Tag: 2026

  • PRESS RELEASE : Minister Chapman visits Lebanon, announces £13m in aid [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Minister Chapman visits Lebanon, announces £13m in aid [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 19 June 2026.

    Baroness Chapman announced a new £13m UK humanitarian package to Lebanon to help deliver vital assistance to people affected by the crisis.

    On a joint visit to Lebanon with her French and Qatari counterparts, Development Minister Jenny Chapman, concluded a two-day visit to Lebanon, her first as a Minister. 

    The visit underscored the urgent need for de‑escalation and showed the UK, France and Qatar’s united support for Lebanon and their commitment to delivering humanitarian assistance, in partnership with the Government of Lebanon.

    Baroness Chapman announced a new £13m UK humanitarian package to Lebanon to help deliver vital assistance to people affected by the crisis, including the provision of, protection, education, healthcare, food and other basic services.  This brings total UK support announced since March to £43 million.

    Accompanied by Ambassador Hamish Cowell, Development Minister Chapman and her French and Qatari counterparts Minister Delegate for Francophonie, International Partnerships Éléonore Caroit and Minister of State for International Cooperation Dr. Mariam bint Ali bin Nasser Al-Misnad, met with President Joseph Aoun, Speaker Nabih Berri and Minister of Social Affairs Haneen Sayed, reiterating support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and state institutions.

    Development Minister Chapman welcomed recent direct talks between Israel and Lebanon and reiterated support for diplomatic efforts as the best route toward lasting peace, security and stability. 

    With her French and Qatari counterparts and Minister Haneen Sayed, Baroness Chapman visited UK-funded programmes in Beirut and Saida.  At the Grand Serail, she met the Government’s Disaster Risk Management Unit, which alongside the Lebanese Red Cross is leading the nationally coordinated, data-driven response to the humanitarian crisis. She praised the dedication of healthcare workers and first responders, stressing that attacks on those carrying out such vital duties are unacceptable and that all sides must ensure their protection in line with International Humanitarian Law.

    They then visited with UNICEF Country Representative Marcoluigi Corsi, a collective shelter in Jnah for families displaced in the recent conflict escalation.  Baroness Chapman saw how the UK and partners are supporting the Government-led response in delivering essential education and protection services to displaced children and families in a challenging environment. 

    In Saida, Baroness Chapman visited Al Murjan High School a collective shelter hosting displaced families, and heard from UKISF partner ABAAD, about Gender Based Violence challenges amidst the conflict. With UKISF support, ABAAD has provided psychological first aid, strengthened shelter safety systems, delivered Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) sessions for women and girls, and more.

    With Deputy Special Coordinator and Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Lebanon Imran Riza and UNOCHA’s Representative Kristen Knutson, Baroness Chapman joined by French minister Éléonore Caroit, visited a shelter in Saida hosting displaced families and heard about the impact of the humanitarian crisis. She saw first-hand how UK support through the Lebanon Humanitarian Fund is providing water, sanitation, hygiene, protection and food assistance to vulnerable people.

    At the Lebanese Red Cross (LRC) centre, Development Minister Chapman and French minister Éléonore Caroit heard about LRC’s frontline role as first responders and the impact of the conflict on south Lebanon. Through the British Red Cross, UK support is strengthening LRC’s crisis preparedness. Minister Chapman handed over 8 UK-funded ambulances to the Red Cross, in the presence of LRC Secretary General George Kettaneh and the British Red Cross.

    She later visited a displaced family benefiting from UK support. Through the World Food Programme, the UK is contributing to the Government of Lebanon’s Shock Responsive Social Safety Net that is providing a vital lifeline amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

    Minister for Development Jenny Chapman said:

    The US-Iran agreement is an important step forward in reducing tensions, supporting regional stability, and reopening vital routes for global trade. Our priority now is to support its implementation and help create the conditions for a lasting peace, including an end to hostilities in Lebanon.

    Reckless and disproportionate Israeli escalation in Lebanon must end, as must Hizballah’s attacks on Israel, which have dragged the Lebanese people into yet another conflict they have not chosen.

    Here with my partners from France and Qatar, we’ve seen the devastating impact of the conflict. We are coming together to emphasise the importance of delivering stability in the Middle East, and of a robust and lasting ceasefire in Lebanon. 

    We remain committed to working with the Government of Lebanon to ensure they can deliver the response needed to support stability and resilience.

    Ambassador Hamish Cowell said:  

    Baroness Jenny Chapman’s visit to Lebanon comes at a critical moment, as Lebanon faces the continuing impact of conflict. 

    We will continue to coordinate with the Government of Lebanon and humanitarian partners.

    De-escalation is needed urgently.  All parties must respect the ceasefire and uphold international humanitarian law.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government procurement to prioritise national security [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government procurement to prioritise national security [June 2026]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 19 June 2026.

    Chancellor and Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister announce new drive to use power of public spending to strengthen national security and economic resilience.

    • New procurement guidance will protect national security and enhance supply chain resilience across critical sectors
    • Government separately confirms £5 billion in contracts awarded to British firms since March, accelerating delivery of the modern Industrial Strategy in priority sectors, and supporting growth in key industries
    • Communities across the country to benefit from Farnborough to Huddersfield, and Edinburgh to Solihull

    Every year the government spends around £400 billion on public procurement, and for far too long this spending has been focused too narrowly on short-term requirements and upfront costs.

    This has left the UK exposed to global shocks, with recent events showing the fragility of global supply chains. This new guidance draws a line under that approach and works to protect the UK’s national security and build resilience in critical sectors.

    Through the new guidance, the Chancellor, alongside the Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister, highlight the power of public spending to safeguarding sovereign capability, supporting businesses, jobs, and skills across the UK, with real money going straight to communities from Farnborough to Huddersfield, and Edinburgh to Solihull.

    The Chancellor will also today confirm that British founded-firms have already seen a £5 billion surge in new government contracts since March, targeting high-growth sectors central to the Industrial Strategy.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    We have the right economic plan – using the power of public procurement to protect our national security and strengthen the UK’s economic resilience.

    British companies are delivering the innovation and resilience we need in a more uncertain world. This government will continue to back British businesses as we strengthen our national security and economic resilience.

    Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones said:

    From the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine driving up energy bills, recent events show why we need to protect our national security, and invest in home-grown British expertise and industry to secure our sovereign capability.

    For too long, governments have prioritised short-term buying decisions that leave us vulnerable to the actions of others. This guidance will change that. From shipbuilding in Barrow to steel in Scunthorpe, we will make national security a priority and back British businesses and jobs.

    Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said:

    Every child deserves access to world class support with their schoolwork, regardless of where they’re from or what their parents can afford. Today we are making that a reality.

    These six British companies are developing world-leading AI that genuinely works in the classroom – safe, effective, and built around the needs of both pupils and teachers.

    Up to 450,000 disadvantaged children will benefit from this ambitious investment. This government is breaking down barriers to opportunity and giving every young person the best start in life.

    Cabinet Office Minister Chris Ward said:

    This government is determined to make every penny of our procurement budget work for British businesses and national security. This is another big step toward that, and to boosting growth and resilience across the country”.

    Since March, the government has awarded a number of new deals to British firms including:

    • A new digital platform to support RAF pilots in flight
    • AI fraud detection tools to help HMRC identify tax errors faster
    • Essential road and vehicle recovery services on the strategic road network.

    Up to 450,000 disadvantaged pupils are set to benefit from future-generation technology in AI tutoring from 2027. Six British organisations are among those selected and will receive £1.8 million to help build the next generation of safe and effective AI tutoring tools that will set the global standard for effective AI models.

    Mayoral Strategic Authorities are also playing a crucial role in the new push, such as with West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Greater Manchester Combined Authority procuring new local electric buses and steel from UK businesses.

    New guidance on national security and resilience

    The new guidance sets out the process for departments to use the national security exemption within the Procurement Act 2023 in key sectors to support the country’s national security and economic resilience. To support this new approach, the government has appointed dedicated Sector Leads in key departments across Whitehall. 

    These Leads will support Ministers and oversee upcoming procurements, so they can appropriately apply the national security exemption for contracts – supporting national security and stronger supply chains, while helping ensure the UK is better prepared in an increasingly uncertain world.

    Alongside this, the Treasury will be writing to accounting officers across government on the importance of protecting national security through future spending decisions. This will provide guidance on the use of the exemption to deliver value for money.

    Both new pieces of guidance are consistent with our international trade agreements and complement the government’s work with international partners to improve the security and resilience of key sectors, ensuring that we can collectively respond to global challenges.

    This includes recognising that our global trading partners and close allies will often have suppliers well-placed to help us meet our security needs. Our approach is built on collaboration; trusted international partners and global suppliers are at the heart of our procurement strategy, bringing the innovation and resilience we need to stay secure.

    The government also announced the publication of the Supply Chain Centre’s mission statement and action plan this week, setting out a new cross-government approach to securing the inputs the UK economy relies on and boosting supply chain resilience.

    Kate Shoesmith, Director of Policy and Insights, British Chambers of Commerce:

     “The world order has shifted dramatically in the last five years and a stronger government focus on economic security and supply chain resilience is one we support.

    Our Chambers are involved in infrastructure projects across the UK and know how investment in British firms can be transformative for local economies and communities.

    One third of all the money that government spends is on procurement so its potential to shift the dial is huge.

    Opening the system up to more SMEs is also one of the best and quickest ways to increase the impact this spending has. Chambers will be keen to get involved in the supply chains for these projects to maximise that effect.

  • PRESS RELEASE : National Drought Group meets after dry spring and recent heatwave [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : National Drought Group meets after dry spring and recent heatwave [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Environment Agency on 19 June 2026.

    Weather whiplash continues as climate change brings increasingly volatile weather.

    Just three months after the last drought officially ended, the parched conditions this spring have increased the risk of drought this summer. 

    The National Drought Group met yesterday (Thurs 18th June) and heard that while water resources remain in a relatively healthy position following an exceptionally wet winter, some areas are already seeing the impacts of drier conditions. 

    Spring has seen a marked north-south divide emerging, with Northern England receiving 90% of average rainfall in recent months compared to just 50% in Southern England. 

    East Anglia is set to return to prolonged dry weather next week, while Devon & Cornwall are on a watchlist to also enter prolonged dry weather later in the summer. The late May heatwave – which brought six consecutive days above 30°C in some areas and a new May record high of 35.1°C in West London – has added to concerns if these conditions are repeated.  

    As we mark the infamous drought of 1976, industry leaders at the drought group discussed the action being taken to prepare for summer. The Environment Agency is working with water companies on their drought plans and is actively monitoring water levels and rainfall patterns. 

    National Drought Group chair and Director of Water at the Environment Agency, Helen Wakeham, said:  

    We enter summer in a generally favourable position, but we can never be complacent ahead of those crucial drier months.   

    Heatwaves will continue to be a concern as they can drive spikes in water demand, so we need to continue to work collaboratively to use our finite water wisely.   

    While many of us enjoy the hot weather, we ask everyone to be mindful of their water use. Every drop saved leaves more available for farmers, our local rivers and wildlife.

    The National Drought Group brings together the Met Office, government, regulators, water companies, the National Farmers’ Union, Canal & River Trust, anglers, hydrologists, and conservation experts to share intelligence on water resources, ongoing research, and preparations for future drought – working collectively to protect the country’s finite water supplies. 

    The group noted the particular pressure prolonged dry weather places on the farming sector. Farmers have reported issues with the growth of spring crops and have had to begin irrigating earlier than normal because of the dry soils. The Environment Agency is working closely with farmers to understand and respond to their water needs, alongside longer-term work with government to build resilience in a changing climate. 

    National Farmers’ Union Deputy President, Paul Tompkins, said: 

    Food security depends on profitable farm businesses having reliable access to the water needed to produce food for the nation. Irrigation is vital for the growth of many crops.  

    With current projections for summer water availability ranging from moderate to poor in parts of the country, it is essential that farmers and growers retain the flexibility within their licences to access water when it is available to sustain crop production. 

    To safeguard our domestic food supply, we must build resilience to climate volatility. To secure farmers and growers’ access to water during shortages, they need enabling planning rules and regulatory reforms that support on-farm water storage, investment in water efficiency and innovation in more water-efficient crops and systems.

    The public also has a vital role to play. Small changes at home can make a surprising difference – a leaking toilet alone can waste up to 400 litres a day, a similar amount to what most people use in three days. Simple measures like fitting a water butt, using the eco setting on dishwashers and washing machines, and installing a low-flow shower head all add up to meaningful savings that help keep rivers healthy and taps running.  

    Met Office Head of Environment and Energy Sarah Davies said:  

    The weather in recent months highlights the variability we can experience, with a notably dry spring followed by a much wetter start to June, and more settled, drier conditions returning more recently.  

    Looking ahead to the rest of June and into July, the Met Office long range forecast suggests conditions are likely to remain widely dry and settled, with above average temperatures for many areas. However, there remains the potential for more changeable and unsettled periods at times.

    Climate change means the risk of drought is increasing and the last decade alone has seen droughts in 2018/19, 2022 and 2025.   

    This summer marks the 50th anniversary of England’s last severe drought, which resulted in widespread ecological devastation, crop failures, rota cuts and standpipes, plus a swarm of billions of starving ladybirds.    

    Notes to editors 

    DROUGHT AND CURRENT WATER RESOURCES  

    • Most of the country was in drought or prolonged dry weather last summer. East Anglia moved to prolonged dry weather status in July 2025 and was the final area to move back to normal status in March 2026. Parts of the region (Cam & Ely Ouse, North-West Norfolk and North Norfolk catchments) will move into prolonged dry weather next week.  
    • Devon & Cornwall are on a watchlist to also enter prolonged dry weather later in the summer. No areas are in drought.   
    • The recent heatwave saw significant peaks in water demand, including some public supply outages.   
    • Reservoir storage is currently 88.6% with chalk groundwater levels generally normal.  
    • River flows are decreasing but around two-thirds are still around normal for this time of the year. However, the Burn, Yare, Ely Ouse and Cam in East Anglia are notably low. The River Till in Northumbria is exceptionally low.    
    • The dry spring has seen an early start to the irrigation of crops in the east and south east with higher demand on farm irrigation reservoirs. There are also some concerns for non-irrigated crops, such as wheat and barley.  
    • A dry and hot summer will increase the risk of a “flash drought” as experienced in the summer of 2022.   

    WEATHER WHIPLASH  

    • This year has been marked by weather whiplash. A wet start made way for a very dry spring, with just 65% of average rainfall across March, April and May.   
    • However there has been a marked north-south split. Northern England saw 90% of average rainfall, compared to just 50% in Southern England.   
    • The late May heatwave saw six consecutive days above 30C in some areas, including a new May record high of 35.1C in West London.   
    • The three warmest springs on record for England now stand as 2024, 2025 and 2026. Nine of the ten warmest springs since 1884 have occurred in the last 20 years.  
    • June has seen a return to wetter weather, with England seeing 89% of its average monthly rainfall already.   
    • The UKHSA has issued an amber heat health alert issued for East of England, London, South East and the South West. Yellow heat health alert has also been issued for East Midlands and West Midlands.  

    CURRENT AND FUTURE ACTIONS  

    • Water companies are continuing to drive down leaks, and the Environment Agency is working closely with them to ensure they follow their drought plans.   
    • The Environment Agency expects to see more focus on nature-based solutions, such as wetlands and catchment management, to help hold more water when it rains.    
    • All National Drought Group members are embedding learnings from last year’s drought, which will help identify emerging drought risks earlier.   
    • The Environment Agency has just updated its summer prospects for irrigation, with most of the country indicating moderate to good, but parts of East Anglia and West Midlands are projected to be moderate to poor in a dry summer.  
    • The Environment Agency is working with abstractors to manage dry weather pressures. Abstractors are advised to contact the EA as soon as possible if they have any concerns and there is a wide range of support available to help improve resilience this summer and beyond.  
    • After last year’s record-breaking temperature, we know many fishery owners are prepared to take action to protect fish from reduced oxygen levels.   
    • A third round of Local Resource Option screening studies are now open until 5 July which are designed to support groups of farmers in identifying practical, local solutions to improve their long-term water resilience.
  • PRESS RELEASE : “Migration is a global challenge requiring global co-operation” says Foreign Secretary, announcing expansion of North Africa programme to support migrants closer to home [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : “Migration is a global challenge requiring global co-operation” says Foreign Secretary, announcing expansion of North Africa programme to support migrants closer to home [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 19 June 2026.

    The UK is expanding funding for programmes which helps countries across North Africa deal with the impacts of migration from regional conflict.

    • programme expanded to help migrants who have fled regional conflicts rebuild their lives much closer to home across North Africa
    • £9 million will support people into local jobs in the region and benefit host communities
    • while visiting Egypt the Foreign Secretary will meet migrants from Sudan who have been supported by the programme

    The UK is expanding funding for programmes which helps countries across North Africa deal with the impacts of migration from regional conflict – helping people into local work, and helping prevent dangerous and illegal onward journeys to the UK.

    The flagship North Africa Migration and Development (NAMAD) programme will extend to Libya for the first time, alongside expanding support in Egypt, Algeria, and Tunisia.

    The Foreign Secretary has made it a foreign policy priority to tackle migration challenges internationally and to prevent illegal migration to the UK. Prevention work to support migrants and refugees closer to home goes alongside stronger law enforcement against criminal smuggler gangs reducing dangerous journeys and illegal migration.

    During a visit to Egypt, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper will meet Sudanese migrants who have escaped the world’s largest humanitarian crisis and have benefited from the UK-backed programme to help them rebuild their lives in the region. Over 12 million people have fled their homes in Sudan since the current war began in 2023, including over a million who have sought refuge in Egypt.

    The Foreign Secretary will meet the families at an International Organisation for Migration (IOM) facility supported by NAMAD and announce £9 million of further funding.

    Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said: 

    Migration is a global challenge requiring global co-operation.

    Egypt and other North African states host millions of people displaced from conflicts and humanitarian crises in the region, including Sudan, the largest humanitarian catastrophe of the 21st century. 

    Helping these countries as they deal with the impacts of this displacement, and helping vulnerable people rebuild their lives much closer to home, is the right thing to do. It’s also an important part of preventing dangerous and illegal onward journeys to Europe and the UK.

    Since its launch, NAMAD’s work in Egypt has helped over 22,500 people including:

    • over 2,500 migrants and vulnerable Egyptians supported with key skills needed to enter the local workforce
    • over 15,000 vulnerable migrants received medical support, including through travelling medical teams
    • over 13,400 people have received multi-purpose cash assistance and/or non-food items including blankets and hygiene kits

    To support Egypt’s longer-term economic development, and its ability to flourish despite these pressures, the Foreign Secretary is also announcing a new programme of support for Egypt’s ambitious economic reform agenda, through an £8.7 million partnership with the World Bank. 

    The programme will provide advice and analysis to the Government of Egypt to boost inclusive private sector-led growth, making it easier for businesses to invest, trade and expand. This technical assistance given through to 2029 will boost Egypt’s economic resilience.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK Statement on the sixth UK-Thailand Strategic Dialogue [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK Statement on the sixth UK-Thailand Strategic Dialogue [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 19 June 2026.

    Minister Seema Malhotra met HE Mr Vijavat Isarabhakdi, Thailand’s Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, on 25 May 2026 for the Sixth UK–Thailand Strategic Dialogue.

    The UK welcomed the opportunity to mark the conclusion of the year commemorating the 170th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Minister Malhotra reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to further strengthening the partnership in the years ahead, grounded in friendship, mutual respect, and common interests.

    The UK reaffirmed its strong commitment to the Thailand–United Kingdom Strategic Partnership Roadmap and underlined the importance of boosting economic growth by further liberalising trade, promoting bilateral investment flows, and accelerating sustainable development. The UK welcomed agreement to build on the Enhanced Trade Partnership (ETP) and deepen economic cooperation, including through a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA).

    The UK welcomed opportunities to strengthen friendship and mutual understanding through expanded tourism, education and people-to-people exchanges, recognising their vital role in underpinning the long-term resilience of bilateral relations. The UK also welcomed continuing cooperation in science, technology and innovation, health, education, and arts and culture, including efforts to reduce barriers to people-to-people connections such as transnational education and mutual recognition of qualifications.

    The UK welcomed agreement to hold the next Thailand–United Kingdom Security Dialogue to deepen security cooperation, protect shared interests and uphold shared values amid an increasingly turbulent global and regional environment. The UK welcomed efforts to ease tensions along the Thailand–Cambodia border and expressed support for a peaceful, lasting agreement between the two sides. The UK also welcomed collaboration across a range of areas, including agriculture, as well as joint action against cannabis smuggling and scam centres. The UK reaffirmed its commitment to achieving net zero and welcomed stronger collaboration on climate change, energy and nature, including cooperation on carbon markets and efforts to mobilise investment.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK pledges further support to address humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, as Development Minister visits with France and Qatar Ministers [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK pledges further support to address humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, as Development Minister visits with France and Qatar Ministers [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 19 June 2026.

    Development Minister Jenny Chapman visits Lebanon with counterparts from France and Qatar as the UK announces new humanitarian support and calls for stability and protection of civilians.

    • UK pledges a new package to address the dire humanitarian crisis
    • joint visit steps up humanitarian support and underscores close partnership between the UK, France and Qatar
    • UK Development Minister calls on all sides to use the opportunity presented by the recent agreement to restore stability, uphold the ceasefire, protect civilians, and comply with international humanitarian law

    UK funding will deliver vital humanitarian support including food, healthcare and education to people affected by the crisis in Lebanon, as Development Minister Jenny Chapman visits the country with her French and Qatari counterparts.

    During her first ministerial visit to Lebanon, the minister met displaced families in Beirut, thanked emergency workers for their continued efforts, and underscored the importance of regional stability and adherence to the ceasefire.

    The joint visit underlines the importance of international cooperation in responding to the humanitarian situation and the need for urgent de-escalation. The UK, France and Qatar emphasised their strong support for the government and people of Lebanon, and their shared commitment to delivering humanitarian assistance in close partnership with Lebanese authorities.

    The new £13 million UK package will help deliver vital assistance to people affected by the crisis in Lebanon, including the provision of food, healthcare, education and other basic services.

    The funding will be delivered in cooperation with the Government of Lebanon through trusted humanitarian partners working closely with local communities. This is in addition to £30 million already announced by the UK since March to respond to the crisis and support urgent humanitarian need.

    The minister will continue her visit tomorrow (19 June), handing over 8 UK-funded ambulances to the Lebanese Red Cross alongside Secretary General George Kettaneh and the British Red Cross.

    Minister for Development Jenny Chapman said:

    The recent US-Iran agreement is an important step forward in reducing tensions, supporting regional stability, and reopening vital routes for global trade. Our priority now is to support its implementation and help create the conditions for a lasting peace, including an end to hostilities in Lebanon.

    Reckless and disproportionate Israeli escalation in Lebanon must end, as must Hizballah’s attacks on Israel, which have dragged the Lebanese people into yet another conflict they have not chosen.

    Here with my partners from France and Qatar, we’ve seen the devastating impact of the conflict. We are coming together to emphasise the importance of delivering stability in the Middle East, and of a robust and lasting ceasefire in Lebanon. 

    We remain committed to working with the Government of Lebanon to ensure they can deliver the response needed to support stability and resilience.

    The ministers also met with Lebanese leaders to underscore support for the government and Lebanese sovereignty. Development Minister Jenny Chapman welcomed recent direct talks between Israel and Lebanon and reiterated support for diplomatic efforts as the best route toward lasting peace, security and stability.

    The 3 ministers expressed deep concern at the consequences of the conflict for civilians, including the scale of displacement, impact on education, and dangers faced by first responders. They urged all parties to uphold the ceasefire, and to support implementation of the US-Iran deal to refocus peace efforts, and protect civilians and civilian infrastructure.

    The visit reflects close coordination between the UK, France and Qatar on support for Lebanon, including on humanitarian issues and engagement with the Lebanese Government.

    The UK will continue to work with partners to support regional stability and the effective implementation of the agreement, including – if required – through preparations for a defensive, independent multilateral mission to help ensure freedom of navigation and support mine clearance efforts in the Strait of Hormuz.

    The UK is a longstanding partner of Lebanon and will continue humanitarian, development and diplomatic engagement.

    Background

    The minister’s visit to Lebanon includes joint engagements with French and Qatari counterparts, alongside UK-specific elements which will be conducted on 19 June.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Banned director Steven Brookes who spent Covid loans on Disneyland, school fees and Audi jailed for £300,000 fraud [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Banned director Steven Brookes who spent Covid loans on Disneyland, school fees and Audi jailed for £300,000 fraud [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Insolvency Service on 19 June 2026.

    • Steven Brookes fraudulently claimed six Covid business loans worth £300,000 by making applications in his wife’s name and inflating turnover figures 
    • Brookes spent significant sums on a Disneyland trip, private school fees, an Audi, personalised number plates and a family holiday to Tenerife 
    • The 40-year-old had been banned as a company director since 2010 and used his wife’s name on the applications to conceal his involvement throughout the entire period of the fraud 

    A banned company director who spent £300,000 of Covid support on family holidays, private school fees, and other personal spending has been jailed. 

    Steven Brookes used funds from six fraudulently obtained Bounce Back Loans to pay for a trip to Disneyland, a holiday rental in Tenerife, and an Audi with personalised number plates for his wife. 

    The 40-year-old also paid £7,000 in fees for his daughter to attend an independent day and boarding school in Devon. 

    Bounce Back Loans were meant to provide economic benefit to his five businesses during the pandemic, but Brookes treated them as a personal fund, spending sums at florists, lingerie retailers and on paint to decorate his rental property. 

    Multiple transfers were also made into the joint expenses account Brookes held with his wife. 

    Brookes applied for the loans in his wife’s name, without her knowledge, and opened company bank accounts in her name to receive the funds.  

    He also inflated or fabricated the turnover figures used to support the applications and made a second loan application for the same company when he was only entitled to one. 

    All of the applications were made while Brookes was disqualified as a company director, using his wife’s identity to conceal his involvement. 

    Brookes, of Victoria Road, Bude, Cornwall, was jailed for three years and banned as a director for 10 years when he appeared at Southwark Crown Court on Thursday 18 June, with the judge describing his actions as ‘calculated and greedy’. 

    He had pleaded guilty to 11 charges of fraud and acting as a director while disqualified at the same court last November. 

    David Snasdell, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said: 

    Steven Brookes cynically hid behind his wife’s identity to steal £300,000 in Covid support funds. 

    Bounce Back Loans were not a personal bank account for company directors to use on paying for holidays, school fees and other luxury items. Brookes broke almost every rule going. He submitted false turnover figures, secured two loans when companies were only allowed one, and criminally misused the funds. 

    He did all this while ignoring a director ban which had been in place for a decade at the time of his fraudulent actions. 

    The Insolvency Service has relentlessly pursued Covid fraudsters since the pandemic. We are equally determined to enforce director bans – and hold those who wilfully break them to account.

    Brookes made six Bounce Back Loan applications across five companies between May and October 2020. In each case, he made the application in his wife’s name without her knowledge, having been disqualified as a company director for 11 years in April 2010 following a conviction for stealing mobile phones. 

    His first application was for a £50,000 loan for Blind Pig Media Limited. Brookes declared the company’s turnover as £218,865 to obtain the maximum amount when its actual turnover was £119,215. 

    Funds from the loan were used for personal spending, including the Disneyland trip and school fees. 

    Just weeks later, Brookes applied for a second £50,000 loan for the same company. Businesses were only entitled to one Bounce Back Loan each. He falsely declared this was his first application. 

    Money from this loan was spent at a florist, at lingerie retailer Boux Avenue, and transferred into the couple’s joint expenses account. 

    Brookes’ third fraudulent application in September 2020 was for another £50,000 loan, this time for BPG Management Limited. 

    In the application, Brookes declared a turnover of £450,000. The company had never traded and had no accounts. 

    The full £50,000 was transferred to Blind Pig Media Limited, where it was used for personal spending including a £7,800 Audi bought for his wife, personalised number plates costing over £4,700, £1,200 spent on paint to decorate his rental property, and a further £1,000 transferred to the couple’s joint expenses account. 

    Later that month, Brookes secured a £50,000 loan for Brookes Consultancy Limited, declaring a turnover of £350,000. Again, the company had never traded and had no accounts. The full loan was transferred to Blind Pig Media Limited. 

    Brookes made a fifth application for The Pig Box Limited, declaring a turnover of £750,000 despite the company again never having traded.  

    The full £50,000 was transferred to Blind Pig Media Limited and used for personal spending, including £640 at luxury retailer Jo Malone and £1,000 paid to his wife’s business. 

    Brookes’ final fraudulent application came in October 2020. He obtained a £50,000 loan for The Blind Pig Group Limited, this time declaring a turnover of £800,000.  

    In a repeat of some of his previous applications, the company had never traded and the full loan amount was transferred to Blind Pig Media Limited. 

    Money was again used for personal spending, including £5,000 paid to a Tenerife holiday rental company and £3,439 on a home energy bill. 

    Only £7,494 has been repaid of the £300,000 Brookes stole from the scheme. 

    The Insolvency Service is seeking to recover the fraudulently obtained funds under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002. 

    Further information

    • Steven Brookes is of Victoria Road, Bude, Cornwall. His date of birth is 30 August 1985 
  • PRESS RELEASE : HM Government licensing cyber security tech for a global market [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : HM Government licensing cyber security tech for a global market [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 19 June 2026.

    SilentGlass is a plug-and-play cyber security device developed by NCSC and commercialised with support from GOTT, now licensed to a UK firm for global use.

    Background 

    The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), a part of The Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ), is the UK’s National Technical Authority on cyber security. It works round the clock to combat cyber threats, support victims of cyber incidents, empowers organisations to protect the online services and digital technologies that underpin the UK economy and public services. 

    As modern computer monitors become increasingly ’smart‘, digital video connections can be exploited to compromise laptops and other connected devices. This risk is particularly acute in environments where devices of differing trust levels connect to shared monitors, including secure government facilities, hybrid office working, and home working set‑ups. 

    SilentGlass was developed within the NCSC to address this challenge, providing a simple and effective way to prevent video connections being used as a route for cyber-attack. 

    Knowledge Asset solution 

    SilentGlass is a small, ’plug-and-play’ hardware device that sits between a laptop and a monitor, preventing the physical connection from being used as a route to compromise either device. By removing this attack pathway, it helps organisations improve cyber security while supporting safer flexible and hot‑desking arrangements. 

    The technology was originally developed for internal government use, but has since demonstrated clear potential for wider adoption across the public sector, critical national infrastructure and the private sector. 

    To bring the technology to market while maintaining strong governance and security considerations, the NCSC pursued a licensing‑based commercialisation route. 

    Who will this help? 

    SilentGlass supports organisations that need high‑assurance protections for connected devices, including: 

    • government departments and public sector bodies 
    • organisations operating critical national infrastructure 
    • businesses with high cyber security requirements 
    • employers enabling flexible and hybrid working 

    For the public sector, the case demonstrates how a government‑developed cyber security capability can be commercialised, supporting wider adoption while protecting intellectual property and ensuring greater public benefit. 

    GOTT’s role 

    The Government Office for Technology Transfer (GOTT) supported the NCSC to shape the commercialisation of SilentGlass by: 

    • advising on appropriate intellectual property licensing strategies  
    • providing funding and mentoring for a local Knowledge Asset manager to build commercialisation capability 
    • facilitating access to the Tech Transfer ecosystem, including connections to experts in public sector investment and licence management 
    • Championing and supporting the licensing approach across HM Government  

    This support helped the NCSC navigate the commercialisation process, engage effectively with the market and secure a suitable licensing partner through a fair and competitive process. 

    Outcome 

    Following a competitive process, a global IP licence for SilentGlass has been agreed with a UK‑based company, Goldilock Labs. The device is now available globally. 

    The licensed product will enable wider access to a high‑assurance cyber security solution originally developed for government use, supporting safer deployment of digital technologies and helping share the benefits of public sector innovation more widely across the UK and globally. 

    By helping to launch a UK company onto the global market with this world-class innovation, we are breaking new ground, showing the impact that the NCSC can have, alongside industry partners, with an affordable and effective product now globally available. GOTT’s expertise and encouragement of UK HMG departments to seek greater value from their intellectual property (IP) was instrumental in our confidence to commercialise SilentGlass. We’ll continue working together off the back of this success to commercialise more of our unique IP to benefit our mission and the UK’s prosperity.

    Ollie Whitehouse, NCSC Chief Technology Officer

  • PRESS RELEASE : Dangerous occurrence at Todmorden [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Dangerous occurrence at Todmorden [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch on 19 June 2026.

    Investigation into a dangerous occurrence at Todmorden, West Yorkshire, 7 May 2026.

    At around 22:28 on 7 May 2026, the driver of an out-of-service passenger train, operated by Northern, was given permission by the signaller to move their train closer to a signal on Todmorden West Curve, in West Yorkshire. However, the driver was not aware that their train was already standing with its driving cab beyond this signal. This resulted in the train making an uncontrolled movement towards Todmorden Viaduct Junction. The driver realised what had happened and brought their train to a stop close to the junction.

    Around 12 seconds after the out-of-service train came to a stop, the 21:57 Manchester Victoria to Leeds passenger service, also operated by Northern, passed through the junction at about 45 mph (72 km/h). This service had just left Todmorden station.

    There were no injuries or damage caused as a result of the incident, which occurred during a period of revised working arrangements that had temporarily increased the number of shunting movements involving Todmorden West Curve.

    Our investigation will seek to identify the sequence of events which led to the near miss. It will also consider:

    • any factors that may have influenced the actions of those involved
    • the status and function of the signalling systems in the area
    • the management, training and competence of staff
    • how the risk of revised working arrangements was being assessed and controlled
    • any underlying management factors.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Environment Agency minded to approve Powerfuel Portland permit [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Environment Agency minded to approve Powerfuel Portland permit [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Environment Agency on 19 June 2026.

    The permit variation will change the types of waste allowed to be incinerated on site.

    The Environment Agency is minded to issue a permit variation for Powerfuel Portland Limited to change the permitted waste types that can be incinerated at their Portland facility.

    A consultation on the permit application took place between 5th November 2025 and 18th December 2025, and approximately 685 comments were received.

    The Environment Agency has carefully considered the documents provided by Portland Powerfuel Limited and explored several issues of concern, such as emissions to air, odour, noise and arrangements for the storage and handling of wastes.

    The Environment Agency is now satisfied they have all the information needed and cannot find any reason to refuse this permit variation application and is minded to issue the permit variation.

    This means that the Environment Agency thinks the draft permit is ready to be issued but will not make the final decision until they have considered all comments carefully.

    A consultation has been launched so that the public can have their say on this draft decision.

    The Environment Agency may only refuse a permit application if it does not meet one or more of the legal requirements under environmental legislation, including if it will cause significant harm to the environment or to human health.

    If all the requirements are met, the Environment Agency is legally obliged to issue a permit.

    The planning and permitting processes are separate from each other. A local authority can grant planning permission without an environmental permit in place, and the Environment Agency can grant a permit without planning permission having been provided.

    An Environment Agency spokesperson said:

    We have considered all responses to our consultation carefully and are now minded to issue the permit variation.

    At this stage, we can only refuse the permit variation if new evidence is brought to light showing the site will cause significant harm to the environment or human health.

    We cannot consider planning issues such as the suitability of the location.

    The consultation is open and runs until 31 July.