Tag: Business and Trade Department

The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 11 September 2024.

The government has announced a new, improved Port Talbot deal for workers which has been agreed with Tata Steel and Trade Unions.

• Negotiations deliver improved redundancy terms and a skills package for employees who want to earn whilst they retrain
• Commitment from Tata Steel to work with the Government to evaluate future investment opportunities
• Government to publish a Steel Strategy next Spring, developed with industry, to ensure bright and sustainable future for UK steelmaking

The workers of Port Talbot are set to get a better deal after co-operative negotiations between Tata Steel and Trade Unions – marking a new, grown-up era in industrial relations.

The new and improved deal goes much further than the previous government’s agreement – delivering a minimum voluntary redundancy payout of £15,000 for full-time employees plus a £5000 ‘retention’ payment and offering paid-for training to give workers a steady income and upskill them for the jobs of the future.

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

Port Talbot has always been and will always be a steelmaking town. This deal does what previous deals failed to do – give hope for the future of steelmaking in South Wales.

Steel is fundamental to the UK’s economy, sovereignty, and communities, but previous government inaction has blighted the steelmaking industry. That’s why this Government is taking strong action through a new deal and strategy which will reverse the industry’s stagnation and set out a long-term vision for a bright and sustainable future.

We know that a cleaner, greener future for UK steelmaking is vital to the industry’s long-term economic stability. The road ahead is not without its challenges but our steel strategy will set forth a positive vision for the future of the industry, backed by our manifesto commitment to £3 billion of government investment.

Under the new deal:

• Alongside making the largest investment in the UK steel industry in decades, Tata Steel has also committed to work with the government to evaluate new investments in steel.
• Tata will offer staff at risk of compulsory redundancy a comprehensive training programme as an alternative, providing recognised qualifications in sought-after skills.
• Employees on this training programme will be on full pay for the first month and £27,000 per annum for 11 months following. These salary costs will be funded by Tata Steel, which also anticipates that at least 500 new jobs will be created to support the construction of the Electric Arc Furnace.
• A minimum redundancy payment of £15,000 pro-rota plus a ‘retention’ payment of £5,000 will be received by employees leaving the business. The Business and Trade Secretary stressed the need to reduce compulsory redundancies where possible, and 2,000 staff members have expressed interest in voluntary redundancy under this deal.
• Tata has offered its most generous voluntary redundancy package ever for a restructure of this size. Employees who choose redundancy will be paid 2.8 weeks’ earnings for each year of service, up to a maximum of 25 years.

The new deal will come at no additional cost to taxpayers and the government’s contribution to the construction remains £500 million. Watertight conditions within the grant funding agreement will ensure that the government can claw back investment should Tata Steel not fulfill its commitments. This includes increased penalty payments should the company not retain 5,000 jobs across its UK business post transformation.

The future of Port Talbot and the steel sector is a shared priority of the UK and Welsh governments. The government is taking a new approach to relations with the nations and regions – resetting the relationship with the Welsh Government to one of close partnership that will deliver a prosperous future for steel in Wales.

The Business and Trade Secretary will also announce today that a new strategy for the steel sector will be published in Spring 2025 after consultation with industry and stakeholders.

It follows Tata’s decision in January to close both blast furnaces at its Port Talbot site, putting 2,800 jobs at risk.

In early July, the future of the site was thrown into doubt as the deal threatened to collapse in polling week, which could have led to more serious consequences for the long-term viability of the whole company. The renegotiation, delivered at pace in the government’s first ten weeks, will enable the transformation project to proceed.

The deal with Tata Steel – agreed on Tuesday 10th September in a meeting between the Prime Minister, the Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, Chancellor Rachel Reeves, and Tata’s Chair Natarajan Chandrasekaran – represents only the beginning of government’s ambitions for the industry. It is the start of a bright future that harnesses industrialisation and decarbonisation as pillars for a long-term and clear strategy.

Secretary of State for Wales, Jo Stevens, said:

This improved deal secures the immediate future of Port Talbot steelworks, lays the foundations for future investment, and enhances protections for the workforce across South Wales, all without further cost to the taxpayer.

As well as negotiating a better deal than the previous government, we have already released millions of pounds of funding from the Transition Board to support businesses and workers in Port Talbot and across south Wales.

While this is a very difficult time for Tata workers, their families and the community, this government is determined to support workers and businesses in our Welsh steel industry, whatever happens.

With the help of independent experts, the government will review the viability of technologies for the production of primary steel including Direct Reduced Iron (DRI). More information about the review will follow in due course.

In an oral statement in the House of Commons the Business and Trade Secretary is also expected to commit to using the new Procurement Act to help deliver value for money, economic growth, and social value through public procurements, including for the steel sector.

ENDS

Background

• £2.5 billion of government investment, in addition to the £500 million allocated to Port Talbot, will rebuild the industry and help it decarbonise.
• As part of deal, Tata Steel will also be releasing 385 acres of their site for redevelopment, valuable real estate which will help bring in more companies and employers not just from the steel sector but from a whole host of other industries.
• 500 job roles are expected to be created to construct the Electric Arc Furnace.
• An Electric Arc Furnace uses an electric current to melt scrap steel or iron and produce steel, whereas blast furnaces use coke, a carbon-intensive fuel made from coal to produce steel.
• Tata Steel’s transformation project will reduce the UK’s overall CO2 emissions by around 1.5%.
• The Steel Strategy will examine how the government can increase steel capacity and capability in the UK. It will identify gaps in current capabilities, assessing future UK steel demand and helping to inform investment decisions which will support economic growth.
• Tata Steel will work with HMG to explore the business case for further investment opportunities in upstream and downstream assets, subject to feasibility.

The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 11 September 2024.

The United Kingdom, United States and Australia sign Memorandum of Understanding on Supply Chain Resilience.

On Monday 9 September 2024, the United Kingdom, United States and Australia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishing a new trilateral collaboration that will strengthen strategic cooperation and address risks to critical supply chains.

The MoU includes the establishment of the Australia-United Kingdom-United States Supply Chain Resilience Cooperation Group to cooperate on data sharing and joint action to build resilience in priority supply chains, enhancing our mutual ability to identify and address risks, threats and disruption to our critical supply chains.

The Group will develop an early warning pilot focused on the telecommunications supply chain, essential for our global, digitised economies. By identifying and monitoring disruption risks to the telecommunications supply chain, this pilot will enhance all three countries’ knowledge of the vulnerabilities, criticality and residual risks. It will develop procedures for sharing this information and responding cooperatively to disruptions.

Strengthening critical supply chains is vital for ensuring the stability and resilience needed to meet the UK’s growth mission. This agreement signifies a deepening of the important and historic relationship between the UK, US, and Australia and reinforces our mutual commitment to tackling supply chains challenges.

The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 9 September 2024.

The government has today announced a new independent appeals process for postmasters in the Horizon Shortfall Scheme.

The Government has today [Monday 9 September] announced a new independent appeals process for postmasters in the Horizon Shortfall Scheme.

This will mean postmasters who feel their financial settlement did not reflect the true extent of their losses and trauma will be able to apply for the new independent process, which will be overseen by the Department for Business and Trade.

The Horizon Shortfall Scheme is run by Post Office Limited and funded by the Government who have ultimate oversight of the scheme.

Post Office Minister Gareth Thomas said:

Delivering justice and financial redress to postmasters is my number one priority.

We’ve listened to the independent advisory board and are working at speed to make sure postmasters receive financial redress as fairly and as quickly as possible.

This new appeals process will give postmasters the opportunity to have their settlements independently reviewed by my department.

To date, 2,280 individuals have reached an agreement with the Post Office to settle their claim under the Horizon Shortfall Scheme, with £144m in compensation paid out.

The independent Advisory Board raised concerns that, when the Horizon Shortfall Scheme opened in 2020, some claimants were unable to set out their claim in full. This new appeals process will provide postmasters with the opportunity to have their claim re-assessed with the benefit of new or additional information they can provide.

The Department for Business and Trade will establish this process as quickly as possible and will provide further updates on eligibility and how to apply when the scheme is launched.  We are committed to seeking input from the Advisory Board, postmasters and their representatives in designing the process.

The Horizon Shortfall Scheme is available for postmasters who were not convicted, or part of legal action against the Post Office, but who still suffered considerably due to Horizon failures.

These postmasters have the option to receive a fixed sum payment of £75,000 or choose a full claim assessment route if they believe their losses exceed that amount.

Notes to editors

• As of 30 August 2024, approximately £289 million has been paid to over 2,800 claimants across 4 schemes:
• Horizon Shortfall Scheme (HSS): £144 million
• Group Litigation Order (GLO) Scheme: £87 million total value of all payments including interim payments
• Overturned Convictions (OC): £56 million total value of all payments including further interim payments
• Horizon Convictions Redress Scheme (HCRS): £1 million total value of all payments including interim payments

The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 3 September 2024.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Business Secretary have met with business leaders to discuss the upcoming Employment Bill.

In the latest series of meetings on the Make Work Pay plan, the Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds will today [Tuesday 3 September] host a Business Breakfast to discuss the upcoming legislation.

It follows a meeting last month with business representative organisations including the British Chambers of Commerce, Federation of Small Businesses, CBI and Make UK as well as trade unions to discuss the Bill.

Today’s meeting comes as part of a government commitment to develop the plan in partnership with business leaders and industry groups, as well as trade unions.

This meeting will be an opportunity for Ministers to set out the ambition for the Employment Rights Bill and wider Make Work Pay programme, which will modernise the world of work by ending exploitative zero-hour contracts, extending day one employment protections on unfair dismissal and delivering a genuine living wage.

Ministers will update businesses on the progress made so far and what to expect over the coming weeks and months, and ministers are also expected to reassure business leaders that they will be involved every step of the way.

The Business Secretary and Deputy Prime Minister will continue to have engagements with businesses, industry representatives and trade unions in the coming weeks ahead of the legislation being introduced, and throughout its passage in parliament.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said:

This government is pro-worker and pro-business, and we are committed to working with our brilliant businesses across the country to create a stronger, growing economy and to raise living standards as a result.

We will work with all partners as we shape our plan to Make Work Pay, so we get the win-win of greater productivity and a fairer working environment for staff.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

Our plan to make work pay will always be unashamedly pro-worker and pro-business and I’m determined to work in partnership with businesses and trade unions and ensure their voices are heard every step of the way.

The central driving force behind our plan to Make Work Pay is to deliver growth. Our Bill will modernise the world of work to create a better supported workforce, which will boost productivity and in turn create the right conditions for businesses to grow.

The UK currently has one of the least protected labour markets compared to our international partners. It’s time to work together to deliver meaningful reforms that will transform the world of work for the benefit of businesses and workers.

The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 1 September 2024.

The UK-Ukraine Digital Trade Agreement (DTA) enters into force today, allowing businesses on both sides to benefit from quicker and cheaper trade.

UK-Ukraine trade is set to grow as the UK-Ukraine Digital Trade Agreement (DTA) today [Sunday 1 September] enters into force, allowing businesses on both sides to benefit from quicker and cheaper trade.

The digital agreement is one of the first of its kind and opens the door to wider shifts to digital trading systems. Such digital systems are more important than ever for Ukraine as physical trading systems have been impacted by war.

Ukraine is one of the largest exporters of information technology services globally, with areas such as outsourcing, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI) and mobile applications in rapid development before the war.

As a global leader in tech, the UK is ideally positioned to aid Ukraine’s post-conflict transition to a digital economy, with over half of our services exports to Ukraine already digitally delivered.

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

We’re modernising our trade relationship with Ukraine with one of the world’s first digital only trade agreements.

Greater digitalisation of the economy is an important step in supporting Ukraine’s economy and their fight for independence. This government will continue to lead the way in our unwavering support for Ukraine and its people.

First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy of Ukraine Yuliia Svyrydenko said:

The support of Ukraine from the United Kingdom is unprecedented. We have felt it from the very first days of the full-scale war. The digital trade agreement between our countries is another manifestation of solidarity and support.

Implementing this agreement will deepen Ukraine’s participation in global supply chains, foster the development of small and medium-sized businesses, maintain free access for Ukrainian IT companies to the UK digital markets, and provide crucial support to our economy during the war and in the post-war reconstruction period.

Minister for Trade Policy Douglas Alexander said:

With the current conflict in Ukraine making physical trade more difficult, we hope this agreement will make trading digitally easier for Scottish and Ukrainian businesses.

I know there is a tremendous amount of support for Ukraine and its people throughout Scotland, and this government will do all we can to support them.

Sabina Ciofu, Associate Director, International Policy & Trade, TechUK said: 

The UK-Ukraine digital trade deal coming into force is a great step forward that will strengthen tech ties between both countries, and simplify and reduce the cost of trade for businesses, especially at a time when trade is made more difficult by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

TechUK is looking forward to working with our sister organisation IT Ukraine and both governments to deliver on the promises of this agreement, especially around regulatory cooperation and emerging technologies.

Pavlo Pikulin, CEO and founder at Deus Robotics said:

We are deeply thankful to the UK Government, the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine for establishing the UK-Ukraine TechBridge programme.

In essence, our successes in the UK thus far can be directly attributed to this initiative. TechBridge has provided us with everything essential for a tech startup to thrive in the UK — access to potential clients, partners, investors, and mentors. With this programme, you know who to talk to, and how and where to do it best.

The agreement is part of a series of digital initiatives by the UK government to support Ukraine’s digital economy. The UK-Ukraine TechBridge promotes collaboration and investment across the UK and Ukraine tech sectors.

Tech partnerships are also a key area of the digital trade agreement, supporting collaboration between the UK and Ukraine on areas like cybersecurity.

Background

• Total trade in goods and services between the UK and Ukraine was £1.6 billion in the four quarters to the end of Q1 2024.  In 2021, the export of digitally delivered services to Ukraine was worth £151 million – 54% of our total service exports to Ukraine
• The UK-Ukraine TechBridge is a programme designed to support the Ukrainian tech sector and ensure its resilience so it can contribute effectively to Ukraine’s economic recovery whilst strengthening the UK’s tech sector collaborations.
• In addition to these digital initiatives, DBT is mobilising UK businesses to support Ukraine’s immediate defence needs and deliver infrastructure projects.

The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 29 August 2024.

Following Peru’s ratification of our deal to join the bloc, the agreement will now officially enter into force by 15 December 2024.

The UK has secured the sixth and final ratification required to trigger our accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) before the end of this year.

CPTPP is a free trade area spanning five continents and almost 600 million people once the UK joins. Following Peru’s ratification of our deal to join the bloc, the agreement will now officially enter into force by 15 December 2024.

More than 99% of current UK goods exports to CPTPP members will be tariff-free once the deal enters into effect, helping businesses export more to CPTPP markets and contributing to the government’s priority of driving economic growth. By 2040, the agreement could boost the UK economy by around £2 billion annually.

Before Peru, five other CPTPP members ratified the terms of the UK’s accession: Japan, Singapore, Chile, New Zealand and Vietnam. This means the agreement will come into force with those members by 15 December, and subsequently with other members as they ratify. We continue to work closely with the remaining member countries who are in the process of ratifying the deal.

As the first country to accede to this agreement the UK will be well positioned to shape its future development, from influencing the development of the CPTPP rulebook to championing the group’s expansion to new economies.

Minister of State for Trade Policy Douglas Alexander said:

This is good news for UK businesses, who are now one step closer to being able to take advantage of the opportunities our membership of CPTPP will bring.

My message to businesses is to get in touch with the Department for Business and Trade to find out how CPTPP could benefit your business, if you haven’t already.

We’re extremely grateful to all the CPTPP partners that have already ratified our accession – Japan, Singapore, Chile, New Zealand, Vietnam and now Peru – and look forward to more doing so over the coming months.

More information

• Businesses can contact the Export Digital Enquiry Service to find out how CPTPP can benefit them.
• Source for UK GDP growth: Methodology and data sources described in the CPTPP Impact Assessment, published July 2023. Increase is compared to projected levels of trade in 2040, without the agreement, measured in 2021 prices.

The press release issued by the Department of Business and Trade on 21 August 2024.

UK commits to funding research and technical assistance aimed at promoting regional growth by facilitating railway development across Southern Africa.

The UK Government today (20 August 2024) announced key initiatives to support regional development, trade, and investment in rail infrastructure at the 2024 conference convened by the Southern African Railway Association in Johannesburg.

British High Commissioner to South Africa, Antony Phillipson, announced that new UK funding would support Crossrail International and Transport for London to share their expertise in support of inclusive economic development in Southern Africa.

Crossrail International, formed to share lessons from the £19 billion (R 450 billion) Crossrail project in the UK, will provide technical assistance to SARA, support SARA in implementing regional policies and regulatory reforms, enabling cohesive network planning and sustainable investment under their long-term masterplan. Crossrail International will also assist in developing the business case for the Railway Centre of Excellence. This approach will be underpinned by a research project to benchmark the SADC rail industry for capacity enhancement and information policy reform and management.

Transport for London (TfL), which facilitates 3.3 billion journeys annually, will also provide technical advice to South African local governments to enhance passenger rail services in major metros and share TfL’s experience of delivering decentralised rail operations to increase public transport access and affordability.

Speaking at the event, British High Commissioner to South Africa, Antony Phillipson said:

We are excited to be part of the effort supporting sustainable development in Southern Africa, fostering collaboration between the UK and SARA to promote regional growth through rail infrastructure development.

Executive Director at Southern African Railways Association (SARA), Babe Botana, welcomed the progress made through the Joint Steering Committee and acknowledged the flagship projects which are intended to kick start the implementation of the LOI signed SADC Railway Regional Strategic Plan 2023 to 2027.

Botana said:

This relationship demonstrates the power of international partnerships, in strengthening the collective capabilities of our organisations to drive our regional railway agenda.

Further information

The Southern African Railways Association (SARA)

The Southern African Railways Association (SARA) is the mandated rail transport body for the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. Established in 1996 and headquartered in Harare, SARA is dedicated to promoting and advancing rail transport services across the SADC region. It serves as a central hub for railway operators—both public and private—and other rail industry stakeholders in Southern Africa.

SARA provides a platform for collaboration, networking and knowledge-sharing among its members, fostering regional integration and advocating for the rail sector’s interests. The association plays an active role in regional policymaking, holding the mandate for Rail Policy advocacy. SARA’s key focus areas include harmonising regulations across different rail systems, coordinating rail corridors, and promoting infrastructure development. Additionally, SARA is committed to improving rail competitiveness and ensuring equitable intermodal competition within the region.

SARA’s core programmes are designed to enhance various aspects of rail transport, such as operational efficiency including harmonisation, safety in corridors through the development of standards, investment promotion and the adoption of international best practices. These initiatives aim to ensure that rail transport remains competitive, reliable and an integral part of the region’s transport logistics chain. The overarching goal is to develop a robust and efficient rail network across Southern Africa, essential for stimulating economic growth, facilitating regional integration, and improving the socioeconomic well-being of the region’s population.

By driving infrastructure development and enhancing rail competitiveness, SARA plays a critical role in supporting regional economic development and trade.

The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 21 August 2024.

Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds is visiting a distillery in Scotland to celebrate Brazil’s decision to grant special protected status to Scotch Whisky.

Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds has today [Wednesday 21 August] visited Glengoyne Distillery in Scotland to celebrate Brazil’s decision to grant special protected status to Scotch Whisky – bolstering ‘Brand Scotland’ by promoting iconic Scottish products across the world.

This new protection means the Brazilian legal system recognises the special status of Scotch Whisky, making it easier to tackle counterfeits and giving distillers the confidence to up their exports to Brazil, boosting a sector that already contributes billions to the UK economy and supporting the Government’s mission to kickstart economic growth.

According to industry estimates, Brazil is in the top five global growth markets for alcohol over the next 5 years and its population of over 200 million people already have an appreciation for whisky, with the UK exporting almost £90 million of the spirit to Brazil in 2023 alone.

This new status, known as a Geographical Indication (GI), could be worth around £25 million over five years and will give distillers better access to South America’s largest economy, strengthening international recognition and intellectual property for Scotch Whisky. This success is credit to strong collaboration between DEFRA, including the agri-food attaché in Brazil, DBT and the UK’s Intellectual Property Office.

Business & Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

Scotch Whisky is one of Scotland’s finest products and is in high demand across the globe. This Government is committed to maximising Scotland’s potential, and today’s announcement gives Scottish distillers the confidence they need to export to one of the world’s largest economies without having to compete with fake knock-offs and pale imitations.

Businesses who export more are better off, and removing trade barriers like this will unlock more global markets and drive economic growth across the UK.

Minister for Food Security Daniel Zeichner said:

Today’s announcement shows both demand for authentic Scotch Whisky abroad and the value of promoting British products on an international stage.

Our UK GI scheme connects British producers with consumers who appreciate the quality and reputation of their products, giving UK businesses a strong leg up in international markets.

With the agri-food and drink sector being the largest manufacturing sector in the UK, it’s clear there’s an international appetite for British products and we are committed to further growing trade opportunities for producers around the world.

Providing businesses with opportunities to reach new customers around the world is crucial to creating jobs and driving economic growth. UK Export Finance research shows that businesses that export grow at twice the rate of those that don’t.

Securing GIs helps prevent counterfeit products being sold on international markets, ensuring UK businesses can export with confidence and consumers can identify the products they are buying as authentic.

Chief Executive at the Scotch Whisky Association Mark Kent said:

As the first foreign product to be granted Denomination of Origin status in Brazil since 2019, Scotch Whisky now sits beside Tequila, Cognac and Champagne with special legal protection. This is fundamental to ensure that millions of Brazilians can have confidence in the quality and history of what they’re buying.

Achieving this status is ‘Brand Scotland’ in action. Removing trade barriers and securing legal protections for Scotch Whisky is critical to the industry’s success, helping to increase exports and in turn creating more jobs, investment and prosperity in Scotland and across the UK.

Chief Executive of UK Intellectual Property Office Adam Williams said:

The UK IPO places significant importance on supporting UK businesses wanting to export internationally. This is why we have an established network of IP attaches in key markets around the world.

We were thrilled to be able to support the Scotch Whisky Association in securing this GI through our Latin America and Caribbean attaché, based in Brazil. We will continue to work with UK exporters in-country to increase their knowledge and confidence of the Brazilian IP system.

Background

On Geographical Indications

• A Geographical Indication (GI) is an intellectual property right used on products that have qualities or characteristics attributable to a specific geographical origin. Examples include: Scotch Whisky, Welsh Lamb and Melton Mowbray Pork Pies.
• Geographical Indications protect the authenticity of many of our most prestigious food and drink products and give consumers confidence that international GI products are genuine articles.
• The UK’s annual GI exports are estimated to be worth over £6 billion and account for 25% of UK food and drink exports’ value. In 2023 alone Scotch exports were worth £5.6bn, accounting for 74% of Scottish food and drink exports and 22% of all UK food and drink exports.
• Geographical Indications protect the authenticity of many of our most prestigious food and drink products and give consumers confidence that international GI products are genuine articles.

On Valuation Estimate

• The figure £25 million refers to the mid-point of the valuation range for the relevant market access barrier. This is the additional exports expected to be achieved over five years from the resolution of the barrier. Further details on the methodology for valuing market access barriers are published in a DIT analytical working paper.

The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 15 August 2024.

A new report published today illustrates the unique opportunity that the UK and New Zealand have to unlock the full potential of New Zealand’s offshore wind industry.

The report, developed by Xodus Group, a global energy consultancy, launched at an event in New Plymouth. It states that offshore wind presents a huge opportunity for New Zealand. With 15,000km of coastline, New Zealand has the potential to harness one of the world’s best wind resources to meet its climate objectives and grow a green economy.

The report states that New Zealand possesses the essential ingredients to accelerate its offshore wind industry: resource, demand, regulatory framework and social need.

The UK boasts a highly capable supply chain, a result of being the world’s second-largest offshore wind market, with 13.9 gigawatts fully commissioned as of 2023. Eager to build on this, the UK government is committed to not only developing to meet its growing domestic needs, which are expected to more than triple by 2030, but also to exporting its expertise and capabilities to global markets like New Zealand.

The UK can provide expertise in vital elements needed for offshore wind to flourish. These include financing methods, price stability mechanisms, local and international supply chain development and regulatory alignment.

Speaking at the launch in New Plymouth, British High Commissioner to New Zealand, HE Iona Thomas OBE said:

“Tackling climate change is an urgent need. And it does not need to result in an economic cost. Recently the UK has shown that we can grow the economy while also halving emissions since 1990.

“Achieving the goals that both New Zealand and the UK has set ourselves requires unprecedented, transformational change.

“As the global shift towards sustainable energy accelerates, the offshore wind sector in New Zealand is ready to respond. The UK stands ready to use our experience to tackle the challenges and take a strategic approach needed to unlock the potential that New Zealand has.

“Together, in partnership with friends, New Zealand and the UK have an opportunity to showcase the world what world leading offshore wind industry can look like.”

His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific, Martin Kent added:

“The UK has the expertise and experience to support New Zealand in offshore wind ambitions. The UK is a clean energy superpower, with the world’s second-largest offshore wind market. We are committed to supporting New Zealand’s clean energy goals, and I look forward to the innovations and partnerships to come.”

The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 14 August 2024.

British workers are set for better working conditions as the Government takes its first steps towards its Plan to Make Work Pay.

• Businesses and workers will get a bigger voice at the table as Government takes the next steps in its mission to Make Work Pay
• Deputy Prime Minister and Business Secretary host senior representatives from trade unions and business organisations for the first time to discuss workers’ rights
• This sets out Government’s commitment to engaging on the Plan to Make Work Pay and deliver an ambitious agenda to ensure workplace rights fit for a modern economy

British workers are set for better working conditions as the Government takes its first steps towards its Plan to Make Work Pay.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Business Secretary convened a meeting with trade unions and business leaders in a first-of-its-kind meeting today [14th August 2024].

They agreed to wipe the slate clean and begin a new relationship of respect and collaboration to help deliver the Government’s first mission – to kickstart economic growth.

They discussed views on the Employment Rights Bill and wider Plan to Make Work Pay, with the Deputy Prime Minister and Business Secretary carefully listening to the valuable insights of attendees.

This comes soon after the Deputy Prime Minster and Business Secretary decided to overhaul the remit of the Low Pay Commission to deliver early progress on the Make Work Pay plan and put more money in working people’s pockets.

The Employment Rights Bill – which will play a key role in delivering the Plan to Make Work Pay – will be introduced within 100 days of entering Government.

Senior representatives from a cross section of major businesses representative organisations and trade unions were invited to the heart of government today to contribute to the Government’s Plan to Make Work Pay.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said:

Our plan to Make Work Pay will bring together workers and businesses, both big and small and across different industries, for the good of the economy.

This first-of-its-kind meeting has kicked off a new era of partnership that will bring benefits to everyone across the country striving to build a better life.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

For too long the valuable insights of business and trade unions have been ignored by Government, even on past decisions which have directly impacted them.

Business and workers will always help to shape the ambitions of government including our plan to Make Work Pay, to ensure it boosts economic growth and creates better working conditions for all”

Minister for Employment Rights Justin Madders said:

It is time for the views of unions and businesses to be heard. This government understands the importance of stakeholders when deciding on policy.

We are getting cracking on the Bill, it will be delivered in the first 100 days and it’s great to get together to share insights that will help us to make sure it does what we intend it to.

The Plan to Make Work Pay sets out an ambitious agenda to ensure workplace rights are fit for a modern economy, empower working people and deliver economic growth.

The Plan will support more people to stay in work, make work more family friendly, and improve living standards. This will put more money in working people’s pockets to spend, boosting economic growth, resilience and conditions for innovation.

Further engagement is planned to discuss the detail of the Plan to Make Work Pay. Trade union and business representatives will be invited to continue to engagement on the Plan to Make Work Pay via similar meetings, as well as share vital insights via the upcoming consultations.

Notes to editors:

As part of its Make Work Pay plan, the Government has committed to:

• Ban exploitative zero hours contracts
• End fire and rehire
• Introduce basic rights from day one to parental leave, sick pay, and protection from unfair dismissal
• Strengthen the collective voice of workers, including through their trade unions, and create a Single Enforcement Body to ensure employment rights are upheld
• Make sure the minimum wage is a genuine living wage by changing the remit of the independent Low Pay Commission so for the first time it accounts for the cost of living
• Remove the discriminatory age bands, so all adults are entitled to the same minimum wage, delivering a pay rise to hundreds of thousands of workers across the UK

The attendees of the meeting are below:

• Deputy Prime Minister
• Business Secretary
• GMB
• TUC
• Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers (USDAW)
• UNISON
• Unite
• Prospect
• British Chambers of Commerce (BCC)
• Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development (CIPD)
• Confederation of British Industry (CBI)
• Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)
• Institute of Directors (IoD)
• Make UK
• Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC)

Attendee quotes:

TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said:

The government’s plan to make to make work pay, including the introduction of an Employment Rights Bill within its first 100 days, can set our economy on a path towards higher growth and better living standards. Today’s meeting was an important chance for unions and businesses to discuss the shared gains that the government’s reforms will bring, and we look forward to continued close working as ministers implement their plans.

Together, we can raise the floor so that every job has the pay and security that families need to thrive, workers have access to unions, and good employers are not undercut by the bad.

Jonathan Geldart, Director General of the Institute of Directors, said:

Today’s meeting is an important first step in ensuring that there is meaningful dialogue with business as these proposals move forward, as the specifics will be crucial in determining whether they support or stifle economic growth.

We look forward to the start of a detailed engagement and consultation process, which will be essential to minimising the risk of unintended consequences of these reforms.

UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea said:

Britain’s problems are best solved when governments, unions and businesses work together. Lifting standards and making work pay will drive the economic growth to deliver proper investment in essential services.

The fair pay agreement promised in care will rejuvenate recruitment in a sector that’s long struggled to hold on to the workers needed to support an ageing population.

Stephen Phipson, CEO of Make UK said:

Manufacturers believe that good, well-paid, secure work is key to the Government’s missions of securing economic growth and breaking down barriers to opportunity, which belongs at the heart of an industrial strategy. The manufacturing sector, working closely with trade unions, pays 9% above the national average salary, and is investing increasing amounts in skills training and wellbeing to develop their workforce and improve productivity.

We look forward to continuing to work with the Government on ensuring its Plan to Make Work Pay benefits both manufacturing employers and their employees.

Mike Clancy, General Secretary of Prospect, said:

The Government’s Make Work Pay programme should be an historic opportunity to improve the rights of working people in this country and should represent a symbolic shift in favour of partnership between employers, government, and workers to drive economic progress.

This meeting represents the start of a dialogue that, done properly, can deliver the growth and stability the country needs to compete on the world stage.

Jane Gratton, Deputy Director Public Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce:

It was important to be in the room today to represent the views of business, and to emphasise that the Government needs to genuinely listen as it develops its plans. Our members are clear that their employees deserve high standards of protection, but it’s important to guard against any unintended consequences of the proposed changes.

This will require thorough and detailed consultation with firms of all sizes.  The Government must take its time, engage with employers, and ensure that any changes are proportionate and affordable for businesses.”

John Foster, CBI Chief Policy and Campaigns Officer, said:

Politicians and businesses are united in wanting to raise living standards through higher levels of growth underpinned by increased productivity. Creating the conditions in which businesses can invest and create jobs is key to this. Today’s meeting was a welcome a step in beginning the constructive dialogue that can deliver solutions that will be both lasting and effective.

Creating the space for meaningful consultation will be vital because it is business input that can ensure these reforms support growth, investment and jobs, while avoiding unintended consequences.

Paddy Lillis, General Secretary of Usdaw, the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers, said:

After 14 years of dither and delay, it’s great to sit down with a government committed to delivering for working people and talking about how to implement the change Usdaw members need.

The Government’s plans for workers’ rights will massively improve the lives of our members and we are pleased to see grown up government, bringing together politicians, employers and unions to ensure the changes outlined during the election are delivered.

Peter Cheese, Chief Executive of the CIPD, the professional body for HR and people development, said:

We recognise and welcome a number of the changes in the Government’s Plan to Make Work Pay. Together they amount to the biggest transformation of workers’ rights in a generation.

Therefore, consultation will be essential to ensure that any reforms achieve the right outcomes for individuals and employers. We look forward to being part of that process.

Neil Carberry, Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) Chief Executive, said:

The longest-lasting and most successful changes to the jobs market have been those developed with businesses, not just handed down to them.

Today’s meeting is an opportunity to re-discover that principle and ensure that the work of the new Government supports business growth and opportunity for workers, including over a million temporary workers across the UK.

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

We had positive engagement with Angela Rayner and Jonathan Reynolds in Opposition, including on their commitments to working in partnership with small business. We hope this meeting is a signal that the Government will soon start a proper, meaningful and constructive engagement process as it moves from campaigning into practical policy making.

It will be crucial the Government starts to demonstrate it is prepared to try and reduce harm to employment, small business, and the economy from any and every negative impact of these proposals. The new administration must listen to the real needs of small businesses on the ground and help, not harm, small business efforts to get people into work and secure the high levels of growth the country desperately needs.