Tag: Press Release

PRESS RELEASE : Work begins at state-of-the-art weather centre headquarters [July 2025]

The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 9 July 2025.

Construction has begun on the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts, marked by a breaking ground ceremony on Wednesday 9 July.

Construction has begun on a new cutting-edge facility for meteorological research and forecasting, marked by a breaking ground ceremony.

The event took place today (July 9) at the site of the new headquarters for the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) at the University of Reading’s Whiteknights Campus, led by Lord Vallance, Minister of State for Science, Innovation and Technology.

Also in attendance were key stakeholders in the project including ECMWF Directors, Penny Endersby, CEO of the Met Office and President of ECMWF Council, Mark Bourgeois, CEO at the Government Property Agency (GPA) which is delivering the scheme, and representatives of the University of Reading, Mace – design and build construction partners, project advisors AtkinsRéalis and BDP – the architects.

Construction of the modern, accessible and highly sustainable headquarters, which is being funded through the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), is expected to be ready for occupation in early 2027.

ECMWF will move from its existing premises in Reading, where it has been for half a century, to the new headquarters. Once operational the building will accommodate up to 300 scientists and staff to support world-leading work on all aspects of weather prediction systems, forecast production and research into climate change. The state-of-the-art facility will support the use of the latest advances made in areas such as data assimilation, earth system modelling, predictability and reanalysis to improve weather predictions and understanding of climate.

UK Science Minister Lord Vallance said:

The UK is proud to continue to host the headquarters of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts. This state-of-the-art facility places the UK at the heart of international efforts that are helping us to make better sense of our weather and climate.

By improving our weather predictions we can optimise our energy consumption estimates, adjust transport schedules effectively and give our farmers time to prepare for extreme weather – helping people and businesses to save money, cut energy use and stay safe.

With the university’s Department of Meteorology and parts of the UK Met Office, National Environment Research Council (NERC) National Centre for Atmospheric Sciences and NERC National Centre for Earth Observation all currently located within the university – and now the new ECMWF HQ – means the town of Reading is home to an exceptional cluster of weather, climate research and operational forecasting facilities.

Florence Rabier, ECMWF Director General said:

After 50 years at Shinfield Park in Reading, we are pleased that this move to state-of-the-art sustainable premises will provide excellent facilities for our staff and visitors, and bring us even closer to many colleagues at the university.

ECMWF is an intergovernmental organisation with 35 member and cooperating states that have built a strong international collaboration with each of these countries’ meteorological services. As well as traditional numerical weather prediction and research, together with our member and cooperating states, we are spearheading the artificial intelligence/machine learning revolution in weather science for the benefit and protection of citizens.

Mark Bourgeois, the GPA’s CEO said:

It is a landmark occasion to get construction underway of this new facility, which has been designed to industry-leading net zero carbon standards. This project is a perfect example of cross-government collaboration which will deliver a modern, inspirational and energy-efficient headquarters for ECMWF’s forecasting, research and training functions, retaining a world-leading scientific organisation and attracting long-term investment into the region.

It’s another milestone for us at the GPA to deliver smart, modern, sustainable and digitally connected workplaces that focus on supporting productivity and wellbeing.

July 10, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer meeting with President Macron of France [July 2025]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 9 July 2025.

The Prime Minister met the French President Emmanuel Macron in Downing Street this afternoon.

They reflected on the State Visit of the President so far, agreeing that it had been an important representation of the deep ties between our two countries.

Moving on to discuss joint working, they shared their desire to deepen our partnership further – from joint leadership in support of Ukraine to strengthening our defence collaboration and increasing bilateral trade and investment.

The Prime Minister welcomed the news that EDF would take a 12.5% stake in Sizewell C leading to lower bills, more jobs and better energy security for the UK.

The leaders agreed tackling the threat of irregular migration and small boat crossings is a shared priority that requires shared solutions.

The Prime Minister spoke of his government’s toughening of the system in the past year to ensure rules are respected and enforced, including a massive surge in illegal working arrests to end the false promise of jobs that are used to sell spaces on boats.

The two leaders agreed on the need to go further and make progress on new and innovative solutions, including a new deterrent to break the business model of these gangs.

Finally, they looked ahead to the 37th UK-France Summit taking place tomorrow and agreed to aim for concrete progress on these areas.

July 10, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : The UK strongly condemns the reckless Houthi attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea – UK statement at the UN Security Council [July 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 9 July 2025.

Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Yemen.

I’d like to make three points.

First, the UK, like our briefers, strongly condemns the reckless Houthi attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea.

They have led to the tragic loss of life of innocent mariners.

They undermine maritime security and global trade, and pose a significant risk to the environment.

The UK remains committed to countering the threat posed by the Houthis and restoring freedom of navigation.

We will continue to work with partners and support the Special Envoy in a coordinated international approach to achieve these goals.

Moreover, the Houthis’ continued smuggling of weapons into Yemen is a clear violation of the arms embargo, as implemented by resolution 2216.

The UN Verification and Inspection Mechanism is critical to ensure compliance with the arms embargo and prevent smuggling of illicit arms.

So the UK calls on the international community to redouble efforts to enforce compliance with the arms embargo, disrupt the illegal weapons flow and support the critical role of the UN Verification and Inspection Mechanism, in this regard.

Second, as USG Fletcher reminded us and Ms Nasser too, Yemen is experiencing a significant deterioration in food security.

The FAO’s Integration Food Security Phase Classification for Yemen notes, as USG Fletcher said, that the number of Yemenis experiencing food insecurity is predicted to rise by over a million to 18.1 million by February next year.

This year, the UK’s Food Security Safety Nets programme will provide $79 million of assistance to help feed at least 864,000 Yemenis, and to support the Government of Yemen’s economic reforms to design a more coherent and coordinated response.

As others have said, the Houthis’ continued arbitrary and cruel detention of aid workers are undermining efforts to meet the needs of Yemenis.

The UK condemns these unjustified detentions.

And I reiterate our call for the immediate and unconditional release of all those detained.

Finally, President, Yemenis have suffered for far too long a toxic combination of insecurity and dire humanitarian conditions.

Now is the time to redouble our efforts towards an inclusive and sustainable peace.

The UK remains committed to supporting the UN Special Envoy’s work to deliver this.

July 10, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : UK secures £7.5 billion Japanese investment in key growth sectors [July 2025]
The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 9 July 2025.

The government has unlocked £7.5 billion of investment into key growth sectors as the Minister for Investment signed a new deal with the Sumitomo Corporation in Tokyo.
- Minister for Investment Poppy Gustafsson is in Tokyo to sign new partnership with top Japanese trading company Sumitomo Corporation.
- Deal secures £7.5 billion investment into key UK infrastructure and clean energy projects.
- Latest multi-billion investment shows Plan for Change is working, days after Deloitte survey puts UK in joint top spot for global investment.
New collaboration between the UK government and a top Japanese trading company will unlock £7.5 billion of investment into Britain, boosting economic growth and driving forward the government’s Plan for Change.

Today [Wednesday 9 July], Minister for Investment Baroness Poppy Gustafsson signed the new partnership with Sumitomo Corporation’s Energy Transformation Group CEO Mr Hajime Mori, Europe CEO Mr Hiroyuki Koike and the Energy Transformation Business Group in Tokyo.

Sumitomo Corporation aims to facilitate £7.5 billion of investment into key UK infrastructure and clean energy projects by 2035, backing the government’s aim to significantly increase long-term business investment into key growth sectors following the publication of the Modern Industrial Strategy and the 10-Year Infrastructure Strategy.

This latest vote of confidence reaffirms the UK’s position as a global investment destination, and builds on the positive findings from Deloitte’s latest survey which found that finance leaders see the UK as the joint-most attractive destination when it comes to investment.

Minister for Investment Baroness Poppy Gustafsson CBE said:

The UK is a top investment destination for Japanese businesses, so I’m delighted to be in Tokyo to sign this new collaboration with Sumitomo Corporation. This is yet another major vote of confidence in our economy and shows international backing for our modern Industrial Strategy, which shows our Plan for Change is working.

We’re serious about clean energy as a key growth sector, and deals like this create high value jobs, encourage further investment into our world-leading industry and help boost economic growth right across the UK.

This commitment to facilitate investment into the UK also comes after the launch of the government’s Modern Industrial Strategy which aims to make it quicker and easier for businesses to invest in the UK, providing investors the certainty and stability they need to make long term decisions.

The investment will be focused on key offshore wind and hydrogen projects, supporting the UK’s aim to become a clean energy superpower.

Hajime Mori, Managing Executive Officer, Group CEO, Energy Transformation Business Group, Sumitomo Corporation said:

We have made active investments in several business sectors in the UK, including decarbonisation and clean energy. Under the UK’s new industrial strategy, clean energy is designated as a priority sector. Through this agreement with Office for Investment, we will continue to leverage our strengths to drive growth in the clean energy sector in the UK.

Hiroyuki Koike, Managing Executive Officer, General Manager for Europe, Sumitomo Corporation said:

We are inspired by the UK government’s active promotion and support of private investment which has helped to improve the business environment in many areas.

We hope that this comprehensive MOU with the Office for Investment will further strengthen the relationship between the UK government and Sumitomo Corporation, and that we will contribute more to the development of the UK economy and society through our business.

Economic growth is the Government’s central mission and unlocking new investment opportunities with the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is vital to achieving this, as the UK-APAC trading relationship is now worth over £135 billion.

This new collaboration also adds to the strong trade and investment partnership the UK already shares with Japan, building on the Industrial Strategy Partnership and Economic 2+2 established earlier this year and CPTPP ratification – which is estimated to boost the economy by £2 billion a year in the long-term.

Today’s announcement comes as the Minister for Investment Poppy Gustafsson visited South Korea and Japan this week, meeting a range of investors and businesses to encourage further investment into the country.
July 10, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine continues to have a devastating impact on children – UK statement to the OSCE [July 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 9 July 2025.

Deputy Ambassador James Ford condemns the grave violations Russian armed forces and authorities have committed against children in Ukraine, including through attacks on schools and hospitals.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Thank you, Mr Chair. I would also like to thank the speakers for their insights on the important and emotive topic we are dealing with today.

The United Kingdom is deeply concerned about the worsening situation for children in conflicts around the world. More grave violations against children were verified by the UN than ever before in 2024, and instances of rape and other forms of sexual violence against children increased by 35% compared to 2023.

Regrettably, Madam Chair, our own region has not been immune from this trend. Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine continues to have a harrowing effect on Ukraine’s 7.5 million children – on their health, education, family life and prospects for their futures.

In 1999, UN Security Council Resolution 1261 defined ‘Six Grave Violations’ most frequently affecting children in times of war. According to the latest UN report on children and armed conflict, there is mounting evidence that Russian authorities and Russian armed forces have committed at least five of these Six Grave Violations in Ukraine. For consecutive years, the UN Secretary General has reported that under two categories – the killing and maiming of children, and attacks on schools and hospitals – the violations committed by Russian armed forces are prolific enough to warrant formal listing in his annual report.

A case in point is the attack on the Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital in Kyiv. Yesterday marked one year since a Russian KH-101 cruise missile struck the hospital. It was the biggest children’s medical facility in Ukraine and the country’s primary provider of specialist paediatric care.

According to UNICEF’s report from November 2024, the war has killed or injured over 2,406 children – an average of sixteen children every week. The UN verified 222 cases of children being killed or injured in Ukraine between 1 March and 31 May 2025 – three times more children killed than during the previous quarter. In April this year alone, 97 children were killed or maimed. According to UN statistics, that is the highest monthly number of child casualties since June 2022.

It is not just death or injury that Ukrainian children face on a daily basis. According to the Government of Ukraine, the Russian authorities and armed forces have deported nearly 20,000 Ukrainian children to Russia and the temporarily occupied territories. UN reports detail the treatment of Ukrainian children in these territories. Russian authorities have systematically forced the introduction of Russian language curriculum in schools, as well as ‘military-patriotic’ training. They have also forced Ukrainian children to adopt Russian citizenship. Save the Children estimates that Russian attacks destroyed or damaged 576 education facilities in 2024 – more than double the 256 of the year before.

UN and Save the Children reports also underline that children fleeing the fighting in Ukraine are at significant risk of family separation, abuse, violence, sexual exploitation, and trafficking. Countless people will bear the social and psychological trauma for years to come.

Moscow continues to try to disguise these crimes through a campaign of denial and disinformation. But these abuses have all been verified by independent sources, including the UN, ODIHR and reports commissioned under the OSCE’s Moscow Mechanism.

As we all know, and as the speakers have detailed today, children are uniquely vulnerable and disproportionately affected by conflict. We welcome the OSCE’s work to hold Russia accountable for its actions and to support Ukraine, including through the SPU, the Support Programme for Ukraine. And we call on Russia to cease this unprovoked, illegal war and immediately and unconditionally return forcibly deported children to Ukraine.

Thank you.

July 10, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Foreign Secretary reiterates UK’s ongoing support to Lebanon [July 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 5 July 2025.

British Foreign Secretary David Lammy visited Lebanon and reiterated the UK’s ongoing support for Lebanon’s security, stability and future prosperity.

As part of a regional visit, Foreign Secretary David Lammy visited Lebanon on Friday 4 July 2025. He reiterated the UK’s ongoing support for Lebanon’s security, stability and future prosperity.

The Foreign Secretary met with President General Joseph Aoun at the Presidential Palace. Discussions focused on the latest local and regional developments and UK-Lebanon bilateral relations.

The Foreign Secretary spoke about the urgency of efforts to reach a lasting peace in Lebanon and the region. He stressed the importance of Lebanon and Israel implementing the ceasefire agreement in full, including the withdrawal of Israeli Forces and the deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) throughout the South.

He commended the long-standing and strong bilateral partnership between Lebanon and the UK including with the LAF, both in the South and on the border with Syria. Since 2009, the UK has spent over £115 million to support the LAF with infrastructure, vehicles, training and equipment and since 2013 supported the establishment of the Land Border Regiments (LBRs) on the border with Syria.

The Foreign Secretary also reiterated the UK’s support for UNIFIL and the role they play for stability in South Lebanon, as mandated in UNSCR 1701. He called for urgent implementation of essential economic reforms and transparent processes for justice and accountability.

British Ambassador Hamish Cowell said:

I was pleased to welcome British Foreign Secretary David Lammy to Lebanon, following unprecedented regional tensions.

Efforts must continue to secure a lasting ceasefire in Lebanon and allow the full deployment of the Lebanese Army to the south of the country, as the sole legitimate defender of Lebanon.

Stability in the Middle East is in everyone’s interest. The full implementation of UNSCR 1701 is crucial to Lebanon and the region’s future security.

Lebanon’s path to recovery is dependent on essential reforms, including those required to secure an IMF agreement to rebuild the economy and unlock international investment.

The UK remains a steadfast partner to Lebanon and its people.

The Foreign Secretary also visited Syria as part of his regional trip. This is the first by a UK Minister in 14 years and renews the UK-Syria diplomatic relationship. The Foreign Secretary met President Al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Al-Shaibani to reiterate the importance of an inclusive and representative political transition in Syria and offer continued UK support to the Syrian people.

July 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : County lines taskforce set up in West Yorkshire [July 2025]

The press release issued by the Home Office on 4 July 2025.

A specialist police team focused on tackling county lines drug running will be set up in West Yorkshire police force through £1 million of government funding.

A specialist policing unit will be set up within West Yorkshire police force to target drug running in and out of the region and protect those exploited by the dangerous illegal drugs trade.

The dedicated county lines taskforce in West Yorkshire is an expansion of the government’s County Lines Programme and is backed by £1.3 million of funding – and includes additional specialist support for victims, expanding across Leeds and Bradford.

County lines is a term used to describe gangs who are involved in transporting illegal drugs into different counties within the UK, using dedicated ‘deal lines’ often run out of the biggest cities with routes into different towns. It is one of the most violent models of drug supply and often sees children used to move and store drugs and money.

As part of the Plan for Change to deliver safer streets, the government is working closely with the police to put a stop to this trade and through its County Lines Programme, it already funds dedicated taskforces in major cities such as London, Manchester, Liverpool and Birmingham.

Since July 2024, work by the taskforces funded through the national programme has led to more than 1,200 line closures and more than 2,000 arrests, leading to the charging of over 800 criminals controlling lines.

As part of the new funding, specialist support services provided by Catch22 will be extended to the region to help the vulnerable people and children who are exploited by this trade.

Protecting vulnerable people should always be at the heart of the police’s response and, as part of the Safer Streets mission, the government has introduced new laws which will punish the heartless gangs who lure people into their illegal trade further, including specific offences of child criminal exploitation, cuckooing and coerced internal concealment.

Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper said:

The appalling reality of county lines drug running is that criminal gangs exploit children and teenagers to run drugs, further drawing them into violence and serious crime.

We’ve also seen competing drugs gangs running operations into small towns and communities also tackling violence and knife crime into those too. Officers at West Yorkshire Police have already made important progress in combatting drugs running in the area, and this funding will help the force go further to put a stop to this evil practice.

As part of the Plan for Change, we are going further to protect children from being criminally exploited by investing millions into policing and introducing specific offences that properly recognise the harm it causes and punish those who choose to inflict this pain.

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Sarah Jones, said:

The formation of a dedicated taskforce for West Yorkshire gives us an opportunity to build on the work we already do in tackling county lines crime head on, making an even greater positive impact.

County lines crime has a direct effect on communities across the whole of West Yorkshire – from the exploitation of young and vulnerable people who are often coerced into doing the dirty work of hardened organised criminals, to the serious violence and drug-related misery that comes with it.

Our aim is clear – we will be relentless in our pursuit of those behind county lines by disrupting their illicit enterprises. We will safeguard victims, raise awareness of the dangers of county lines and continue to work with our partners to make our towns and villages stronger and safer.

West Yorkshire has consistently been one of the largest exporters of county lines drug running in recent years, which is why the government has chosen to provide further funding for the force and Catch22 to provide specialist support to victims in the region.

Twenty-eight arrests were made and 2 lines were closed by West Yorkshire police last week as part of a national County Lines Intensification Week. This also saw 26 people safeguarded and £9,000 of Class A drugs and over £100,000 in cash seized by officers.

Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin said:

We must protect our local communities, including vulnerable children, from the scourge of drugs and gang violence.

This significant investment into a dedicated taskforce and support for victims will bolster our ongoing efforts to tackle this issue.

We are determined that there will be nowhere to hide for criminals who exploit children and damage our communities both in West Yorkshire and across our borders.

Kate Wareham, Catch22 Strategic Director – Young People Families and Communities, said:

Having seen first hand the devastating impact of county lines on young people, this expansion into Yorkshire is crucial.

We know the need for our service is growing, and we’re committed to working with partners like the Home Office and British Transport Police to keep safeguarding these vulnerable children at the forefront. In our efforts to draw a line on exploitation, we welcome this investment in our service.

As part of the Safer Streets mission, the government has pledged to halve knife crime in the next decade. County lines is closely linked to knife crime and tackling violent and exploitative drug gangs through the County Lines Programme is crucial to delivering this commitment.

The expansion of the County Lines Programme comes as the Home Secretary launches the government’s Safer Streets summer initiative. This nationwide crackdown will seek to target town centre crime, such as shop theft and antisocial behaviour, much of which is driven by the supply of drugs into these communities.

Over 500 town centres have signed up to the Home Secretary’s Safer Streets summer blitz that will see shops benefit from increased police patrols and local action to tackle town centre crime and antisocial behaviour.

This marks a key step in delivering the government’s Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, which from July will see named, contactable officers in every community, increased peak time patrols in town centres and antisocial behaviour leads in every force.

Commissioned by the Home Secretary, police and crime commissioners across England and Wales have developed bespoke local action plans with police, businesses and local councils to crack down on crime this summer.

The aim is to support town centres to be vibrant places where people want to live, work and spend time, and restore faith in community policing after years of declining police officer presence on Britain’s streets.

July 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Energy Secretary approves largest Irish Sea offshore wind farm [July 2025]
The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 4 July 2025.

Mona offshore wind farm given the green light by the Energy Secretary.
- Mona offshore wind farm has the potential to power the equivalent of more than 1 million homes with clean, secure, homegrown power
- developer estimates project will support thousands of jobs over the life of the project – delivering on Plan for Change
- approval another step forward for energy security and making Britain a clean energy superpower
More clean, homegrown, secure energy will be delivered for the British people as the Energy Secretary today (Friday 4 July) gives the green light to the largest offshore wind farm in the Irish Sea.

It is estimated the Mona Offshore Wind Farm could generate enough electricity to power the equivalent of more than 1 million British homes, providing a major boost for the national mission to become a clean energy superpower.

Situated in the Irish Sea, the project will power growth across the country by building supply chain opportunities, with the developer launching a portal where local companies can offer their skills to deliver the project, boosting local communities in Wales and across the UK.

The developer estimates it will support thousands of jobs, contributing to the up to 100,000 jobs supported by the offshore wind sector in Great Britain by 2030.

Jobs are expected to include engineers and maintenance operations during the construction phase, driving industrial renewal in proud manufacturing communities as part of the Plan for Change.

One year since taking office the government has made progress on delivering for the British people as part of the Prime Minister’s mission to become a clean energy superpower. This year’s actions lay the foundations for clean power by 2030 – all part of the mission to get energy bills down for good.

In its first year this government has consented new clean energy projects that can generate enough electricity to power the equivalent of almost 2 million homes. Mona will add to this by powering the equivalent of more than a million homes.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

This government was elected to take back control of our energy- and in our first year we have shown that the clean power revolution is here to stay.

Whether it’s offshore wind, solar or nuclear, we are backing the builders not the blockers so we deliver the clean homegrown power this country needs to protect family finances through our Plan for Change.

Notes to editors

You can find the decision letter here: Mona Offshore Wind Farm: development consent order, Planning Act 2008.

Mona homes powered estimate: Our homes powered estimate reflects the equivalent number of homes that could be powered based on an estimate of the annual generation from the Mona offshore wind farm, assuming generating capacity equivalent to its maximum grid connection (1.5 GW). The estimate is calculated using household consumption estimates sourced from the published Subnational Electricity and Gas Consumption Report and the 2024 average offshore wind specific load factors published in the department’s Energy Trends statistical publication (table 6.1). The actual generation will vary based on site specific factors.

Consented homes powered estimate: Our homes powered estimate reflects the equivalent number of homes that could be powered from the roughly 4 GW offshore wind and solar capacity consented by this government before this decision. It is based on a combination of published load factors (solar PV – 2023 Electricity Generation Costs Report) and developer estimates (offshore wind – Rampion 2), combined with the above household consumption data.

Jobs supported by Mona: The developer (bp and EnBW) estimates the project will support thousands of jobs and represent a significant economic opportunity for the UK. More information on their estimates is published here: Supporting the local, regional and national economy.

Up to 100,000 jobs supported by offshore wind in Great Britain by 2030: This includes direct and indirect jobs. Information on the methodology underpinning this estimate can be found here: Job estimates for wind generation by 2030: methodology note.

Jobs supported and homes powered by Leasing Round 5 projects: These estimates are sourced from The Crown Estate – more information on their methodology can be found here: New frontier for UK offshore wind with leading developers set to deliver new generation of floating windfarms.

Actual generation will vary somewhat based on site-specific factors. It is not possible to continuously power a home through intermittent renewables – this capacity will work alongside the rest of the electricity system to power homes and businesses.
July 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : New plan to kickstart onshore wind revolution [JUly 2025]
The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 4 July 2025.

Onshore wind strategy published as part of mission to become a clean energy superpower.
- Government launches major onshore wind plan to reverse near decade of sector stagnation in England
- Boost for mission to become a clean energy superpower and protect households from global gas price spikes
- Measures to revitalise industry unlocking up to 45,000 jobs in onshore wind by 2030, through Plan for Change
The amount of clean, homegrown energy from onshore wind is set to accelerate over the second half of the decade as the government launches the first ever onshore wind strategy.

Thousands of new jobs for British people in onshore wind, such as engineering, construction, and operations maintenance, could be created by 2030 to build the onshore wind needed to deliver clean power for families and businesses.

After facing a de-facto 9-year ban in England, today’s strategy sets out over 40 radical actions to get onshore wind building again across the UK. This includes:
- unlocking up to 10 GW of onshore wind by resolving issues with how onshore wind turbines and aerospace civil and defence infrastructure co-exist
- repowering of old turbines across the country, so we can maintain our current fleet and keep powering the country with clean, secure, homegrown power
- equipping planners and developers with the tools needed for the first English projects since we lifted the de facto ban last year. This includes making sure planning decisions are based on up-to-date information and ensuring site surveying and assessments for projects are more efficient to speed up decision-making
- exploring plans to expand the clean industry bonus for onshore wind, encouraging developers to invest in supply chains in the UK’s industrial heartlands, or in cleaner supply chains
Today’s strategy bolsters the strong foundations the government has built since taking office to get the industry moving again, such as lifting the ban in England and reintroducing onshore wind into the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects regime. These measures mean that onshore wind will be put on an equal footing to offshore wind and nuclear, meaning projects can get built quicker in the years to come.

Delivering this strategy could more than double the current onshore wind workforce, supporting up to 45,000 skilled jobs across the country by 2030, as the government pursues its clean power ambition of 27-29 GW of onshore wind by 2030.

Clean energy is the economic opportunity of the twenty-first century, and thanks to the government’s clean energy mission, investment is booming in the UK, with over £40 billion of private investment in clean energy announced since July.

Onshore wind is one of the easiest and cheapest technologies to build and will supply British homes and businesses with clean, secure homegrown power that ends a reliance on unstable global gas markets – all part of the mission to get bills down for good.

Energy Minister Michael Shanks said:

Rolling out more onshore wind is a no-brainer – it’s one of our cheapest technologies, quick to build, supports thousands of skilled jobs and can provide clean energy directly to the communities hosting it.

After years of decline, we’re giving industry the tools to get building again, backing industrial renewal and secure, clean, homegrown energy through our Plan for Change.

Matthieu Hue, co-chair of the Onshore Wind Taskforce and CEO of EDF Power Solutions UK and Ireland, said:

This strategy is focusing on overcoming barriers and challenges we face across the industry in the deployment of onshore wind while capturing the major socio-economic benefits it can bring to the environment and to local economies.

Together we are forging a path forward for onshore wind in Great Britain, and we are committed to ensuring a successful implementation through a new Onshore Wind Council, which will oversee the execution of the strategy. This is a critical part of making Britain a clean energy superpower and delivering energy security.

Communities are set to benefit too with the voluntary community benefits guidance for onshore wind for England being updated to provide communities with £5,000 per megawatt per year for community initiatives, such as new football pitches or libraries, or even bill discount schemes.

By delivering the upper Clean Power 2030 ambition of 29 GW of onshore wind, it’s estimated that an additional £70 million of community funding will be unlocked for rural towns and villages every year.

Today’s measures come as the government has completed a process to de-risk offshore wind developments, led by the Marine Spatial Prioritisation Programme, thus unleashing the potential for offshore wind development in the English sea in the future.

This will help guide The Crown Estate’s Marine Delivery Routemap on strategic use of the seabed to unlock offshore wind in a way that considers all marine sectors including fisheries and protects the marine environment.

This should also reduce the planning consent risk for developers on future offshore wind sites before seabed rights are tendered – speeding up and de-risking future offshore wind projects.

See the ‘Onshore wind strategy’.

Stakeholders

Sue Ferns, Senior Deputy General Secretary of Prospect, said:

Onshore wind has an important role to play in a secure and decarbonised energy mix so it is welcome that the government is taking steps to support its rollout.

However, the lost years resulting from the last government’s inexplicable ban have resulted in significant workforce and skills related challenges that urgently need to be addressed, which hopefully they will be in the forthcoming Clean Energy Workforce Plan.

It is also important that renewables such as onshore wind generate good, unionised jobs – if the government wants the clean energy transition to be fair and to deliver the full economic potential, it must insist on this as a condition for the support it provides.

James Robottom, Head of Onshore Wind Delivery, RenewableUK, said:

Overturning the unpopular onshore wind ban, which deprived us of one of the quickest and cheapest technologies to build for a decade, was just the start. The hard work to make the most of this great opportunity to grow our economy and strengthen the UK’s energy security is now in full swing.

This strategy sets an ambitious target to almost double the UK’s onshore wind capacity by the end of the decade as a key part of the government’s Clean Power by 2030 mission.

The measures outlined will increase confidence among investors and developers, so that we can attract billions in private investment and create thousands of highly-skilled jobs and new supply chains all over the country. The strategy also sets out how people living near onshore wind farms will continue to see tailor-made community benefits through an updated Community Benefit Protocol for England, deciding for themselves the form that these benefits should take, to support and improve the lives of those in areas hosting onshore wind.

Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive, Historic England said:

Historic England constructively engages with major infrastructure delivery in a way that secures good outcomes for the heritage that people care about. We therefore welcome recognition of our role and the contribution of our advice in the Onshore Wind Taskforce strategy to delivery of the renewables agenda. In line with the strategy we will be updating our commercial renewables guidance.

Claire Mack OBE, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables, said:

Scotland has a proud history in onshore wind and the bold strategy published today reaffirms how central the Scottish onshore wind sector will be to the UK’s clean power journey.

Onshore wind is a cost-effective source of clean energy that can be deployed at pace, supporting skilled jobs and tangible community benefit. Making the most of our onshore wind resource will also strengthen our energy security in the years ahead.

Scottish Renewables secured the landmark Scottish Onshore Wind Sector Deal in 2023 and the clear actions published today will build on this effort by tackling the issues that demand close working across the UK.

Renewed commitments on planning efficiency, grid connections, radar and aviation in the strategy are all strong signals of intent by the UK and Scottish governments to boost onshore wind deployment. We will work closely with all stakeholders to deliver the strategy and determine the pathway beyond 2030 for the Scottish onshore wind sector.

Lisa Christie, Head of UK Regulatory Affairs, Vattenfall, said:

This government’s renewed focus on unlocking the potential of onshore wind is essential for the UK’s energy security, reducing bills, and economic growth. Proposals to resolve challenges around aviation infrastructure and to give local planning teams the tools and information they need to make faster, evidence-based decisions are especially important.

The socio-economic contribution made by renewables developers means communities also benefit from significant benefit packages that reflect local priorities. This flexibility should be maintained for future developments. Further investment can also be encouraged by ruling out zonal pricing, which risks creating further imbalances in consumer bills.

Christine McGregor, Managing Director at BayWa r.e. UK Ltd, said:

We are delighted with the UK government’s leadership in convening the industry to develop the first ever onshore wind strategy. This marks a significant and timely step towards strengthening the onshore wind sector in Great Britain and advancing the ambitions of the Clean Power 2030 initiative.

Eleri Davies, Head of Onshore Wind Development (England & Wales), RWE, said:

The Clean Power Action plan sets an ambitious target to double onshore wind capacity by 2030, and today’s Strategy firmly establishes the clear actions required to achieve this. We look forward to the newly established Onshore Wind Council driving these actions forward.

With over 2 decades of experience in developing and operating onshore wind in the UK, RWE knows firsthand the benefits that it can bring to host communities, with over £3.5 million awarded to local communities from onshore wind funds in the UK last year alone. Onshore wind is also one of the cheapest sources of electricity, therefore breaking down barriers to accelerate its deployment will help reduce bills for all consumers.

Laura Fleming, Country Managing Director, Hitachi Energy UK & Ireland, said:

We strongly welcome moves to grow the onshore wind industry and welcome with open arms the fast deployment of affordable renewable energy. Rapid deployment is critical to delivering Clean Power 2030 and we stand ready to work with government to deliver a grid that enables the growth of the onshore wind and wider renewables sector. As a member of the Onshore Wind Taskforce, we are fully committed to capturing this opportunity to deliver clean power and industrial growth in UK.

Lucy Whitford, Managing Director UK&I Development & Construction, RES, said:

The onshore wind strategy will unleash the true potential of this vital technology for the nation.

The policy direction and practical support outlined, will strengthen our energy security and support £70 million per year of extra investment in local economies across length and breadth of the country.

We’re prepared and ready to work alongside government, local authorities, industry partners and communities to implement this strategy.

Gillian Noble, Managing Director, Onshore Origination & Development at ScottishPower Renewables said:

The intent, direction, and focus of this strategy is exactly what’s needed to revitalise the onshore wind industry in England, whilst also aiming to resolve key blockers to onshore wind projects already in development in other areas of the UK.

It’s been fantastic to be part of such a collaborative working group and we welcome the government’s approach in mobilising industry experts to advise and support to help push things forward. We’re excited about the potential to unlock gigawatts of onshore projects and thousands of new jobs as we contribute to the government’s Clean Power 2030 mission and beyond.
July 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 59 – UK Statement on the Oral Presentation of the High Commissioner on Ukraine and Interim Report of the Secretary General on Crimea [July 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 4 July 2025.

UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the Oral Presentation of the High Commissioner on Ukraine and Interim Report of the Secretary General on Human Rights on Crimea. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

Thank you, Assistant Secretary-General, for your update on the human rights situation in Ukraine’s temporarily occupied territories.

In June 2024, the European Court of Human Rights found Russia to have committed multiple human rights violations since its illegal annexation of Crimea. In May this year, the Council of Europe urged Russia to restore Ukrainian law in Crimea and end the use of torture and ill-treatment.

There are very concerning reports of civilians being detained and taken across the border into Russia, where they have been convicted on spurious charges. This includes those who work in critical civilian infrastructure, such as the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, and journalists.

We note your assessment that targeted use of drones, including attacks that have killed civilians while delivering humanitarian aid, has violated IHL principles of distinction and precaution. Russia must comply with international law. Rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian relief for civilians is needed.

Those responsible must be held to account for the appalling forcible transfer of Ukrainian children, and the enlistment of these children into military patriotic training programmes, potentially then being sent to fight against their own country.

Assistant Secretary-General,

Given Russia’s attempt to erase children’s heritage, what steps can be taken to prevent the long-term erasure of their cultural and national identity?

July 9, 2025