Tag: Press Release

  • PRESS RELEASE : Five Eyes back UK-led action to disrupt global fraud networks [August 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Five Eyes back UK-led action to disrupt global fraud networks [August 2026]

    The press release issued by the Home Office on 27 August 2026.

    US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand back a package of UK-led measures to strengthen international action against fraud and online scams.

    The UK is joining forces with the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand to crack down on global fraud networks and protect the public from scammers.

    At the Five Country Ministerial in Sydney, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood and her Five Eyes counterparts backed a package of UK-led measures to strengthen the international response to fraud and online scams, bringing together governments, law enforcement and industry to tackle one of the world’s fastest-growing crimes.

    The need for a more co-ordinated international response has grown as organised crime groups become increasingly sophisticated, exploiting global communications networks, digital platforms and financial systems to target victims across borders.

    New measures will strengthen partners’ ability to detect and disrupt fraud before more people become victims. This includes faster intelligence-sharing to identify fraud operations spanning multiple countries, including scam centres, and coordinated action between governments, law enforcement and industry to shut down the accounts, services and communications channels criminals use to target victims and move their profits.

    As part of this work, recommendations to strengthen industry action against online scams and financial crime will be developed in partnership with telecommunications providers, technology companies and financial institutions.

    The focus will be on tackling vulnerabilities in systems and services that criminals exploit to target victims and move illicit funds. By improving collaboration between the public and private sectors, partners will be better able to identify new threats, respond more quickly and make it harder for criminals to profit from fraud.

    Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said:

    Fraud is a scourge on our society, ruining lives and costing victims billions of pounds every year.

    Criminal gangs don’t respect borders, so our response can’t be restricted by them. By deepening international co-operation and working more closely with industry, we can track down fraudsters, disrupt their operations, and better protect the public.

    Together, we must make it harder for criminals to profit from fraud and easier to bring them to justice.

    Five Eyes partners also backed enhanced international support for the UK-backed INTERPOL Global Fraud Taskforce. Bringing together law enforcement, governments and industry, the taskforce will help map organised fraud networks, generate intelligence, identify links between criminal groups operating in different countries and support international operations to disrupt their activities and bring perpetrators to justice.

    As a global leader in the fight against fraud, the UK is driving the international response to a crime which increasingly crosses national borders.

    Earlier this year, the government committed £250 million through its new Fraud Strategy to strengthen law enforcement capabilities, tackle scams at their source and improve support for victims.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Minister acts to help save Rembrandt masterpiece from leaving the UK [August 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Minister acts to help save Rembrandt masterpiece from leaving the UK [August 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport on 27 August 2026.

    The government has temporarily banned a Rembrandt painting worth £71 million from being taken out of the UK permanently.

    • A UK gallery or institution has been granted the opportunity to save this masterpiece for the nation 

    The UK government has blocked a painting by Rembrandt, one of the most famous artists of all time, from being taken out of the country permanently in the hope that a UK gallery or institution can save it for the nation.  

    Rembrandt’s Portrait of Catrina Hooghsaet, painted in 1657, is one of the artist’s most exceptional later works, and has been displayed in the UK since the mid eighteenth century. It is valued at £71 million, the most expensive object ever to be given national treasure status.  

    The decision to place a temporary export ban on the portrait gives museums and galleries time to raise the funds needed to acquire it, with the aim of keeping an important work in the UK and on public display.  

    The portrait is of exceptional importance to our shared history and national life; it adds value to our understanding of Rembrandt and his works, social relations, gender, religion and identity in the Dutch Republic, Rembrandt’s place in British collections, and the wider history of the art of portrait painting. 

    The portrait depicts Catrina Hooghsaet, an affluent member of Amsterdam’s Mennonite community whose unconventional domestic life saw her live separately from her husband. Rembrandt’s thoughtful depiction captures both her character and individuality, demonstrating his celebrated ability to convey the inner life of his sitters. 

    Arts Minister, Ruth Mackenzie said: 

    The Portrait of Catrina Hooghsaet has been part of the UK’s cultural life for centuries. The scale, beauty and history of this masterpiece make it a priority for cultural partners, funders, philanthropists, and lovers of Rembrandt to help this masterpiece keep its historical place in the UK.

    Andrew Hochhauser KC, Committee Chairman said:  

    Painted in the final phase of his career, Rembrandt’s portrait of Catrina Hooghsaet ranks amongst his finest achievements. It belongs to a rare group of large-scale three-quarter-length portraits and stands out for its delicacy, refinement, and exceptional finish. 

    Rembrandt transforms her relatively ordinary features into a striking image of beauty through his sensitivity, honesty and profound psychological insight. 

    Catrina Hooghsaet’s unusually well-documented life allows the portrait to be studied alongside rich historical evidence, providing rare insights into social relations, gender, religion, and identity in the Dutch Republic.  

    This is a painting of outstanding aesthetic importance, of outstanding significance to our cultural history. It is also of outstanding significance to the study of the history of portraiture, the oeuvre of Rembrandt and the history of collecting his work in Britain. This enormously important painting should be saved for the nation and kept on public display in this country.

    The Committee recommended that the painting should be subject to an export bar because it met all three Waverley criteria. These criteria are used to assess whether an object is of national importance and its departure from the UK would be a misfortune. In this case, the painting was recognised for its strong connection with our history and national life, its exceptional aesthetic quality, and its importance to the study of Rembrandt and his work.  

    The decision on the export licence application for the painting will be deferred for an initial period ending on 26 December 2026 inclusive in which we welcome expressions of interest from an appropriate purchaser to try and acquire the object. At the end of the first deferral period owners will have a consideration period of 15 Business Days to consider any offer(s) to purchase the painting at the recommended price of £71,696,324.90 (plus VAT of £754,698.15). The second deferral period will commence following the signing of an Option Agreement and will last for nine months.  

    When someone applies to permanently export a important cultural object from the UK, the Government can pause the export if the object is considered a national treasure. This gives a UK museum or appropriate purchaser time to raise the money to keep it in the country.   

    Notes to editors 

    Organisations or individuals interested in purchasing the painting should contact the RCEWA on 02072680534 or rcewa@artscouncil.org.uk. 

    Details of the item are as follows: Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn (1606–1669); Portrait of Catrina Hooghsaet (1607–1685); Oil on canvas, 126 x 98.5 cm; Inscribed and signed on the shield upper left: ‘CATRINA HOOGH / SÆT. / OVT. 50. / Jaer’ and ‘Rembrandt. f. / 1657.’ 

    Provenance:  

    • Catrina Hooghsaet (1607–1685), Amsterdam 
    • Her third husband, Jan Schildt (died 1686), Amsterdam 
    • Probably John Fane, Lord Le Despencer, 7th Earl of Westmorland (1685–1762), Mereworth House, Kent, by 1752 
    • Sir Francis Dashwood, 2nd Bt, Lord Le Despencer (1708–1781), of West Wycombe, and Mereworth House, Kent, by 1780 
    • By descent to his sister, Rachel Dashwood (c.1706–1788), wife of Sir Robert Austen, 4th Bt 
    • By descent to her cousin, Sir Thomas Stapleton, 6th Bt, Lord Le Despencer (1766–1831), of Rotherfield Greys, and Mereworth Castle, Kent 
    • His posthumous sale, 1831 
    • Bought after this sale by Peacock [probably the London dealer Michael Peacock (c.1785–1843)], for £178 10s.  *Collection Edmund Higginson (né Barneby) (1802–1871), Saltmarshe Castle, Herefordshire, by 1836 
    • His sale, London (Christie’s), 4–6 June 1846, lot 221 (£798, bought in) 
    • His sale, London (Christie’s), 4–6 June 1860, lot 43 (740 gns., to Farrer [the London 
    • dealer Henry Farrer, 1798–1866]) 
    • Collection Colonel the Hon. Edward Douglas-Pennant, 1st Baron Penrhyn of Llandegai (1800–1886), and by descent 
    • Private sale, 2015, when acquired by a private collector, 
    • Private sale, (Christie’s) 2025, when acquired. 

    The Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest is an independent body, serviced by Arts Council England (ACE), which advises the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport on whether a cultural object, intended for export, is of national importance under specified criteria.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Households can save as plug-in solar panels come to market [August 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Households can save as plug-in solar panels come to market [August 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 26 August 2026.

    Households can save hundreds on bills as plug-in solar panels become legal to use and buy across the country.

    • Plug-in solar panels now legal to buy and use across the country 
    • Households could save up to £110 a year, with panels providing up to 20% of average home electricity use 
    • Savings follow government cuts to VAT on energy bills to offer breathing space this winter 

    More families are set to save money on bills as plug-in solar panels become legal across Great Britain.  

    From today (27 August), the easy-to-install panels can be plugged into homes across the country, saving households up to £110 a year on their bills through clean, homegrown power. 

    Each plug-in solar kit produces up to 800W of power, enough to provide up to 20% of an average home’s electricity use. This can run a typical fridge, television, Wi-Fi router, laptop, phone charger and an Xbox S operating at once when the sun is shining.  

    This all comes with no installation cost and without taking any electricity from the grid. 

    The legal changes follow rigorous, independent safety testing, covering all key electrical elements, which shows that compliant panels are safe and compatible with UK wiring.  

    The UK safety specification is more stringent than that of Germany, where the technology is already widely used and around half a million new devices were plugged in last year. 

    Homegrown power is the only way to deliver energy security for the country and financial security for families and businesses.  

    Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh said: 

    Plug-in solar is a simple, affordable way for households to take control of their energy bills and start saving straight away.  

    From this summer, we’re giving more families the ability power their homes with clean homegrown energy.

    Major retailers, such as Currys, B&Q, Screwfix and Amazon have worked with government on the rollout of plug-in solar and will soon have them available to purchase in stores and online.   

    The low-cost panels can be put in any outdoor space or on some balconies. Before purchasing or installing plug-in solar devices, people should check whether any permissions are required for the property. This may include permission from a landlord and/or building owner or freeholder permission, planning permission or listed building consent. 

    Decisions on whether to approve requests are a matter for landlords, freeholders or councils, but we encourage them to consider each case on its individual merits. 

    Enabling these easy-to-install panels is just one of the ways the government is giving people breathing space to help tackle bills.  

    In July, the Prime Minister announced plans to cut VAT on energy bills to give families breathing space this winter. This builds on the £150 of costs taken off energy bills in the Budget last year and the expansion of the £150 Warm Home Discount to around six million households.  

    Retailers including Amazon, Argos, Curry’s and Wickes have all committed to stocking plug-in solar panels. 

    John Boumphrey, UK & Ireland Country Manager, Amazon said: 

    Amazon is the largest corporate buyer of carbon-free energy in the UK, and we’ve invested in 50 solar and wind projects to date.  

    The government’s announcement on plug-in solar panels is a practical step that gives households a simple way to generate their own power, reduce bills, and contribute to the UK’s net zero goals. We’re looking forward to helping customers benefit from this technology. 

    Graham Biggart, Managing Director for Argos, said:  

    We’re really pleased to now offer plug-in solar panels for Argos customers. By making this technology more accessible, we’re putting more power in the hands of our customers and helping them explore practical ways to manage energy use at home. 

    As a brand trusted by millions of customers across the UK, we’re proud to bring innovative products like this to more homes and give customers greater confidence and choice when it comes to emerging home technologies.

    Michelle Gorringe-Smith, Director of New Categories at Currys, said:  

    The safe roll-out of plug-in solar products represents an important step in supporting consumers with ways to save money on their energy bills. 

    We’ll continue to work closely with DESNZ and our suppliers to make these products available to UK households as soon as possible, including through both our website and larger stores.

    David Wood, CEO, Wickes:  

    By giving people a simpler and more affordable way to generate clean energy at home, this technology has the potential to put solar within reach of many more households.  

    With the UK having some of the oldest and least energy efficient housing stock in Europe, making energy-saving technologies easier to access will be an important part of helping people reduce their energy bills and supporting the transition to a lower-carbon future.  

    We look forward to making these products available online to our customers in the coming weeks.

    Joanna O’Loan, Knowledge Manager at Energy Saving Trust, said:  

    The arrival of plug-in solar panels represents a significant milestone in expanding access to clean energy for households across Great Britain. 

    While the savings will vary from home to home, plug-in solar panels will give more people greater control over their energy use and costs. As these products become more widely available, access to clear and reliable information is essential to help people make informed choices that are right for their home and budget.

    Chris Hewitt, CEO Solar Energy UK, said: 

    This is a great example of Industry and government coming together and delivering quickly for Britain.  

    Solar and batteries are already the most effective way for homes and businesses to slash their energy bills by more than half, and making plug-in solar lawful will bring cheap, clean power to households that have not been able to access these benefits before.  

    Our industry continues to work closely with government to ensure that all customers can have confidence in the safety and reliability of these new technologies.

    Gary Booker, Managing Director of British Gas, said:   

    Until now, generating solar power has required the right roof, the right home and significant upfront investment. That’s why innovations like plug-in solar are so important. They open up the benefits of solar to more households, enabling more people to produce some of their own electricity. 

    At British Gas, we’re pleased to be bringing this technology to our customers, giving them more control over their energy use and helping them save money on their bills.

    Trevor Hutchings, CEO of the Renewable Energy Association said:

    From today, with little more than a trip to the shops, people in Britain will be able to harness the energy of the sun to power their households.

    The arrival of plug-in solar is a huge step forward in democratising renewable energy and giving everyone the access they deserve to clean, cheap, homegrown power. Plug-in solar saves money – up to £100 a year – and it’s only right that this benefit should be felt by renters and flat-owners as well.

    Our electricity prices are some of the highest because of our exposure to volatile international gas markets.  Innovations like plug-in solar and the wider renewables roll out will help us bring down bills and strengthen our energy sovereignty.

    David Boyer, Director of Electricity Systems, at Energy Networks Association, said:

    This is a major step forward for incorporating micro generation safely and efficiently onto the UK’s energy grid. Network operators will continue to work closely with government, Ofgem and manufactures to ensure the registration process for micro generation evolves to meet consumer demands.

    There is already record demand for solar power across the country. Figures released by MCS recently showed there were almost 150,000 solar panel certified installations in the first six months of 2026, up 17% on the previous highest start to a year in 2025. That is the equivalent to an installation every 74 seconds.  

    Battery installations have also risen significantly, with installations almost double the same period last year with 36,000 certified installations. 

    Legalising plug-in solar panels builds on savings homeowners can already make of up to £480 a year from rooftop solar, helping more people in a range of property types generate their own clean electricity and cut their energy bills.  

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government’s Jobs Guarantee turns promise into paycheques for young people [August 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government’s Jobs Guarantee turns promise into paycheques for young people [August 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 26 August 2026.

    The first young people supported by a new Government programme for the long-term unemployed have started their jobs.

    • First cohort of young people start work through the Government’s Jobs Guarantee, delivering on the Prime Minister’s priority to tackle youth unemployment
    • Scheme aims to create opportunity for those furthest from the jobs market and is backed by major businesses, including Boots and OCS
    • Over 90,000 fully funded jobs to be created by 2029 through the Jobs Guarantee, a key part of the Government’s £2.5 billion drive to tackle youth unemployment

    The Jobs Guarantee scheme offers a direct route into work for all 18–24-year-olds who have been claiming Universal Credit and looking for work for 18 months.

    Roles on offer are matched to the individual’s skillset, with the government fully funding up to 25 hours paid work for six months to get individuals into the labour market.

    More than 90,000 young people will be supported into work by the scheme in the next three years, with the first cohort of young people having already started positions at retail giant Boots.

    Recognising that the longer people are out of work the more difficult it is to start working again, young people on the scheme get bespoke support to tackle barriers – from confidence building to skills training on the job. This means young people arrive at their new employer work ready and then continue to thrive.

    The Jobs Guarantee is the latest intervention in the Government’s ongoing, extensive employment support for young people, backed by £2.5 billion investment. It marks a major step in the Prime Minister’s drive to get more young people into work and bring hope to more than one million young people who are not earning or learning – a rise of 248,000 between 2021-2024.

    Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden visited Boots to meet some of the first cohort of young people starting work through the Jobs Guarantee in administrative, retail and warehouse support roles.

    Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said:

    Young people want to get on in life but for too long too many have been denied that opportunity. The Jobs Guarantee helps change that.

    Seeing the first young people start their roles brings to life what this scheme is about: real jobs, proper wages, and a genuine route into a career.

    As we roll this out to tens of thousands more young people across the country, we’re backing the next generation to succeed and backing British businesses to grow with the talent they need.

    The Jobs Guarantee has been rolled out in areas with some of the highest levels of youth unemployment:

    • Birmingham and Solihull
    • The East Midlands
    • Greater Manchester
    • Hertfordshire and Essex
    • Central and East Scotland
    • South East and South West Wales

    Later this year the scheme will be expanded to all eligible 18-24 year olds who are on Universal Credit and have been looking for work for 18 months.

    Anthony Hemmerdinger, Managing Director of Boots UK and Ireland, said:

    We’re pleased to create opportunities for young people to secure work placements in our stores, offices and warehouses through the Jobs Guarantee.

    Boots has a strong track record in supporting young people through our graduate schemes, work experience programmes, apprenticeships and youth employability partnership with The King’s Trust. We firmly believe that retail can play an important role in supporting young people to develop the confidence, experience, and skills that can shape their working lives.

    Simon Smithson, Director of Youth Services, Ingeus

    We’re delighted to be delivering Jobs Guarantee in the East Midlands. This programme represents a significant opportunity to help more young people access employment, develop new skills and secure brighter futures.

    The commitment shown by employers such as Boots demonstrates the power of partnership. By bringing together employers, communities and support organisations, we can create high-quality opportunities that benefit individuals, businesses and the wider regional economy.

    Local delivery partners will work with employers to match young people into roles and provide ongoing support to help placements succeed.

    The Jobs Guarantee is part of the Government’s wider £2.5 billion youth employment investment which will support almost one million young people and open up 500,000 opportunities to earn or learn over three years – spreading opportunity to every postcode.

    It comes alongside other incentives for business worth up to £8,000 for eligible young people and the biggest reforms in a generation to the apprenticeship system by putting more funding behind young people and tackling the 40% drop in apprenticeship starts over the past decade.

    Additional Information::

    • Eligible young people will earn at least the National Minimum Wage alongside minimum automatic enrolment contributions for the duration of their employment. Government will fund up to 25hrs/week at the NMW as well as pension contributions, for up to 6 months
    • Government funds support to Jobs Guarantee participants to support them to overcome their barriers to work and succeed in employment on the scheme

    Supportive quotes

    Louise Goodlad, Direct of Delivery (Scotland), King’s Trust said:

    The Jobs Guarantee reflects what The King’s Trust has long believed: that young people need both skills and opportunities to succeed, and that tackling youth unemployment requires government, employers and charities working together.

    The King’s Trust has begun delivering the first phase of the Jobs Guarantee programme in Central and East Scotland, and we are seeing first-hand the determination of young people who want to work as they seize the opportunity to gain experience and develop their skills.

    The Jobs Guarantee will create opportunities for young people at greatest risk of long-term unemployment while helping employers access the talent they need to grow.

    Laura-Jane Rawlings MBE, CEO of Youth Employment UK, said:

    We welcome seeing the Jobs Guarantee move from policy into real, paid opportunities for young people. For those who have been out of work for a long time, a good job can provide not only an income, but the experience, confidence and connections that help build a longer-term career.

    This year’s Youth Voice Census data, being released on 10 September, shows that 75% of young people think paid work experience would help them get a job – a powerful reminder of just how important opportunities like these can be.

    Sarah Williams, Chief People Officer, OCS said:

    Getting that first job is hard, and the Jobs Guarantee Pilot is about making it a bit easier. Young people joining us on our client sites get real experience, new skills and a proper look at the range of careers here at OCS; with clear routes into permanent roles and apprenticeships. The pilot delivery is working well and we are fully committed to rolling it out nationally.

    East Midlands Chamber, Chief Executive, Scott Knowles said:

    Getting more young people into work and equipped with the skills employers need is essential to driving growth and the Jobs Guarantee scheme is an initiative I welcome for addressing that. 

    With so many under 24’s not in Education, Employment or Training – NEET – supportive approaches like the Jobs Guarantee scheme that bridge the needs of employers with provision of opportunities for young people and a focus on upskilling during employment are a forward step. Tackling the skills gap, tackling youth unemployment and getting people into roles with the skills to thrive is what we want to see.

    Daniel Martin, Chief Executive Officer, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, said:

    “Hertfordshire being chosen as an initial rollout region for the Jobs Guarantee is a huge vote of confidence for our local economy. While major UK businesses are leading the first phase, the real transformational power of this programme lies within our vibrant SME sector.

    “Fully funding 25 hours a week significantly mitigates the financial risk for growing local businesses and gives young people a genuine pathway into work. The Chamber’s message to Hertfordshire employers is clear. Take advantage of this support, back local young talent and help build your future workforce.”

    Supportive quotes from SMEs delivering the Jobs Guarantee

    A spokesperson for Matlock Ghost Emporium, said:

    This initiative is a true win-win for independent businesses and young jobseekers alike. Bringing early-career talent into our studio gives our production capacity a real boost, allowing us to expand what we do while actively investing in the next generation of makers.

    Watching a young person build their practical skills and grow in workplace confidence over six months is immensely rewarding, and we’d strongly encourage other small businesses to consider hosting a placement.

    Antony Rhodes, Arc Communications, said:

    Taking part in the Jobs Guarantee has been a really positive experience for our business. We have welcomed four young people into our office through the scheme, and they have already made a noticeable contribution to the team.

    The scheme has given us the opportunity to bring in enthusiastic young people, provide them with valuable workplace experience and develop their skills, while also giving our existing team the opportunity to support and mentor the next generation.

    We have been particularly impressed by the attitude and willingness to learn that the young people have shown. They have quickly become part of the team and are already adding value to the business.

    We would definitely encourage other employers to consider getting involved. The Jobs Guarantee provides a fantastic opportunity to give young people a genuine start in the workplace while benefiting your own organisation.

    Adam Tulloch, Founder & CEO, Total Insight Theatre, said:

    At Total Insight Theatre, we’ve always believed in starting with what young people bring to the table – their ideas, perspectives, creativity and strengths – rather than focusing on how much experience they might have on paper. The Jobs Guarantee has enabled us to welcome six young people into meaningful roles across our organisation, and they’re very much part of the team.

    We’re already benefiting from the fresh thinking, energy and different perspectives they bring to our work, while they gain paid experience and develop their skills. As an organisation that works with young people every day, having young people woven into the fabric of our own team really matters to us. I’d encourage other employers to get involved – there’s such genuine value on both sides.

    Simone Connolly, CEO, FareShare Midlands said

    Our experience of the Youth Job Guarantee has been overwhelmingly positive. We currently have three young people on placements at our Nottingham site, giving them the opportunity to build confidence, develop practical workplace skills and gain valuable experience in a busy warehouse environment.

    The programme builds on the employability support we already provide through SkillsShare, helping young people who may face barriers to work take positive steps towards employment.

    We understand that FareShare Midlands was the amongst the first organisations in the country to offer these placements, which we are very proud of. Based on our experience so far, we will certainly take part again and hope to offer further placements across all three of our sites in Birmingham, Leicester, and Nottingham.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Both parties must fulfil their commitments under Resolution 2803 and refrain from actions that undermine peace – UK statement at the UN Security Council [August 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Both parties must fulfil their commitments under Resolution 2803 and refrain from actions that undermine peace – UK statement at the UN Security Council [August 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 26 August 2026.

    Statement by Ambassador Sarah MacIntosh, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on the Middle East.

    Madame President, last November, this Council adopted Resolution 2803, sending a powerful message of international support for President Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza.

    As we have heard from High Representative Mladenov, important progress has been made, which we welcome. But success relies on the actions of the parties themselves.

    First, all sides must fulfil the commitments they have made.

    The ceasefire must be respected.

    Israel must deliver her commitments made in the 20-point plan, including a phased withdrawal of the IDF from Gaza. 

    Hamas must deliver on its commitment to decommission its weapons and terror infrastructure.

    And there must be a credible Palestinian-led transition of governance and security, across the whole of the Gaza Strip.

    We encourage the Palestinian Authority to implement the reforms necessary to take on its responsibilities. 

    Plans to hold legislative elections in November and national elections next year in Palestine are an important step.

    They must be free, fair, and inclusive.

    Second, resolution 2803 requires the full resumption of aid into Gaza and the rehabilitation of critical infrastructure.

    Yet the humanitarian situation remains dire.

    Averting starvation cannot be the benchmark.

    59% of Gaza’s population still faces crisis levels of food insecurity or worse; 1.9 million Palestinians remain displaced; and fuel shortages are affecting hospitals, and water and sanitation infrastructure. 

    The Government of Israel must end excessive aid restrictions; ensure that all aid including fuel and engine oil can enter predictably, and at scale; open all crossings; and review the dual-use list to allow vital aid supplies in. 

    And Hamas must stop obstructing humanitarian operations, as they did in July at a UN warehouse and food distribution point. This disrupted the delivery of life-saving assistance, with two truck drivers reportedly assaulted.

    The increasingly dangerous pattern of intimidation, violence, and obstruction which puts humanitarian workers at risk needs to end.

    The inviolability of UN premises must be respected. 

    The forcible entry and reported seizure of UNRWA’s Kalandia Training Centre in Jerusalem yesterday is deeply concerning.

    The UN, including UNRWA, and NGOs should be able to operate safely and at scale, in line with international humanitarian law.

    Accountability is essential where these standards are not met.

    It is right that the Israeli military will launch a criminal investigation into the killing of 5-year-old Hind Rajab, six of her family members, and two paramedics in Gaza in 2024.

    But the decision to bring no criminal action over the fatal strikes on a World Central Kitchen convoy in April 2024, which killed seven staff members, including three British nationals, is unacceptable.

    Their families deserve justice, accountability, and answers from the Government of Israel.

    Third, on the West Bank.

    UNSC resolution 2334 is clear that Israeli settlements in the West Bank are illegal.

    We call on the Government of Israel to retract immediately construction tenders for the E1 settlement project.

    These unilateral plans take us further from peace.

    They will drive a wedge through the West Bank and isolate East Jerusalem and exacerbate instability.

    As Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband has said, “we will not stand back and accept the destruction of the Two-State Solution.”

    We have also witnessed the tragic consequences of unprecedented levels of violence.

    The UN reports that eighty Palestinians and three Israelis have been killed in the West Bank this year.

    We are appalled by recent settler attacks in Taybeh, the ongoing siege of homes in Qusra, and the killing of a 17-year-old in Sa’ir. 

    The Government of Israel has said that addressing extremist violence is a priority. As Qusra has shown, the current approach is not working. 

    More must be done to tackle settler violence, cease actions that enable it, and to ensure accountability.

    Restrictions on the Palestinian economy are also pushing it to a cliff edge, with over $6 billion in revenues withheld since May 2025, $5.8 billion trapped in banks, and correspondent banking services at risk.

    This threatens public services, the banking system, and the viability of the Palestinian Authority.

    Madame President, there is strong international support for full implementation of Security Council Resolution 2803.

    But the parties themselves must fulfil the commitments and refrain from actions that undermine peace.

    They must give Palestinians and Israelis the future they deserve, where a safe and secure Israel exists peacefully alongside a sovereign and viable Palestinian state comprising Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem.

  • PRESS RELEASE : New counter-terror hub launched to protect British communities [August 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : New counter-terror hub launched to protect British communities [August 2026]

    The press release issued by the Home Office on 26 August 2026.

    UK to lead new international Countering Violent Extremism Hub based in the UK.

    Action to protect the UK from terrorism is being stepped up with a new international counter-extremism hub to be established in the UK, which will strengthen efforts to stop violent extremism before it threatens British communities.

    At the Five Country Ministerial in Sydney, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood secured agreement from her Five Eyes counterparts to establish a permanent joint Countering Violent Extremism Hub in the UK capital.

    It follows a number of atrocities in recent years, including attacks linked to individuals radicalised online through exposure to harmful content, extremist propaganda and violent networks. Violent attacks and the radicalising effects of new technologies, including AI, are rapidly emerging as threats across the globe.

    The hub will bring together counter-terrorism and counter-extremism specialists from across the UK, US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, creating a dedicated centre for intelligence sharing, collaboration and early intervention.

    To tackle the increasing online radicalisation of young people, ministers have also agreed a new diversion programme so authorities can intervene faster when people show signs of radicalisation or develop a fixation with violence.

    This will complement the UK’s Prevent programme by helping professionals identify vulnerable people online, connect them with the support they need, and refer them to Prevent where necessary.

    As part of this work, Five Eyes partners will work closely with technology companies, industry partners and governments to act faster against harmful content and strengthen protections for users. Acting together means greater pressure to remove content that may not be illegal, but could breach terms of service.

    This will make it harder for extremists to exploit online platforms for recruitment, radicalisation and the spread of violent material.

    Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said:

    As we have seen with so many tragic incidents across the world, the threat posed by violent extremists is real and continues to evolve, often fuelled by new technologies.

    Bringing together intelligence and expertise from our closest international partners will strengthen our ability to disrupt dangerous networks and prevent violence before lives are put at risk.

    The radicalisation of children and young people online is a particular concern across the globe. Our new diversion programme will ensure we act faster to keep everyone safe.

    For years, the Five Eyes have worked together to make the citizens of each of our countries safer. This is the next step forward in that shared endeavour.

    The new Countering Violent Extremism Hub will identify emerging patterns of behaviour, share lessons from previous incidents and assess risks before they escalate into violence. It will support the development of threat assessments and prevention initiatives, helping intelligence or law enforcement agencies to intervene before harm occurs.

    By pooling expertise, intelligence and resources, the hub will reduce duplication, improve coordination and enable partners to learn from each other in real time.

  • PRESS RELEASE : David Dinsmore to leave role as Permanent Secretary for Government Communications [August 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : David Dinsmore to leave role as Permanent Secretary for Government Communications [August 2026]

    The press release issued by the Cabinet Office on 26 August 2026.

    David Dinsmore will stand down as the Permanent Secretary, Director of Communications, by mutual agreement on 30 September.

    David was appointed to lead a major programme of reform across government communications. During his tenure a wide-ranging Government Communications strategy was developed and a Strategy Unit established alongside the Government Media Unit. The foundations have been laid for the next phase of implementation.

    Following the change of Prime Minister and administration, David and the First Secretary of State have agreed that this is an appropriate point to hand over leadership of the programme.

    David Dinsmore, Permanent Secretary, Director of Communications, said:

    It has been an enormous privilege to serve at the heart of government at this crucial time for our country. Over the past months we have fundamentally reshaped the way government approaches communications, establishing a clear strategy and creating the Government Media Unit to make the impact of government highly visible to citizens and stakeholders.

    Government communications is now moving from strategic design into implementation and I leave with great confidence in the outstanding civil servants who will take that work forward.

    I have also been privileged to work with outstanding Permanent Secretaries across government and experience real change in action day after day.

    I will always be grateful for this opportunity to contribute to the vital modernisation of how government communicates to its citizens, its stakeholders and the wider global audience.

    Dame Antonia Romeo, Cabinet Secretary said:

    In a short period, David has done a brilliant job establishing the strategy, structures and capabilities required for lasting change in government communications. I am grateful for his leadership, support and professionalism, as well as his collaboration on the permanent secretary group.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK backs Somalia’s path to security and political progress [August 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK backs Somalia’s path to security and political progress [August 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 26 August 2026.

    Minister for Development and Africa Kirsty McNeill MP visits Somalia, discussing political and security priorities and seeing how UK support is helping people affected by drought and food insecurity.

    The UK has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Somalia during the first visit to the country by the minister for Development and Africa, Kirsty McNeill MP. 

    During her visit, the minister met President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and discussed Somalia’s political and security priorities and the need for progress towards a credible and sustainable transition to Somali-led security. 

    The minister encouraged leaders from across Somalia to engage in constructive dialogue that strengthens national unity, advances political progress and helps build consensus on Somalia’s future, underlining that continued progress on political dialogue and a security transition will be critical to maintaining international confidence and support. 

    The minister reaffirmed that the UK remains a committed partner to Somalia, working alongside Somali leaders and communities in support of a more stable, secure and prosperous future for the Somali people.  

    They also discussed Somalia’s humanitarian challenges and the importance of building greater resilience to future shocks. Last year, the UK reached more than 950,000 people with humanitarian and climate resilience support. 

    Visiting a World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse in Mogadishu, the minister saw first-hand how UK support is reaching people affected by drought and food insecurity. She heard how the UK is working with the Federal Government of Somalia, UN and civil society partners to strengthen systems, deliver lifesaving support and help communities build their resilience, with a particular focus on women and girls.

    The minister also met leaders from the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) and the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), recognising the efforts and sacrifices of Somali Security Forces and African Union troops in supporting Somalia’s security objectives.  

    The UK stands ready to provide further support for Somali forces through UNSOS, which plays a vital role in sustaining Somalia’s hard-won security gains against al-Shabaab. Progress on political dialogue between all Somali leaders and on plans for Somalia’s security transition will be important in confirming future support.

    Our existing support to UNSOS provides essential non-lethal assistance, including food rations, tents, medical supplies and casualty evacuation.

    The UK remains a committed partner to Somalia, working with the Federal Government of Somalia, the African Union, United Nations, civil society and other partners.

  • PRESS RELEASE : World-first crackdown to restrict offenders’ freedom and give it back to victims [August 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : World-first crackdown to restrict offenders’ freedom and give it back to victims [August 2026]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 26 August 2026.

    Serious sexual and violent offenders could be confined to areas just a few miles wide after leaving prison under a world-first crackdown, launching in October to give victims greater freedom.

    • Dangerous offenders could be confined to small areas just a few miles wide 
    • Scheme to curb offenders’ freedom while giving victims greater peace of mind 
    • Victims will have a say in setting boundaries, helping them live without fear 
    • GPS tagging to track offenders’ movements, with the risk of recall to prison

    New “restriction zones” will allow probation services in England and Wales to severely limit where some of the most dangerous offenders can go for as long as they see fit – restricting their freedom while giving it back to victims.

    The first measure of its kind anywhere in the world, the new restrictions have been directly shaped by the experiences and campaigning of victims, who will have a say in how individual zones are drawn up.

    The new scheme is a more rigorous version of “exclusion zones”, which ban offenders from specific locations such as a victim’s home or place of work.

    Offenders can instead be confined to a tightly defined area, giving victims greater freedom to travel without the fear of unexpectedly coming face-to-face with their offender.

    Offenders subject to GPS monitoring can have their movements tracked around the clock, allowing probation to identify breaches and take swift action when the rules are broken – including recalling them to prison.

    Probation officers will draw up zones which will put victims first, giving them the freedom to go about their daily lives without fear, but ensure offenders can still access vital appointments and services that help to reduce their chances of reoffending.

    Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, Alex Norris, said:

    No victim should fear the shadow of an abuser on their back.

    That’s why we’re putting limits on dangerous offenders, confining them to tightly controlled areas and giving victims greater freedom to get on with their lives.

    And with GPS technology helping probation keep track of offenders’ movements, those who step outside the boundaries can be quickly identified and face being sent back to prison.

    It is simple: offenders should carry the consequences of their crimes, not their victims.

    The zones can last for as long as they are needed to manage the risk posed by offenders on licence, with reviews taking place at least every three months.

    Further details on eligibility will be announced in due course. The Government will work closely with victims’ groups and other stakeholders as this measure is rolled out to ensure it is operating as intended.

    Hard-working probation staff play a vital role in keeping the public safe, that is why the government is investing £700 million in probation and community services by 2028/29.

    This includes the biggest ever expansion of electronic monitoring and recruiting 1,300 new probation officers this year on top of the 2,300 recruited in the past two years, keeping serious offenders under closer watch and better protecting victims.

    Public safety will always be the government’s priority. Last week, the Justice Secretary confirmed he was fast-tracking a plan to keep more of the most dangerous offenders behind bars, on top of murderers and those serving sentences for rape, serious child sexual abuse and grooming offences who are already blocked from any changes to their release dates. 

    This will include the faster deportation of foreign criminals, better use of the women’s estate and reviewing the unjust IPP sentences. He is expected to update Parliament in early September.

  • PRESS RELEASE : 10,000 work experience opportunities for young people as Sainsbury’s joins national drive to tackle youth unemployment [August 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : 10,000 work experience opportunities for young people as Sainsbury’s joins national drive to tackle youth unemployment [August 2026]

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

    Thousands of young people across the UK will get the chance to gain work experience, build confidence and develop skills to help them get ready for work as Sainsbury’s launches a major new “Modern Work Experience Programme” designed to help more young people into employment.

    • Sainsbury’s to offer around 10,000 work experience and skills opportunities to help young people gain experience, build confidence and prepare for work
    • New programme launching from October will target schools with higher levels of free school meal uptake and communities where young people face some of the biggest barriers to work
    • Latest major employer to deliver a major skills programme following Prime Minister’s education reforms to close the gap between the classroom and workplace

    Thousands of young people across the UK will get the chance to gain work experience, build confidence and develop skills to help them get ready for work as Sainsbury’s launches a major new “Modern Work Experience Programme” designed to help more young people into employment.

    Starting from October, Sainsbury’s will create around 10,000 work experience and skills opportunities over the next year through a new programme designed to reach young people who may otherwise struggle to access employer networks, work experience and career opportunities.

    This follows the Prime Minister announcing a fundamental change to the education system last month, with the launch of new prestigious technical educational routes. The new pathways will provide 14-year-olds with valuable early access to technical skills, work experience and connections with local employers.

    The Prime Minister is determined to put technical education on an equal footing with the traditional academic path and to ensure there are ‘no dead ends’ for young people coming out of the education system.  Since the launch of his education reforms, the Government has been actively working with major employers to tackle youth unemployment by closing the gap between the classroom and the workplace, so every young person can see a clear route into work and a successful future.

    Too often, access to work experience depends on who you know rather than what you can do. This has led to many young people leaving education without access to employers, workplace networks or a clear understanding of the opportunities available to them. At the same time, businesses are in desperate need for people with the skills and confidence to thrive in modern careers.

    With over one million young people aged 16 to 24 not in education, employment, or training – around one in eight young people – the Prime Minister has made clear that tackling the NEETs crisis is a national priority. As one of the UK’s largest employers, with stores and more than 140,000 colleagues in communities across the country, Sainsbury’s is uniquely placed to open up routes into work for young people in every part of the UK.

    The programme will be delivered across the UK, including England, Scotland and Wales. It will focus on areas where Sainsbury’s can deliver the greatest social impact, particularly within communities with a high proportion of schools offering free school meals, and young people not in employment, education or training, helping connect education with real-world opportunities.

    Prime Minister Andy Burnham said: 

    The youth unemployment crisis has been ignored for too long. This government is making it a top priority and bringing back hope. 

    Last month we announced a shake-up of the education system, with the launch of new prestigious technical educational routes.  Now we’re bringing employers, schools and colleges together to close the gap between the classroom and the workplace.

    It’s great to see Sainsbury’s stepping up with 10,000 opportunities to help young people build confidence, gain experience and get a foot in the door. I encourage more businesses across the country to do the same.  Access to opportunity and work experience shouldn’t depend on who you know, it should be within reach for every young person wherever they live – and that’s what I’m determined to deliver.

    Simon Roberts, Sainsbury’s Chief Executive, said:

    Like so many of us, I started my working life at 16 and know first-hand how much getting that first job really matters. Few things matter more to us at Sainsbury’s than helping young people get on that first rung on the career ladder. With a quarter of our colleagues under 25, we see every day how much a first job can change lives.

    Far too many young people are growing up in the UK today without access to meaningful work experience, often because they cannot find the right connections or network. With nearly one million young people not in education, employment or training, the scale of the challenge facing us has never been clearer.

    Our new work experience programme will create around 10,000 opportunities over the next year, reaching the young people who need them most in communities right across the UK and helping them build the confidence, skills and experience to take their first step into work.

    Young people will take part in workplace visits, careers sessions, practical work experience and sessions on CVs, interviews and applications – all designed to build confidence, improve communication skills and provide insight into careers across retail, logistics, food, technology and business.

    The programme brings together a range of opportunities for different age groups. Younger students will receive a mix of school-based learning and workplace experience designed to introduce them to the world of work, while older young people will receive targeted support with CV writing, interview skills, job applications and career planning. Schools across the country are being encouraged to get involved from September by contacting The School Outreach Company, ahead of the programme starting in October.

    Alongside this, Sainsbury’s will work with The Careers & Enterprise Company as well as other industry partners to test new approaches to modern work experience, helping develop a model that can be expanded across more stores and communities in the years ahead.

    Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: 

    I know from personal experience, that work experience is often the first taste of the world of work for a young person, and everyone should be able to access placements, regardless of their background or circumstances. With around one in eight young people not in education, employment or training, I’ve made tackling youth unemployment a top priority, by investing in skills training and mentoring. As one of the country’s largest employers, with hundreds of branches across London, it’s great to see Sainsbury’s stepping up and launching 10,000 work experience opportunities for young people. My first experience of work was in retail. Programmes like this are vital for breaking down the barriers to work and building skills and confidence to thrive, as we continue to build a better, more prosperous capital for everyone.

    Alan Milburn said:

    For too long work experience has been treated as an afterthought. Yet 6 in 10 young people who are NEET have never had a job. 

    Employers say lack of experience is the single biggest barrier to hiring young people – and young people say exactly the same. It’s a vicious cycle and it’s holding Britain back.

    Sainsbury’s is helping break that cycle, reaching the communities where young people face the biggest barriers. It’s exactly the kind of practical action employers can take now, while we build the fuller response this problem demands.

    Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the BRC, said:

    As the largest private sector employer, retail is a first step on the career ladder for thousands of people every year, building confidence, skills and experience that shapes their futures. Helping more young people be work ready and those who need help breaking out of the no-experience, no-job doom loop is critical to addressing the NEETs crisis. This great initiative is just the start as more retailers scale up the opportunities the industry can provide.

    Today’s announcement from Sainsbury’s is one of the first major employer commitments since the Prime Minister unveiled reforms to expand technical education, work experience and routes into skilled work, following National Grid’s £5 million programme announced earlier this month to help 5000 young people into work.

    Rather than designing new technical pathways from Westminster, the government will shape them around the industries driving growth in local communities supporting its mission to reindustrialise Britain and create opportunity in every part of the country.

    The government will continue working with employers, schools, mayors, and local leaders to expand work experience, skills support and routes into work for young people.

    Additional information

    • Sainsbury’s will create around 10,000 work experience and employability opportunities, with activity beginning in October 2026.
    • The programme combines Sainsbury’s own workplace scheme, KickStarter with a pilot delivered in partnership with The Careers & Enterprise Company (CEC) and Institute of Grocery Distribution (IGD). Together, they will help more young people access meaningful work experience and better understand the opportunities available to them:  

    KickStarter Explore (14–18 years) – A blend of in-school learning and practical work experience, co-designed with The School Outreach Company. The programme will help young people build confidence, develop workplace skills and discover the wide range of careers available at Sainsbury’s and the wider retail sector.

    KickStarter Insights (16–24 years) – Regional employability workshops delivered by Sainsbury’s Early Careers team and specialist partner Aim a Little Higher. These sessions will help young people strengthen communication skills, prepare for interviews and applications and take their next step into work.

    New work experience pilot – Alongside its own programme, Sainsbury’s is working with The Careers & Enterprise Company (CEC), the Institute of Grocery Distribution (IGD) and other employers to test new approaches to work experience for young people aged 14 to 18. The pilot will help develop a model that could be expanded across more Sainsbury’s stores from 2027, making it easier for young people to access meaningful work experience opportunities in their local communities.