Tag: Downing Street

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 27 May 2026.

The Prime Minister hosted the Prime Minister of Poland, Donald Tusk, at RAF Northolt and a nearby military museum today.

The leaders began by reflecting on the historic relationship between the UK and Poland, including the strong links between the Polish community and RAF Northolt, where the 303 Polish Fighter Squadron had been based in the Second World War.

That military relationship was the foundation for the strong friendship the two countries shared today, the Prime Minister said.

Reflecting on the new Northolt Treaty they signed together, the leaders discussed how it marked a generational step up in defence and security cooperation between the two countries, which would strengthen NATO and European security, particularly on hybrid and modern threats.

Both Prime Ministers underlined the importance of Europe stepping up in NATO to ensure security across the continent. The increase in defence spending seen from Allies had to be coupled with strong alliances within Europe, they both agreed.

Turning to Ukraine, the leaders reiterated their steadfast support for the Ukranian people and condemned Russia’s continued aggression. It was vital a just and lasting peace was secured for Ukraine and peace restored in Europe, the leaders agreed.

The leaders also discussed the UK’s ambition to be closer to the European Union, both to protect security and boost prosperity, and the Prime Minister welcomed Prime Minister Tusk’s support on the issue.

Moving on to the Middle East, the leaders discussed the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and the need for the ceasefire to hold. A swift diplomatic resolution that leads to a lasting settlement was vital, the Prime Minister said.

Both looked forward to seeing one another again soon.

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 27 May 2026.

The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Christopher Luxon, this morning.

The Prime Minister began by thanking Prime Minister Luxon for New Zealand’s continued support for the Coalition of the Willing on Ukraine and plans for a future Multinational Military Mission in the Strait of Hormuz.

Ahead of New Zealand’s Budget tomorrow, the leaders discussed the financial impact that widespread global instability was having on households in both the UK and New Zealand, and the importance of finding a way forward and ultimately, a resolution, to keep the cost of living down.

On Ukraine, the Prime Minister thanked Prime Minister Luxon for New Zealand’s strong support for both the training of Ukrainian soldiers as part of Operation Interflex, as well as Ukraine’s efforts to secure a just and lasting peace.

The leaders also discussed the appalling situation in the West Bank and reiterated their call for the Government of Israel to end its expansion of settlements and administrative powers and ensure accountability for settler violence.

The leaders looked forward to speaking again soon.

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 27 May 2026.

Treaty between the Republic of Poland and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland on a Security and Defence Partnership.

The Republic of Poland and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, hereinafter referred to as “the Parties”,

Resolving to strengthen close co-operation in security and defence and preparing for the challenges facing both States and Europe as a whole;

Guided by the desire to ensure a prosperous, secure and sustainable future for their citizens amid fundamental geopolitical change; 

Cognisant of the current challenges to Euro-Atlantic security in an era characterised by increasing security threats and the return of warfare to the European continent, and acknowledging the challenges to their democracies and to international law and norms; 

Identifying the Russian Federation as the most significant long term threat to that security and the need to counter its malign actions; 

Determined to overcome these challenges by deepening their close co-operation as European neighbours and North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Allies on the basis of the strong ties that connect their States, peoples and governments and their shared history, values and interests;

Reaffirming their ironclad commitment to NATO as the bedrock of their security, and the foundation of collective defence of the Euro-Atlantic area;

Guided by the importance of working together as strong bilateral partners to strengthen the transatlantic Alliance and enhance the defence and security of Europe;

Reaffirming their commitment to European unity and responsibility in matters of security and defence; 

Reaffirming their commitment to fundamental freedoms and human rights, democracy, and the rule of law, and to an international order with the United Nations (UN) as its core;

Underscoring that economic growth and security are interdependent and vital to their future prosperity and the wellbeing of their peoples;

Resolved to strengthen prosperity and security through action to enhance the energy security of both States, to improve the resilience of their economies, to seize the opportunities offered by science, and to shape the technological change that will define their futures; 

Recognising that prosperity and security can only be guaranteed by action to combat climate change, and reaffirming their commitment to the Paris Agreement done at Paris on 12 December 2015 (Paris Agreement) and its goals;

Ambitious to build upon the Treaty between the Republic of Poland and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland on Defence and Security Cooperation, done at Warsaw on 21 December 2017 (2017 Treaty) and the Poland-UK 2030 Strategic Partnership Joint Declaration on Foreign Policy, Security and Defence, signed at London on 5 July 2023 (2023 Joint Declaration);

Have agreed as follows:

ARTICLE 1

Foreign and Security Policy Co-operation

1. The Parties commit to deepen co-operation in international security and foreign policy, in order to support international peace and security, promote human rights and the rule of law, and ensure the effectiveness of the international security architecture. Through regular engagement at ministerial and official level, the Parties undertake to share analysis, consult on the full range of international challenges, and coordinate on their respective policies, endeavouring to establish common positions and promote mutual interests.
2. The Parties shall intensify co-operation alongside other partners, and within multilateral formats such as NATO, the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), and the UN in order to address international challenges. The Parties shall make the best possible use of the UK-EU Security and Defence Partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland of 19 May 2025. Noting the shared commitment between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the European Union (EU) to explore mutual involvement in relevant defence initiatives in accordance with the respective legal frameworks, they look forward to working together with NATO Allies and EU Member States to strengthen European security, in support of NATO.
3. The Parties shall seek to intensify their co-operation with other European partners, in order to jointly address international security challenges.
4. The Parties underscore the threat the Russian Federation poses to international peace and security. They reaffirm their commitment to countering and deterring Russian aggression and interference in all its forms. They resolve to apply appropriate pressure on the enablers of Russian malign activity and aggression, and to work together, including in international fora, to hold the Russian Federation (including its political and military leadership) to account for its violations of international law including international humanitarian law and international human rights law committed in the context thereof. The Parties will continue to work with Ukraine and other partners to pursue lawful ways to ensure the Russian Federation is made to meet its obligation to pay for damage it has caused Ukraine.
5. Guided by their enduring commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders, the Parties reaffirm their unwavering military support for Ukraine’s security and independence as well as Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction, including through supporting Ukraine to build a resilient economy, stronger democratic institutions, and further Euro-Atlantic integration.
6. The Parties shall cooperate closely to strengthen the effectiveness of sanctions policy and implementation. As appropriate, both Parties shall foster alignment within multilateral frameworks such as the EU, and the UN to ensure a unified and impactful response.
7. The Parties shall deepen exchanges on matters of strategic stability including deterrence and defence, arms control and non-proliferation, to strengthen Euro-Atlantic and wider international security.
8. Driven by their shared values and commitment to democracy, the Parties reiterate their commitment to the freedom of the press and independence of the media, and to freedom of expression. The Parties shall support these principles through their membership of the Council of Europe, participation in the OSCE, including supporting the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media and through the UN.
9. The Parties undertake to strengthen coordination on conflict resolution and prevention and the application of international humanitarian law. The Parties shall work to increase women’s full, equal, meaningful and safe participation in decision-making processes related to peace and security. The Parties shall promote the protection of and support for women and children during and after armed conflict and work to prevent sexual violence in conflict.
10. Driven by a shared commitment to the role international development plays in preventing and mitigating threats to national security, and acknowledging the valuable role of the EU as a development actor, the Parties agree to deepen collaboration and share best practice, including on projects in relevant States.
11. The Parties commit to continue and strengthen regular diplomatic training exchanges.
12. Building on existing dialogues, the Parties shall create regular structured dialogues on foreign and security policy at ministerial and official levels that bring in relevant departments as necessary to address the cross-cutting nature of many existing and emerging threats and discuss the methods to address them adequately.

ARTICLE 2

Defence and Security Co-operation

1. Building on the 2017 Treaty and the 2023 Joint Declaration, the Parties reaffirm the commitments therein and agree to deepen their co-operation in defence, with the aims of:

a. strengthening the security of the Euro-Atlantic region, recognising that regional security is inseparable from the security of both Parties;

b. enhancing bilateral interchangeability and interoperability between their respective armed forces across all domains, including via enhanced joint training, education, and exercising and participation in multinational military structures located both in the Republic of Poland and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and to build links between personnel;

c. supporting the defence and deterrence activities of NATO, bolstering co-operation between NATO and the EU, and supporting the peacekeeping activities of the UN;

d. supporting the defence industries of the Parties and their common projects, including developing joint capabilities, and enhancing co-operation in research and technology, inclusive of technology transfer.

1. The Parties reaffirm their determination to meet commitments as NATO Allies, including for multi-domain collective defence. To achieve this, the Parties shall provide forces, capabilities, resources and infrastructure as are needed to enable the execution of the Defence Plans of NATO.
2. The Parties shall work together, with other NATO Allies, to strengthen deterrence and defence of the NATO eastern flank acknowledging its strategic role and coordinating their forces and efforts where possible.
3. Recognising the volatile and increasingly challenging security environment in Europe and in its broader neighbourhood, the Parties reaffirm their commitment to NATO as the foundation of their collective defence, and to their obligations as stipulated in the North Atlantic Treaty, done at Washington on 4 April 1949 (North Atlantic Treaty), in particular Article 5. The Parties also affirm as close allies their deep commitment to each other’s defence.
4. As NATO Allies and strategic partners, the Parties affirm their deep commitment to each other’s defence and, in the event of an armed attack on the other, shall assist one another, including by military means in accordance with Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty.
5. The Parties recognise the urgent need for Europe to step up the development of new defence capabilities in all domains in order to strengthen their security and protect their territory, and are resolved to play their part in this generational effort. The Parties also recognise the mutually-reinforcing benefits of ensuring security of supply for national programmes and creating a reliable pipeline of orders for defence companies. Therefore, the Parties commit to: greater alignment of defence industrial and export strategies allowing for future partnerships; development and maintenance of interchangeable capabilities; joint procurement; work to identify and minimise regulatory barriers to joint programmes; work to improve dialogue and co-operation between defence companies of both Parties; and discussions of supply chain risks and ways to overcome them.
6. Recognising the imperative to strengthen defence financing in accordance with the ambition set out by the NATO, the Parties support efforts in this domain. The Parties are united in their resolve to accelerate the introduction of innovative instruments and methods for the mobilisation of financial resources, ensuring that such efforts are comprehensive and inclusive. The Parties shall cooperate to advance defence financing solutions that enable the timely and efficient achievement of defence objectives.
7. Recognising the Parties’ significant shared interests as nations that adhere to international law and norms, the Parties commit to strengthen the interoperability, interchangeability and integration of their defence strategies and armed forces. The Parties shall continue to articulate detailed plans for their growing military co-operation through the defence co-operation plans established through the 2017 Treaty. The Parties shall intensify their co-operation across all domains, including training, doctrine, education, exercising, and special operations. The Parties shall continue to enable the regular exchange of national security and defence personnel and their families, to deepen and forge their relationship for future generations and to ensure their Armed Forces have the conditions they need to perform effectively.
8. Understanding the ever-growing importance of disruptive technologies, deepened defence co-operation shall include increased collaboration in cyber security capabilities. The Parties shall also explore opportunities to work together on new and disruptive technologies, including dual-use technologies, artificial intelligence, space and other defence technologies.
9. The Parties commit to developing and maintaining a close dialogue between their respective Defence Ministries on all defence issues of mutual interest, including on nuclear issues within NATO.
10. Acknowledging that investment in operational, capability and industrial collaboration must be underpinned by work to improve the personnel links between their forces, the Parties commit to enhance liaison officer networks and professional military education opportunities; increase joint exercising; and negotiate new agreements on the mobility of military personnel.
11. Building on existing dialogues, the Parties shall further develop regular structured dialogues to discuss enhancing defence co-operation. The Parties shall hold annual strategic dialogues and consultations, which include Ministers, the Chiefs of Defence Staff and senior officials. This shall also include an increased exchange between respective expert communities of the Parties.

ARTICLE 3

National Security Co-operation

1. Recognising the rapid evolution and interconnected nature of threats to their internal security, the Parties commit to strengthen bilateral co-operation to tackle them, including threats to critical infrastructure (including land and maritime infrastructure), making best use of all suitable policy, legal, operational, diplomatic and technological tools and mechanisms.
2. Building on the Parties’ existing commitments in the Protocol on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Customs Matters of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, of the one part, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, of the other part, done at Brussels and London on 30 December 2020, the Parties commit to joint action to counter transnational serious and organised crime, including action on criminality falling within the jurisdiction of the customs authorities. The Parties shall enhance their collaboration on strategic policy and operational co-operation. In pursuit of the most harmful groups, the Parties shall strengthen joint action, including advance cargo information sharing and pre-arrival risk analysis co-operation, where appropriate. The Parties shall work together and explore collaboration with the private sector and third countries to tackle other shared organised crime threats, such as the illicit trafficking of drugs, tobacco and firearms, fraud and illicit finance.
3. The Parties recognise that migrant smuggling is a shared challenge requiring joint solutions. They commit to cooperate in the fight against organised cross-border crime involving migrant smuggling and trafficking in persons. They shall, where appropriate, deepen dialogue and operational co-operation on border security and exchange best practice and shall work together to counter the instrumentalisation of migration by external actors.
4. The Parties commit to deepening comprehensive partnerships with countries of origin and transit to address the upstream drivers of irregular migration. The Parties recognise the importance of safe, regulated migration and asylum systems that safeguard against abuse and can respond to modern challenges, and share a firm commitment to international law and human rights standards.
5. Acknowledging the key roles played by NATO and the EU, the Parties shall strive to strengthen resilience against, deter, and respond to hybrid threats, including cyber and information threats. They shall further their co-operation through information sharing where appropriate, development of tools, and coordination of disruption and response options. They commit to share strategic approaches to the growing threat from hybrid activities, including, but not limited to sabotage, and the malign use of technologies such as artificial intelligence and drones, and to offer mutual support in response to specific incidents and attacks, where appropriate.
6. The Parties share deep concern at the threats and challenges which undermine security and democratic values through Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI) by malign actors. The Parties commit to deepening exchange of risk analysis, growing trends and best practice, where appropriate, and working towards joint action and capability to tackle FIMI threats in a range of ways. They underscore the need for fast and agile responses against FIMI actors given the nature of the evolving threat.
7. Recognising the significance of critical national infrastructure and the diverse threat vectors that pose risks of disruption particularly in the energy sector, the Parties commit to sharing best practice in resilience, preparedness, response and restoration capabilities as appropriate.
8. The Parties shall strengthen coordination on counter-terrorism through continued intelligence co-operation and by increasing data sharing where appropriate.
9. Building on the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Poland and the Ministry of Justice and Home Office of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland on Co-operation in Criminal Matters signed at Warsaw on 14 November 2024, the Parties commit to further strengthen their criminal justice co-operation, including through the opening of negotiations on a new prisoner transfer agreement.
10. The Parties reinforce their existing commitment to exchange information extracted from criminal records, focusing on both the support of criminal proceedings and the pursuit of key public protection objectives including employment vetting, conducting criminal records checks within migration procedures, and safeguarding. Specifically, the Parties shall share criminal records information for the purposes of protecting vulnerable adults and children including fostering and adoption arrangements where appropriate.
11. The Parties shall work together bilaterally and through multilateral organisations to improve their law enforcement capabilities. They shall work with INTERPOL to support the integrity of the international system and prevent its abuse by malign actors. They acknowledge the vital role of EU agencies, such as Europol and Eurojust.
12. The Parties commit to streamline Mutual Legal Assistance co-operation, including by digital means and measures to enhance operational co-operation.
13. Building on existing dialogues, the Parties shall conduct a regular dialogue on national security to address the cross-cutting nature of many existing and emerging threats, including seeking views from their respective expert communities and civil society organisations where appropriate.

ARTICLE 4

Economic Security Co-operation

1. The Parties underscore that strong and resilient growth and national security and defence are interdependent and mutually reinforcing. They confirm their shared principles of maintaining and improving a well-functioning international rules-based system, and their mutual commitment to secure and resilient trade. The Parties further stress the necessity of promoting diverse, secure and resilient supply chains, regulatory certainty and trusted trading relationships as integral components of a comprehensive approach to economic security.
2. The Parties shall strengthen their respective economic resilience to support and protect their national security. They shall exchange information, perspectives on global events and policy responses, where appropriate, to foster a common understanding on areas of concern in the trade and investment domain, including supply chain resilience.
3. The Parties commit to undertaking actions aimed at strengthening the resilience and security of the transport sector, bilaterally and multilaterally, including through the development of dual-use infrastructure designed for both civilian and military purposes. The Parties shall share information about the best practice in developing such infrastructure.
4. The Parties commit to regular discussion of barriers to growth, trade and investment including any challenges in the business environment. They shall identify opportunities for coordination and co-operation in areas of strategic importance to their economic security, including under their respective industrial policies.
5. Noting the profound impact of global health crises on economic growth and national security, the Parties shall deepen exchanges and strengthen international collaboration on global health risks, including provisions for industry dialogue.
6. Understanding the important role of sustainable agriculture in the bilateral relationship, the Parties shall continue to enhance dialogue on global food security and share information and approaches to regional food challenges.
7. The Parties recognise the role of bilateral investment in driving growth and commit to deepening collaboration, commercial exchange and dialogue with all relevant partners to facilitate this, including small and medium sized enterprises and large companies, as well as start-ups and accelerators.
8. The Parties shall advance strong science and technology collaboration, recognising its role in addressing global challenges, supporting the development of commercial technologies, and safeguarding research security. The Parties also recognise the contribution of technology start-ups to economic growth and shall explore ways to collaborate on technology transfer.
9. The Parties shall engage in dialogue on economic security to address cross-cutting issues and threats to their national security and mutual prosperity. This shall include the geopolitical implications of regulatory and technological changes, particularly in areas of critical infrastructure, dual-use technologies and supply chains dependencies.

ARTICLE 5

Energy and Climate Security Co-operation

1. The Parties firmly believe that the key to energy security is a diverse energy system that boosts energy independence, better protects consumers from price volatility, is resilient and secure, and mitigates the impacts of climate change through diversified clean energy sources, including renewable and civil nuclear energy generation.
2. The Parties agree to share experience and deepen bilateral and multilateral collaboration on the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy, and implementation of the goals laid out in the Paris Agreement.
3. The Parties note the need to globally decarbonise energy systems in a just, orderly and equitable manner and to achieve net zero by 2050. The Parties also reaffirm the need to effectively support the development of renewable, nuclear and other zero- or low-emission energy sources and the stability of the energy system at the European level, as well as energy efficiency.
4. The Parties are committed to nature conservation and restoration which are essential to resilient energy, food, ecological, and economic systems. They commit to protect and preserve the natural environment, including forests and wetlands, which can provide important support to security objectives, where appropriate.
5. The Parties commit to undertake joint actions to support the development of and investment in zero- or low-emission sources of energy and clean technologies, boosting growth in both States.
6. Acknowledging the growing threat to the resilience and security of energy infrastructure, the Parties commit to a deeper exchange of analysis and policy approaches. They shall strengthen collaboration to address the full spectrum of risks, including the protection of maritime critical energy infrastructure, critical energy assets, incident response, and advances to repair and restoration capabilities, where proportionate and necessary.
7. The Parties uphold the importance of civil nuclear energy in their respective future energy mixes. They commit to support nuclear energy, as a clean energy source and to promote access to finance for the development of nuclear projects in Europe and globally, including through green financing and international financing institutions. The Parties shall take steps to counter the involvement of the Russian Federation in their respective civil nuclear supply chains (including in technology and raw materials), and encourage others to do the same, in order to minimise direct and indirect trade.
8. The Parties support co-operation at the level of Transmission System Operators and market regulators, underlining their important role in the security of supply and the protection of national critical infrastructure as well as the affordability of energy prices.
9. The Parties stress that delivery of their shared goals on energy security and resilience as well as energy transition will require a collaboration between relevant Ministries, state-owned organisations and enterprises as well as potential commercial partners. The Parties commit to working together with the above mentioned entities, as appropriate, to identify joint projects and support delivery.

ARTICLE 6

Treaty Governance

The Parties shall create a senior official coordination mechanism to review the implementation of the commitments contained in this Treaty. This shall include assessment of existing projects, consideration of new projects, and identification of further areas of co-operation, as needed. Prime Ministers of the Parties will hold biennial consultations to review implementation of this Treaty. Further ministerial‑level dialogues on individual policy themes and policy areas shall be held as necessary, including through the mechanisms specified in Article 4 of the 2017 Treaty.

ARTICLE 7

Relationship with other laws

The Parties shall give effect to this Treaty in accordance with their national law. Nothing in this Treaty shall be construed as prejudicing or affecting in any manner the rights or obligations of the Parties stemming from international law.

ARTICLE 8

Territorial scope

 This Treaty shall apply to:

a. the territory of the Republic of Poland; and

b. the territory of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and may be extended to any or all of the Bailiwick of Guernsey, the Bailiwick of Jersey, and the Isle of Man by mutual agreement between the Parties by exchange of notes.

ARTICLE 9

Disputes

Any dispute concerning the interpretation, application or implementation of this Treaty shall be resolved solely by negotiation between the Parties. 

ARTICLE 10

Amendments

The Parties may agree, in writing, to amend this Treaty. The amendments shall enter into force in accordance with the procedure set out in Article 12 of this Treaty or on such date as the Parties may agree.   

ARTICLE 11

Termination

A Party may terminate this Treaty by giving the other Party notification in writing. Such termination shall take effect six months after the date of receipt of the notification or on such date as the Parties may agree unless the notification is withdrawn by agreement before the end of this period.

ARTICLE 12

Entry into force

This Treaty shall enter into force 30 days after the date of receipt of the last notification by which the Parties notify each other that their respective internal procedures for entry into force of this Treaty have been fulfilled. 

Done at …………… this ………… in duplicate, in the Polish and the English languages, both texts being equally authentic.

For the Republic of Poland

For the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 26 May 2026.

The UK is set to sign a new defence and security treaty with Poland to protect British borders, tackle organised crime, bolster collective defences and deepen cooperation with the European Union.

• Prime Minister to host Prime Minister Tusk of Poland today as leaders sign landmark agreement to confront modern security threats
• Visit comes as the Prime Minister continues to drive for an ambitious relationship between the European Union and the UK to deliver security and opportunity on both sides.
• Treaty follows similar agreements with France and Germany, strengthening security across Europe

The UK is set to sign a new defence and security treaty with Poland to protect British borders, tackle organised crime, bolster collective defences and deepen cooperation with the European Union.

The Prime Minister will host the Prime Minister of Poland, Donald Tusk, in London today, as the pair prepare to sign the new agreement to strengthen defence cooperation in the face of increasing hostile threats across Europe.

Poland is one of the UK’s closest defence and security partners, a staunch supporter of Ukraine and vital economic partner, with one of the fastest growing economies in Europe.

The leaders are expected to discuss the major uptick in hybrid attacks – including Russian-ordered arson attacks in East London, cargo fires in Birmingham and across Europe, as well as cyber-attacks and espionage – and agree to combine expertise to combat accelerating threats.

The announcement builds on the Prime Minister’s drive to get closer to Europe and strengthen ties with the trading bloc to improve security and opportunity on both sides. It also follows similar treaties with France and Germany.

The UK and EU’s joint ambition to improve relations to deliver for consumers, businesses and collective European security is expected to be high on the agenda of talks today.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

Britain and Poland are already close allies and friends, but the challenges Europe now faces demands an even stronger partnership.

This treaty is the biggest step forward in our defence and security relationship with Poland in a generation, allowing us to confront modern security threats that may be less visible but no less dangerous, and our collective work together will keep our countries safe for years to come.

It also delivers on my commitment to work more closely with European partners to boost security and opportunity for people at home and stability across our continent.

The leaders are expected to sign the new treaty in London today, signifying the historic ties between the UK and Poland, and opportunity for both countries to work closer together in protecting European defences long into the future.

The defence strand of the agreement is expected to unlock major defence benefits for both sides, allowing forces to combine expertise and industrial capability to lead the development and manufacturing of next-generation complex weapons, ensuring sovereign production chains and supporting high skilled jobs across the UK and Poland.

That will include the design and development of new air defence effectors, which are sophisticated munitions, strengthening air and missile defence systems, and deepening interoperability across all domains. It is also expected to include the co-production of a next‑generation medium‑range air defence missile.

The UK and Poland will also step up the use of uncrewed systems to reinforce NATO’s Eastern Flank through next-generation land capabilities. As part of that drive, joint land forces will undertake large‑scale joint exercises to sharpen interoperability across counter drone warfare, electronic warfare, and engineering support, as well as developing land forces that remain at the forefront of future warfighting through the harnessing of disruptive technologies.

And as part of efforts to outpace the threats of tomorrow, from cyber-attacks to malign information campaigns, the UK and Poland will also accelerate cooperation to disrupt malicious attempts by hostile state actors to sow discord through the sharing of expertise and coordinated responses and exercises – sharpening how both countries can respond in real time.

As a major migration partner for the UK and frontline state in Europe’s migration system, both countries will discuss how to boost border security and dismantle organised crime groups upstream through a new Joint Action Plan on Irregular Migration.

The Joint Action Plan will allow both countries to better target smuggling networks and their vulgar use of social media to lure vulnerable people and maximise intelligence sharing to disrupt gangs and their tactics and harness new technologies such as advanced targeting and surveillance capabilities to strengthen both countries’ border security.

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 20 May 2026.

The Prime Minister spoke with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine this evening.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed the UK’s steadfast support for Ukraine and set out our ongoing commitment to do everything possible to debilitate and degrade Putin’s war machine.

He outlined how the UK was ramping up measures to crack down on Russia’s economy including through the new package of sanctions announced yesterday, and that as a result of the UK’s actions to date, there will be less Russian oil on the market, with Russia weaker as a result.

The leaders reiterated the need to keep up this pressure on Russia and welcomed the strength of the UK-Ukraine relationship. The Prime Minister paid tribute to the people of Ukraine for their enduring courage in the face of Russia’s ongoing aggression. 

They looked forward to speaking again soon.

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 18 May 2026.

The Prime Minister is hosting a reception in Downing Street today (Monday 18 May), bringing together employers, workers and apprentices to demonstrate how strengthening Britain’s ties abroad is delivering for working people at home.

• PM welcomes businesses and workers to Downing Street to showcase how the Government’s action abroad is delivering for working people at home
• Reception highlights success stories of businesses expanding exports and growing as a result of stronger UK ties abroad
• Event underlines how the Government’s economic plan and trade deals are delivering growth and opportunity for working people

The Prime Minister is hosting a reception in Downing Street today (Monday 18 May), bringing together employers, workers and apprentices to demonstrate how strengthening Britain’s ties abroad is delivering for working people at home.

At a time of global uncertainty, the event will highlight how the government’s economic plan is providing the foundation for growth – backing British businesses, protecting working people, and making the UK more resilient to global shocks. That approach was borne out last week, with the UK delivering the fastest growth in the G7 ahead of the impact of the Middle East conflict.

The event will also showcase how trade deals and international engagement are creating jobs and driving growth across the UK. Guests will include apprentices, local representatives and employees from across the UK alongside business leaders, showcasing how the Government’s economic plan is translating into jobs, investment and growth on people’s doorsteps.

Representatives from the community engagement team involved in the new Universal Studios theme park in Bedford will also attend to showcase the local impact of a project secured after the PM met Universal executives in the UK and US. The project will support 20,000 construction jobs and 8,000 permanent roles, alongside a £50 billion boost for the UK economy and local businesses including hotels, restaurants, taxi firms and contractors.

The Prime Minister will meet attendees and tour a series of showcases highlighting success stories from across the UK – from Scotland’s world-leading whisky industry and cutting-edge medical technology in Cambridge, to fast-growing British food and drink brands exporting to global markets.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

By strengthening Britain’s place on the global stage, we are delivering real benefits for working people at home.                                                                                 

Our trade deals are supporting jobs and driving growth across the UK by opening up opportunities for people at every stage of their career, from apprentices starting out to experienced workers building new skills, as businesses expand into new markets. 

I’m determined that growth is felt by working people with better jobs, higher wages and more money in their pockets. That’s what our economic plan is about – taking action at home and abroad to deliver real change that people can see in their lives and their communities.

At the reception, the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) will showcase one of the UK’s most iconic exports, with new trade agreements expected to significantly boost exports and cut tariffs in key markets. The SWA has projected that the India deal has the potential to significantly grow Scotch whisky exports over the coming years once it has entered into force, with the industry set to also benefit from zero tariffs in the US and reduced tariffs in China.

Most recently, the US announced tariff-free access for whiskies produced across the UK, including Scotch Whisky for which the US is the industry’s largest market by value, worth almost £1bn.

Innovative food brands Creative Nature and Happy Inside will also highlight how Government support is helping them expand internationally, including launching into new markets and exporting products around the world. Creative Nature launched their company’s snacks and foods into Japan after a government trade mission and now export to 16 countries and are carried on 9 airlines. Happy Inside will be launching their drinks in Mexico after a Department for Business and Trade ‘Meet the Buyer’ event and now exports to 6 countries.

The reception will also celebrate the best of British produce and industries supported by improved access to global markets, with catering featuring cheese from Somerset, beef from Northern Ireland, sea salt from Wales and whisky from Scotland.

Also attending are employers Octopus Energy, Whittard of Chelsea, Rolls Royce SMR, and Holland & Barrett, as well as industry groups MakeUK and the Federation of Small Businesses, along with apprentices from BAE Systems and Scottish Power.

Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle said:

Trade deals aren’t abstract policy wins – they translate into real benefits for British families and businesses right across the country. Whether it’s a whisky distiller in Scotland accessing new markets in India or an automotive worker in the West Midlands with greater job security because of our deal with the US.

By securing ambitious trade agreements, we can back British businesses to do what they do best: innovate, export and grow. That means more jobs, better wages and stronger local economies – not just today, but for decades to come.

The Government has secured major trade deals with partners including the United States, India and South Korea, helping to cut red tape, unlock investment and open up new export opportunities. These agreements are already delivering tangible benefits for working people across the country.

The landmark economic deal with the US will save thousands of jobs, protect key British industries, and help drive economic growth. Most recently, the US announced tariff-free access for UK whisky. 

Through this deal, the UK remains the only country to have agreed a 10% tariff for automotives within quota, a 25% tariff for core steel and aluminium exports and 0% tariffs for pharmaceuticals – saving hundreds of millions of pounds on UK exports annually and cementing our place as a world leader for life sciences investment.  During last year’s historic US State visit, we announced a record breaking £150bn in investment commitments creating 7,600 jobs, alongside signing a world leading Tech Prosperity Deal.

The India deal is already driving growth, with the Prime Minister’s visit securing 6,900 jobs and the trade agreement estimated to boost wages by £2.2 billion a year in the long run.

The South Korea deal could boost the UK’s world leading services industry worth up to £400 million in exports a year while protecting 98% of tariff-free lines for UK goods, opening up new opportunities for exporters and strengthening key industries.

Mark Kent, Chief Executive of the SWA, said: 

Positive trading relationships with established and emerging markets around the world are the bedrock of Scotch Whisky’s success, and over the past year the Free Trade Agreement with India, tariff reduction in China, and the announcement of zero tariff rate for the US, have been good news for producers looking to boost exports. 

We are grateful for UK government support and hope to see swift implementation of the India and US deals, as well as securing new international opportunities.

Export success abroad should be underpinned by a domestic market that fosters business confidence and supports home-grown sectors like Scotch Whisky and their supply chains, and we look forward to working with the UK Government to ensure our industry is in the best position at home and abroad to support jobs, boost investment and generate growth.

Founder of Creative Nature Julianne Ponan MBE said:

It is a real honour to be at 10 Downing Street showcasing Creative Nature products alongside so many inspiring British businesses. The support from the Department for Business and Trade through trade missions, the Export Academy and Free Trade Agreements has helped us grow from a kitchen table startup into exporting to 18 countries, proving that UK SMEs can thrive internationally when given the right opportunities and support.” 

Founder of Happy Inside Drinks Charlie Knockton said:

It is an immense honour to be at 10 Downing Street showcasing Happy Inside drinks alongside so many fantastic British businesses. The support from the Department for Business and Trade through Trade Missions, Meet the Buyer events and our International Trade Advisor has been invaluable – allowing us to scale production, become more competitive in the UK market, and expand into exciting markets including China, the UAE and soon Mexico. This shows that supporting British businesses abroad directly benefits the wider UK economy.

The Prime Minister is also deepening ties with other international partners and progressing new agreements to build a long-term pipeline of growth and investment:

• Commitments at the first UK-EU summit are estimated to deliver a package worth up to £9 billion by 2040. The European Partnership Bill will improve the UK’s trade and investment relationship with the EU – our largest trading market – by giving us the power to implement new deals agreed with the EU both now and in the future.
• The PM’s trade mission to China secured £2.2 billion in export deals, supporting jobs from Glasgow to the energy sector.
• Joining the CPTPP trade bloc is estimated to add £1 billion to real household wages every year compared to 2021 levels.
• Negotiations are also underway for a trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council that could increase UK GDP by around £1.6 billion a year in the long run (when compared to 2035 projections). 

This work is already being felt in communities across the UK, with trade and international engagement supporting jobs, boosting wages and opening up new opportunities for businesses in every part of the country.

The world today is more volatile and dangerous than at any point in recent history with a war on two fronts – in the Middle East and in Ukraine – threatening living standards. The government’s economic plan has put the UK in a better position to weather these storms.

Before the conflict of Iran, the UK economy was showing clear signs of strength, with strong growth, rising living standards and falling unemployment, underlining the importance of economic stability in protecting households and businesses.

The government is continuing to rebuild our economy to make us more resilient, and the King’s Speech will drive forward this progress through more protections for small businesses, reforms to regulation to drive innovation, and changes to give businesses the confidence to invest and grow.

By securing new partnerships abroad and delivering for working people at home, the Government is setting a clear course for long-term economic security and growth.

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 15 May 2026.

Eleven foreign far-right agitators intent on coming to the UK to spew their extremist views have been blocked from entering the country, as the Prime Minister takes action to protect British communities from vile hate.

• Eleven foreign far-right agitators have been blocked from coming to the UK, ahead of the unpatriotic Unite the Kingdom March  
• Prime Minister warns violent thugs who spew hatred on our streets will face the full force of the law
• Saturday expected be one of the busiest days for policing in recent years, as thousands descend on the capital

Eleven foreign far-right agitators intent on coming to the UK to spew their extremist views have been blocked from entering the country, as the Prime Minister takes action to protect British communities from vile hate.

One of those barred from the UK is US-based extremist Valentina Gomez, known for using inflammatory and dehumanising rhetoric about Muslim communities.

Thousands are set to arrive in London on Saturday with a march organised by Unite the Kingdom. There will also be a pro-Palestine protest, who will be joined by Stand Up to Racism. This will make it one of the busiest policing days for the capital in years.

The Prime Minister has warned that the minority of violent thugs who plan to attend the marches this weekend with the intention of whipping up hatred and threatening communities will face the full force of the law.

The Met has confirmed they will arrest individuals who incite hatred, including using chants such as “globalise the intifada”. This follows the Government providing the Met with £18 million in emergency funding to protect and reassure the Jewish community.

During a visit to the Metropolitan Police’s Command and Control Special Operations Room, the Prime Minister heard how thousands of officers will be deployed to keep the public safe, equipped with live facial recognition technology, helicopters, drones, dog units, police horses and armoured vehicles.

These officers will be supported by a ramped-up justice system, ready to quickly haul violent offenders in front of judges. Prosecutors will also be working alongside police to speed up charging decisions, and more courts will be open, and open for longer. 

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 

“We’re in a fight for the soul of this country, and the Unite the Kingdom march this weekend is a stark reminder of exactly what we are up against. Its organisers are peddling hatred and division, plain and simple. 

“We will block those coming into the UK who seek to incite hatred and violence. For anyone who sets out to wreak havoc on our streets, to intimidate or threaten anyone, you can expect to face the full force of the law.

“My government will always champion peaceful protest but will act decisively against hatred. We all have a responsibility to speak out against those spouting vile divisive views wherever we see it.

“We are a country built on decency, fairness and respect, at our best when people from different backgrounds come together in common purpose.  That is what we must fight for.”

Meeting Police Chiefs on Friday morning, the Prime Minister also made clear he recognises that the majority expected to attend are law-abiding citizens, who want to protest peacefully, and urged everyone attending a protest to act with decency and respect.

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 13 May 2026.

The King’s Speech – the second under this government – is expected to unveil over 35 bills and draft bills facing up to the big challenges our country faces and put the UK on a stronger, fairer path that unlocks hope for people across Britain.

• King’s Speech will strengthen public services, reform the state and reverse decline
• Ambitious programme to break with the status quo
• New laws reflect big challenges country faces and bolsters UK’s economic, energy and national security

A stronger, fairer country that can weather the storm of global shocks and restore hope will be the focus of the new legislation set out in The King’s Speech today [13 May].

The King’s Speech – the second under this government – is expected to unveil over 35 bills and draft bills facing up to the big challenges our country faces and put the UK on a stronger, fairer path that unlocks hope for people across Britain.

The package of bills is targeted at strengthening the UK’s foundations through measures to bolster economic, energy, national security.

This includes laws to restore order and control to the immigration system, strengthen our public services and reform the state to support a more active government that is on the side of British people.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

“The British people expect the Government to get on with the job of changing our country for the better.

“Cutting the cost of living, bringing down hospital waiting lists and keeping our country safe in an increasingly dangerous world.

“Britain stands at a pivotal moment: to press ahead with a plan to build a stronger, fairer country or turn back to the chaos and instability of the past.

“My government will deliver on the promise of change for the British people.”

The government’s first session of Parliament delivered 50 government bills, including the Children and Wellbeing Act, Employment Rights Act, the Great British Energy Act, the Renters’ Rights Act and the Planning and Infrastructure Act.

The legislation passed delivered on core promises made to the British public – making our country safer, stronger and fairer through landmark laws to drive change. That includes help for parents with everyday school costs, stronger rights for victims and survivors, creating the first smoke-free generation to help people live healthier lives, tougher police powers to crack down on antisocial behaviour, and giving communities a say in the decisions that affect them. 

This second session will deliver change to our communities.

Economic, energy and national security

The world today is more volatile and dangerous than at any point in recent history. A war on two fronts – in the Middle East and in Ukraine – threatens living standards. The government’s economic plan has put the UK in a better position to weather these storms. We will rebuild our economy to make us more resilient – and the King’s Speech will drive forward this progress through more protections for small businesses, reforms to regulation to drive growth and innovation, and changes to give businesses the confidence to invest and grow. Delivering on the government’s manifesto commitment to improve the UK’s trade and investment relationship with the EU, new laws will deliver more trade, more opportunity for young people and help to reduce the cost of living.

We need to get off the fossil fuel rollercoaster with clean, homegrown power we control and electrification of our wider economy. The King’s Speech is expected to unveil the Energy Independence Bill which will give government more power to tackle the affordability crisis and speed up the delivery of clean energy technologies and vital grid infrastructure.

Building on the progress already made to restore order and control to our borders, legislation will be brought forwards to deliver a firm but fair immigration system that restores control and earns public trust.

Bills will also be introduced to meet the evolving threats facing the UK head on, strengthening our defences and keeping pace with modern technologies from cyber-attacks to new powers to counter state threats so we can better disrupt the sharing of extreme content online.

As the Prime Minister set out earlier this week, the King’s Speech will also set out legislation to protect the UK’s steelmaking capacity by giving government options to nationalise British Steel, so that necessary action can be taken if needed while we continue to rebuild the steel sector.

Ending the opportunity crisis

Ending the opportunity crisis requires an active state that can deliver on the government’s commitment to fight for every child. The King’s Speech is expected to include legislation to deliver government’s landmark reforms to transform the school system so that all children get access to an inclusive, high quality mainstream education, and parents don’t have to battle a system just to get their kids the support they deserve.

Removing barriers to opportunity and helping people get on in life is at the heart of the government’s drive to reverse the decline felt across the country. Laws to deliver the manifesto commitment to put an end to the unfair and outdated leasehold system will give people more control over how they live in their own homes and provide stronger rights for homeowners.

Strengthened public services and reformed state

Landmark public service reforms in the NHS, police and special education needs will also strengthen our country. This government is reversing the decline and neglect of our NHS so that it’s built to support people at every stage of their life, as well as preventing them from getting sick in the first place. A new Bill is expected to be brought forward to accelerate the reform needed to strip back bureaucracy, improve patient care and support early intervention. Legislation to protect much needed social housing stock and better protect domestic abuse survivors will also be included, making sure families have safe, secure, affordable homes to live in.

The new legislation comes alongside the government’s action to ease the cost of living crisis for working people, remove barriers to growth, create more highly paid jobs and equip people with the skills and routes to get on in life. That includes rolling out free breakfast clubs and supporting parents with free childcare, freezing rail fares, capping the price of bus journeys, and fixing the broken welfare system by tackling the disincentives that pushed too many people away from work and investing £2.5 billion in a youth employment package that will support almost one million young people and help deliver up to 500,000 opportunities to earn and learn.

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 13 May 2026.

The King has been pleased to approve the following appointments:

• Nesil Caliskan MP as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
• Natalie Fleet MP as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Home Office
• Catherine Atkinson MP as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Ministry of Justice
• Preet Kaur Gill MP as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Department of Health and Social Care
• Gen Kitchen MP as Comptroller of HM Household (Government Whip)
• Deirdre Costigan MP as Junior Lord of the Treasury (Government Whip)
• Shaun Davies MP as Assistant Whip, House of Commons

Miatta Fahnbulleh MP, Jess Phillips MP, Alex Davies-Jones MP and Dr Zubir Ahmed MP have left the Government.

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 12 May 2026.

The King has been graciously pleased to signify His intention of conferring Peerages of the United Kingdom for Life upon the undermentioned:

Peers nominated by the Leader of the Labour Party

1. Stephen Benn, The Viscount Stansgate
2. Christopher John Suenson-Taylor, The Lord Grantchester

Crossbench Peers

1. Charles Wellesley, The Duke of Wellington OBE DL
2. Nicholas le Poer Trench, The Earl of Clancarty
3. Charles Colville, The Viscount Colville of Culross
4. Richard Denison, The Lord Londesborough
5. Simon Russell, The Lord Russell of Liverpool
6. Daniel Mosley, The Lord Ravensdale
7. Godfrey Bewicke-Copley, The Lord Cromwell
8. Richard Gilbey, The Lord Vaux of Harrowden
9. John Pakington, The Lord Hampton

Peers nominated by the Leader of the Conservative Party

1. Sebastian Grigg, The Lord Altrincham
2. Mark Cubitt, The Lord Ashcombe
3. William Stonor, The Lord Camoys
4. Jonathan Berry, The Viscount Camrose
5. Patrick Courtown, The Earl of Courtown
6. Rupert Ponsonby, The Lord de Mauley KCVO TD FCA
7. Edward Effingham, The Earl of Effingham
8. Giles Goschen, The Viscount Goschen
9. Jasset Ormsby-Gore, The Lord Harlech
10. The Rt Hon Frederick Penn, The Earl Howe GBE PC
11. Timothy Elliot-Murray-Kynynmound, The Earl of Minto
12. Colin Moynihan, The Lord Moynihan
13. Aeneas Mackay, The Lord Reay
14. Massey Lopes, The Lord Roborough
15. The Rt Hon Thomas Galbraith, The Lord Strathclyde CH PC