Tag: 2026

Heidi Alexander – 2026 Speech on Active Travel

The speech made by Heidi Alexander, the Transport Secretary, in Manchester on 22 September 2026.

Good morning, everyone. And thank you, Chris [Boardman], for that introduction.

It’s really, really good to be here with so many of you this morning (22 September 2026).

I’ve often found myself in Manchester in recent months – I’ve no idea why – but somebody (perhaps that bloke called Andy [Burnham]) tells me it’s the place to be.

I also know there is a panel discussion later, so I won’t take up too much time in my opening remarks.

However, I did want to touch on briefly about the why, the how and the what of this government’s approach to active travel.

Why active travel matters – to me personally and to the government as a whole.

How we want to work with you.

And what we, and I mean all of us here, are delivering.

Personal reflections

So let’s start, as all good stories as they do, in Swindon – my hometown.

For me, it starts with a blue bike with a white basket and a set of very solid stabilisers – which was my first bike as a 3- or 4-year-old.

Now it won’t surprise anyone that, in the 1980s, the town which gave us 6 roundabouts in one (which is otherwise known as the magic roundabout) – wasn’t particularly cycle-friendly.

But it never really stopped me.

As a teenager, a bike gave me my first job.

Two early morning paper rounds, on my dad’s old road bike, with 2 massive orange bags nestled under either armpit, all done in the hours before college. I just wish I could get up those same hills now without stopping.

It gave me good health.

A way to clear my head out on the hills of the Ridgeway when I was doing my A-levels – a route I still do now but with the aid of an electric Brompton.

It gave me independence, which is at the heart of what I believe active travel is all about. And it gave me joy. It never really leaves you, does it?

It didn’t leave me in my 20s, when I cycled 7 miles across London when I first moved to our capital city to do a temp job, because I couldn’t afford the cost of a travel card.

It didn’t leave me as the Deputy Mayor of London, where, alongside Will Norman, I helped deliver segregated cycle lanes and lower speeds on some of London’s busiest roads.

People often ask me what I’m most proud of from my time working as Deputy Mayor of London and everyone always thinks I will say the Elizabeth line.

But I’m just as proud of delivering segregated cycling infrastructure on Cycleway 4 going down to Greenwich, which now gives thousands and thousands of people joy every day.

So my determination to deliver on active travel hasn’t left me.

Building the integrated transport network

And as Transport Secretary, I’m really serious about building that integrated transport network.

I’m really serious about increasing the use of public transport.

And if we’re serious about giving people the choice and the tools to get out and get on, then the days of active travel being an afterthought, or a bolt-on, must end.

Instead, I think we need to see walking, wheeling and cycling for what they are.

Essential parts of everyday journeys. That walk to the bus stop. Wheeling along a station platform. The cycle to work, to school, or to the shops.

It’s not about pitting one mode of travel against another. No one is declaring war on this or that. And you definitely won’t find me leading a charge of the lycra brigade.

I simply want to give people greater choice in their lives.

I want a coherent transport system where each stage of a journey complements the next.

Where accessibility is baked in. Where signage is clear and simple. Where all of us – from Olympians like Chris [Boardman] to fair-weather cyclists like me – feel confident and safe to choose the more active option.

Sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it? Not necessarily.

Look outside here [Manchester] and you’ll see a city setting the benchmark.

The Bee Network

I truly believe that the Bee Network is devolution’s greatest success story.

And I’m not just saying that to flatter Chris, who was one of its main architects.

Nor to curry favour with my new boss, who was its biggest champion. But I say it simply because it’s true.

And let’s not forget, the Bee Network was originally the active travel plan for Greater Manchester.

Andy loved it so much he brought the rest of the transport network under its banner.

A one-stop shop for getting around this great city – and it started with a bold vision for active travel.

And just look at the results: 700 million active travel trips taken last year.

That’s almost a walk, a wheel or a cycle every working day for each resident.

And this isn’t by accident, but by design.

We’ve seen a surge in active travel where new safe routes have been completed.

Like on the Chorlton Cycle Way or on Oxford Road – showing the demand for active travel exists, we just need to give people a chance to realise it.

The future of active travel

Yes, that’s about better infrastructure – of course it is.

But it’s also about where the power to make decisions lies.

Decisions about pavement parking. Decisions about school streets. And it’s that ability to see and meet an area’s needs.

The small things national leaders are blind to, yet which are blindingly obvious to many of you. which is why I’ve always felt the levers of power must be held locally.

And I’m so pleased that devolutionary spirit runs through the latest cycling and walking investment strategy.

Delivered locally by mayors and councils. Supported nationally by Active Travel England.

The vision is simple: safe, easy, accessible choices for more people in more places.

Taken together, billions will be invested in active travel by 2030.

Most of that will be devolved to local government, meaning record multi-year funding to make good on their long-term plans.

And we must be ambitious.

At least 60% of children should be walking and cycling to school by 2035 – building on the landmark agreement we’ve signed with mayors to deliver 3,500 miles of footways, safer crossings and cycle lanes.

It’s why we are supporting local pilots, including for wayfinding, as we move towards a consistent national Active Travel Network.

And finally, it’s why, today, I can announce £104 million to transform the National Cycle Network. That means maintaining and expanding the 12,000-mile network.

Fixing bridges and updating signage. As well as developing new routes around the High Speed Two (HS2) line.

Heart of government’s vision

So let me finish with this.

I can think of few better ways to deliver on the Prime Minister’s vision than by going hell for leather on active travel.

Because when Andy talks of giving people hope, I see the millions of extra journeys we’re unlocking by foot, by cycle or wheels – journeys that connect us to jobs, to friends, to the things that matter most.

When Andy talks of places in which we’re proud to live, I see roads that are less congested and more safe. High streets with a new lease of life. Women and girls able to breathe a little easier when walking home alone.

And when Andy talks of Britain back on its feet, I see the sick days we avoid, the productivity we gain, and the burden we lift on the NHS – all by being more active.

In the end, active travel is more than just another way to get around.

It’s about connecting people with the lives they aspire to lead. While designing places in which we all aspire to live.

And so a conversation about footways, junctions and wayfinding ends up being a reflection on the type of country we want to be.

That’s why conferences like this matter.

It’s why the work all of you do matters so much.

And it’s why I am determined to work with you to put active travel at the heart of our transport network.

Thank you and enjoy the rest of the conference.

24/09/2026
PRESS RELEASE : ASEAN-UK joint declaration on economic cooperation [September 2026]

The press release issued by the Department for Science and Trade on 22 September 2026.

Joint ministerial declaration on future economic cooperation between ASEAN and the United Kingdom.

Preamble

We, the Ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Member States and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (UK), gather to mark the fifth anniversary of the ASEAN-UK Dialogue Partnership and to set a focused agenda for enhanced and substantive future economic cooperation. ASEAN and the UK share a diverse economic and commercial relationship that continues to flourish. We recall the 2021 Joint Ministerial Declaration on Future Economic Cooperation and its successful implementation underpinned by the ASEAN-UK Plan of Action (2022-2026), which have laid a strong foundation for our maturing partnership.

ASEAN and the UK recognise that the overall vision in the ASEAN Economic Community Strategic Plan 2026-2030 centred on six inter-related strategic goals: 1) Action-Oriented Community; 2) Sustainable Community; 3) Enterprising, Bold and Innovative Community; 4) Adaptable and Pro-Active Community; 5) Nimble and Resilient Community; and 6) Inclusive, Participatory and Collaborative Community, remains relevant and will serve as an important foundation for further developing ASEAN-UK economic relations. ASEAN and the UK further recognise the UK’s Trade Strategy 2025 and its commitment to open, predictable and modern trade arrangements. We acknowledge UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy 2025 that sets out long-term industrial vision as key drivers of future economic growth. The alignment between the priorities of ASEAN and the UK in economic integration, digital transformation, innovation and creativity, sustainable and inclusive growth, and commitment to open and rules-based trade provides a strong basis for deepening economic and trade cooperation, and maximising mutual opportunities.

Maintaining Open Markets

1.

ASEAN and the UK reaffirm our shared commitment to uphold a predictable, open, free, non-discriminatory, transparent, fair, inclusive, sustainable and rules-based multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization (WTO) at its core, ASEAN Centrality and implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo‑Pacific (AOIP). We note the continued deepening of our economic ties, with the ASEAN-UK trade relationship reaching over £62.0 billion in 2025, underscoring the growing scale and strategic importance of our partnership.

Strengthening Economic Resilience

2.

ASEAN and the UK recognise the increasingly complex and rapidly shifting global landscape shaped by evolving geopolitical dynamics and emerging economic uncertainties. We reaffirm our commitment to strengthen economic resilience by enhancing the openness, stability, adaptability and competitiveness of our interconnected economies. We will work together to promote fair, open and rules-based markets that enable trade, investment, resilient supply chains and future-oriented industries to flourish amid these challenges.

3.

ASEAN and the UK welcome continued knowledge-sharing and the exchange of best practices on policies, frameworks and initiatives that strengthen economic resilience and support our ability to respond to emerging global shifts. We look forward to continued regular engagement to deepen cooperation on risk mitigation, economic continuity planning and supply chain resilience, amongst others. Through these sustained interactions, we aim to reinforce a stable and predictable economic environment and secured long-term, sustainable and inclusive growth for our nations.

Financial Services

4.

ASEAN and the UK recognise that well‑functioning and inclusive financial systems are essential to strengthening regional integration and supporting trade and investment flows. We acknowledge the importance of regulatory cooperation in fostering predictable, efficient and interoperable financial markets. We will enhance regulatory dialogue and cooperation to support broader access to financial services to foster economic participation, market confidence and sustainable growth across the regions.

5.

We understand the transformative role of Financial Technology, digital payments and cross-border payment connectivity in expanding financial inclusion and facilitating smoother regional transactions. We will deepen collaboration in these areas, supporting efforts to enhance financial inclusion and accessibility while improving the efficiency of cross-border transactions.

6.

Sustainable finance is critical to advancing climate-aligned goals and supporting the development of green industries and unlocking regional green capabilities. We reaffirm the importance of a just, inclusive and orderly transition across the region and will advance cooperation on sustainable finance, including through knowledge-sharing, capacity building and investment facilitation to support long-term economic resilience.

Regulatory Reform

7.

ASEAN and the UK recognise the importance of predictable, transparent and agile regulatory environments that facilitate trade and investment and contribute to a conducive business environment. We will collaborate to simplify, streamline and where appropriate, support regulatory harmonisation in agreed areas, including measures that support stronger consumer product safety regime and safer, more reliable markets.

8.

ASEAN and the UK recognise that internationally aligned standards and sound regulatory practices are essential for interoperability, market confidence, and deeper regional integration. We underscore the value of regulatory systems that are risk-based, transparent and future-ready. We will work together to promote the adoption of international standards and the enhancement of good regulatory practices, including through the ASEAN‑UK Economic Integration Programme (EIP), to strengthen institutional capacity and support greater regulatory coherence between ASEAN and the UK.

9.

We acknowledge the importance of regulatory frameworks that remain responsive to the rapid technological advancement and evolving market landscapes. We will enhance cooperation, including through technical assistance, to improve cross-sector regulatory alignment, intellectual property (IP) ecosystems and regional efforts towards IP harmonisation.

Digital Economy, Science, Technology and Innovation

10.

ASEAN and the UK recognise that the digital economy is a key driver of growth, innovation and regional competitiveness, and the importance of strengthening legal and regulatory frameworks to support digital trade. We will work together to support ASEAN’s implementation of the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), fostering trusted cross-border data flows, paperless trade and interoperable digital trade systems that enhance connectivity, efficiency and economic opportunities across the region.

11.

We understand the advantages that digitalised customs, logistics and trade systems bring to regional integration and business efficiency. We highlight the importance of a secure and streamlined digital trade ecosystem. We will collaborate to support the digitalisation of ASEAN’s trade and customs ecosystem to enhance effective cross-border trade procedures.

12.

We recognise the critical role of emerging technologies, innovation and entrepreneurship to drive productivity, resilience and long-term competitiveness, and we understand the importance of their responsible and inclusive adoption. We will support ASEAN’s adoption of advanced and emerging technologies through standards cooperation, knowledge sharing, readiness assessment and capacity building programmes.

13.

We will strengthen the regional technology commercialisation ecosystems to enhance the link between innovations and economic development in ASEAN. We will deepen collaboration that leverages technical expertise and partnerships to enhance institutional readiness, promote innovation uptake and support an inclusive and commercially enabling technology environment across the region.

Clean Energy

14.

ASEAN and the UK recognise the importance of resilient and diversified clean energy and the urgent need to scale clean energy solutions to support secure, affordable, sustainable, resilient and inclusive growth, and acknowledge the importance of accelerating innovation and facilitating the commercialisation of low-carbon technologies. We will deepen our cooperation on clean energy, innovation and technology transfer, supporting efforts to accelerate low-carbon and resilient solutions across the regions while strengthening regional interconnectivity, energy security, including through more resilient energy supply chains, and supporting a just, inclusive and orderly energy transition.

15.

We recognise that clear and predictable regulatory environments and robust investment frameworks are essential to unlock regional renewable energy potential, and we underscore the value of long-term planning and cross-border energy infrastructure development, including overland and subsea interconnections. We will work together to support the region’s energy transition efforts through cooperation, technical assistance and funding to support the implementation of the ASEAN Power Grid, including cross-border electricity trade, regional power interconnection, grid modernisation, and the deployment of energy storage systems, to advance energy connectivity and promote efficient, reliable and affordable clean energy systems.

16.

We encourage exploring opportunities for cooperation on emerging clean energy technologies and other related areas, including civil nuclear energy, energy efficiency and conservation, renewable energy integration, offshore wind, hydrogen, and digitalisation of energy systems, through knowledge sharing, policy dialogue, technical cooperation and capacity building.

Public-Private Sector Partnership

17.

ASEAN and the UK underscore the significant contribution of public-private sector partnership that drives economic growth. We understand the important work of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN BAC) and how the UK’s private sector can support in advancing economic integration in our region, including through innovation, entrepreneurship and industry collaboration.

Cross-cutting enablers: Professional and Business Services, Skills and Inclusion

18.

ASEAN and the UK recognise that high quality professional and business services are fundamental to enabling transparent, efficient and trusted commercial environments, and we underscore the role of these services in supporting innovation, creativity, deeper regional integration and investment.

19.

We recognise that inclusive skills development is essential to ensuring that all segments of society can participate in and benefit from economic transformation. We acknowledge the importance of aligning skills development with evolving industry needs.

20.

We recognise that Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) form the backbone of regional economies and that women and underserved groups are central to inclusive growth, and we understand the need to expand economic participation and capability development. We will promote inclusive skills programmes and targeted MSMEs support, including initiatives that enhance access to finance, digital capabilities and trade-related skills, ensuring smaller businesses can participate more effectively in regional and global value chains.

24/09/2026
PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 63 – Joint Statement for the Item 4 General Debate [September 2026]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 September 2026.

Joint Statement for the Item 4 General Debate. Delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Kumar Iyer.

Mr Vice-President,

I deliver this statement on behalf of a group of eleven countries that remain firmly committed to the two-State solution, in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the New York Declaration, as the only credible path to a just and lasting peace, security and dignity for both Israelis and Palestinians.

Israeli settlements are illegal under international law and constitute a serious obstacle to peace. Continued settlement expansion, the establishment of new outposts, land seizures, and rising settler violence further threaten the viability of a future Palestinian state.

With the rapidly deteriorating situation on the ground, we have taken new measures, supported European restrictions, or are actively considering measures to defend the viability of the two-state solution, including restrictions targeting settlement activity and those who support, facilitate or profit from it.

We call on Israel immediately to fully comply with its obligations under international law, halt settlement expansion, prevent and punish settler violence, and investigate allegations against Israeli forces. We also reaffirm our unwavering commitment to Israel’s security and our condemnation of terrorism, including the Hamas terror attacks of 7 October.

We will continue to work to uphold international law and protect the two-State solution.

This statement was on behalf of the UK, Canada, France, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Ireland, Norway, Portugal, Spain and Sweden.

24/09/2026
PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 63 – UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on Ukraine [September 2026]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 September 2026.

UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on Ukraine. Delivered at the 63rd Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Mr Vice-President,

The reporting before us is stark: Russian armed forces “systematically and repeatedly targeted energy facilities across Ukraine throughout the 2025-2026 winter,” leaving millions facing electricity outages and hundreds of thousands without heat during Ukraine’s coldest winter since 2010. These attacks undermine access to essential services, disrupting health care and water supply, while increasing humanitarian needs for millions.

July was the deadliest month for civilians in over four years, with 437 killed, including a record number of children. Russia’s attacks place civilians and humanitarian workers at unacceptable risk. The UN’s humanitarian chief described a “dystopian landscape” where technology able to protect civilians is instead used to hunt them with ever greater precision.

Russia struck Ukraine’s energy infrastructure over 130 times in August alone. We cannot allow this cycle of harm to continue and reiterate our call for Russia to accept the full and unconditional ceasefire offered by Ukraine, to enable negotiations towards a just and lasting peace.

Russia’s abuses extend beyond the battlefield: it is deceiving foreign nationals into fighting its illegal war, while militarising a generation of Ukrainian children in the Temporarily Occupied Territories.

Mr Møse, how can the Council strengthen accountability and help deter further attacks on essential infrastructure?

Thank you.

23/09/2026
PRESS RELEASE : G7 Statement on Bab al-Mandab and Navigational Rights and Freedoms [September 2026]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 September 2026.

Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union condemn continued strikes carried out by the Houthis in Yemen and against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, consider that the situation in Yemen represents an unacceptable threat to regional stability and security, to global energy security as well as to navigational rights and freedoms, and maritime security in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait.

We condemn in the strongest terms the unacceptable continued strikes carried out by the Houthis in Yemen and against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, including those affecting civilians and civilian infrastructure, which deepen humanitarian suffering. We express our full solidarity with the legitimate Government of Yemen and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

We call on the Houthis to immediately cease all military actions, all threats and attacks against civilian shipping, and to return to the political process in good faith. We call on Iran to end its arming of and support for the Houthis in violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions 1747, 2140 and 2216. Their reprehensible actions constitute a dangerous pattern of escalation that risks further exacerbating the conflict, undermining international trade and creating global economic instability.

We reiterate in particular the vital need to ensure permanent maritime safety and security, as well as navigational rights and freedoms worldwide, in order to prevent lasting disruptions to global supply chains, especially with regards to flows of energy, fertilizer and food, which would be highly detrimental to economies and vulnerable populations in the region and beyond.

Looking forward, we will continue to support the legitimate Government of Yemen and reaffirm our strong commitment to the unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Yemen. We reiterate our support for United Nations Special Envoy Hans Grundberg in his efforts towards a negotiated, inclusive, Yemeni-led, and Yemeni-owned political settlement.

23/09/2026
PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister drives global work on artificial intelligence at UNGA as UK and US make history with firing from undersea drone [September 2026]
The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 22 September 2026.

The UK has fired a US torpedo from a Plymouth-made undersea drone in a major boost for Euro-Atlantic and maritime security, as both countries join forces on rapidly developing technology to keep people safe.
- Prime Minister Andy Burnham at the UN General Assembly today to discuss tackling major global challenges with international partners to deliver breathing space and boost security for people at home
- UK will use the New York summit to drive forward work on some of the most difficult issues of our generation, including harnessing AI for good, the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, and climate change
- Comes as the Prime Minister confirms the UK hosted G20 leader’s summit will be held in Manchester
- Prime Minister also announces UK and US have for the first time fired a US torpedo from a British undersea drone as both countries prepare to go further on next generation technology collaboration with new AI and autonomy partnership
The UK has fired a US torpedo from a Plymouth-made undersea drone in a major boost for Euro-Atlantic and maritime security, as both countries join forces on rapidly developing technology to keep people safe.

It comes as the Prime Minister travels to New York today to attend the UN General Assembly and hold his first meeting with the President of the United States, Donald Trump.

Major global challenges such as AI, the conflict in Ukraine and security in the Middle East are expected to dominate the agenda of the Prime Minister’s meetings in New York over the next 24 hours, as world leaders converge on the city.

The Prime Minister is expected to use the visit to drive forward global work on AI, both to ensure it is being used as a force for good and to maximise opportunities to use the technology to deliver safety and security for people at home.

His speech to the UN General Assembly on Tuesday evening is expected to focus on AI, making the case for the international community to harness the technology for good to drive down the cost of living and support a more stable and secure world.

As part of using AI responsibly to support people at home, the Prime Minister will announce the launch of work between the UK and US on a new AI and Autonomy partnership. This collaboration will help the UK protect critical national infrastructure, from sea lanes to air space – enabling us to detect threats and deter our adversaries using the latest AI technology developed on both sides of the Atlantic.

It will see the UK’s Ministry of Defence Rapid AI Delivery Taskforce and the US’s Department of War Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office work together on artificial intelligence and autonomy, accelerating the delivery of trusted, interoperable capabilities that enhance deterrence and both countries’ technological edge.

This will build on the next generation technology already being developed through AUKUS, the landmark partnership bringing together the US, UK, and Australia to produce a new fleet of cutting-edge attack submarines and undersea autonomous capabilities to deter adversaries long into the future.

As part of the AUKUS programme, the UK and US successfully conducted a historic live firing of a heavyweight torpedo – jointly developed by the US and Australia – designed to sink ships and deep diving submarines launched from a 12-metre-long undersea Plymouth-made drone named Excalibur.

The firing, which happened in UK waters last week, was the first time either country had launched a torpedo from an undersea uncrewed vessel, rather than a crewed submarine. This marks a major advance in the future of submarine technology for the UK, US, and Australia, and delivers a significant breakthrough for Euro-Atlantic security and NATO’s undersea advantage.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said:

We are at our strongest when we work with our partners to tackle the most complex shared challenges we face, driven by our values.

When the global financial crisis hit, the UK brought together the world’s leading economies. As we confront the opportunities and challenges posed by artificial intelligence, we will show that same leadership, ensuring rapidly changing technology is harnessed for good to make our countries safer and stronger.

That ambition is underlined in our new defence partnership with the United States on AI and autonomy, bringing together the brightest minds to strengthen the protection of critical infrastructure, deter those who threaten our security, and use the enormous potential of AI to our advantage.

Our work together already shows what can be achieved when our two countries combine our expertise and innovation.

This week I will be making the case for closer international cooperation on AI, a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, and renewed efforts to bring an end to the conflict in the Middle East because what happens abroad impacts each and every one of us at home.

During the visit to New York, the Prime Minister is also expected to tell leaders the UK will continue his drive to tackle major global challenges, such as AI, through the UK’s hosting of the G20 next year.
He will confirm that the flagship Leaders’ Summit will be held in Manchester next November, convening the major global economic players to deliver on our shared goals, drive global growth, and address the most acute global challenges we face.

After months of scoping host cities, Manchester was chosen earlier this year for its cultural heritage, and preparations will now step up this Autumn, with hundreds of local people expected to be involved in the summit, from showcases to security.

As well as the Manchester Leaders’ Summit, locations across the UK will host events throughout the year – bringing the G20 to nations and regions across the UK and ensuring the Summit and the year-long Presidency benefit people across the UK.

The UK will take over the Presidency from the US following the G20 Summit in Miami in December.

While in New York, the Prime Minister will host US business leaders for breakfast to discuss how his government is making it easier to invest, easier to raise capital, easier to hire the talented people businesses need, and easier to grow.

In addition to President Trump, the Prime Minister is also expected to meet a series of world leaders to advance UK interests from getting closer to the EU to supporting Ukraine this winter, as well as co-hosting a High Level event on the two-state solution in Israel and Palestine with President Macron, Prime Minister Carney, Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia, Faisal bin Farhan and the UN Secretary General.
22/09/2026
Ed Miliband – 2026 Speech on Sudan

The speech made by Ed Miliband, the Foreign Secretary, in New York on 21 September 2026.

Excellencies, colleagues, friends,

Let me start from the stark truth: More than three years into this conflict, Sudan is the worst humanitarian crisis this century.

I see three pillars for urgent action:

Diplomatic: Pushing for a ceasefire and a future transition to civilian government.

Humanitarian: Working to ensure aid reaches the most vulnerable.

Civilian protection: Pushing for restraint and protection of civilians together with accountability to tackle impunity and deter further abuses.

I think it is important though to begin with the context.

Right now, over 33 million people require humanitarian assistance – more than the population of London, New York City and Paris combined.

And unfortunately El Nino is set to worsen hunger in Sudan – driving the numbers people starving ever higher.

Worse – and I think we need to be frank about this – warring parties are deliberately destroying life-saving aid and attacking humanitarian workers – this month’s attack on a World Food Programme Convoy is but the latest shocking example.

And I want to highlight that the conflict is evolving in even more lethal ways.

Nowhere is this more clear than in the growing use of drones.

What was once a war concentrated around active frontlines, is increasingly being fought from the air, vastly expanding the deadly terrain.

It is a sobering fact that in the first five months of this year alone, drone strikes reportedly killed more than 1,000 civilians.

Hospitals, markets, fuel depots, power stations and humanitarian supply routes have all come under attack.

Sudan is already amongst the most dangerous places on earth to be a humanitarian worker. Drones are making it more perilous still.

And of course the consequences are not only humanitarian.

They are also feeding the illusion – and other have referenced this – that military means can end this war.

We must be clear that they cannot.

There can be no military solution in Sudan.

No amount of new weaponry, new technology, or new external support will change that fundamental reality.

This growth in drone warfare and the continuing humanitarian crisis demands a step change in our response.

New drone capabilities do not appear by accident.

They are procured, financed, transferred and sustained through the networks of multiple countries outside Sudan that continue to fuel this war.

That is why the renewal of the UN sanctions regime is so important.

We welcome the efforts of the United States to strengthen the regime and ensure it reflects the realities of today’s conflict.

And we should all support that ambition.

The UN Fact Finding Mission Report of 3 September is unambiguous. It points to how external support ‘sustains operations involving serious violations and international crimes’.

And the Mission ‘calls on states to enforce the Darfur arms embargo and suspend transfers of weapons, drones, components or military assistance’.

And it further ‘calls on the Security Council to extend the arms embargo throughout Sudan’.

So a simple rollover of the embargo is not enough.

We must use this opportunity to increase the scrutiny, pressure and consequences for those supplying, financing and enabling this war.

And we must be united in pressing the parties to protect civilians, comply with international humanitarian law and facilitate safe and unhindered humanitarian access.

In practice, this means an end to the competing visa requirements, work permits and taxation on aid imposed by both sides.

It means opening key humanitarian routes permanently, including the vital Adré border crossing due to expire this month, and routes into El Obeid and El Fasher, so aid can flow at scale.

Colleagues, we came together as an international community earlier this year to sound the alarm around El Obeid. That attack did not happen as we feared. But we cannot be complacent.

The people of Sudan cannot afford further escalation. They cannot afford another year of bloodshed.

And they cannot afford an international community that fails to deliver and fails to adapt to the new reality of this war.

We can all issue words of concern – as I am doing – and appeals for peace at grand international gatherings. But they matter little unless backed up with action.

So let us strengthen practical efforts to de-escalate the conflict, support a ceasefire, and advance a civilian-led political process that reflects the aspirations of the Sudanese people.

Let us apply real pressure to protect civilians…

To expand humanitarian access…

And also to hold to account those who profit from and perpetuate this devastating conflict.

Thank you.

22/09/2026
Ed Miliband – 2026 Speech at Accra Reset Event

The speech made by Ed Miliband, the Foreign Secretary, in New York on 21 September 2026.

Can I just start by saying what a privilege it is to join this incredibly important conversation, and I want to pay particular tribute to President Mahama for this incredibly important initiative with the Accra Reset.

If you will allow me, I also want to recognise, as I think a number of speakers have, the amazing contribution that former Prime Minister Gordon Brown still makes on these questions. I am incredibly proud to be here alongside him. He is a fantastic asset to the United Kingdom.

So the Accra Reset begins from a fundamental value that we in the UK believe in, which is international solidarity, and it is based on a partnership of equals, a solidarity based on a partnership of equals.

It must mean countries shaping their own priorities, their own institutions that reflect the world they serve, and a responsibility shared by all of us.

And the UK has overhauled its approach to reflect these realities.

We are moving from donor to investor, and from funding piecemeal service delivery to strengthening whole systems.

We’re moving from grant funding to much wider plans centred on finance, expertise, science, and technology, and moving from international intervention to backing local leadership and innovation, and that set of shifts speaks to the agenda before us today.

And the programme today rightly connects health reform with negotiating capacity, investment, private enterprise, and stronger South-North cooperation.

But to make real progress together, we need change in the following areas, and I just want to briefly set those out.

First, we need finance at greater scale and on fairer terms.

There is no shortage of capital in the world. The challenge is enabling it to flow into productive investment, infrastructure, stronger public services, and sustainable growth.

So the UK will continue to support reform of the multilateral development banks, the smarter use of guarantees and private capital, and action on unsustainable debt and illicit finance.

And indeed, I will be going to the annual meetings in my role on the board of the World Bank to pursue this agenda.

Second, we need institutions with greater legitimacy.

Countries most affected by global decisions must have a stronger voice in making them. The World Bank, the IMF, the United Nations, and the wider development system must better reflect the world of today.

And third, reform must be measured by real results.

New initiatives should reinforce effective institutions and strengthen coordination.

And as the United Kingdom looks towards its G20 presidency, we want to work with Ghana and indeed others represented here to turn shared ambition into practical cooperation.

Ghana’s leadership of the Accra Reset is already an important contribution, and I do want to say the United Kingdom comes to this conversation not with a finished answer, but with a clear commitment to listen, to build genuine partnerships, and to put our diplomatic, financial, and technical strength behind reforms that are locally led, mutually beneficial, and capable of delivering at scale.

And if I can end on this note, the real test is not to describe the world differently, but to change it for the better, and that’s precisely the spirit that I approach my role as Foreign Secretary.

I am clear that Britain needs to be stronger in its values, bolder in its action, and relentless in pursuing alliances with our friends across the world.

So I conclude where I started with a message of solidarity and with the UK’s unwavering commitment to work with you in a spirit of true partnership and a true partnership of equals.

Thank you very much.

22/09/2026
PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister call with Prime Minister Ramgoolam of Mauritius [September 2026]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 21 September 2026.

The Prime Minister spoke with the Prime Minister of Mauritius, Navin Ramgoolam, this afternoon.

The Prime Minister began by setting out his intention for the UK and Mauritius to work closely together.

He noted the clear benefits the two countries could bring to each other across a range of shared objectives, including tackling climate change, combatting illicit finance, and boosting growth and trade, as they looked to create opportunities for people at home.

Turning to the future of the military base on Diego Garcia, the Prime Minister underlined his commitment to working with Mauritius and the United States on a way forward that secures the operation of the base and protects UK national security.

The two leaders agreed to stay in close contact, with the Prime Minister adding that he hoped the UK Foreign Secretary and Mauritian Foreign Minister Ramful would be able to meet this week at UNGA to further strengthen the relationship between the UK and Mauritius.

22/09/2026
Ed Miliband – 2026 Speech at New York Climate Week

The speech made by Ed Miliband, the Foreign Secretary, in New York on 21 September 2026.

It is really fantastic to be back here at NY Climate Week, I can honestly say to you, this is my second favourite Climate Week in the world, after London of course.

No really, it is fantastic to be here, and look, I think the first thing I want to say is to sound a note of optimism, because despite challenging political times, it is set to be the case that in 2026 we’re going to see $2.2 trillion dollars in clean energy against $1.2 trillion in fossil fuels.

I think that deserves a round of applause, ladies and gentlemen.

I was here last year as the Energy Secretary. I’m now the Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom, but I come here as passionate about the cause of New York Climate Week, the cause that we are all fighting for.

And I want to make a simple argument to you today, which is that climate and nature loss represents an urgent national security issue and demands action equal to the scale of the challenge, and that it demands a shift in our thinking and a shift in who in government takes an interest and cares about these issues and puts them front and centre.

And I think the history on this is instructive, like many people in this room, I’ve been at this some time for the better part of two decades.

Because for many years when I was the Climate Change Secretary in 2008, climate change and the destruction of nature were treated as peripheral environmental issues. Yes, they were seen as important, but they were separate from the core business of economic growth, or indeed energy security.

And over these last two decades, the penny has dropped about the opportunity that the energy transition offers in terms of the good jobs at good wages that so many people in our different countries want to see.

And Russia’s invasion of Ukraine underlined the dependence that so many countries face on fossil fuel markets, the fossil fuel roller coaster, as we call it in the UK. And the situation with Iran, the Iran war has underlined that again. And I think people now see the energy security imperative, the energy independence imperative of clean energy.

But having understood the jobs opportunity and the energy security imperative, my argument to you today is: we need to take the next step and recognize the national security imperative too.

And I think you all know the picture, and it is gloomy, I warn you, but I’m just going to say some of it to you today because we need to be truth-telling about this.

Over 150 million hectares burned globally in the first four months of 2026 alone.

Record extreme heat causing widespread loss of life.

Nepal’s devastating floods happening due to glacial collapse and the coming El Nino, as Prime Minister Albanese said, is already forecast to be the strongest in living memory.

And the nature loss crisis is just as acute, with ecosystems being degraded in every region of the world.

That is the conclusion of the UK’s recent nature security assessment, which you can all read.

This is why. These facts. What is happening in our world. Is why climate breakdown, in my view, must be an issue for foreign ministers and prime ministers, as well as energy and climate ministers. The security community, not just the activist community, the generals, not just the green campaigners.

And once we accept this, several implications follow.

First, we must change how we assess risk. Climate and nature must be embedded in national security systems, in threat assessments, and contingency planning. Countries need to pool information because a shock beginning in one country can rapidly travel through supply chains, financial markets, and migration patterns to other countries.

Second, we have to become better at managing shocks. These shocks that cross borders, better forecasting and early warning systems, more resilient infrastructure, health and food systems, more effective disaster risk finance and insurance. Acting before the crisis hits, rather than simply picking up the pieces afterwards.

Third, and in some ways this is the most important point of all, we cannot avoid some of these effects which we’re already seeing unfolding in our world. But it is up to us how severe they become.

That’s why we all have a responsibility, if we care about national security, if we care about keeping our populations safe, to act as countries against the threat of the climate crisis.

Since we met last year, the UK has passed world-leading and 1.5 degree-aligned carbon budgets for an 87% reduction in emissions by 2040.

We recently announced our intention to invest £400 million in the Tropical Forest Forever facility to support international action to protect tropical forests.

We are driving forward with our world-leading clean power plan for clean power, clean power system by 2030.

These are just some of the things that we are doing.

For us as a government, clean energy, the clean energy mission, is front and centre to our economic policy, our energy security policy, and indeed our national security policy too.

And my pledge to you is that the UK will pursue this national security imperative, and I see my work as Foreign Secretary as being about using our extensive embassy network, our expertise to work with others, starting here at New York Climate Week and at UNGA, at this autumn’s annual meetings at the World Bank and IMF at COP31, and in our G20 presidency next year.

Let me make three points to end on. First, we can do this, and it’s really, really important to say this. If we don’t say it, nobody else is going to.

When I left the Copenhagen climate summit, which didn’t go so well for those of you from your memories, in in 2009 we were heading for a four degree world.

Now we’re heading for something like a two and a half degree world, that is still fierce, fearsome, and deeply, deeply worrying, but it shows that the world has made progress. So we can do this.

Secondly, we must do this because for our generation we have a unique responsibility, and the unique responsibility is this. Which is we know the scale of the problem, it’s not some theoretical future thing that might happen as it was 20 years ago, we see the climate crisis unfolding, but we have time to do something about it. That is why we must do this. We must act.

And finally, we will do this, in my view, because I believe that actually countries all around the world now recognize this threat, and they recognize that we can only solve it acting together.

Last year, when I was here, I said, “don’t give up on multilateralism”, and I think the countries across the world are not giving up on multilateralism. So many countries, I mean, so many foreign ministers and others, I mean, know that no country can tackle climate change on its own, but we can do it together.

So, friends, this is about what makes our country safe. This is about what makes our economies strong, and this is about what will sustain our planet and our people for future generations to come. Please enjoy New York Climate Week. Thank you so much.

22/09/2026