Tag: 2026

PRESS RELEASE : Children to be better protected from second-hand smoking and vaping [February 2026]
The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 13 February 2026.

The government is launching a consultation on extending smoke-free places and introducing vape-free and heated tobacco-free spaces.
- Consultation on extending smoke-free places and introducing vape-free and heated tobacco-free spaces – as part of the 10 Year Health Plan
- Kids’ playgrounds and schools set to be smoke, vape and heated tobacco-free to better protect children and vulnerable people from harm
- Outside hospitals to be smoke and heated tobacco-free. Outdoor hospitality and wide-open public spaces not included
Children and medically vulnerable people will be better protected under plans to ban smoking from playgrounds, schools and hospitals.

The government has today (13 February 2026) launched a public consultation to seek views on stopping people smoking, vaping or using heated tobacco in public playgrounds and education settings in England.

Areas outside healthcare locations – such as hospitals – would also become smoke-free and heated tobacco-free under the proposals.

Indoor spaces, where smoking is already banned, would also become vape-free and heated tobacco-free, subject to consultation.

Outdoor hospitality settings, including pub gardens and open public spaces, are not included in the proposals. Private homes and private outdoor spaces are also out of scope. 

These proposals form part of the government’s 10 Year Health Plan to shift the focus of the NHS from sickness to prevention, tackling the root causes of ill health and reducing long-term pressure on services.

Second-hand smoke is harmful even outdoors, with children and medically vulnerable people at greatest risk. By acting in places where young people gather and patients receive care, the government aims to prevent avoidable harm before it happens and support a healthier generation.

Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, said:

No child in a playground or hospital patient should suffer because someone else chooses to smoke.

Second-hand smoke increases the risk of heart disease and lung cancer and we want to protect children and the sick from harm.

Prevention is better than cure, so this government is taking pressure off the NHS and building a healthier Britain where everyone lives well for longer.

This consultation marks an important step towards implementing the landmark Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which will create a smoke-free generation and protect young people from a lifetime of addiction. The bill is currently progressing through Parliament.

There is no safe level of exposure to second-hand smoke, and children, pregnant women and people with underlying health conditions are particularly vulnerable.

Short-term exposure can cause immediate symptoms such as eye irritation, coughing and headaches, while long-term exposure significantly increases the risk of chronic disease. 

Professor Chris Whitty, Chief Medical Officer for England, said:

People who do not smoke but who are exposed to second-hand smoke can suffer significant harmful effects on their health, including an increased risk of asthma, poor birth outcomes, several cancers, stroke and heart disease. The health risks are greatest for children, pregnant women and people with medical conditions.

No smoker wants to harm people, but with second-hand smoke they do – and these measures would reduce the harm second-hand smoke causes the most medically vulnerable in our society.

It will also seek views on setting outdoor boundaries, exemptions and designated smoking areas, and how to inform people of restrictions to ensure the rules are proportionate and workable. 

There will be a minimum of 6 months between any regulations being made and them coming into force, with guidance available on how to make sure people are aware of and follow the rules.

Enforcement would mirror existing smoke-free laws, where compliance has historically been extremely high. 

Business Minister, Kate Dearden, said:

These are targeted proposals to protect children and families from second-hand smoke and vaping, without placing extra pressure on pubs, restaurants or the wider hospitality sector.

We have been clear that we will support businesses, and after listening to their concerns, we have excluded outdoor hospitality spaces from these changes.

Dr Charmaine Griffiths, Chief Executive of British Heart Foundation, said:

No child should have to walk through a cloud of deadly second-hand smoke on their way to the classroom or playground, nor should any patient be exposed to harm on hospital grounds.

We strongly support the government’s consultation and the landmark legislation behind it, and we call for urgent implementation to protect everyone from harm. Tough measures must be taken to prevent smoking from robbing more families of their loved ones and harming vulnerable people.

Cancer Research UK’s Executive Director of Policy and Information, Dr Ian Walker, said:

We support the UK government taking action to create a smoke-free future and protect the most vulnerable in society. This consultation is an important opportunity for people to share their views on smoke-free, heated tobacco-free and vape-free places in England, helping to ensure decisions are guided by the strongest evidence.

Smoking is the leading cause of cancer deaths in England, and we can’t afford to lose any momentum in the fight against tobacco. The government must now swiftly pass and implement the historic Tobacco and Vapes Bill to protect future generations from a lifetime of deadly and costly addiction.

Hazel Cheeseman, Chief Executive of Action on Smoking and Health, said:

Smoke-free legislation has been one of the greatest public health successes of the last 20 years, saving lives, improving health and changing social norms for the better.

With smoking now far less common than when the law was introduced, the public rightly expects the same protections to extend to shared outdoor spaces where people are still being exposed to harmful second-hand smoke.

Peter Roderick, Spokesperson for Addiction for the Association of Directors of Public Health, said:

Smoking doesn’t just kill smokers. It also kills non-smokers, and causes a range of illnesses including cancers, heart and lung diseases that affect adults and children alike, and is linked to stillbirth and sudden infant death syndrome.

We know that these numbers have decreased since the introduction of restrictions on smoking in public places. Introducing more smoke-free spaces will save even more lives, protect future generations and give freedom to live a healthier life to the 88% of people – including thousands of medically vulnerable people – who don’t smoke. These changes are not only needed, but they also have strong public support and it is vital that we make them happen as soon as possible.

Sarah Sleet, Chief Executive at Asthma + Lung UK, said:

No one should be forced to breathe in air that could harm their health, and banning smoking and vaping in more public places would be a significant step towards better lung health for all. There is no safe level of exposure to second-hand smoke, even in outdoor spaces. Tobacco smoke contains dangerous chemicals, including tar and carbon monoxide, which puts lungs at risk – and children and people with underlying health conditions are particularly vulnerable. This is why banning smoking in places such as outside schools and hospitals is critical.

The risks of smoking are well documented, but vaping among non-smokers – particularly young people – is also a real concern. More research is needed into the long-term impact of vaping, but in the meantime a ban in indoor public spaces would help to reduce uptake and protect people whose lung conditions are triggered by vaping. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill is a once in a generation chance to create a smoke-free generation and protect the lungs of future generations.
February 16, 2026
PRESS RELEASE : UK announces £6m humanitarian drought response funding to Somalia [February 2026]
The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 12 February 2026.

The UK Minister for International Development and Africa, Baroness Jenny Chapman, concluded her first visit to Somalia where she also announced £6 million in new humanitarian funding to Somalia.

At Villa Somalia, the Minister was hosted by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Discussions focussed on the rapidly escalating drought risk across Somalia and the significant challenges it is causing for vulnerable communities. Baroness Chapman underscored the UK’s shift from a traditional donor relationship to an investment‑driven development partnership, designed to strengthen Somali resilience, support economic opportunity, reduce long‑term vulnerability to climate‑induced shocks and deter irregular migration. She also recognised the critical leadership role the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) continues to play in responding to drought‑related needs across the country and agreed to continue vital coordination between the FGS and the UK to address need.

The Minister congratulated the President for his government’s leadership in response to the ongoing drought and food security crisis and heard how, through collaboration between the government, the UK, the World Bank and the United Nations, over 500,000 people affected by drought are already receiving emergency cash support. She also welcomed the activation of the UK-supported African Risk Capacity (ARC) insurance policy for emergency drought response – triggering $3.4 million in rapid pay-outs to the government, ensuring timely and effective support to those most in need.

The Minister and President also discussed the activation of the ARC Replica insurance for the Start Network and the World Food Programme, providing over $2 million for humanitarian partners to respond quickly to needs. Start Network’s pre-arranged finance facility Start Ready has already disbursed almost $3 million for anticipatory action in Somalia, mitigating humanitarian impacts before conditions deteriorate. The UK has supported these mechanisms since their inception as part of efforts to increase the use of pre-arranged finance for early action and improve the efficiency of humanitarian response.

Visiting a World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse in Mogadishu with Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama, Baroness Chapman announced £6 million in additional UK humanitarian assistance. This new assistance will target the highest‑need locations to deliver life‑saving support to over 129,000 people impacted by drought.

Speaking at the WFP warehouse, the Minister emphasised the need to protect vulnerable Somali communities and get urgent assistance to them in advance. She urged continued partnership between the UK, UN, the Somali government and other partners.

Ending her programme in Somalia, the Minister met United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) and African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) leaders, to thank them for their commitment to Somalia’s security. During a visit to their air operations facility, she was able to better understand the UN’s vital support work and see the contribution made by UK support to AUSSOM and UNSOS. She also met UK service personnel, part of Operation Tangham, supporting UN and AU operations and thanked them for their vital efforts to train the Somali National Army.

UK funding is helping to build the capacity of the Somali forces, saving lives and countering violent extremists – for a safer, more secure Somalia.

Further information
- for more information on UK activity in Somalia, follow us on X, Facebook and Instagram
- the new £6 million in humanitarian support forms part of a £61 million UK package of funding in financial year 2025/26 to bilaterally address both immediate humanitarian needs and the underlying drivers of crisis in Somalia, including over £12 million to a partnership with the Federal government, World Food Programme and World Bank to provide shock-responsive social protection to the most vulnerable drought affected households
- African Risk Capacity is Africa’s regional risk insurance scheme for drought, tropical cyclones, floods and disease outbreaks, providing affordable insurance for countries (ARC) and humanitarian agencies (ARC Replica insurance). The UK is a founder member/donor, including subsidising multiyear drought insurance for Somalia ($9 million over 3 years) alongside the African Development Bank. The UK also subsidises the ARC Replica insurance for Start Network (£6 million over 2 years for four high risk African countries) and also WFP (via the Global Shield Financing Facility). For more information on ARC, please see African Risk Capacity Limited – Resilience Risk Pools
- Start Ready is an innovative pre-arranged finance facility that funds anticipatory and early action through locally-led organisations. For more information, please see Start Ready Start Network
February 16, 2026
Emma Reynolds – 2026 Speech on Food Security

The speech made by Emma Reynolds, the Environment Secretary, at the British Ambassador’s Residence in Paris on 12 February 2026.

Good evening, bonsoir, mesdames et messieurs. Distinguished guests, colleagues and friends. Thank you for welcoming me to Paris this evening.

And thank you Andrew for that kind and rather cheesy introduction.

Je suis ravie d’etre ici ce soir avec vous. Paris occupe une place toute particulière dans mon cœur. J’ai travaillé en France dans ma tendre jeunesse à l’âge 19 ans comme serveuse a la gare de Lyon Partdieu. J’en ai retenu deux choses essentielles: l’importance d’un service de qualité… et une passion toujours aussi intense pour le fromage, la charcuterie et le vin français.

And in fact, when I reflect on my time living here in France I can see some similarities between being a waitress and being a politician – you’re working long hours, serving the people, and also, alas, dealing with complaints – but unfortunately, we politicians can’t blame the kitchen when things go wrong!

This impressive residence – Hotel Charost – has a rich history. The Duke of Wellington bought it off Napoleon’s sister, but don’t worry; the money and indeed the gold Britain paid for it was used by the French emperor to finance his return from exile!

And this residence has served for over 200 years as a place where British and French people have come together to discuss the issues of the moment and explore the opportunities ahead.

That is exactly what I want to do this evening with you.

Today has been a day full of rich conversations.

I had the great pleasure of meeting my French counterpart, Minister Annie Genevard, to discuss the future of our farming sectors, international trade and the agreement that we are negotiating between the UK and the EU on sanitary and phytosanitary rules – un accord sur les normes sanitaires et phytosanitaires – which you can see why we shorten to “SPS agreement”.

I have also had meetings with Ambassador Olivier Poivre D’Arvor to discuss our shared ocean priorities – from marine protected areas to the plastics treaty.

And Ambassador Barbara Pompili and I covered the biodiversity agenda, including our joint work on biodiversity credits.

What struck me throughout today’s meetings was a common thread: a shared commitment to high standards, practical cooperation, and the understanding that the challenges we face – from climate to food security to ocean health – do not respect borders. And that we can stand tall in the world, working together in partnership to solve these challenges.

Why food security matters now

And that reminded me of something I learnt from my many years working in Brussels.

That the relationship between the United Kingdom and our European neighbours is not simply a matter of treaties and trade statistics, as important as they are. It is built on something deeper.

We have shared values, shared culture and a shared history. And most importantly we have a shared future.

As the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said yesterday, Britain’s future is inextricably bound with Europe’s future. For economic reasons, for security, for resilience and for defence. Geography matters in our world today. None of the trade agreements the UK has done around the world are as important as our trade arrangements with the EU.

That is why our Labour government committed to the British people that we would reset and deliver on the partnership with our European friends. And that is exactly what we are doing.

Because this partnership, based on our shared values, matters even more in this uncertain world.

War on our continent, with the illegal Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Increasing geopolitical tensions.

New biosecurity threats – plant and animal diseases that do not respect borders.

All these challenges demand greater cooperation, not isolation.

And climate change is placing unprecedented pressure on food systems, biodiversity, and the natural resources we all depend upon.

This is not a distant threat. Droughts, floods, extreme weather events – are already disrupting harvests, straining supply chains, and driving up costs for farmers and consumers alike.

Food security has direct consequences for the safety and wellbeing of our populations. In this new geopolitical reality, it is inseparable from national security.

That is why food security has become a strategic priority for governments across Europe – and why the strength of our relationships with our closest partners matters more than ever.

For our shared security. And our shared prosperity.

UK-France food systems are deeply connected

The English Channel, la Manche, is one of Europe’s most important food corridors.

Every day, high-value, time-sensitive goods cross in both directions, serving consumers and supporting producers on both sides.

France exports over €7 billion euros in agri-food products to the UK each year.

In return the UK exports over €3 billion euros of such produce to France.

French produce on British tables; British products in French markets.

Indeed, some of the finest French produce can be found in some of the best French restaurants – many of which are of course in London.

French wine, cheese, chocolate and croissants are fantastically popular back home amongst the French expats but also les roast bifs.

I must confess a particular weakness for a good Côtes du Rhône or indeed Burgundy.

I read of President Macron’s visit to the trade show, Wine Paris, just this week, championing French producers and seeking new markets.

We share that instinct: to support our agricultural sectors, defend quality, and find partners who value what we grow and make.

And I’m sure that many of you have your own British favourites. I know that British salmon, whisky and lamb are valued in French restaurants and markets. Some of you might even drink a morning cup of tea.

These flows of agri-food products represent millions of meals, thousands of livelihoods, and generations of trade built on trust. And something more, that the French know better than anyone else, food is culture.

What crosses the Channel reflects not just commerce, but connection.

Our supply chains are not national systems operating in parallel. They are integrated networks.

The UK’s food security benefits when France and the wider EU are thriving. French resilience benefits when UK production and supply are stable.

SPS agreement benefits

This brings me to the agreement we are working towards with the EU.

The SPS agreement is designed to restore the Channel corridor to its full potential.

Exports of British farm products to the EU have dropped by a fifth in the five years since Brexit. And I heard in a roundtable this afternoon with French producers that they have had similar challenges exporting to the UK.

That’s not good for farmers and consumers on both sides of the channel.

This agreement will change that.

It will make trade faster, easier, and cheaper.

Businesses large and small will benefit from less time and money spent on complex paperwork at the border.

Consumers will have greater access to the high-quality products they value.

The agreement will mean over €300 million euros worth of cheese entering the UK from France would no longer need to be checked at the border and can reach customers more quickly.

It also means that over €500 million euros worth of UK fish arriving in France each year can be sold faster and more reliably.

Frictionless trade, efficient borders, open supply chains – these directly support farmer incomes, consumer prices, and shared resilience.

The mutual benefits are significant.

They tie the UK and EU together on food security and improve movement and reliability on both sides of the Channel.

Shared high standards

There is sometimes a temptation, when discussing trade agreements, to suggest that standards must be traded off against supply.

My government rejects that view.

The UK and EU are natural allies in upholding high standards of animal welfare and environmental protection – and in championing these principles internationally, protecting the integrity of our food systems while leading the global transition to sustainable agriculture.

High standards are not a barrier to trade. They are what makes trade valuable. They are what consumers trust. And they are what will distinguish European agriculture in an increasingly uncertain world.

Sustainable farming and food security

The climate crisis means we cannot secure our food systems simply by producing more. We must produce food differently.

Sustainable farming is not a constraint on food security – it is the foundation of it. Soil health, water management, biodiversity, reduced emissions – these are not luxuries. They are the conditions on which productive agriculture depends.

Farmers who protect and restore their land are not just producing food. They are safeguarding the capacity to produce food for generations to come.

As G7 and G20 members, the UK and France have both the platform and the obligation to drive global action on climate – in our food systems but also in energy, trade, and the protection of natural ecosystems worldwide.

Last week I addressed scientists and policymakers gathered in Manchester for the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services.

At that gathering, I delivered remarks on behalf of His Majesty the King, who spoke of nature as “the ultimate foundation of our societies and, critically, our economy” – and of the urgent need to reverse biodiversity loss.

His Majesty is right. Together we will demonstrate that protecting and restoring nature isn’t just an environmental necessity, it is essential for our security, our economy, and our future.

The King also highlighted the International Advisory Panel on Biodiversity Credits, jointly established by the UK and French governments, as a model for how nature finance can channel investment towards nature across the world.

That partnership – practical, innovative, and rooted in shared values – extends to the work ahead.

And tomorrow I look forward to meeting Environment Minister Monique Barbut to discuss how we can work together through France’s G7 presidency this year and beyond – and demonstrate what multilateralism can deliver.

Today has been a reminder of why these partnerships matter – not just in policy documents, but in practice.

The conversations I’ve had with my French colleagues and counterparts, have reinforced my belief that the UK and France are ready to write the next chapter together.

Because the challenges we face – climate change, geopolitical instability, pressures on our food systems – are not challenges any country can meet in splendid isolation.

They demand cooperation between trusted partners who share not just interests, but values.

That is what the UK and France have built together.

Not a relationship of convenience, but one grounded in shared history, mutual respect, and a common vision for the future.

In the months ahead, as we work to finalise the SPS agreement and deepen our cooperation, I am confident we will demonstrate what this partnership can achieve – not just for our two countries, but as a model for how neighbours can work together in an uncertain world.

And in the spirit of partnership, I should warn you: the sparkling wine you have been drinking is produced by the finest English vineyards! But don’t worry – le vin rouge est francais!

The entente may be tested, but I trust it will remain cordiale.

But in all seriousness, I hope you’ll join me in toasting the friendship between our nations – past, present, and future.

À notre amitié – d’hier, d’aujourd’hui et de demain.

Merci.

February 16, 2026
PRESS RELEASE : Record year of drug seizures made by Border Force [February 2026]

The press release issued by the Home Office on 12 February 2026.

Border Force and police seizures of ketamine and cannabis at all-time high and Border Force ramps up the return of foreign smugglers.

Seizures of ketamine, cannabis and nitrous oxide are at an all-time high following a record-breaking year of interceptions by Border Force and police.

Cocaine interceptions by police are also at record levels with 23,706 seizures in the year to March 2025.

Almost 150 tonnes of illegal drugs – equivalent to two Boeing 737s – with a street value of £2.6 billion was seized by Border Force. This is a 40% increase on the total quantity seized in the previous year and the highest since records began.

Border Force and police forces intercepted drugs on a record-breaking 269,000 occasions – an increase of 24% on the previous year.

The seizures come as new data shows the success of an innovative pilot to immediately remove foreign cannabis smugglers from the UK.

Border Force’s ‘Seize and Return’ policy, introduced last year, allows officers to return cannabis traffickers to their country of origin, often within hours of arriving.

To date, 165 criminals responsible for smuggling over 4 tonnes of cannabis into UK airports have been returned.

This has saved British taxpayers an estimated £11.4million – easing pressure on the prison estate, preventing foreign offenders clogging up the courts system and heading off any potential asylum claims. The scheme has now been rolled out across England and Wales.

Cannabis was present in 93% of all drugs seized by Border Force in the year ending March 2025, with over 62,000 illegal imports intercepted.

A record 4 million doses of nitrous oxide was seized by Border Force and police, representing a 2,185% increase from last year.

The same year also saw a surge in criminals attempting to smuggle ketamine into Britain. The total quantity seized by Border Force and police increased by 55% from the previous year to 1.3 tonnes.

Home Office Minister Mike Tapp said:

Drug seizures are at a record high under this government – with British law enforcement depriving evil gangs of almost £3billion worth in one year alone.

Every seizure strikes a blow at the heart of organised crime and stops dangerous drugs from inflicting misery on our communities.

We will continue to do whatever it takes to secure Britain’s borders against those doing harm to our country.

Border Force Director General Phil Douglas said:

Our innovative Seize and Return policy is delivering real results – removing smugglers within hours, saving taxpayers millions, and freeing up our officers to pursue the organised crime gangs that cause the most harm.

Border Force will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of dangerous criminal networks and disruption of drug supply.

Working in partnership, police forces, Border Force, the National Crime Agency and international partners use intelligence and technology to keep the UK’s borders safe, prevent drug trafficking and bring those responsible to justice.   

Border Force has also intensified efforts to tackle drug smuggling at sea as organised crime groups attempt to use maritime routes and a range of methodologies, including ‘at-sea-drop-offs’ to smuggle drugs into the country.

In January last year, 1.5 tonnes of cocaine with a street value of just under £60 million was detected on a vessel arriving into Dover from Peru.

Officers use a range of methods including hi-tech search equipment to detect and stop illegal and restricted goods that criminals attempt to bring into the country.  Border Force also employs specialist officers trained to conduct deep searches of ships and vessels.

Organised crime gangs are increasingly using expensive equipment to conceal drugs in the hope that law enforcement will be deterred by the potential costs involved with destroying it. In September last year, Border Force outsmarted criminals who hid one tonne of cocaine in two industrial generators valued at £720,000.

Under the Plan for Change, Border Force will continue to build on last year’s success through ongoing operations targeting drug smuggling networks.

February 16, 2026
NEWS STORY : UK Pledges Support for New Yemeni Government at UN Security Council

STORY

The United Kingdom has formally declared its full support for Yemen’s newly formed government, hailing the transition as a pivotal opportunity to restore security and prosperity to the war-torn nation. Speaking at the United Nations Security Council in New York on 12 February 2026, Ambassador James Kariuki, the UK Chargé d’Affaires, praised the leadership of Prime Minister Zindani and the Presidential Leadership Council for their efforts to stabilise the country.

A significant focus of the British statement was the inclusion of three women ministers in the new Cabinet. The UK delegation emphasised that an inclusive administration is essential for lasting progress, arguing that representing all segments of Yemeni society is a prerequisite for a sustainable political settlement. This diplomatic endorsement comes as the international community looks for a breakthrough in a conflict that has spanned over a decade.

Despite the political optimism, the humanitarian outlook remains dire. Ambassador Kariuki noted that 22 million people continue to require urgent assistance, warning that the primary healthcare system faces a potential collapse while food insecurity continues to spiral. The UK underscored the need for a collective global effort to address these shortages, particularly as the UN Mission to support the Hudaydah Agreement (UNMHA) begins its orderly drawdown following the adoption of Resolution 2831.

February 16, 2026
PRESS RELEASE : The UK fully supports the new government’s efforts to advance security, stability and prosperity for the Yemeni people – UK statement at the UN Security Council [February 2026]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 12 February 2026.

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Chargé d’Affaires to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Yemen.

I would like to start by welcoming the announcement of the new government of Yemen and commend the leadership of Prime Minister Zindani and the Presidential Leadership Council.

This marks an important step for Yemen and an opportunity for important economic, governance, and security reforms.

The UK fully supports the government’s efforts to advance security, stability, and prosperity for the Yemeni people.

We would like, in particular, to welcome the three new women ministers in the Cabinet. An inclusive government is vital for lasting progress.

Second, following the adoption of Resolution 2831, we remain closely engaged on the orderly and safe drawdown of UN personnel and assets, as the UN Mission to support the Hudaydah Agreement, UNMHA, in Yemen closes.

We look forward to the Special Envoy’s continued efforts to deliver on the UN’s commitments under the Hudaydah Agreement.

Third, Yemen remains one of the most acute humanitarian crises in the world, as we’ve heard today, with 22 million people in need of assistance, spiralling food insecurity, and the potential collapse of the primary healthcare system.

We need to act collectively and urgently to galvanise efforts to address these needs.

Finally, we have heard again today in the Council, the unequivocal call for the immediate and unconditional release of all those detained by the Houthis.

The UK strongly condemns the death sentences issued by the Houthi authorities and the continued detention of aid workers.

These actions violate fundamental rights and due process. They also shrink the operational space for NGOs, which is vital to supporting Yemenis who remain in desperate need. They must be released.

February 16, 2026
Keir Starmer – 2026 Comments on Sir Chris Wormald

The comments made by Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, on 12 February 2026.

I am very grateful to Sir Chris for his long and distinguished career of public service, spanning more than 35 years, and for the support that he has given me over the past year. I have agreed with him that he will step down as Cabinet Secretary today. I wish him the very best for the future.

February 16, 2026
PRESS RELEASE : The Prime Minister and Cabinet Secretary have agreed by mutual consent the Cabinet Secretary will stand down [February 2026]

The press release issued by the Cabinet Office on 12 February 2026.

Sir Chris Wormald to stand down as Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service.

The Prime Minister and the Cabinet Secretary have agreed that Sir Chris Wormald will stand down as the Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service by mutual agreement from today (12 February).

Sir Chris Wormald, said:

It has been an honour and a privilege to serve as a civil servant for the past 35 years, and a particular distinction to lead the Service as Cabinet Secretary. I want to place on record my sincere thanks to the extraordinary civil servants, public servants, ministers, and advisers I have worked with. Our country is fortunate to have such dedicated individuals devoted to public service, and I wish them every success for the future.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, said:

I am very grateful to Sir Chris for his long and distinguished career of public service, spanning more than 35 years, and for the support that he has given me over the past year. I have agreed with him that he will step down as Cabinet Secretary today. I wish him the very best for the future.

For an interim period, the responsibilities of the Cabinet Secretary will be shared by Catherine Little CB, Permanent Secretary at the Cabinet Office, Dame Antonia Romeo, Permanent Secretary at the Home Office and James Bowler CB, Permanent Secretary at His Majesty’s Treasury.

The Prime Minister will appoint a new Cabinet Secretary shortly. The appointment process will be agreed by the First Civil Service Commissioner.

February 16, 2026
PRESS RELEASE : Government to publish new gender guidance for schools [February 2026]

The press release issued by the Department for Education on 12 February 2026.

Guidance for gender questioning children is clear schools should take a careful approach when a child asks to social transition.

Schools and colleges will soon have clear and pragmatic guidance instructing them that they must take a very careful approach when a child asks to socially transition.

Legal duties will be absolutely clear after government embeds guidance within Keeping children safe in education, the established statutory safeguarding framework schools are expected to follow.

Backed by Baroness Cass, whose review warned that strong evidence about the impact of social transition remains limited, the guidance says children’s wellbeing and safeguarding must be at the centre of every decision and schools cannot take a one size fits all approach.

It clearly sets out that single sex spaces must be protected. Without exception, no child should be made to feel unsafe through inappropriate mixed sex sport, and there should be no sharing of school and college toilet facilities over eight years old or mixed sex sleeping arrangements on trips.

It is also vital that schools and teachers are aware of any child’s birth sex to be able to take appropriate action where needed, so the guidance will also make clear that this must be accurately recorded in school and college records.

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: 

Parents send their children to school and college trusting that they’ll be protected. Teachers work tirelessly to keep them safe. That’s not negotiable, and it’s not a political football. 

That’s why we’re following the evidence, including Dr Hilary Cass’s expert review, to give teachers the clarity they need to ensure the safeguarding and wellbeing of gender questioning children and young people.  

This is about pragmatic support for teachers, reassurance for parents, and above all, the safety and wellbeing of children and young people.

The guidance also provides much needed clarity by determining schools should always consider any clinical advice the family has received and seek parents’ views unless there is a genuine safeguarding reason not to.

School leaders and unions including Star Academies and the Sixth Form College Association have backed the clear red lines set out in the proposed guidance to protect all children and young people.

KCSIE is kept under regular review to make sure it is meeting the need of schools, colleges and families, allowing for further changes as new evidence emerges.

It is already used by teachers and schools and colleges every day – and the latest iteration includes strengthened guidance and guardrails on issues central to our children’s safety from violence and harassment to online risks and mental health.

Dr Hilary Cass, Author of the Cass Review, said:

The safety and wellbeing of the child must be at the heart of any decision when a young person is questioning their gender. Schools, parents and government share this fundamental responsibility.

Integrating this guidance within Keeping Children Safe in Education ensures this. It places this work alongside other duties to protect children, on a clear statutory footing, with proper accountability for all involved.

The updated guidance is practical and reflects the recommendations of my review, giving schools much needed clarity on their legal duties so they can support children with confidence.

Sir Hamid Patel CBE, Chief Executive of Star Academies, said: 

This gender questioning guidance offers a considered and practical framework for schools and colleges navigating the complexities around gender-questioning children.  

It rightly prioritises transparency with parents and a cautious, evidence-informed response to complex issues. 

By setting out clear expectations and red lines within Keeping Children Safe in Education, it helps schools and colleges to navigate sensitive situations while ensuring that all children and young people are protected, respected, and supported.

Pepe Di’Iasio, General Secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said:

We welcome the publication of guidance on supporting gender questioning children.

Schools and colleges have done a very good job in dealing with this complex and sensitive issue over the course of many years, striving to create inclusive environments for all their young people. But they have had to do so amid an often-polarised public debate.

We have long called for clear, pragmatic and well-evidenced national guidance to support them in this area and we are pleased to have reached this point.

Paul Whiteman, general secretary at school leaders’ union NAHT, said:

We welcome the publication of this guidance for consultation, as there is a clear need for greater clarity about how schools should manage this sensitive issue and support their pupils.

Placing this within existing safeguarding guidance ensures that the key principles of safeguarding children underpin the approach schools take. It is important to remember that individual children and young people are at the heart of this, and schools remain focused on ensuring that every child in their care is safe and treated with compassion and humanity.

Bill Watkin, Chief Executive of the Sixth Form Colleges Association, said:

Sixth form colleges make every effort to safeguard the welfare and dignity of all students, as well as to provide welcoming, inclusive environments for those who identify as trans or are questioning their gender.

The major additions proposed today by DfE to the statutory safeguarding guidance will allow them to continue to do that with greater confidence, ending a long period of uncertainty about how to apply broad legal principles to the day-to-day reality on the ground in colleges.

We are particularly pleased that DfE has addressed many of our questions and concerns about previous draft guidance, including by acknowledging that the best approach will vary by student age and stage.

Polly Harrow, DfE Further Education Student Support Champion; Vice-Principal Kirklees College:

The consultation on Gender Questioning guidance within KCSIE will be welcomed by the FE sector. The guidance is useful for all educators and gives clear information and advice on an issue that needs clarity and sensitivity.

I would urge practitioners to take the opportunity to comment, as the final guidance will be invaluable for supporting our work in this space.

Leora Cruddas CBE, Chief Executive of the Confederation of School Trusts said:

This is an important area, where schools need to follow the law while responding sensitively to individual circumstances.

This updated guidance gives clarity, but also the flexibility to demonstrate respect and care for pupils and families.

Working together we can help ensure all pupils are properly safeguarded.

February 16, 2026
Richard Hermer – 2026 Speech at the Great Synagogue in Sydney

The speech made by Richard Hermer, the Attorney General, at the Great Synagogue in Sydney on 6 February 2026.

Rabbi Elton, Rabbi Feldman, members of the congregation – Shabbat Shalom

Whenever and wherever I travel, I try to visit two types of venues close to my heart – courts and Shuls. My children would say this shows I need to get out more. I disagree, never more so than this evening – what a privilege it is to address you in this magnificent and historical Shul – which has been a centre of Australian Jewish life for almost 150 years.

And Australian Jewish life has been important for me and part of my Jewish identity for over 40 years. I spent my year-off in Israel and on my very first night there met up with a group of Aussies from my same Jewish youth movement. They became life-long friends bringing me back to these shores many times. The bonds that we created have continued through to the next generation with both my children attending youth camps here as madrachot (youth leaders). L’dor v’dor (from generation to generation)

But the capacity in which I am here tonight is very different to previous years and the reason for my attendance is altogether more important and solemn.

I come on behalf of His Majesty’s Government of the United Kingdom and the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer. I come to express our outrage at the terrorist attack at Bondi beach, to offer our condolences to the families of those killed and those injured to express our profound friendship and solidarity with the Jewish community of Australia as you come to terms with the horror of the attack and face the challenge of tackling modern antisemitism.

Earlier today, not long after I arrived in Australia, I went to Bondi and stood on the green, and reflected on the horror of what had taken place there.

Although I was appointed Attorney General only 18 months ago, tragically this is not the first time that I have spoken at Friday night services following an antisemitic terrorist attack.

As you will know, last Yom Kippur the Heaton Park Shul in Manchester was the subject of a dreadful terrorist attack – two people were murdered and others injured. On the following Friday night I gave a D’var Torah at my own Shul in North London. I spoke on behalf of the Prime Minister offering our condolences to the victims and to the British Jewish community and expressing our determination to address the rise of antisemitism. But I also spoke as a Jew, as a member of the congregation – trying to make sense of the senseless, to articulate what this meant me, my family, my community as Jews in modern Britain – and I spoke as part of a Shabbat community the natural place to come together as one, to work through the pain, bewilderment and anger together, just as communities did across the world after 7 October.

Hearing the news of the attack on Yom Kippur I imagine that I went through the same range of emotions as many of you felt on 14 December here in Sydney. The first reaction is almost primal – are our family and friends safe? Your mind spins through the list of your loved ones. My eldest child is a student in Manchester and I knew she was planning on going to shul – I was being rushed to a national security meeting whilst trying to track her down. Many of you no doubt were having the same agonising reactions here as the news of the horror broke. Then immediate reaction is replaced by the flood of fear, anger and outrage at what has taken place – and the knowledge that for many families there was no reassurance that loved ones were safe, but rather calls that went unanswered and unimaginable loss.

One sentiment that I also anticipate was shared by our two communities was the sense that although utterly shocking neither events were completely unexpected. They gave cruel expression to our long-standing fear of the inevitable. I have grown up in the UK normalising that our Shuls, schools and venues are by necessity protected by security for a good reason.

The attacks at Heaton Park and at Bondi beach took place at the other side of the globe within weeks of each other. This reflects the unacceptable reality that there are very few places on this planet in which Jewish life exists without physical risk – it demonstrates the reach of modern antisemitism that strikes on our ability to live openly as Jews, to worship without fear and to belong wherever in the world we live, in the north, south, east or west.

But yet – Jewish history, like the Jewish calendar is marked by the juxtaposition of not only sadness but joy, what has been called our dialectical dance – represented in myriad ways for example how we smash the glass under the chupa at weddings.

As the late Rabbi Sacks wrote, in an essay that typically for him referenced Aristotle, Keirkegard and Robert Louis Stevenson, ‘In Judaism joy is the supreme religious emotion. Here we are, in a world filled with beauty. Around us is the love that moves the sun and all the stars. The soul that celebrates, sings.”

So permit me, if short of expressing joy, in this moment of solemnity at least to seek to offer some optimistic reflections about where we find ourselves.

The first is to remind our ourselves that even though our communities have been forced to endure these terrorist outrages, seen in our historical context this remains an extraordinary time to be jewish in our societies. For centuries of Jewish existence, attacks on Jews would have been perpetrated by states, directly, indirectly or at best with atrocities committed whilst states and their institutions turned a blind eye. The contrast in our era is profound – every arm of the state employed to track down and prosecute those involved in terrorist crime, a determination to root out antisemitism and to protect our communities. The genuine heart felt expression of solidarity of our fellow citizens.

A few hours after the events in Manchester, the Prime Minister, Chancellor of the Exchequer and Foreign Secretary attend the Neilah service at West London Synagogue to show their solidarity with the jewish community. Last week, for the first time in British history our Cabinet meeting was addressed by a Holocaust survivor Mala Tribich producing tears around the table.

And I also know from conversations with colleagues in both State and Federal Government in Australia of our shared sense of endeavour to tackle antisemitism at home and overseas and ensure that our societies are safe for jews to simply be jews – without having to look over shoulders or feel that we are not free to express our beliefs and practice our religion.

Secondly, I think a positive response in both our countries has been a determination that these outrages will not be used to divide communities. We are blessed in both the UK and Australia to live in proud, tolerant and diverse nations. The Jewish values we all grew up with recognise, indeed promote this value – that love for our fellow human beings will always outshine hatred and division. To allow our anger to dictate another path would be to hand a victory to terrorists. What greater reflection of how, united, our communities are always stronger, is the extraordinary bravery of a Muslim father of two, a proud Australian, and a hero – Ahmed al-Ahmed.

In that moment, he showed something deeply human.

A reminder of who we are, when fear doesn’t get the final say.

That unity that is mirrored in millions of relationships across this country – deep friendships forged without regard to which God we pray to or the colour of our skin.

I think we should take joy in a world in which extraordinary people choose humanity over hatred, again and again and again.

So as we look towards the rest of 2026, we do so always mindful of the grievous loss sustained by the victims of terror, with a steely determination to root out antisemitism and intolerance in all its manifestations, but with the Jewish spirit of believing that light will always outshine darkness.

Let me end where I began. To express on behalf of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom our condolences to the families of those killed an injured at Bondi Beach and our solidarity with the Australian Jewish community.

May their memory be a blessing.

Shabbat Shalom.

February 16, 2026