Tag: Downing Street

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

The Prime Minister spoke to President Emmanuel Macron of France this evening.

The Prime Minister began by setting out how he is looking forward to building on the strong UK-France relationship to deliver for people on both sides of the Channel.

Turning to Ukraine, the two leaders discussed the need to work together to continue supporting Ukraine as it resists Russia’s full-scale invasion, including through co-chairing the Coalition of the Willing.

On the Middle East, the two leaders agreed the need to continue efforts towards deescalation and to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

They also discussed continuing the UK and France’s close cooperation on energy and defence, and the Prime Minister paid tribute to President Macron for his efforts to bring the Bayeux Tapestry to the UK, which underlined the UK and France’s enduring friendship.

The two leaders look forward to speaking again and the Prime Minister welcoming President Macron to the United Kingdom at the earliest opportunity.

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

The Prime Minister spoke to the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, this afternoon.

The Prime Minister thanked the President for her warm congratulations, adding that he was looking forward to working closely with President von der Leyen and her team.

Building a closer and ambitious relationship was key to delivery in both the UK and Europe, the Prime Minister added.

The leaders agreed their teams should work closely towards a UK-EU Summit later in the year.

Turning to Ukraine, the Prime Minister underlined that the UK’s steadfast commitment to Ukraine would be ironclad under his government, and thanked President von der Leyen for her leadership on the conflict.

The two leaders looked forward to speaking again soon.

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

The Prime Minister spoke to President Zelenskyy this afternoon.

The Prime Minister began by reaffirming his and the UK’s resolute commitment to the people of Ukraine and underscored that there would be absolutely no change in the UK’s approach, including when it came to bearing down on Russia.

Turning to the Prime Minister’s work with Ukrainian Mayors during his time as Mayor for Greater Manchester, the two leaders discussed the work that was achieved through the UNBROKEN Cities Network, which provides rehabilitation support to Ukraine.

The Prime Minister also offered his deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the Ukrainians who lost their lives in the recent Russian attacks.

The Prime Minister invited President Zelenskyy to the UK at the earliest opportunity and looked forward to discussing how the two nations can strengthen defence for both Ukraine and Europe as a whole.

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

The Prime Minister spoke to the President of the United States, Donald Trump, shortly after taking office this afternoon.

The Prime Minister began by congratulating the President on a successful World Cup and agreed that England had an excellent tournament. 

The Prime Minister also hoped that he would be able to show the President what Manchester had to offer during a visit in the future.

Setting out his vision as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, the Prime Minister said he would be focused on ensuring reindustrialisation up and down the country to ensure good growth in every postcode. 

The Prime Minister also underlined his commitment to defence and security and said ensuring the security of the UK and its Allies was at the top of his agenda.

The President then updated on the situation in the Middle East, and the Prime Minister outlined the UK’s commitment to securing the movement of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz to support global supply chains and drive down costs for businesses and families across the country.

They looked forward to speaking again soon.

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

The Prime Minister used his first speech in office to launch an urgent national drive to end rough sleeping at the earliest opportunity, setting out a bold ambition to tackle one of the starkest injustices in the country. This will be backed from day one by an additional £340 million – taking overall funding to record levels.

• In his speech on the steps of 10 Downing Street the Prime Minister announced a new national effort to end rough sleeping, backed by record investment
• Prime Minister says government can bring back hope to Britain and rejects the claim that ending rough sleeping will take decades or that it can’t be done
• Prime Minister says the crisis has been caused by years of national government failure and Westminster turning a blind eye
• Mayors, councils, the NHS, public services and government departments will now be backed to provide urgent support for vulnerable people before the winter

The Prime Minister used his first speech in office to launch an urgent national drive to end rough sleeping at the earliest opportunity, setting out a bold ambition to tackle one of the starkest injustices in the country. This will be backed from day one by an additional £340 million – taking overall funding to record levels. 

The policy forms a key part of his pledge on the steps of Downing Street to help everyone to live well and build a more preventative state, investing in success rather than paying for failure. Crisis research shows that a year of rough sleeping costs an estimated £20,128 per person, versus £1,426 for a successful prevention intervention.

The Prime Minister rejects the notion that ending rough sleeping will take decades or that it can’t be done at all. The experience of ‘Everyone In’ during the pandemic, showed that with the right political will, it can be done. He is clear that the rough sleeping crisis has been caused by years of systemic failure in national policy. Westminster has too often turned a blind eye to rough sleeping, which has been all too apparent to local leaders. Ambitious local leaders will now be backed with the full support of central government.

Before walking up Downing Street to address the nation, the Prime Minister met people with experience of sleeping rough. He heard how it can trap people in a cycle of crisis, poor health and insecurity. He believes that thousands of people sleeping rough every night in our country is not inevitable, but a choice by politicians, and that he will take immediate action to change how the government treats the issue.  

Urgent first steps will begin to help those sleeping rough over a long period to move into secure housing. This includes beginning the acquisition of suitable homes, identifying those most in need and starting to provide housing and support without delay.

The new funding is the first phase of investment in a wider five-year programme that will provide homes and support for thousands of the people facing the most severe and long-term homelessness. Further steps will be set out before the autumn.

This effort will benefit everyone: transforming the lives of people who have spent long periods on the streets, strengthening towns and communities, and reducing the pressure that repeated crisis interventions place on the NHS, the criminal justice system and other public services.  

Local leaders will lead the delivery of the programme, building on proven local-led approaches that have helped to tackle rough sleeping in communities across the country. The new funding, which represents the opening investment, will provide 1,200 homes and intensive support for at least 3,000 people.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said:

For too long, we’ve been told that ending rough sleeping will take decades or even that it’s impossible. I’m not having that. 

This is something a government can fix if it chooses to. Today, I’m choosing to.

On my first day as Prime Minister, I’m announcing this government’s commitment to finally end long-term rough sleeping across the UK at the earliest opportunity.

We’ll get to work immediately, bringing together national and local government with the investment needed to get it done.

This is the kind of Britain I want us to be – a country where everyone has the security of a roof over their head, and where no one is left behind or written off. Let’s bring back hope.

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 2 July 2026.

The Prime Minister met His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik Al Said of Oman in Downing Street this afternoon.

The Prime Minister reiterated his solidarity with Oman and all our partners in the region, as well as his gratitude for Oman’s mediation efforts which contributed to the deal between the US and Iran.

They discussed efforts to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and provide shipping with the reassurance needed to transit through the Strait. The Prime Minister recognised that Oman’s support was vital, and they agreed to continue to work closely.

They agreed to stay in touch.

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 2 July 2026.

Pubs and bars will be able to stay open until 5am on Monday morning so England fans can come together to watch the World Cup last-16 match against Mexico.

• Pubs and bars across England and Wales will be able to stay open until 5am for Sunday night’s England v Mexico match 
• Removes red tape for pubs and bars wanting to boost revenues and allow fans to come together to support the team 
• Follows extensions already in place for all of England’s knock-out matches 

Pubs and bars will be able to stay open until 5am on Monday morning so England fans can come together to watch the World Cup last-16 match against Mexico. 

In a boost for pubs, bars and football fans across the country, alcohol licensing hours will be extended for Sunday night’s match which kicks off at 1am. 

This change removes the need for individual premises in England and Wales to apply for extended hours, delivering a welcome boost to the hospitality sector. 

The Home Secretary has the legislative power to extend licensing hours on occasions of “exceptional international, national or local significance”. This follows extensions already granted for England’s knock-out games that kicked off up until 22.00. 

Communities Secretary Steve Reed is writing to council leaders informing them of these changes, and thanking them for playing their part in approving Temporary Event Notices throughout the tournament – ensuring supporters can properly roar on the Three Lions down the pub.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

“Football might be coming home but we’re making sure fans don’t have to. 

“Pubs staying open till the final whistle is good news for supporters and good news for the pubs and venues that bring our communities together. 
“The whole country will be backing the team. Come on England!”

Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA), said: 

“This is fantastic news and will be hugely welcomed by operators. The government has listened to the overwhelming public support for England and recognised the challenges facing pubs and licensed premises across the country. 

“This pragmatic approach allows venues to focus on what matters most – bringing communities together to support the national team. Major sporting occasions like this deliver a significant boost to hospitality businesses while creating an atmosphere that unites the country. 

“As England heads into one of the biggest games of the tournament, let’s get behind the team, support our local venues, and give the country something positive to celebrate. We hope this weekend marks not only a memorable occasion for England on the pitch, but also a much-needed boost for our hospitality sector and the communities it serves.” 

Emma McClarkin, CEO of the British Beer and Pub Association, said:  

“Pubs and fans will be over the moon about this decision, because we all know the best place to watch the match is down the local. 

“This tournament is hugely important for our sector, so we’re delighted the government listened to our concerns and acted so quickly. Now we can carry on being the home of live sport and welcoming fans through the door.” 

Kate Nicholls, Chair of UKHospitality, said:

“England’s march towards World Cup glory is something millions of fans want to support.

“This very welcome announcement from the government allows those that want to enjoy the game in pubs and other hospitality venues to get together to cheer on our Three Lions.”

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 30 June 2026.

Britain’s Armed Forces will be ready and equipped to fight the wars of today and the future following a landmark £15 billion investment to fund key equipment and technology, announced today.

• Additional funding to strengthen military readiness and accelerate the drone transformation, boost future fighter jets and strengthen the UK’s nuclear deterrent.
• Defence Investment Plan will also create nearly 60,000 extra direct and indirect UK industry jobs by the end of the decade, taking forecasted defence spending related jobs supported in the UK to more than half a million.
• Nearly £300 billion in funding over next four years to transform the UK military with cutting edge equipment.

Britain’s Armed Forces will be ready and equipped to fight the wars of today and the future following a landmark £15 billion investment to fund key equipment and technology, announced today.  

The Prime Minister announced during a major speech at Malloy Aeronautics this morning that the Defence Investment Plan will be backed by £298 billion of investment across the next four years, including £15bn of additional spending on top of last year’s Spending Review.

It will see an increase in defence funding from £54 billion a year under the previous government to almost £80 billion a year by 2029, and will see the UK’s defence spending increase to 2.7% of GDP.

This means the proportion of GDP spent on defence will now be higher than at any time during the last thirty years by the end of this decade, and puts the UK on track to meet NATO’s defence spending targets by 2035.

The major spending uplift will also create nearly 60,000 extra direct and indirect UK industry jobs by the end of the decade, taking forecasted defence spending-related jobs supported in the UK to more than half a million. 

The Defence Investment Plan set to be published later today will implement the vision set in the Strategic Defence Review, seeing the Armed Forces adapt for the wars of today and tomorrow by investing in new equipment and embracing new technology, such as drones, autonomy and AI.  

Key funding includes:

• More than £8 billion in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) over the next four years, progressing the programme which will build a next-generation stealth fighter jet for the Royal Air Force, alongside our close allies Japan and Italy.    
• More than £63 billion over the next four years to strengthen the UK’s nuclear deterrent and to fund Dreadnought and SSN-AUKUS submarines, a new warhead, and other crucial nuclear work. Additionally, we will also purchase 12 F35As and join NATO’s nuclear mission.  
• Including elements of the above nuclear investment in the first four years, £26 billion over the next decade in Project Royal Oak – the biggest naval base upgrade for over 45 years, including multi-billion-pound upgrades at Faslane, Portsmouth and Devonport.  
• Over £5 billion for the next four years to fund a drone transformation for our Armed Forces. As part of this, £650 million will deliver inexpensive expendable autonomous systems including drones and uncrewed ground vehicles to rapidly enhance the lethality of the Army, Commando Force and Special Forces.   
• Nearly £2 billion to integrate our Armed Forces through a new Digital Targeting Web. This will enable faster decision-making and speed in destroying identified targets and will be underpinned by world leading AI and software.
• £790 million over the next four years to enhance protection of the UK homeland and overseas bases from air, drone and missile threats. This will revolutionise command and control and buy new radars and sensors. We will also invest in Directed Energy Weapons, upgrade Sea Viper for our Type 45 destroyers, expand counter drone systems, and build a new Integrated Air, Space and Missile Defence Operations Centre.   
• £11 billion on munitions and weapons to increase UK stockpiles and ensure our Armed Forces have the right mix of capabilities to defeat targets, including long-range strike weapons, low-cost cruise missiles and one-way effectors. By 2030, we will have built at least six new energetics factories and increased our national munitions production capacity. 
• £900 million investment to drive efficiency and reform procurement, including a £500 million Transformation Fund to deliver productivity improving investments in AI and workforce transformation, as well as an initial £400m contribution to setting up the Multilateral Defence Mechanism.     
• £100 million for the Prime Minister’s Rapid AI Delivery Taskforce (RAID) to accelerate the deployment of AI-enabled capabilities into the hands of our Armed Forces.

On top of this, the government is investing £115 million to raise the UK’s defences against the threats from AI, including using AI to improve our biosecurity and mitigate risks posed by autonomous AI agents.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:   

This record investment puts the security of the British public first, transforming our Armed Forces and giving them the funding and equipment they need to fight and defend our nation.

The world is a more dangerous and volatile place, so it is only right we are boosting the number of troops on the ground, rebuilding ammunition stockpiles and investing in cutting edge technology to ensure we outpace our adversaries for generations to come.

Every pound in this plan will work twice, delivering economic growth and opportunity for the British people, and supporting more than half a million jobs by the end of the decade, as well as reinforcing our national security.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

I have boosted defence spending to the highest level since the Cold War – and today’s Defence Investment Plan goes further still, committing almost £300 billion over this Parliament to transform our Armed Forces. That’s more money, spent more effectively, to keep the country safe and back British industry, jobs and growth.

Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis MBE MP said:

I know first-hand the importance of our Armed Forces having the kit and technology they need to do the difficult job we ask of them.

I have secured more money and made different choices for defence. We will invest £298 billion over the next four years. That includes an additional £15 billion, of which most is extra day-to-day spending for training and improving availability of ships and aircraft to increase our war-fighting readiness. 

By choosing to embrace new technology, I am equipping our forces with the autonomous systems which will give them the edge. 

This extra money and these choices send a clear signal to our allies and our adversaries alike: Britain is stepping up on security.

Chief of the Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton said:

This plan sets out how and where we will invest in defence over the coming years to deliver the Strategic Defence Review and build the integrated force the nation needs.

It also reflects both the importance of national defence and the vital contribution our Armed Forces make every day to keeping the country safe.

Reinforcing today’s additional investment, the Prime Minister also announced this morning a new £50 billion defence export facility established by UK Export Finance to support British defence firms to win contracts across the globe. This will support British defence companies of all sizes and strengthen the UK’s competitiveness in a rapidly growing market. 

The Defence Investment Plan continues this Government’s delivery of the Strategic Defence Review’s vision for UK defence.  

GCAP is a groundbreaking collaboration between the UK, Japan and Italy to develop a sixth-generation stealth fighter aircraft, which already supports 4,500 jobs across the UK. The work is deepening our defence, industrial, and technology collaboration with our partners in both the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic regions.  

The Defence Investment Plan will include significant funding to renew and maintain the UK’s nuclear deterrent, the ultimate guarantor of our security, also declared to the defence of NATO.

Over the next four years, £20 billion more will be invested into the Defence Nuclear Enterprise, compared to the previous four years. It demonstrates the government’s commitment to fund the nuclear “triple lock” building four Dreadnought submarines in Barrow, sustaining the nuclear deterrent, and delivering future upgrades, including the replacement warhead.    

This investment will be underpinned by a commitment to drive out waste and inefficiency, including tackling £250 million fraud and error, and accelerating investment in AI and procurement reform.

The Government has set out details of how the Defence Investment Plan will be funded through reprioritising public spending, acting within our fiscal rules and without taking resources away from day-to-day spending on frontline services.

This approach will allow the country to continue renewing and rebuilding and ensure that the Armed Forces have the resources they need to meet this new era of threat.

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 29 June 2026.

The Prime Minister hosted the NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at Downing Street today. 

The leaders began by discussing the publication of the Defence Investment Plan. The Prime Minister set out how his plan would focus on readiness and autonomous capability, ensuring British forces would have the equipment they need to keep the UK and its NATO Allies safe.  

The leaders then reflected on their recent diplomatic meetings, including at the G7, the E5 in Berlin and the Secretary General’s visit to the US. They discussed the strong international support for Ukraine and looked ahead to the outcomes of the upcoming NATO Summit in Ankara. 

Ukraine would form a key part of European security long into the future, with the strongest armed forces in Europe, the leaders agreed. 

On the Strait of Hormuz, the Prime Minister and Secretary General discussed the need to ensure the safe passage of global shipping and the Prime Minister updated on the UK’s military assets in the region to support a multi-national mission when the conditions allowed. 

They both looked forward to speaking again soon.

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 29 June 2026.

The Prime Minister hosted a roundtable discussion this morning with hospitality organisations working to support those facing barriers to employment, training and education, setting out the government’s ambition to ensure every young person can fulfil their potential regardless of background.

He set out the government’s focus on technical education and skills, arguing that university should not be seen as the only route to success. He outlined plans to increase participation in high-level skills training, expand technical excellence colleges and prioritise youth apprenticeships to meet the needs of the economy of the future.

The Prime Minister also set out the government’s wider approach to supporting young people, including action to tackle child poverty through breakfast clubs, expanded childcare and lifting the two-child benefit limit, alongside the Youth Guarantee and a new £3,000 incentive for businesses to recruit young people who have been out of work for six months.

He invited participants to share first-hand experiences of existing schemes and how they could be improved.