Tag: News Story

STORY

Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has strongly criticised the United States’ proposed peace plan for Ukraine, arguing that it offers no tangible benefits to Kyiv and effectively rewards Russian aggression.​ Johnson’s remarks come in response to a plan put forward by US President Donald Trump, which reportedly includes recognising Russia’s annexation of Crimea and freezing conflict lines, without securing any real security guarantees for Ukraine. Johnson contends that such a proposal fails to prevent future Russian aggression and undermines Ukraine’s sovereignty.

Johnson said:

“As for Ukraine – what do they get after three years of heroic resistance against a brutal and unprovoked invasion? What is their reward for the appalling sacrifices they have made – for the sake, as they have endlessly been told, of freedom and democracy around the world? Apart from the right to share their natural resources with the United States they get nothing. What is there in this deal that can realistically stop a third Russian invasion? Nothing. If we are to prevent more atrocities by Putin then we must have a long-term, credible and above all properly funded security guarantee for Ukraine – a guarantee issued by the UK, the US and all western allies.”

The former Prime Minister emphasised the importance of a robust, long-term security guarantee for Ukraine from Western allies, warning that the current proposal could embolden further Russian aggression. He also highlighted the need for the West to demonstrate a strong commitment to Ukraine to deter similar actions by other authoritarian regimes.​ Johnson’s comments follow a deadly Russian airstrike on Kyiv, which killed or injured over 100 civilians. While President Trump condemned the attacks, he reiterated his call for a peace deal, a stance that Johnson and other Western leaders view as insufficiently supportive of Ukraine’s position. ​

Labour leader Keir Starmer echoed Johnson’s concerns, emphasising the need for an unconditional and lasting ceasefire. The UK government continues to advocate for international efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine and to hold those responsible for atrocities to account.

STORY

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer hosted European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at Downing Street on Thursday, as the UK and EU move towards a renewed partnership encompassing defence, trade, and energy cooperation.​ The meeting focused on shared priorities, including support for Ukraine, energy security, and the global economy. Both leaders condemned the recent deadly Russian missile strike on Kyiv and reaffirmed their commitment to stand with Ukraine “for as long as it takes” .​

Discussions also addressed ongoing negotiations aimed at strengthening the UK-EU relationship. Significant progress has been made, with both sides instructing their teams to continue working towards an ambitious package of agreements to be unveiled at the first UK-EU summit next month.

Potential areas of agreement include a youth mobility scheme, a veterinary deal to ease food trade, and enhanced defence cooperation. The proposed defence pact could grant UK defence firms access to the EU’s €150bn SAFE fund, while the SPS agreement may mirror the EU-Switzerland model to reduce border checks on agricultural goods. ​

Prime Minister Starmer emphasised that a strengthened UK-EU partnership would improve the lives of working people in the UK, drive economic growth, and enhance national security. The leaders agreed to maintain close contact in the coming weeks as preparations continue for the May summit, which aims to formalise a new chapter in UK-EU relations.

STORY

The Lord Chancellor has approved the appointment of Alexandra Marks CBE as the new Chair of the Parole Board for England and Wales. Her five-year term will commence on 18 July 2025.​ The Parole Board, an Executive Non-Departmental Public Body sponsored by the Ministry of Justice, plays a crucial role in the criminal justice system by assessing the risk of prisoners to determine their suitability for release into the community. Established under the Criminal Justice Act 1967, the Board operates independently to ensure public safety through meticulous risk evaluations.​ Since 2023, she has served as Chair of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors’ Regulatory Tribunal. Her judicial career includes appointments as a Recorder since 2002 and as a Deputy High Court Judge since 2010.

Additionally, she has been a First Tier Tribunal Judge in the General Regulatory Chamber since 2018.​ Her previous roles include serving as a Commissioner at the Criminal Cases Review Commission from 2013 to 2018 and as a Judicial Appointments Commissioner between 2012 and 2018.

STORY

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has issued a stark warning over the escalating violence in El Fasher, North Darfur, labelling recent atrocities as bearing the “hallmarks of ethnic cleansing” and potentially amounting to crimes against humanity.​ In a statement released by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Lammy condemned the ongoing siege of El Fasher by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the obstruction of civilians attempting to flee the conflict. He urged both the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) to de-escalate hostilities immediately and to implement United Nations Security Council Resolution 2736, which calls for the cessation of fighting and the protection of civilians.​

“The reports of violence in and around the city of El Fasher are appalling,” Lammy stated. “Both sides must de-escalate urgently in Darfur and implement UNSCR2736, which calls on the RSF to halt its siege of El Fasher and bring an immediate stop to the fighting.”

The Foreign Secretary emphasised the responsibility of both parties to uphold international humanitarian law, highlighting their commitments made in the Jeddah Declaration to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian access. He called for a 72-hour pause in fighting to allow for the delivery of aid and safe passage for civilians seeking refuge.​

“Hundreds of thousands have been displaced; yet many more in Zamzam IDP camp and El Fasher are being blocked from fleeing this violence by the warring parties,” Lammy noted. “They must be free to seek safety wherever they think best and be protected as they do so.”

The UK Government has pledged to use all available tools to hold those responsible for atrocities to account and continues to advocate for international efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Sudan.

STORY

US President Donald Trump has condemned the overnight attacks by Russia on Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine. After some recent controversial criticism of Vladimir Zelenskyy, the Ukrainian leader, Trump posted on TruthSocial:

“I am not happy with the Russian strikes on KYIV. Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP! 5000 soldiers a week are dying. Lets get the Peace Deal DONE!”

French President Emmanuel Macron also condemned the attacks, saying that Ukraine couldn’t accept any ceasefire terms when Russian attacks were continuing. Nine people were killed in the capital, and many more injured, after the recent Russian attacks.

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The HS2 Independent Construction Commissioner (ICC) has released his 32nd report, covering the period from 1 October to 31 December 2024. The report outlines ongoing community concerns, progress in construction and reflections on the project’s future challenges. During the quarter, the ICC received 39 individual case approaches. Of these, 28 were issues previously raised with HS2 Ltd but brought to the ICC’s attention, while 11 new cases were referred to HS2 Ltd for response. One case underwent a full investigation under the Small Claims Scheme and was concluded, and another previously settled case was reopened due to new information, subsequently resolved by HS2 Land and Property.

The Small Claims Scheme registered 32 new claims during the quarter, with 9 settled and 23 rejected. Since the scheme’s inception, 698 claims have been registered, 173 approved, and 461 rejected, totalling £88,525 in payouts. The report highlights specific local issues, such as the planned construction of a Spring Chamber near Wendover, Buckinghamshire. HS2 Ltd’s proposal to access the site via Dobbins Lane raised concerns among residents due to previous assurances about minimising construction traffic through the town. The ICC acknowledged these concerns but emphasised the importance of balancing local impact with project timelines and costs.

Regarding the Euston terminus, the ICC noted the absence of a clear development plan, leading to uncertainty for local residents. He urged all parties involved to expedite decision-making to alleviate community distress.

Reflecting on his tenure, the ICC commended the engineering achievements of the HS2 project, particularly the progress of the Colne Valley viaduct. He expressed hope that even critics would recognise the project’s accomplishments as visible infrastructure takes shape. As the ICC concludes his role after six and a half years, he emphasised the need for continued attention to local concerns and effective communication between HS2 Ltd, contractors and affected communities.

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The UK government has announced the reopening of key forestry grants totalling up to £4.1 million, aiming to enhance domestic tree and seed production in support of ambitious tree-planting targets. The funding is available through three grant schemes: the Tree Production Capital Grant, the Tree Production Innovation Fund, and the Seed Sourcing Grant. These grants are designed to support foresters, researchers, landowners, nurseries, and seed suppliers in increasing the resilience and productivity of tree production. The initiative seeks to ensure a reliable supply of diverse and high-quality trees for future planting, contributing to the government’s environmental goals and supporting green jobs.

Sir William Worsley, Chair of the Forestry Commission, stated:​

“Supporting domestic tree and tree seed production can be at the very root of growth opportunities for our sector. Our grants have the potential to ensure there is a reliable supply of diverse and high-quality trees for future planting to the Government’s tree planting targets, improving timber security whilst boosting employment and the wider green economy.”

Previous recipients of these grants include a range of organisations across the public, private, and third sectors. For instance, the Tree Production Capital Grant has enabled community tree nurseries to acquire polytunnels and seed processing equipment, while larger nurseries have invested in machinery to enhance efficiency.

The Tree Production Innovation Fund has supported projects like Rhizocore Technologies, which developed mycorrhizal fungi pellets to improve tree growth and resilience. Dr Toby Parkes, Founder and CEO of Rhizocore, noted that the funding enabled the development of these pellets, which have shown significant improvements in tree growth rates and survival. These grants are part of the government’s broader strategy to meet statutory tree-planting targets, enhance climate resilience, and support biodiversity. Applications are now open, and eligible parties are encouraged to apply to contribute to the UK’s environmental and economic objectives.

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The UK government has announced the appointment of Mrs Sally Axworthy MBE as His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of Kazakhstan. She will succeed Ms Kathy Leach, who is transferring to another diplomatic role, and is set to assume her new position in August 2025.

Mrs Axworthy brings a wealth of diplomatic experience to the role, having served in various capacities within the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Her recent roles include Head of the Negotiations and Peace Processes Department in the Office for Conflict, Stabilisation and Mediation from 2021 to 2024, and His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Holy See from 2016 to 2021.

In preparation for her new assignment, Mrs Axworthy has been engaged in full-time Kazakh language training since 2024. Her extensive career also includes postings in India, Germany, Ukraine, and Russia, as well as leadership roles focusing on regions such as North Africa, East Africa, and the United Nations. Her appointment is anticipated to further strengthen the UK-Kazakhstan relationship, encompassing areas such as trade, diplomacy, and regional cooperation.

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Sir Richard Branson has launched a scathing critique of former U.S. President Donald Trump, accusing him of causing significant global harm through erratic policies and unpredictable leadership. Speaking ahead of Virgin Atlantic’s inaugural flight from London to Riyadh, the Virgin Group founder expressed deep concern over Trump’s approach to international trade and foreign affairs, particularly his stance on Ukraine. ​Branson highlighted the detrimental impact of Trump’s tariff policies, describing them as “erratic and unpredictable” actions that have destabilised the global economy. He lamented that these measures have disrupted previously thriving sectors within his business empire, including cruise ships, airlines, and health clubs. ​

The British entrepreneur also questioned the breadth of Trump’s support base, stating, “I honestly think this is a fairly small elite of people around Trump. I don’t think he is carrying the vast majority of Americans in what he is doing.” ​Branson warned that the United States risks isolation from major global economic powers such as the European Union, China, and Japan if it continues on its current trajectory. He emphasised that such isolation could have long-term negative consequences for American businesses and the broader economy. ​

In addition to his criticisms of U.S. policy, Branson defended Virgin Atlantic’s decision to commence flights to Saudi Arabia, citing significant reforms in the kingdom. He acknowledged past concerns, including the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, but noted that the country has “made a lot of changes” and is “moving dramatically in the right direction.”

STORY

Sheffield-based payroll director Hubert Omukhulu has been disqualified from acting as a company director for eight years after his firm, Remedy Payroll Solutions Ltd, went into liquidation owing more than £2.5 million in unpaid VAT. An investigation by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and the Insolvency Service revealed that between June 2020 and September 2021, Omukhulu submitted six VAT returns that significantly under-declared the company’s tax liabilities. In 2020, the company reported no VAT due, and in 2021, it declared just over £264,000. However, HMRC’s analysis determined that the actual VAT owed during this period was £2,584,044.

Omukhulu, 36, of Nethershire Lane, Sheffield, was the sole director of Remedy Payroll Solutions, which was incorporated in May 2020. The company initially operated from Omukhulu’s home address before changing its registered office multiple times to locations in Romford and Hainault. The firm entered liquidation in July 2022.

Kevin Read, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, commented:​

“Hubert Omukhulu allowed his payroll supply company to substantially under-declare the amount of VAT it owed in 2020 and 2021. More than £2 million in VAT was not paid by the company. This money should have gone towards funding vital public services such as the NHS, schools and our nation’s defence. Omukhulu’s conduct falls well below the standards the Insolvency Service expects, which is why he has been banned as a company director until 2033.”

Debbie Porter, Assistant Director of HMRC’s Fraud Investigation Service, added:​

“We are determined to create a level playing field that allows honest businesses to thrive, which is why it’s crucial we work closely with the Insolvency Service and other partners to act against rogue directors. The majority pay the tax that is due, but we will pursue those who refuse to play by the rules.”

The disqualification prevents Omukhulu from being involved in the promotion, formation, or management of a company without the permission of the court until 2033.