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  • PRESS RELEASE : Agreement with Singapore opens new fintech market for UK businesses [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Agreement with Singapore opens new fintech market for UK businesses [November 2022]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 25 November 2022.

    • The UK and Singapore agree a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the UK-Singapore FinTech Bridge to remove barriers to fintech trade and boost cooperation
    • This will deepen engagement between businesses, and regulators, adding to previous co-operation
    • Policy makers from both the UK and Singapore will meet regularly with the fintech sector to work to remove regulatory barriers to trade

    The Fintech Bridge builds on an agreement signed in 2016 – which will remove barriers to fintech trade by opening new regular talks between regulators and businesses, in addition to previous areas of cooperation

    This will increase the cooperation and sharing of information on emerging trends in the fintech sector. It will also break down barriers to trade for UK and Singaporean fintechs, boosting growth and investment opportunities.

    Andrew Griffith MP, Economic Secretary to the Treasury said: said:

    The UK and Singapore are among the world’s leading jurisdictions for fintech investment – and today’s announcement will only accelerate growth and innovation in our respective sectors.

    The MoU we’ve announced today is crucial – and I would like to thank the Monetary Authority of Singapore for their constructive engagement throughout discussions.

    CEO of Innovate Finance, Janine Hirt said:

    Innovate Finance welcomes this announcement. A MoU between UK and Singapore will deliver a strengthened framework for vital regulatory and policy discussions between the two countries, enable innovation across financial services, and ensure businesses based in both the UK and Singapore have the ongoing support for their ambitions for growth to be realised.

    We look forward to supporting future financial dialogues and business to business activity between these markets. We are also delighted to be working with the key organisations engaged to promote the opportunities this FinTech bridge has to offer, and to welcoming FinTech businesses to IFGS and UK FinTech Week next year.

    Miles Celic, Chief Executive Officer, TheCityUK, said:

    The UK and Singapore are two of the world’s most dynamic and innovative FinTech markets. The FinTech Bridge will drive exciting new opportunities and greater alignment of regulatory approaches will help with the expansion of FinTechs from the UK and Singapore into each other’s markets. Greater cooperation between government, regulators and industry will boost innovation and drive better outcomes for customers.

    This MoU will also further deepen the engagement and opportunities between two of the premier international financial and related professional services centres.

    The existing Regulatory Cooperation Agreement signed in 2016 has enabled the UK and Singaporean fintech sectors to closely align at a regulatory level. Today’s commitment goes further in a number of areas, making clear the business support available to firms, highlight opportunities in each other’s markets and creating a clear link between challenges firms face and policy discussions.

    The MoU will come into effect next week once formalities have been completed on both sides.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK reaches deal with Norway to secure opportunities for UK fishing industry [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK reaches deal with Norway to secure opportunities for UK fishing industry [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 25 November 2022.

    The UK has reached an agreement with Norway to secure increased opportunities for the UK fishing industry in 2023.

    The UK fishing industry will benefit from increased fishing opportunities worth nearly £5 million in 2023 after reaching an agreement with Norway to secure access to key fishing stocks for UK vessels, Defra has announced today.

    The deal secures quota of valuable North Sea whitefish stocks worth nearly £3 million and in arctic stocks worth nearly £2 million for 2023, and also ensures UK vessels have access to Norwegian waters to fish their own demersal and pelagic quota.

    The UK and Norway negotiate annually on access to each other’s waters, quota exchanges and control and enforcement measures.

    This deal builds on the close relationship and cooperation between the UK and Norway and will continue to support a sustainable and economically viable fishing industry by:

    • extending arrangements agreed last year on mutual access, with the UK fishing industry having access to 30,000 tonnes of whitefish stocks such as cod, haddock and hake in the North Sea.
    • granting access to fish up to 20,000 tonnes each of herring in our respective waters.
    • securing over 1,100 tonnes of quota transfers from Norway of key UK stocks.
    • providing 750 tonnes of cod quota for the UK to fish in Norway’s arctic waters.

    Fisheries Minister Mark Spencer said:

    Under the Fisheries Act 2020, the UK is able to negotiate deals that support a profitable and sustainable UK fishing industry, while safeguarding our marine environment for future generations.

    I’m delighted to reach a deal with Norway for 2023 which gives UK fishing vessels access to key fish stocks and quota in the North Sea and Arctic, and look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with Norway and other coastal States to manage fishing sustainably.

    The agreement highlights both parties’ continued commitment to manage fisheries sustainably and support the long-term viability of stocks in the North Sea. It sits alongside a separate arrangement the UK has with Norway under which we expect over 5,200 tonnes of additional arctic opportunities to be transferred to the UK in 2023. In total, this should provide the UK fleet with over 6000 tonnes of fishing opportunities in arctic waters.

    Throughout the negotiations, the UK Government worked closely with the devolved administrations to ensure that all fishing communities across the UK will benefit from the agreement.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK and Singapore deepen collaboration in FinTech and strengthen financial cooperation [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK and Singapore deepen collaboration in FinTech and strengthen financial cooperation [November 2022]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 25 November 2022.

    HM Treasury and Monetary Authority of Singapore joint statement on the seventh meeting of the UK-Singapore Financial Dialogue.

    Singapore, 25 November 2022… The United Kingdom (UK) and Singapore held the 7th UK-Singapore Financial Dialogue in Singapore today. Both countries renewed their commitment to deepening the UK-Singapore Financial Partnership that was agreed in 2021, discussed mutual priorities such as sustainable finance, FinTech and innovation, and agreed on further cooperation in these areas.

    At the Financial Dialogue, the UK and Singapore agreed on a Memorandum of Understanding on the UK-Singapore FinTech Bridge[1]. The FinTech Bridge seeks to support continued growth, investment, and technological innovation in this sector, building on active interest of FinTech players in the areas of payments, RegTech and wealth management. Both countries strongly welcomed this deepened co-operation on FinTech and the opportunities the industry can deliver in relation to financial inclusion, enhanced innovation, and improved outcomes for consumers.

    Both countries recognised the importance of the UK-Singapore Digital Economy Agreement (DEA) signed earlier this year, and the principle of the free flow of data which is enshrined in it. They noted the significance of this agreement in underpinning the development of respective FinTech sectors and supporting future digital and innovation partnerships.

    The UK and Singapore discussed their joint interests in sustainable finance as well as FinTech and innovation.

    • Sustainable Finance: Both countries noted continued momentum at COP27 to focus on implementation, including the need to mobilise capital to developing economies to finance the transition to net zero, using innovative approaches such as blended finance and carbon markets.

    Transition finance –

    The UK and Singapore recognised the importance of transition plans and pathways to achieve the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global temperature increase to 1.5°C from pre-industrial levels. Both agreed to work together on transition finance. As a first step, the two countries agreed to explore collaboration opportunities, working with partners such as the UK Transition Plan Taskforce and the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero’s (GFANZ) Asia Pacific office, which is based in Singapore, to drive international consistency in design and disclosure of transition plans.

    Disclosure standards –

    The UK and Singapore affirmed their strong commitment to the implementation of International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) disclosure standards. Both countries will continue to work with the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO), the ISSB and other international organisations to implement a comprehensive global baseline of sustainability-related disclosure standards that is interoperable with jurisdiction-specific requirements. Both countries also commit to phase in mandatory climate-related financial disclosures that provide consistent, comparable and decision-useful information for market participants and financial authorities.

    Greenwashing –

    The UK and Singapore discussed efforts to combat greenwashing, including in relation to sustainability disclosures and sustainable investment product labels. It was agreed that regulators should continue discussing how to adopt a global, coherent, and co-ordinated approach on regulatory oversight of ESG ratings and data products providers, grounded in IOSCO’s recommendations. Both countries recognised the importance of comparable and reliable data to underpin the net zero transition, enabled by technology solutions such as Project Greenprint, and agreed to explore further collaboration opportunities in this area.

    Natural capital and biodiversity –

    Both countries agreed on the importance of a globally consistent framework for nature-based disclosures and exchanged views on how the efforts of the Taskforce on Nature-Related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) can contribute to the ISSB’s global baseline. Both countries agreed to collaborate to build capacity and understanding of the potential for nature loss and degradation to generate financial risks and cause adverse impacts to business and society, including through engaging with academia such as the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) and the Singapore Green Finance Centre, co-managed by Imperial College Business School and Singapore Management University (SMU).

    • FinTech and Innovation: The UK and Singapore exchanged views on recent developments in the FinTech sector, including in relation to crypto-assets, and agreed on a number of priority areas for further co-operation.

    Crypto-assets sector –

    Both countries shared their latest assessments of market developments, opportunities, trends, and longer-term expectations for the crypto-assets sector. They also discussed risks and challenges relating to financial stability, regulatory arbitrage, and shared their progress in strengthening rules on consumer protection and developing the regulation of stablecoins. There was strong agreement on the need to support the safe development of a digital assets ecosystem while ensuring that risks posed by digital assets are consistently managed. Both countries will continue to actively participate in the shaping of robust global regulatory practices through engagement within international multilateral fora such as the Financial Stability Board (FSB), the Committee on Payments and Market Infrastructures (CPMI) and IOSCO.

    E-wallets and digital banking –

    Singapore provided updates on the progress of its review of e-wallet caps and expected next steps. Both countries discussed the recently released consultation, with the UK providing views on the key proposals. Singapore also updated on the new digital banks that recently launched their operations in Singapore.

    The two countries agreed to a roadmap for engagements in sustainable finance, FinTech and innovation, and other areas of mutual interest, leading up to the next Dialogue scheduled to take place in London in 2023.

    The UK and Singapore discussed their latest analysis of financial market developments and economic outlook, including how Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has impacted the global economy. Both countries agreed on the usefulness of ongoing exchange of information on this topic, including on financial sanctions.

    The Financial Dialogue was co-chaired by Deputy Managing Director (Markets and Development) of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), Mr Leong Sing Chiong, and Director General (Financial Services) of HM Treasury (HMT), Ms Gwyneth Nurse. Senior officials from MAS, HMT, the Department for International Trade, Bank of England (BoE), Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and the British High Commission in Singapore attended the Dialogue.

    Two industry-led UK-Singapore business roundtables on sustainable finance and FinTech took place on 24 November 2022. Industry participants from both countries participated in this discussion.

    a. The sustainable finance Roundtable examined the implementation challenges faced by corporates in meeting their net zero targets, and how the financial industry could help to address these challenges.

    b. The FinTech Roundtable discussed the opportunities and challenges faced by FinTech firms, and how these firms could better access overseas markets, including by partnering with financial institutions.

    About the Monetary Authority of Singapore

    The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) is Singapore’s central bank and integrated financial regulator. As a central bank, MAS promotes sustained, non-inflationary economic growth through the conduct of monetary policy and close macroeconomic surveillance and analysis. It manages Singapore’s exchange rate, official foreign reserves, and liquidity in the banking sector. As an integrated financial supervisor, MAS fosters a sound financial services sector through its prudential oversight of all financial institutions in Singapore – banks, insurers, capital market intermediaries, financial advisors and financial market infrastructures. It is also responsible for well-functioning financial markets, sound conduct, and investor education. MAS also works with the financial industry to promote Singapore as a dynamic international financial centre. It facilitates the development of infrastructure, adoption of technology, and upgrading of skills in the financial industry.

    About HM Treasury

    HM Treasury is the UK government’s economic and finance ministry, maintaining control over public spending, setting the direction of the UK’s economic policy and working to achieve strong and sustainable economic growth.

    The department is responsible for:

    • public spending: including departmental spending, public sector pay and pension, annually managed expenditure (AME) and welfare policy, and capital investment
    • financial services policy: including banking and financial services regulation, financial stability, and ensuring competitiveness in the City
    • strategic oversight of the UK tax system: including direct, indirect, business, property, personal tax, and corporation tax
    • the delivery of infrastructure projects across the public sector and facilitating private sector investment into UK infrastructure
    • ensuring the economy is growing sustainably

    [1] The FinTech Bridge provides a structured engagement that will aid the development of policy actions, enhance assessments of emerging issues, such as the development of distributed ledger technologies and data sharing, and support trade and investment flows between our respective markets.

  • PRESS RELEASE : New £90 million battlefield radio programme to benefit over 200 jobs [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : New £90 million battlefield radio programme to benefit over 200 jobs [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 25 November 2022.

    A £90 million contract to upgrade land-based radio capabilities will improve battlefield effectiveness while supporting over 200 jobs in Hampshire.

    • £90 million contract boost local prosperity in Farnborough, Hampshire
    • Modern radios to increase interoperability with allies and partners
    • New technology to support ground-to-ground and ground-to-air communications

    The new deal for 1,300 new Multi-Mode Radios (MMR), which has been awarded to L3 Harris Communications Systems, will see the portable radios operated by foot soldiers or those mounted on vehicles.

    Technical advances and upgrades will allow the radios to work across a range of security classifications, with the first ones being delivered to the British Army before the end of the year, ahead of further deliveries in 2023.

    Supporting multiple jobs in the UK supply chain, the contract will see the creation of 10 new jobs and the sustaining of 200 more at the L3 Harris HQ in Farnborough, Hampshire.

    Defence Procurement Minister Alex Chalk said:

    It’s vital we equip our Armed Forces personnel with modern capabilities to maintain their operational effectiveness on an ever-changing battlefield.

    This contract boosts our interoperability with allies and is yet another example of British companies and employees supporting British defence.

    The modern radios will replace legacy systems and improve the delivery of ground-to-ground and ground-to-air communications. They will also provide our Armed Forces with increased abilities to operate with allies and partners, boosting the communications capabilities of our deployed forces.

    Colonel Elizabeth Mortimore said:

    The arrival of the next generation of the multi-mode radio capability will offer significant enhancement to our Armed Forces across all three Services by delivering world-leading command and communications capability to the front line.

    Vice President and Managing Director L3Harris CS UK Keith Norton said:

    As lead user for this capability for Defence, the British Army has worked with Defence Digital to procure new MMR radios to add capability to deployed forces. These will enable land forces to easily communicate and interoperate with NATO and US allies as well providing a solution that can be easily tailored for each deployment.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Operational Honours and Awards List recognises Armed Forces personnel for outstanding service [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Operational Honours and Awards List recognises Armed Forces personnel for outstanding service [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 25 November 2022.

    Military personnel from across the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force have been recognised for outstanding acts of bravery, commitment, and commendable service in the latest Armed Forces Operational Honours and Awards List, published today.

    Recipients have all shown courage and dedication while on operations, from Operation Kipion in the Middle East to United Nations peacekeeping missions in Africa.

    Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said:

    I am thrilled to see such an impressive range of awards in the list, demonstrating some truly remarkable acts of courage and dedication.

    The UK is involved in pivotal operations across the globe, and it is absolutely vital that we have the best talent available to ensure their continued success. Again, the list confirms that we do.

    Congratulations to the brilliant service men and women who have received an award.

    Minister of State Baroness Goldie said:

    It is a privilege to see at first hand the calibre of our people in Defence, and the exceptional work they do to keep this country safe. The Operational Honours and Awards List is a testament to their dedication, talent and bravery.

    I would like to congratulate these brilliant men and women, who time and time again demonstrate why we should be proud of our Armed Forces.

    From the Army, Sergeant Adam Humphreys of 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards has received a Mention in Dispatches (MiD) for demonstrating tremendous bravery while on United Nations peacekeeping operations in Mali, including for his actions on two different occasions that led to the detention of armed men and the seizure of weapons. On another occasion, his actions contributed to saving the lives of two soldiers when their patrol was engaged with machine gun fire. His courage demonstrated the resolve of the United Nation’s peacekeepers and strengthened the reputation of the British Army among international allies.

    Sergeant Adam Humphreys said:

    My troop was out on patrol when we came across two armed men near a river. When they saw us, they fled, so we searched the area to see if we could find them. I found one of them hidden in the water and detained him.

    I was really surprised, to be honest, and very proud. I was just doing my job and although I never expected this award, it is a great honour.

    Other awards for Army personnel include a Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service (QCVS) for Acting Corporal Stefan Cole, who saved the life of a civilian suffering from heat stress by winching them to safety in the Brunei rainforest under extremely difficult circumstances, while Lance Corporal Fraser Gee has been awarded a Queen’s Commendation for Bravery (QCB) for providing first-aid to casualties of a road traffic accident and rescuing an elderly civilian from one of the vehicles at risk of catching fire.

    From the Royal Navy, Rear Admiral Stephen Moorhouse OBE has been awarded a Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE). As commander of last year’s Carrier Strike Group during the UK’s inaugural operational deployment of HMS Queen Elizabeth, he was responsible for its leadership, planning and execution. Commodore Moorhouse led 3,500 personnel from across all three services, the Civil Service and international partners.

    Rear Admiral Stephen Moorhouse said:

    Receiving this national recognition is humbling and I feel incredibly privileged.

    However, none of the successes we saw during the Carrier Strike Group’s inaugural deployment would have been possible without the truly exceptional commitment from the nearly 3,500 men and women who deployed with the Strike Group at the height of Covid.

    Their professionalism, dedication, and resilience along with the unwavering support of our families underpinned all that we achieved.

    Commander Claire Thompson, Commanding Officer of HMS Montrose, has been awarded an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her role while deployed on Operation Kipion; the UK’s long-standing maritime presence in the Arabian Gulf and the Indian Ocean to promoting peace and stability in the region, as well as ensuring the safe passage of trade vessels. Commander Thompson delivered significant tactical, operational and strategic effect during her four-month deployment, including the Royal Navy’s first weapon interdiction operation in theatre, resulting in the successful seizure of illicit weapons.

    Commander Claire Thompson said:

    I feel hugely privileged and extremely humbled by the news that I have been awarded an OBE.

    It is an incredible honour, and for me this award represents each and every one of my ship’s company and their hard work, professionalism and dedication whilst deployed on operations over significant periods of the last year.

    The success of HMS Montrose over that period is well documented but the selfless commitment of the men and women who serve in her must be highlighted as without them none of that success is possible.

    From the Royal Air Force, Warrant Officer Kevin Jones has been awarded a QCVS for his leading role in the recovery of an F-35B Lightning, which had crashed into the Mediterranean Sea and settled 2000 metres below the surface. Warrant Officer Jones displayed exceptional leadership in what was a hugely complex operation, being responsible for the planning and execution of all activity once the wreckage had been recovered.

    Warrant Officer Kevin Jones said:

    I am extremely humbled to receive this award, both for myself and on behalf of the Joint Aircraft Recovery and Transportation Squadron team that deployed in support of Operation Prowling.

    I believe the recovery of the F35B from the Mediterranean Sea to be the most complex aircraft recovery of modern times, of which I am immensely proud to have been a part of.

    It amazes me what can be achieved and this operation has definitely been a highlight of my career.

    Three other Royal Air Force personnel were recognised with awards.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK Foreign Secretary announces critical practical support for Ukraine as winter sets in [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK Foreign Secretary announces critical practical support for Ukraine as winter sets in [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 25 November 2022.

    James Cleverly, the Foreign Secretary, has travelled to Ukraine as part of ongoing UK efforts to ensure the country has the crucial practical support it needs through the winter.

    • the Foreign Secretary has travelled to Ukraine to underline the UK’s unwavering support for the country following devastating Russian attacks on critical national infrastructure
    • during the visit he has announced a further £3 million of support to the Partnership Fund for a Resilient Ukraine to rebuild vital local infrastructure
    • comes as he and the Environment Secretary Thérèse Coffey announce that the UK is also committing £5 million for Ukraine-led initiative to ship grain to countries at risk of famine

    The Foreign Secretary has travelled to Ukraine as part of ongoing UK efforts to ensure the country has the crucial practical support it needs through the winter.

    The visit comes as Russia tries to exploit the harsh winter in Ukraine by continuing its brutal attacks on the country’s civilian and energy infrastructure to exacerbate the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

    During a visit to Kyiv on Saturday, the Prime Minister announced a £50 million package of defensive military support, and the Foreign Secretary will use this visit to ensure that the UK is following through on other key commitments, including further support to help Ukraine through the winter, and to rebuild and recover in the longer term.

    That includes providing an additional 35 emergency vehicles, including 24 ambulances and 6 armoured vehicles, which are to arrive in Ukraine from the UK, to support civilians caught in conflict. He will also announce that the UK will step up its support on demining, increasing its support from £2 million this year.

    While in Ukraine, the Foreign Secretary will meet President Zelenskyy, as well as Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, and other key members of the Ukrainian government, including ministers involved in reconstruction efforts. He is also meeting members of civil society who are fighting to protect human rights, and the UK’s embassy staff in Ukraine.

    Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said:

    As winter sets in, Russia is continuing to try and break Ukrainian resolve through its brutal attacks on civilians, hospitals and energy infrastructure. Russia will fail.

    The UK stands shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine. I have today announced a package of hands-on support for our Ukrainian friends in their fight, from ambulances to crucial support for survivors of the sexual violence carried out by the Russian military.

    I’ve seen here first-hand how the UK’s efforts are helping brave citizens to resist and rebuild. Our support will continue for as long as it takes for this remarkable country to recover.

    During the visit the Foreign Secretary has seen the scale of catastrophe wrought indiscriminately by Putin, and how the UK – with its international partners – is providing concrete support for recovery.

    Through this fund the UK is supporting the Government of Ukraine, local officials and Ukrainian communities to rebuild vital local infrastructure. This is enabling people to return to normal life by clearing debris from Russian attacks, making areas safe and secure, and rebuilding schools and shelters in towns and villages. This new funding will be targeted to areas recently liberated from Russian control in southern Ukraine, including Kherson Oblast.

    He is also visiting a school, which will re-open for 350 students in the next fortnight after being rebuilt by volunteers, including parents and teachers, with UK support.

    Ahead of the UK hosted PSVI (Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative) conference next week, the Foreign Secretary will announce a further £3.45 million for the UN Population Fund to boost survivor centred gender-based violence and sexual and reproductive health services, and ensure continued access to expert support for survivors of sexual assault.

    The consequences of Putin’s war in Ukraine are also being felt across the world, and impacting some of the world’s most vulnerable countries. Today the Foreign Secretary, alongside the Environment Secretary Thérèse Coffey also announced that the UK is committing £5 million to a Ukrainian led initiative, delivered through the UN World Food Programme, to supply grain to countries most at risk of famine, including Yemen and Sudan.

    Environment Secretary Thérèse Coffey said:

    I am pleased the UK government can support President Zelenskyy’s work to help Ukraine’s grain reach some of the poorest and most vulnerable nations in the world.

    Global food security is in all our interests – and helping Ukraine’s farmers and agricultural sector to continue producing and exporting food in these most difficult of circumstances is vital for that security.

    I want Ukraine’s farmers to know that all British farmers stand shoulder to shoulder with you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Boost for UK fishing industry with new infrastructure projects [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Boost for UK fishing industry with new infrastructure projects [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 25 November 2022.

    £20 million awarded to modernise and improve infrastructure across the seafood sector with a further £30 million available from today.

    Funding to boost the UK fishing industry through projects to upgrade infrastructure and revive local docks has been announced today, as the latest round of investment opens for bids from the UK-wide £100 million Seafood Fund to modernise the sector.

    Winning projects set to receive a share of £20 million include the expansion of processing facilities for popular British fish like Scottish salmon and Cornish sardines, alongside money to bring an ageing dry dock back to life.

    The UK Seafood Fund is a landmark government investment supporting the long-term future and sustainability of the UK fishing and seafood industry, with the infrastructure strand of the Fund helping to pay for upgrades to ports, processing and aquaculture facilities so they can meet future demand whilst also boosting jobs and economic growth.

    As well as announcing the winners from the first round of this scheme, the government has today also confirmed a further £30 million will be made available for infrastructure projects as the latest round of funding opens for bidding.

    The infrastructure scheme also supports businesses to become more environmentally sustainable, with successful bidders in Round 1 investing in greener technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to more reusable materials.

    Fisheries Minister Mark Spencer said:

    Fishing communities are an important part of the UK’s heritage and they make a valuable contribution to our economy, so we are backing them with funds to boost growth and opportunities across the industry.

    This funding will ensure seafood businesses throughout the supply chain are well-equipped to keep pace with increasing demand at home and abroad, boosting production and sustainability and building a resilient sector for the future.

    Successful bidders from the first round of infrastructure funding will receive a share of £20 million from the government, matched with nearly £50 million of investment from private sources. They include:

    • HSH Coldstores who are investing in a cold storage and logistics facility to further expand seafood processing in Grimsby and generate new jobs in the area;
    • Scottish company Denholm Seafoods who will install equipment to increase production of mackerel and herring landed at Peterhead;
    • Cornish based Falfish who will invest in new technology to grade, freeze and pack pelagic fish in support of building two purpose-built Sardine fishing vessels;
    • Shoreham Port who are transforming a historic dry dock into a modern facility for local and visiting fleets.

    Tom Willis, Chief Executive at Shoreham Port, said:

    We are delighted our application to redevelop the Dry Dock at Shoreham Port has been successful. An essential facility for vessel owners, it is one of the few dry docks remaining in the south of England and is part of our proud history, serving users since the 1930s.

    When engaging with the fishing community, investment in improving Dry Dock capability is consistently highlighted as a priority. The redeveloped Dock will offer excellent dry maintenance facilities for vessels up to 50m in length, with workshop access and quayside space. Commencing shortly, the project will be completed by early next summer”.

    Allan Stephen, Director at Denholm Seafoods, said:

    We are delighted with the support we have received from DEFRA, which from the outset has been highly productive. Securing the DEFRA grant will enable Denholm Seafoods to invest in our new freezing and production facilities which will maintain our high quality product.

    The UK has a thriving seafood sector with exports of salmon – one of the UK’s most important exports – worth around £600m annually and other abundant fish stocks such as Cornish sardines in demand on the continent for their quality.

    For the second round of the UK Seafood Fund infrastructure scheme, which is worth £30 million and opens today, businesses will have until March 2025 to deliver their transformational projects meaning a wider range of organisations will be able to apply.

    Defra will also shortly announce successful applicants from the Fisheries Industry Science Partnerships (FISP) scheme, part of the UK Seafood Fund, which funds data collection and research to support sustainable fisheries management. The final FISP round will launch in December 2022.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Major boost for North East tourism as region is chosen for initiative to increase visitor numbers [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Major boost for North East tourism as region is chosen for initiative to increase visitor numbers [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport on 25 November 2022.

    North East England will pilot a new £2.25 million scheme to restructure tourism boards.

    • Aim is to create one-stop shop to show off the best of region, attract investment and boost local economy
    • Scheme will help attract more visitors through new initiatives and target major national and international events and markets

    The North East has been selected as the location for a major tourism project which aims to attract more investment, welcome more sporting, business and cultural events, support business growth, create new jobs, and boost domestic and international tourist numbers.

    Tourism boards, known as Destination Management Organisations (DMOs), help businesses and visitors find out about an area and often lead the development of the local tourism sector.

    But last year’s independent review into DMOs carried out by Nick de Bois, found the landscape is overcrowded and fragmented. For example, there are more than 150 DMOs of all shapes and sizes in England which makes it confusing for tourists planning breaks and businesses looking to invest.

    To fix this problem and make sure the country is providing tourists with the best service, the government is streamlining DMOs by accrediting the top performing organisations so they can grow the visitor economy and attract major business, cultural and sporting events. The plans were set out earlier this year.

    As part of plans to overhaul the current system, NewcastleGateshead Initiative in the North East has been selected to lead a pilot in partnership with Visit Northumberland and Visit County Durham working across seven local authority areas. The partnership will receive £2.25 million to help successfully develop and market the region as a must-visit destination while attracting further private investment and driving growth.

    The aim of the partnership model is to extend the tourism season and attract more visitors from across the UK and abroad through initiatives such as the creation of Tour de Yorkshire, following the Tour de France stage in Yorkshire back in 2015, or the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham this summer.

    By working in partnership, tourism boards will be able to attract new hotels, develop major attractions such as the Eden Project in Cornwall, build on local heritage and cultural assets through the likes of UNESCO World Heritage bids, grow the food and drink offer and maximise the potential of the region’s natural assets, including its dark skies, beaches and national parks.

    Working with the tourism industry and the growing digital cluster, partnerships will also make sure that the tourism offering is fully accessible to all visitors including families and visitors with access needs. For example, NewcastleGateshead Initiative recently worked with tech company Kerckhoffs to capture an immersive experience of Newcastle’s Quayside Market using Eyemmersive technology. The video means that visitors can explore the market virtually and prepare children with special educational needs and disabilities before they experience it in real life.

    Tourism Minister Stuart Andrew said:

    From Hadrian’s Wall to Durham Cathedral and the bright lights of Newcastle, the North East has much to offer tourists from around the world, but we want to go further and attract even more visitors.

    We are looking at what more we can do to streamline the way the region’s tourism bodies work together, improve the region’s offer and the way it markets itself.

    With £2.25 million in funding, we hope the North East can be a pioneer for other areas in unlocking its potential and putting its best foot forward.

    VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said:

    Congratulations to the North East on being announced as the pilot region for the Destination Development Partnership (DDP).

    The UK Government’s decision to proceed with a pilot approach is a valuable opportunity to prove the DDP concept, demonstrating the benefits that these reforms will have if rolled out nationwide. We will also be able to really measure an element of funding at a regional level to develop tourism and what impact that will have, strengthening the case for future funding.

    We look forward to working with NewcastleGateshead Initiative and Northumberland and Durham tourism boards to develop the DDP pilot, ensuring we have the right infrastructure in place to enable England to continue to be a compelling destination for domestic and international visitors.

    Sarah Green, CEO, NewcastleGateshead Initiative:

    This pilot is an incredible opportunity to unlock our growth potential in the North East, attracting more visitors, reaching new international markets, creating jobs, growing businesses, attracting investment, and reinforcing local pride in our place.

    As the first Destination Development Partnership, we will work with our partners in Visit County Durham and Visit Northumberland to ensure the tourism sector is supported and grows across all seven local authorities in the region. Our region will act as a blueprint for the rest of England, and we could not be prouder to help shape the future landscape of destination management organisations, working in partnership to deliver local economic growth through the visitor economy.

    From Auckland Castle to Alnwick Gardens, from dark skies to sparkly venues, from fish and chips to fine dining – the aim of this partnership is to provide an inclusive welcome for all, attracting more international and domestic visitors with a fantastic regional offer and visitor experience.

    Partnerships should support businesses to create sustainable tourism offers, reduce their carbon footprint and offer consumers opportunities to enjoy themselves whilst minimising their impact on the environment.

    Thanks to the new partnerships, tourists will know where to go to find quality, trusted information, tailored to their destination. Going forward, it will also mean that tourism boards can work more effectively with local authorities to explore new initiatives such as travel initiatives that make it seamless for tourists to get around the local area.

    Evidence will be collected throughout the pilot to understand how effective the proposed model is and to support any future funding considerations.

    If the pilot is successful, the government will look to roll the partnership model out to other regions across England.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Ministry of Defence Operational Honours and Awards List [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Ministry of Defence Operational Honours and Awards List [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 25 November 2022.

    The latest Operational Honours and Awards List recognises the bravery, commitment and commendable service of Armed Forces personnel.

    The recipients have all shown outstanding courage and dedication while on operations.

    The full list is below:

    Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)

    Commodore (now Rear Admiral) Stephen Mark Richard MOORHOUSE, OBE, Royal Navy

    Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)

    Commander Claire Fiona THOMPSON, Royal Navy

    Lieutenant Colonel William James MEDDINGS, The Royal Anglian Regiment

    Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)

    Chief Petty Officer Logistician (Supply Chain) Laura PERRY, Royal Navy

    Warrant Officer Class 1 Engineering Technician (Marine Engineering) Clint WHEELER, Royal Navy

    Major Benjamin Sean Costello ATTRELL, Corps of Royal Engineers

    Major Steven John HOWARD, Army Air Corps

    Squadron Leader Jonathan Jack EDDISON, Royal Air Force

    Flight Lieutenant Victoria Grace KELLAGHER, Royal Air Force

    Mention in Despatches (MID)

    Sergeant Adam James HUMPHREYS, 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards

    Queen’s Commendation for Bravery (QCB)

    Lance Corporal (now Retired) Fraser Alan Duncan GEE, Royal Tank Regiment

    Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service (QCVS)

    Petty Officer Warfare Specialist (Electronic Warfare) Timothy Stephen DODGE, Royal Navy

    Lieutenant Commander Alexandra Katherine HARRIS, Royal Navy

    Leading Warfare Specialist (Underwater Warfare) Jake Ryan HOBDAY, Royal Navy

    Warrant Officer Class 1 Engineering Technician (Communications and Information Systems) Christopher ROBBINS, Royal Navy

    Staff Sergeant (now Warrant Officer Class 2) Meghann Kylie BRADBURY, Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Corps

    Captain Andrew Robert MACBETH, Royal Tank Regiment

    Corporal (now Acting Sergeant) Toyah Louise PALMER, Intelligence Corps

    Captain Helena Katheryn RICHARDSON, Royal Regiment of Artillery

    Acting Warrant Officer Kevin Edward JONES, Royal Air Force

    Flight Lieutenant Graeme John RITCHIE, Royal Air Force

    Acting Corporal Stefan COLE, Royal Army Medical Corps

  • PRESS RELEASE : New laws to better protect victims from abuse of intimate images [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : New laws to better protect victims from abuse of intimate images [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 25 November 2022.

    Victims will be better protected from abusers who share intimate images without their consent, under a raft of changes to the law announced today.

    • new offences to be created in crackdown on abusers who share intimate images without consent
    • changes will strengthen law and deliver on Prime Minister’s pledge to outlaw ‘downblousing’
    • comprehensive package of measures to modernise legislation following Law Commission review

    Under a planned amendment to the Online Safety Bill, people who share so-called ‘deepfakes’ – explicit images or videos which have been manipulated to look like someone without their consent – will be among those to be specifically criminalised for the first time and face potential time behind bars.

    The government will also bring forward a package of additional laws to tackle a range of abusive behaviour including the installation of equipment, such as hidden cameras, to take or record images of someone without their consent.

    These will cover so-called ‘downblousing’ – where photos are taken down a woman’s top without consent – allowing police and prosecutors to pursue such cases more effectively.

    This will deliver on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s pledge to criminalise the practice, in line with previous measures this government has taken to outlaw ‘upskirting’.

    Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Justice, Dominic Raab, said:

    We must do more to protect women and girls, from people who take or manipulate intimate photos in order to hound or humiliate them.

    Our changes will give police and prosecutors the powers they need to bring these cowards to justice and safeguard women and girls from such vile abuse.

    Today’s announcement builds on the campaign of Dame Maria Miller MP, as well as recommendations from the Law Commission, to introduce reforms to the laws covering the abuse of images.

    The amendment to the Online Safety Bill will broaden the scope of current intimate image offences, so that more perpetrators will face prosecution and potentially time in jail.

    The Domestic Abuse Commissioner, Nicole Jacobs, said:

    I welcome these moves by the government which aim to make victims and survivors safer online, on the streets and in their own homes.

    I am pleased to see this commitment in the Online Safety Bill, and hope to see it continue its progression through Parliament at the earliest opportunity.

    Around 1 in 14 adults in England and Wales have experienced a threat to share intimate images, with more than 28,000 reports of disclosing private sexual images without consent recorded by police between April 2015 and December 2021.

    The package of reforms follows growing global concerns around the abuse of new technology, including the increased prevalence of deepfakes. These typically involve the use of editing software to make and share fake images or videos of a person without their consent, which are often pornographic in nature. A website that virtually strips women naked received 38 million hits in the first 8 months of 2021.

    The government will take forward several of the Law Commission’s recommendations to ensure legislation keeps pace with technology and can effectively tackle emerging forms of abuse. This includes:

    • Repealing and replacing current legislation with new offences to simplify the law and make it easier to prosecute cases. This includes a new base offence of sharing an intimate image without consent and 2 more serious offences based on intent to cause humiliation, alarm, or distress and for obtaining sexual gratification.
    • Creation of 2 specific offences for threatening to share and installing equipment to enable images to be taken.
    • Criminalising the non-consensual sharing of manufactured intimate images (more commonly known as deepfakes).

    The move builds on government action in recent years to better protect victims and bring more offenders to justice, including making ‘upskirting’ and ‘breastfeeding voyeurism’ specific criminal offences, extending ‘revenge porn’ laws to capture threats to share such images, and using the Online Safety Bill to create an offence specifically targeting ‘cyberflashing’.

    Ruth Davison, CEO of Refuge, said:

    Refuge welcomes these reforms and is pleased to see progress in tackling abuse perpetrated via technology. As the only frontline service with a specialist tech abuse team, Refuge is uniquely placed to support survivors who experience this form of abuse.

    We campaigned successfully for threatening to share intimate images with intent to cause distress to be made a crime, via the Domestic Abuse Act, and these reforms will further ensure police and law enforcement agencies rightly investigate and prosecute these serious offences.

    Tech abuse can take many forms, and Refuge hopes that these changes will signal the start of a much broader conversation on the need for strengthening the response to online abuse and harm.

    DCMS Secretary of State Michelle Donelan said:

    Through the Online Safety Bill, I am ensuring that tech firms will have to stop illegal content and protect children on their platforms, but we will also upgrade criminal law to prevent appalling offences like cyberflashing.

    With these latest additions to the Bill, our laws will go even further to shield women and children, who are disproportionately affected, from this horrendous abuse once and for all.

    The government will bring forward the wider package of changes as soon as parliamentary time allows and will announce further details in due course.