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Tag: 2025

  • PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer call with the Coalition of the Willing [December 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer call with the Coalition of the Willing [December 2025]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 11 December 2025.

    The Prime Minister co-chaired a virtual meeting of the Coalition of the Willing this afternoon.

    The Prime Minister updated allies on this week’s engagements with other international partners and on the continued intensive work on the US-led peace plan.

    They all agreed this is a pivotal moment for Ukraine, its people, and for the security we all share across the Euro-Atlantic region.

    President Zelenskyy updated the group on the continued Russian bombardment of Ukraine, killing innocent civilians and destroying critical infrastructure.

    The leaders then discussed the significant progress made in starving Russia’s war machine through coordinated sanctions and enforcement, and in stepping up support for Ukraine. They also discussed the progress made on mobilising frozen Russian Sovereign Assets.

    As Ukraine enters its fourth winter of fighting, the leaders agreed on the importance of continuing to fund military support. The Prime Minister underscored that the UK would continue to work closely with partners to maintain pressure on Russia and provide Ukraine with the support it needs for as long as it takes.

  • PRESS RELEASE : The Mechanism should be a small, temporary and efficient structure – UK statement at the UN Security Council [December 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : The Mechanism should be a small, temporary and efficient structure – UK statement at the UN Security Council [December 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 10 December 2025.

    Statement by Legal Adviser Colin McIntyre at the UN Security Council meeting on the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals.

    Today’s briefing occurs at an important time for the Mechanism.  

    In the first half of 2026 Council Members will engage in detailed discussions on the future of the Mechanism.  

    Whilst the details of those discussions will take place over the months ahead there are some general principles which, in our view, should guide the work of the Council.

    First, and as the Council has agreed previously, the Mechanism should be a small, temporary and efficient structure, whose functions and size diminish over time and whose staffing and structure should be commensurate with those functions. 

    Given the completion of the Mechanism’s core crimes work, it is natural and appropriate that, in future, the Mechanism should be a substantially smaller institution than has been the case to date.  

    This would be reflective of the truly residual nature of the institution at this later stage in the justice cycle.

    In order to achieve this, it would be appropriate to transfer certain functions currently performed by the Mechanism either to States or to other institutional structures. 

    The UK is grateful for the work which the Mechanism and the principals have already undertaken in assessing how this could be achieved in practice.  

    We are pleased that there appears to be a considerable degree of agreement between the Prosecutor, President and Secretary General on this matter.  

    This is welcome and provides a strong starting point for the work that lies ahead.

    There will, of course, be a range of proposals and we stand ready to consider those.

    However, to comment briefly on a specific example, the UK can see a strong case for the transfer of work relating to the provision of assistance to national jurisdictions away from the Mechanism.  

    Such work remains valuable, as is attested to, by the ongoing demand for this assistance from States.  

    But such a workstream may not need to be provided by the Mechanism as currently structured. 

    Nonetheless, Mr President, it is also clear that some functions will, of necessity, need to remain at the international level.  

    This includes certain judicial functions, for instance, where there is a need for consistency in decision-making.  

    As we move ahead with this work, we look forward to receiving the upcoming OIOS and Secretary General reports, which we are confident will prove of assistance to Council Members.

    In relation to the archives, we agree with the principle that, where possible, these should be housed as close as possible to affected communities.  

    We hope and expect that this will prove to be the case in respect of the archives of the ICTR.  

    We hope the same will also apply to the archives of the ICTY and, at minimum, we see a good case for these to be located in Europe.

    Finally, and on a different note, we wish to extend our gratitudes to the Mechanism for facilitating a visit by representatives of Council Members to the UN Detention Unit in The Hague during this reporting period.  

    This enabled Council members to see for themselves the fully satisfactory nature of the provision there.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK “All In” on AUKUS submarine and tech delivery as partnership powers full steam ahead [December 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK “All In” on AUKUS submarine and tech delivery as partnership powers full steam ahead [December 2025]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 10 December 2025.

    The Defence Secretary met with his US and Australian counterparts in the United States to discuss the progress on AUKUS.

    • AUKUS partnership “full steam ahead” as US review concludes and focus shifts to delivery.
    • UK has committed £6 billion to AUKUS in the last 18 months alone, bolstering Britain’s security and driving growth.
    • Continuous UK submarine building under AUKUS set to deliver up to 12 new attack submarines and support over 20,000 British jobs.

    Attack submarines and advanced military technology will help protect the UK, US and Australia as all three nations fully commit to the historic partnership, with the work set to create more than 7,000 UK jobs.  

    Following the conclusion of the United States’ AUKUS review, the partnership is “full steam ahead” for delivery of cutting-edge equipment which will help deter adversaries in the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic regions.  

    Defence Secretary John Healey joined his counterparts, US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles, at the Pentagon today to collectively shift the focus of the AUKUS partnership to delivery – declaring that business as usual is “not an option”. 

    With global instability rising, the three nations agreed that AUKUS must now move at pace to translate plans into hard capability. The meeting marked a decisive shift towards delivery for submarine development and turning advanced military technology projects into frontline warfighting capabilities under Pillar II. 

    The UK is backing this commitment with action, investing £6 billion under the current government into critical infrastructure at Barrow and Derby that will realise the ability to construct a new AUKUS submarine every 18 months.

    SSN-AUKUS will be the most powerful attack submarines ever operated by the Royal Navy, creating more than 7,000 new jobs across the UK supply chain and backing 21,000 jobs at peak production, making defence an engine for growth and supporting the government’s Plan for Change.  

    That benefit is already being felt, with more than 3,000 new jobs across key UK sites for nuclear work have been created since July 2024, with an additional 4,400 construction roles expected to be created over the coming years. 

    Defence Secretary John Healey MP said: 

    This is full steam ahead for AUKUS. Our reviews are done. Now, we deliver.   

    In this new era of threat, with adversaries who are increasingly cooperating, business as usual is not an option.   

    AUKUS is too significant and the stakes are too high for it to be allowed to drift. Our driving focus now is overcoming any barriers to delivery. And the UK is all in.   

    With billions being invested in UK infrastructure, this programme demonstrates defence as an engine for growth – boosting our shared security, keeping our people safe and creating good jobs across our three nations.   The work builds on the UK leadership as part of the Coalition of the Willing for Ukraine, and the UK’s move to be at the leading edge of innovation in NATO, including through the pioneering hybrid Navy approach announced earlier this week. Britain is also providing increased technical and military assistance to Australia through the Geelong Treaty to accelerate Australian capability to operate nuclear-powered submarines.  

    AUKUS will deliver significant economic benefits for communities across the UK. The partnership will expand Britain’s submarine fleet with up to 12 attack boats, supported by continuous production delivering a new submarine every 18 months. 

    The wider Defence Nuclear Enterprise is projected to support around 65,000 UK jobs by 2030. These are highly skilled, well-paid positions, with nuclear sector salaries averaging £45,500 – 20% above the national average. This investment is bringing prosperity to areas of Britain with the greatest need, demonstrating how defence spending delivers real benefits to working people across the country. 

  • PRESS RELEASE : Ministry of Defence confirms the death of Lance Corporal George Thomas Hooley [December 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Ministry of Defence confirms the death of Lance Corporal George Thomas Hooley [December 2025]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 10 December 2025.

    It is with great sadness that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the death of Lance Corporal George Hooley, who died in Ukraine on 9 December 2025.

    Lance Corporal Hooley died following a tragic accident whilst observing Ukrainian forces test a new defensive capability, away from the front lines. He was 28 years old. 

    Lance Corporal Hooley was born on 12 February 1997. He joined the Army in November 2015, attending the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick where he completed the renowned Pre-Parachute Selection Course (P Company). Completing the course top of his cohort as ‘P Company Champion’, he joined The Parachute Regiment. 

    Lance Corporal Hooley was an exceptional soldier and an impressive junior leader with extensive operational experience. He progressed swiftly through key promotion courses. He completed The Parachute Regiment’s Junior Non-Commissioned Officers’ course in October 2020, passing with a Distinction grade, and securing promotion to the rank of Lance Corporal. More recently, he completed the Section Commanders’ Battle Course, held at the Infantry Battle School in Brecon, again securing an impressive Distinction grade. As a result of his exceptional performance and potential, Lance Corporal Hooley was due to promote to Corporal in January 2026, and as such, was trusted with the responsibilities of a Corporal on this, his latest, deployment. Lance Corporal Hooley had previously deployed to Afghanistan, Africa, and Eastern Europe. 

    His Commanding Officer said:  

    Lance Corporal Hooley’s future within The Parachute Regiment was incredibly bright, and I have no doubt that he would have continued to perform at the very front of his peer-group over the coming years. All members of The Parachute Regiment mourn his loss; however, our sorrow is nothing compared to that being felt by his family, our thoughts and prayers are with them at this incredibly difficult time. 

    His Company Commander said:  

    If you met George Hooley, you remembered it. His energy and enthusiasm were simply extraordinary. He provided spark that lifted others, a drive that inspired, and a zest for life that reminded us all how to live with purpose and joy. And we loved him for it. George had a rare gift: a deep kindness and genuine time for everyone. Whether you were a lifelong friend, a colleague, or someone he had just met, he made you feel valued. He listened – properly listened – and he cared. His door was always open, and his heart even more so. 

    At work, he was the model of professionalism. George didn’t just do his job; he excelled at it. A born soldier, he set the standard – the other soldiers watched to learn how things should be done, he made us all better, individually and collectively. He approached every task with dedication, integrity and pride. His colleagues will tell you that he wasn’t just part of the team, he was the character within it. The glue. The laughter. The calm voice of sense. The soldier who made the hard days easy and the good days memorable.

    Defence Secretary John Healey MP said: 

    Lance Corporal George Hooley served our country with distinction and professionalism. He was an exceptional soldier who will be very deeply missed.  

    My thoughts are with George’s family, loved ones and his colleagues. The tributes that have been paid to him are a testament to his exceptional attitude and ability.  

    George’s tragic death reminds us of the courage and commitment with which our outstanding Armed Forces serve every day to protect our nation.

  • Chris Elmore – 2025 Speech on Human Rights Day

    Chris Elmore – 2025 Speech on Human Rights Day

    The speech made by Chris Elmore, the Foreign Office Minister, in London on 10 December 2025.

    Good morning.

    It’s great to see you all today.

    The UN’s theme this year – “Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials” – couldn’t be more timely.

    And it really resonates with me after my visit to Jamaica to see the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, just five short days ago.

    We often speak about our basic human rights and needs in jest, but meeting a seven year old boy – who will be eight-years-old on the 28th of December – in Jamaica last week, whose home was destroyed by Hurricane Melissa and whose only Christmas wish was a working toilet, brought home to me the stark reality of millions around the world living without these essentials, whether through disaster, poverty, conflict or political oppression.

    Hurricane Melissa was devastating, and I pay tribute to the Government of Jamaica and its people for their extraordinary response and resilience in the face of such hardship.

    Today we reflect on how human rights are at the heart of our daily lives and when I talk about human rights, I also mean democracy and the rule of law.

    The three go hand in hand.

    Yet today, more and more people threaten to roll-back our hard-won freedoms.

    That’s why our commitment to human rights – here at home and around the world – matter.

    Not just because it’s morally and legally right, though of course it is, but because it’s in our shared interest. They allow us as individuals, as communities and as societies to thrive and prosper.

    As an MP, I’ve seen people campaigning for fairness, equality and safety.

    From local charities helping the homeless, to residents campaigning for clean air, to families hosting thousands of Ukrainian refugees.

    This is civic engagement at its best – people exercising their rights to speak out, to organise, to assemble, and to live free from discrimination.

    But it’d be a mistake to think that human rights are there just to protect our freedoms.

    Because they also serve our national interest, our security, our growth and our long-term prosperity. 

    Respect for the rule of law gives businesses confidence.

    Economic and social rights help create a healthy, educated workforce.

    And the right to life, freedom from torture, freedom of religion or belief and expression keep us safe.

    Security and prosperity cannot be achieved without guaranteeing human rights.

    How we protect rights must also evolve to reflect the challenges of the 21st century.

    We believe in the European Convention on Human Rights.

    It helped create a neighbourhood of countries with a strong record on human rights, directly contributing to the peace and security Europe has enjoyed since the second world war.

    It has also delivered real benefits for British people – a full inquest for the families of the Hillsborough victims, the abolition of corporal punishment in schools, and the right for gay people to serve in our armed forces.

    So of course, the UK remains committed to the Convention.

    At the same time, we also believe that it must evolve to face the challenges of the day.

    As the Prime Minister has said, we need to modernise how it’s interpreted in the context of irregular migration.

    And that work is already underway, with the Deputy Prime Minister in Strasbourg today meeting other Justice Ministers to take it forward. 

    But laws and conventions only matter if they make a difference to real lives.

    And right now, across the world, too many lives are under attack.

    • Palestinians assaulted in olive groves in the West Bank.
    • Women in the DRC raped with impunity.
    • Prisoners tortured in Damascus.
    • Children killed by missiles in Ukraine.
    • And crimes in Sudan so appalling that they can be seen from satellites in space.

    These are outrageous examples of tragedies, entirely inconsistent with international human rights and humanitarian law, and they are unfolding as we speak.

    They remind us why we must act.

    Doing nothing will only normalise impunity, making everyone, everywhere less safe.

    That is why FCDO funds partners in Syria to document atrocities and build evidence to achieve accountability.

    That is why we work with leaders like Nobel Laureate Dr Denis Mukwege on a survivor-centred approach when addressing sexual violence.

    And that’s why the Foreign Secretary, who sends her apologies today, is personally determined to end impunity for sexual violence in conflict, pursue peace in Gaza and the West Bank, and drive urgent action in Sudan.  

    But we cannot do this alone.

    Today as we mark the end of 16 days of Activism to End Gender-Based Violence, it is clear that we all have a role to play.

    Over the last two weeks, my officials have met activists and organisations working to stop violence against women and girls in Sudan and elsewhere.

    We want to do everything possible to help amplify their calls for justice and change and it makes me immensely grateful for the work you do.

    Not just in responding to these issues but in raising their profile, keeping the pressure on us to act, and holding us to account to do so.

    That’s why I’m concerned that civil society is under attack in so many countries because of repressive legislation.

    I want to pay particular tribute to courageous human rights defenders and advocates around the world, putting their lives in danger day after day to fight for what’s right.  

    I’m honoured that some of them are with us today, and I look forward to hearing from them shortly.

    Now, last year my predecessor set out the FCDO’s approach to human rights and governance.

    I’m proud of the progress we’ve made since then and I will build on this excellent work.

    We’ve strengthened the rule of law worldwide by offering free legal expertise in over 50 countries.

    We’re holding war criminals to account, including for war crimes committed in Ukraine. 

    We helped set up the Atrocity Crimes Advisory Group which supports the Ukrainian government in delivering justice.

    We’re supporting the establishment for a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine, and I am pleased that we formally endorsed its legal basis earlier this year.

    And we’re championing equal rights for all, including through the Deputy Prime Minister’s powerful global campaign to ensure every child grows up in a safe, loving family environment.

    Yet there is still so much to do.

    And that’s why I’m pleased that the UK has been re-elected to serve on the UN Human Rights Council for the next two years, giving us the chance to share our experiences with others.   

    Now, while this is a significant opportunity, I know that many of you are concerned about cuts in our foreign aid budgets.

    So I want to reassure you that we’re determined to find new innovative ways to support change on the ground, working ever more closely with local actors, focusing on impact, and publicly reporting what we do.

    And all of this will be backed by a strong diplomatic network of Embassies and High Commissions who will continue to champion these agendas around the world.   

    And we’ll use our influence in the multilateral system to keep human rights at the heart of its work while making sure they remain the foundation of all that FCDO does.

    Because it is only when human rights are protected that everyone has the chance to live with dignity and freedom. And that freedom being understood.

    Thank you all.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Construction of a new British High Commission in Nicosia begins [December 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Construction of a new British High Commission in Nicosia begins [December 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 10 December 2025.

    The British High Commission has announced that construction on the new buildings have started at the existing site in Nicosia.

    Our historic site, which was formerly part of the Central Prisons’ compound, will soon house a new, fit-for-purpose, eco-friendly High Commission, which will better symbolise the strong and growing partnership between the United Kingdom and the Republic of Cyprus. 

    The €40 million-plus project – the largest current project on the UK’s diplomatic estate – constitutes a mark of confidence in the strength of the bilateral relationship. And with the prime contractor being the Cypriot-owned firm Atlas Pantou, it is also a significant British investment into the Cypriot economy.

    Ground was broken in December and is the project is expected to be completed by November 2028. The project consists of a new High Commission office building, a security facility and a new Residence for the High Commissioner. The new compound will be carbon-neutral, contributing to Cyprus’ efforts to reduce emissions in our common fight to tackle the climate crisis.

    The existing High Commission buildings will continue to be functional until the opening of our new building. While there will be new temporary access points for visitors, our services will not be interrupted.

    British High Commissioner Michael Tatham, said:

    “Any new construction represents change and a departure from the past. We see this as a massive upgrade, reflecting the value that the UK attaches to its strong partnership with  the Republic of Cyprus. We are looking forward to seeing a new High Commission take shape – and to inviting our many Cypriot friends and partners to see it soon.”

  • PRESS RELEASE : Escalation of Russian attacks undermines peace efforts in Ukraine – UK statement to the OSCE [December 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Escalation of Russian attacks undermines peace efforts in Ukraine – UK statement to the OSCE [December 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 10 December 2025.

    Ambassador Holland highlights the intensification of Russia’s attacks on Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure in 2025, despite ongoing peace negotiations. He reiterates the UK’s grave concern and calls for Russia to respect Ukraine’s sovereignty, cease its aggression, and engage seriously in negotiations.

    Thank you, Madam Chair. As we conclude the FSC’s work for 2025, the United Kingdom reiterates its grave concern at Russia’s ongoing campaign against Ukraine. Each winter since 2022, we have cited independent sources detailing Russia’s pattern of targeting of civilians and critical infrastructure. This year, that pattern has intensified. 

    Despite ongoing peace negotiations, Russia has escalated its attacks. Three data points make this very clear: 

    In 2025 Russia has killed over 2,200 Ukrainian civilians and injured more than 11,000. This is a 27% increase in casualties compared to last year.  

    Since Russia sent a delegation to the first bilateral talks with Ukraine in mid-May, it has launched the 35 largest air attacks of the entire war.  

    And from June to November, Russian drones fired have averaged over 5,300 a month. This is more than five times the 2024 monthly average.  

    This is not the conduct of a state seeking peace. That is why, at the Ministerial Council last week, our Minister said: “we are committed to holding Russia to account – for its illegal, unprovoked, and unjustifiable war against Ukraine; for the forced deportations of innocent children; and for unlawfully detaining civilians, including, as has been referenced, three members of this organisation’s staff.” 

    Mr Chair, the UK hopes that this is the last time we sit at this Forum against the backdrop of Russia’s war. As we have established clearly in this Forum, the only obstruction to peace is Russia’s continued willingness to fight a war of aggression that it started. A war which continues to cause misery and death on our continent. 

    The path to peace remains clear.  It is a path that Russia must choose. It must choose to return to full compliance with international law and the Helsinki Final Act. It must choose to respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. And it must choose to cease its attacks, withdraw all of its forces from all of Ukraine, and to engage seriously in negotiations. Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Three Board Members extended to UK Sport board [December 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Three Board Members extended to UK Sport board [December 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 10 December 2025.

    The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport has extended the second terms of Sally Bolton OBE, Annie Panter, and Martyn Worsley.

    Sally Bolton OBE

    Sally was appointed Chief Executive of the All England Lawn Tennis Club in August 2020, having been Strategic Planning & Operations Director since 2018. Prior to joining the Club in 2016, Sally spent two years as Managing Director of the Organising Committee for the London double header of World Athletics Championships in 2017. Sally assumed this role having led the team that delivered a highly successful Rugby League World Cup in 2013, a role for which she was recognised with the award of an OBE.

    Prior to this Sally was the Rugby Football League’s Director of Projects & Planning and played an integral part in the Rugby Football League team that won the rights to stage the 2013 tournament. Prior to joining the RFL, Sally held a number of other roles in sports administration at club and Governing Body level including a period as Chief Executive of Wigan RLFC and Orrell RUFC. In addition, Sally has worked in the highly regarded sports consulting group at Deloitte and runs her own sports consulting business.

    Annie Panter

    Annie is a two-time Olympian, who competed in the 2008 Beijing and 2012 London Olympic Games where she won a bronze medal in women’s hockey with Team GB. During much of this time, Annie was combining her sporting career with studying for a BSc in Mathematics and Economics at the University of Nottingham. Following her retirement from hockey in 2012, Annie pursued a career in finance with Goldman Sachs for several years, before moving back into the sports industry via TRM Partners in 2018 to lead the commercial programmes of premium sports properties. Following an acquisition, Annie is currently Managing Director at the sports marketing agency Two Circles.

    Whilst at Goldman Sachs, Annie stayed closely involved with high performance sport. Between 2016-2019 Annie chaired the Athletes’ Committee and was an Executive Board member of the International Hockey Federation (FIH). Prior to her initial appointment to the UK Sport Board in 2018, Annie had been a member of the UK Sport Mission 2016/18 Panel and the British Cycling Independent Review Panel. She is currently a member of the UK Sport Major Events Investment and Assurance Panel.

    Martyn Worsley

    Martyn grew up in the West Midlands and was educated at The Bishop of Hereford’s Bluecoat School before going to the University of Southampton where he gained a BSc Hons in Geography. He started off his career in 1997 as a graduate trainee at Lloyds TSB before spending time in a variety of organisations including BT Group, BNY Mellon, SAB Miller and Tate & Lyle undertaking Business and Human Resource roles globally until he joined Lockton Companies as Chief People Officer in November 2020. Martyn is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development and also a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society.

    Martyn has had a life-long passion for both playing and being involved in sport including latterly coaching the Rugby Football Union for Women’s (RFUW) Academy for 5 years before being a non-Executive Director of the RFUW supporting the integration of the Women’s game into the Rugby Football Union. Martyn has completed the Trans- Atlantic Yacht Race, the London Marathon and undertaken multiple overseas expeditions whilst also being a Trustee for the London Youth Games. His other hobbies include skiing, sailing, mountaineering and spending time with his young family.

    Sally Bolton, Annie Panter and Martyn Worsley’s second terms have been extended to July 2026.

    Remuneration and Governance Code

    UK Sport Board Members are remunerated at £218 per day. These appointments have 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. 

    Sally Bolton, Annie Panter and Martyn Worsley have declared no political activity.

    Notes to Editors

    DCMS has around 400 regulated Public Appointment roles across 42 Public Bodies including Arts Council England, Theatres Trust, the National Gallery, UK Sport and the Gambling Commission. We encourage applications from talented individuals from all backgrounds and across the whole of the United Kingdom.  To find out more about Public Appointments or to apply visit the HM Government Public Appointments Website.

  • PRESS RELEASE : 50,000 more young people to benefit from apprenticeships as Government unveils new skills reforms to get Britain working [December 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : 50,000 more young people to benefit from apprenticeships as Government unveils new skills reforms to get Britain working [December 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 10 December 2025.

    • Major £725 million investment to deliver more apprenticeships for young people and help match skills training with local job opportunities.
    • Young people to benefit from increased access to training with full cost of apprenticeships at SME’s covered by Government.
    • New wave of foundation apprenticeships in sectors such as retail and hospitality sectors to get young people into work.
    • Backing thousands more apprenticeship starts for young people through a £140 million partnership with local leaders.
    • 50,000 young people across the country will be better equipped for jobs of the future through a major investment to create more apprenticeships and training courses.

    The £725 million package of reforms to the apprenticeship system will help to tackle youth unemployment and drive economic growth, with thousands more young people expected to benefit over the next three years.

    The latest funding includes a £140 million for a pilot where Mayors will be able to connect young people – especially those not in education, employment or training (NEET) with thousands of apprenticeship opportunities at local employers.

    By partnering with regional leaders who best understand their local economies, these pilots will ensure young people can access training that meets the needs of employers in their area.

    As part of the package, the government will also cover the full cost of apprenticeships for eligible young people under 25 at small and medium-sized businesses.

    Removing the 5% co-investment rate for SME’s means that the training costs for all eligible under 25 apprentices are fully funded opening up thousands of opportunities for young people. This will make it easier for young people to find opportunities and remove the burden from businesses, making it easier for them to take on young talent.

    Businesses will also benefit from a major boost in flexibility as new short courses in cutting-edge areas including AI, engineering and digital skills will begin rolling out from April 2026.

    This includes working closely with the defence sector to develop a new suite of flexible, work-based training options to help employers upskill their existing workforce in the critical skills needed for future success.

    Today’s announcement comes alongside plans to open up new waves of foundation apprenticeships in sectors such as hospitality and retail.

    The reforms will simplify and modernise the apprenticeship system, making it more efficient and responsive to the needs of employers and learners. From April 2026, short courses will be introduced to provide more flexible training options and a new Level 4 apprenticeship in AI will also be introduced, supporting employers to develop the skills of their workforce.

    The reforms to the Growth and Skills Levy build on the Prime Minister’s ambition for two-thirds of young people to participate in higher level learners – academic, technical or apprenticeships – helping more young people gain the skills they need to start their careers.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    For too long, success has been measured by how many young people go to university. That narrow view has held back opportunity and created barriers we need to break.

    If you choose an apprenticeship, you should have the same respect and opportunity as everyone else. That’s why the Government is investing £1.5 billion through the Youth Guarantee and the Growth and Skills Levy – creating 50,000 more apprenticeships and foundation apprenticeships for young people over the next three years.

    It’s time to change the way apprenticeships are viewed and to put them on an equal footing with university. This is a defining cause for this government and a key step towards our ambition to get two-thirds of young people in higher-level learning or apprenticeships.

    Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said:

    Every young person deserves a fair chance to succeed. When given the right support and opportunities, they will grasp them.

    That’s why we are introducing a range of reforms to help young people take that vital step into the workplace or training and to go on and make something of their lives.

    This funding is a downpayment on young people’s futures and the future of the country, creating real pathways into good jobs and providing work experience, skills training and guaranteed employment.

    The reforms are designed to tackle the sharp decline in apprenticeship starts among young people over the last decade – which have fallen by almost 40% since 2015/16 and shift the focus towards supporting young people into high-quality training and employment.

    This latest intervention follows an £820 million investment guaranteeing every young person the chance to gain the skills they need for success and support to find a job. This package will create 300,000 more opportunities to earn and learn and provide guaranteed jobs to almost 55,000 young people.

    Over the coming months, DWP and Skills England will work intensively with business on the right balance to further boost apprenticeship starts for young people while delivering the right flexibilities for business.

    Skills England will drive forward, with the Office for Investment, the service to support major investors and help them navigate the skills system. It will also establish a new skills infrastructure development service to support businesses to get training for jobs off the ground as quickly as possible and support young people in their careers.

    McLaren Automotive Chief Executive Officer Nick Collins said:

    Apprenticeships are a critical pipeline for developing the next generation of talent. They provide an immersive pathway for young people to gain practical experience and learn in real world environments.

    At McLaren we recognise the importance of investing in people and skills to create the world’s most extraordinary supercars. We are proud to inspire and equip the next generation to continue this tradition of excellence.

    Craig Beaumont, Executive Director at the Federation of Small Businesses, said:

    Small businesses are incredibly enthusiastic about apprenticeships, and we are pleased the Government is taking steps to make the system more small business friendly. It will help unlock more local roles, meaning small firms can do what they do best – taking people on and giving them a great chance in life.

    Rt Hon Robert Halfon, Executive Director, Make UK, said:

    Manufacturers support the Government’s commitment to a more flexible Growth and Skills Levy to boost investment in high-quality training. The development of foundation apprenticeships has been a positive step in ensuring that effective entry level routes into employment are there for young people.

    Industry is also keen to work with mayoral authorities to recruit more young people into engineering and manufacturing apprenticeships. Enabling more businesses to invest in work-based training is critical to supporting more young people into skilled work, and mayoral authorities bringing together employers and young people will help this to happen.

    Chris Perriton, Head of Learning Pathways, Marston said:

    At Marston’s, we believe apprenticeships are a vital pathway for young people to build confidence, gain practical skills and unlock long-term careers in hospitality. We welcome the Government’s commitment to expanding opportunities and driving skills development, and we’re proud to play our part by offering high-quality apprenticeships across our pubs and support teams. These programmes not only provide hands-on experience but also the structured training and mentoring needed to help the next generation thrive in our industry.

    Dan Clarkson, Chief Operating Officer, Lee Marley Group said:

    Apprenticeships play a vital role in sustaining the strength and capability of the construction industry. They give young people the structured development and real-world experience they need to carry essential craft skills forward, while building the confidence to pursue long-term, rewarding careers.

    As construction continues to evolve, apprenticeships help address skills shortages and uphold the high standards our built environment depends on. Supporting future talent is a responsibility we take seriously, and it remains central to everything we do at Lee Marley Group.

    Daniel Woolf, Head of Policy at small business support platform and membership community Enterprise Nation, said:

    This fresh flexibility in the Government’s approach to apprenticeships will open up new opportunities for young people within the small business community. Unpicking the complexity and unlocking funding will make a great deal of difference to small firms with no HR department, that often find these challenges tip the balance against apprenticeships.

    If we are going to build a local workforce fit for the future, we must continue to recruit and train our young people, so this package of reforms is excellent news.

    Alex Hall-Chen, Principal Policy Advisor for Skills at the Institute of Directors, said:

    Getting more young people into apprenticeships at SMEs will help the next generation into rewarding careers while helping small businesses to access the talent they need to grow. Removing the cost and bureaucracy associated with the 5% co-investment is an important first step in making the system easier for SMEs to navigate.

    Bethany Windsor, Head of Skills Policy at Logistics UK, said:

    Apprenticeships are an ideal way for young people to enter careers like logistics, and today’s announcement will help more of them to discover the varied opportunities our sector has on offer.

    Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), said:

    The new apprenticeship reforms are a positive step forward for small builders who can often struggle to take on apprentices because of the cost burden. Enabling the nation’s small builders to train apprentices under the age of 25 for free is a much-needed boost to plug the construction skills gap. This new funding will help deliver the next generation of tradespeople to upgrade our existing homes and build the new ones we so desperately need.

    Kate Nicholls, Chair of UKHospitality, said:

    This is clear recognition within the Government’s skills policy that hospitality is a vital employer of young people and key to getting people of all ages into employment, offering rewarding work, vital core skills, and swift career progression.

    The addition of hospitality to the sectors that can access foundation apprenticeships will provide more routes into work for young people and I look forward to continuing to work with the Government on its skills policy.

    Bill Buchan, HR Director Sodexo UK&I, said:

    Apprenticeships are a cornerstone of Sodexo’s talent and learning strategy, opening pathways for young people into hospitality and facilities management. We are long-time advocates of the opportunities that employment-based education can offer both to individuals and organisations in terms of additional skills, training new talent and allowing existing staff of all ages and backgrounds to retrain or upskill. We welcome any initiative that supports in the delivery of meaningful opportunities that will help to reduce NEET levels and strengthen the country’s skills agenda.

    Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, said:

    We welcome the new package of reforms to the Growth and Skills Levy, particularly the introduction of short courses from April next year. Retail plays a crucial role in helping young people into work, so it is vital that it receives the same priority as industrial strategy sectors.

    We look forward to further detail on the proposed foundation apprenticeships for retail and the Youth Guarantee, as well as any additional measures that will add greater flexibility in how retailers can spend their Levy funds to boost skills development across the country.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Appointment of the Suffragan Bishop of Grimsby [December 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Appointment of the Suffragan Bishop of Grimsby [December 2025]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 10 December 2025.

    The King has approved the nomination of the Venerable Jean Ann Burgess, MA, to the Suffragan See of Grimsby, in the Diocese of Lincoln.

    Background

    The King has approved the nomination of the Venerable Jean Ann Burgess, MA, Archdeacon of Bournemouth, in the Diocese of Winchester, to the Suffragan See of Grimsby, in the Diocese of Lincoln, in succession to the Right Reverend Dr David Court following his retirement.

    Jean was trained for ministry via the East Midlands Ministry Training Course, accredited by Nottingham University.

    She served her title at St George and St Mary’s Church, Gresley, in the Diocese of Derby, and was ordained Priest in 2004. Jean served as Interim Minister at St Alkmund’s and St Werburgh’s from 2008 and was appointed Priest-in-Charge in 2013 and incumbent in 2018. Jean served as Archdeacon of Bolton and Archdeacon of Salford, both in the Diocese of Manchester, from 2018.

    In 2023, Jean took up her current role as Archdeacon of Bournemouth, in the Diocese of Winchester.