catalysts, ligands, and metals salts and in doubling its capacity of Oxidic Nickel at Panki in Uttar Pradesh.
    • Marcus Evans Group, a global business intelligence and summits business company established its new Global Technology office in Mumbai to serve its 59 offices worldwide and has confirmed a combined Export (£42mn) and ODI (£27mn) win of £69 million over the next five years from India.
    • LTIMindtree , a global technology consulting and digital solutions company plans to further expand its London operations by adding over 300 highly skilled jobs, investing £1m. This includes a state-of-the-art AI innovation studio and showcase lab.
    • Aurionpro, a global enterprise technology leader in Banking, Payments, Insurance, Data Centers, and Public Sector technology is investing over £20M to launch its UK HQ, creating 150+ high-value jobs in multiple locations across UK over 3 years. It will also open AI-powered R&D labs in collaboration with top UK universities to develop next-gen transport technology and lead the global Safe Superintelligence (SSI) movement, ensuring AI is built safely and ethically.

    Tufan Erginbiligic, Rolls-Royce CEO, said:

    India is an important market for our business, with over 90 years of partnership with Indian industry and the Indian Government. We welcome the provisions in this Free Trade Agreement, including those that bring closer alignment with international standards for trade in civil aerospace. These agreements will benefit Rolls-Royce and our customers, paving the way for future aerospace growth in India.

    Nik Jhangiani, Interim Chief Executive, Diageo, said:

    This agreement marks a great moment for both Scotch and Scotland, and we’ll be raising a glass of Johnnie Walker to all those who have worked so hard to get it secured.

    William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the BCC, said:

    The signing of this agreement is a clear signal of the UK’s continuing commitment to free and fair trade. It will open a new era for our businesses and boost investment between two of the world’s largest economies.

    Currently around 16,000 UK companies are trading goods with Indian companies, and there is high interest in our Chamber Network to grow that.  This deal will create new opportunities in the transport, travel, creative and business support sectors alongside traditional strengths in finance and professional services.

    Jean-Etienne Gourgues, Chivas Brothers Chairman and CEO, said:

    Signature of the UK-India FTA is a sign of hope in challenging times for the spirits industry.  India is the world’s biggest whisky market by volume and greater access will be an eventual game changer for the export of our Scotch whisky brands, such as Chivas Regal and Ballantine’s.

    The deal will support long term investment and jobs in our distilleries in Speyside and our bottling plant at Kilmalid and help deliver growth in both Scotland and India over the next decade. Let’s hope that both governments will move quickly to ratification so business can get to work implementing the deal!

    The remaining trade and investment wins included in the aggregate figures includes:

    • Cloudseals pioneers in deep tech and cloud innovations. They specialize in AI, AGI, and quantum computing and have a strong foundation in providing top-tier cloud professional services. Cloudseals is investing £5 million to create 150 jobs over the next three years in the UK.
    • Antino, technology consulting & digital development company, is investing £1 million to create 60 jobs over the next three years in the UK.
    • Kiya.ai, a trusted technology partner for financial institutions, delivering innovative, secure, and scalable software solutions that drive digital transformation, operational excellence, and customer-centric growth is expanding in London and creating scaling to 50 new jobs over 3 years and with £1.5 million investment.
    • Kegien Enterprise a distinguished marine products company specialising in everything from fresh to frozen seafood is investing £2.3 million and creating 25 jobs in UK over next three years
    • Sanvi Industries’ UK-based subsidiary, Sinar Technology, will invest £4.6 million in agri-tech R&D and launch new moisture and smart moisture meters, creating 40 new jobs.
    • PromptTech Global, a leading enterprise technology firm, is investing £11 million and 60 jobs in London/ UK regions over the next three years.
    • 2base technologies global digital transformation company specialising in AI led product engineering, intelligent automation and scalable technology solutions company, investing £10 million and 50 high skilled jobs in the next three years.
    • Allied Digital is embarking on a strategic expansion of its UK operations, aiming to significantly scale its workforce and local capabilities. The company plans to grow its UK team to 500 high skilled jobs by March 2028. To facilitate this growth, Allied Digital anticipates a capital investment of £1.2 million over three-years.
    • Kyzer Software, a leading Indian provider of banking software solutions, is expanding its global footprint with a strategic investment of £10 million over the next 3 years to establish operations in London. This move is set to create 50 new jobs over the coming years, reinforcing Kyzer’s commitment to driving digital transformation in Trade Finance, Compliance, and RegTech across international markets.
    • Mswipe Technologies, one of India’s top payment processors, is launching in the UK this August. Their offering is built on three pillars: a. Low sign-up fees, low processing fees and flexible contracts, b. Dedicated relationship managers, c. Premium hardware with advanced features. They are investing £8 million and creating 50 jobs in the UK over the next three years.
    • CredAble, India’s largest working capital technology platform, is setting up operations in London with plans to invest £15 million over the next three years, creating 25 new roles.
    • Flamingo Pharma is expanding its UK footprint with a £5 million investment and 15 new jobs over a period of 3 years, bringing affordable, high-quality generics across key therapeutic areas — from antibiotics to cardiovascular care.
    • Techvantage Systems, a global leader in AI and Data Analytics, is planning to invest £10 million in London over three years to expand its flagship platform, Zentis AI, focused on automating BFSI processes. This strategic move will create 50 high-quality jobs, with plans to scale operations and innovation across the United Kingdom.
    • Virtual Autopsy UK delivers non-invasive autopsy technology that preserves the dignity of the deceased, projecting £29 million in exports to India over five years.
    • Smile Lab’s Instasmile is set to take India by storm and launch their D2C dental business worth £20 million over 5 years through innovative clip-on veneer and aligner products making smile makeovers accessible to the entire Indian population.
    • Wilson Power Solutions announces £21 million investment in Chennai to quadruple transformer manufacturing capacity, supporting the clean energy transition in both India and the UK through strengthened engineering collaboration between the two countries.
    • MergeXR Studio have secured film production, visual effects automation and live content production technology contracts worth £34 million with Indian studios.
    • International Aerospace Manufacturing Private Limited (IAMPL) – a joint-venture between Rolls-Royce plc and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is expanding its manufacturing footprint with an investment of £30 million at its facility in Hosur, India.
    • Croda is investing over £50 million in setting up a Greenfield speciality chemicals plant at Dahej in Gujarat and the group already operates a world class manufacturing site near Mumbai.
    • Northern Ireland-based Lakeland Dairies Foodservice, which currently exports its dairy products to 80+ countries worldwide, announces its entry into the Indian market with its flagship product, ‘Millac Gold’, through their Indian Distribution partners ‘Euro Foods Pvt’. The projected export value for 5 years are in excess of £5 million for the Millac brand from the United Kingdom to India.
    • BAPIO Training Academy, a leading organisation in Indo-UK healthcare collaboration has signed business partnerships worth £13 million over 5 years, with multiple Indian hospitals and healthcare providers to develop education, training and capacity building programme for doctors and allied healthcare worker(s) and support the recruitment of over 400 doctors and allied health workers for the UK.
    • Buro Happold is expanding rapidly in India and providing world-class infrastructure consultancy to support India’s development, and this expansion is expected to generate employment for approximately 700 people by investing £5mn over the next 3 yrs.
    • Poweronics UK has signed a Transfer of Technology agreement with Elventive Tech Pvt Ltd worth £3 million for supplying technology for manufacturing of specialised electronic “High Voltage Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) Gate Driver” control cards in India.
    • Kent-based Fitworld Company UK Ltd. is launching its premium BRITPRO London nutraceutical and sports supplement range in India, following a £1.94 million export win spread over next 5 years.
    • Anpario, a UK based specialist in natural feed additives, is actively expanding its presence in the Indian animal and aquaculture market which led to business of £2 million.
    • RedoQ has established its largest operation outside of UK in Kolkata in Jan 2025 with a plan to invest £23.8 million and projected revenue of £25.4 million over the next 5 years.
    • Bikal Technologies Partners with Yotta Data Services to Accelerate Global AI Cloud Adoption and develop Global AI capabilities for Asia’s Largest Tier IV Data Centre (2nd Largest Tier IV Data Center in the World). Bikal Technologies has confirmed Export wins of £21.10 million and ODI win of £4.9 million from India totalling £26 million over the next 5 years from this project.
    • ARUP, a global leader in aviation, has secured contracts worth £2 million from Indian airport operators for benchmarking, design standards and optimisation services.
    • Water Offsets UK has set up a JV company with an Indian company to deliver water conservation and recycling technologies contributing to India’s water security and is projected wins of around £56.4 million over the next five years. The JV will have operational offices in India and the United Kingdom.
    • Thor Specialities secured business deals worth £ 45 million for supplying performance chemicals to Indian Paints and Coatings Industry.
    • SmartViz Limited is bringing its award winning IoT and AI-powered Realtime Building Analytics and Digital Twin platform to make India’s large infrastructure projects more efficient and sustainable. Working on multiple projects within the Smart Buildings and Smart Cities areas, the company has projected wins worth £5.6 million in the next 3 years.
    • Helical Tech has confirmed £ 5.72 million worth new ODI investment to expand its Pune manufacturing facility to make India it’s global supply base.
    • Otter Group announces a £2 million ODI to expand its India facility—strengthening its global manufacturing footprint, boosting supply chain resilience, and accelerating growth across key mobility sectors.
    • UPL, a leading provider of sustainable agricultural solutions and services will create 150 agricultural R&D apprenticeships over three years in partnership with Harper Adams University in Telford, while also investing £2.5m over 5 years towards the Oxford-India Centre for Sustainable Development at Somerville College, the University of Oxford.
    • Smiths Detection sees the overall revenue projection of over £50 million in over next 3 years in Indian aviation security, ports and borders and critical infrastructure market from various customers and is promoting the globally proven aviation security screening technologies like Checkpoint CT for the hand baggage screening at the airports in Indian market for highest standards of safety and security, passenger convenience and operational efficiency of airports.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Andy King appointed to lead Companies House [July 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Andy King appointed to lead Companies House [July 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 24 July 2025.

    Ministers have today confirmed the appointment of Andy King as the new Chief Executive of Companies House, the UK’s registrar of companies.

    Andy brings extensive experience in leadership roles in customer, business operations, regulatory and enforcement settings, including during his time at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the Ministry of Defence. He will lead the organisation as it continues to modernise company registration and strengthen the UK’s business environment.

    Companies House plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the UK’s corporate landscape, processing over 14 million company filings each year and providing essential information to businesses, lenders, and the public.

    The appointment comes as the organisation prepares for new reforms designed to improve efficiency, enhance corporate transparency, and tackle economic crime.

    Competition and Markets Minister Justin Madders said:

    I’d like to thank Louise Smyth for her significant contribution for the past eight years as CEO and especially for her leading role in the transformation of the organisation.

    Andy King brings excellent expertise to Companies House and I look forward to working together to improve corporate transparency and tackle economic crime.

    This appointment will help strengthen Britain’s business environment and support our Plan for Change to kickstart economic growth.

    New Companies House CEO Andy King said:

    I’m delighted to be joining Companies House and feel honoured to be able to lead such a motivated and dedicated team.

    I am excited by our mission to deliver essential services to business, and the opportunity to be ambitious in our vision for those services, our workforce and our organisation, as we continue to advance our change programme.

    King will take up the role in September and will be responsible for leading Companies House’s 1900-strong workforce across offices in Cardiff, Edinburgh, and Belfast.

    The appointment was made following an open competition overseen by the Civil Service Commission, ensuring the process met the highest standards of fairness and transparency.