UKPOL.CO.UK

Tag: Press Release

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government to increase Higher Level Stewardship payments and re-open Capital Grants Offer [February 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government to increase Higher Level Stewardship payments and re-open Capital Grants Offer [February 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 25 February 2025.

    The government is increasing payment rates for those in existing Higher Level Stewardship and confirming the ELM standalone Capital Grants offer worth £45m in 2025/26 will re-open in the summer.

    Farmers and land managers who have been at the forefront of nature-friendly farming in England will see an uplift to Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) payment rates, the government has announced today (Monday 24 February).

    The increased payment rates, which will apply for agreement holders across a range of HLS options will provide a boost for farmers – often living and working in upland areas – who have been the pioneers of nature-friendly farming.

    It will bolster support for farmers delivering high-quality environmental outcomes to maintain species-rich grasslands, managing our most important habitats and delivering a range of high-quality environmental outcomes.

    In a further boost for nature recovery and the environment, the popular standalone ELM Capital Grants scheme will re-open in the summer, worth around £45 million in 2025/26.

    The Rural Payments Agency is now processing the remaining 4,000 applications held when the scheme paused. These agreements will be worth £120 million over their lifetime.

    We are also supporting farmers to improve productivity and protect the environment with a £110 million investment in equipment and technology grants.

    The newly designed grant competitions launching this spring will focus on helping the sector transition to net zero and unlock opportunities from the Precision Breeding Act.

    Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs Daniel Zeichner said:

    This government’s focus is on ensuring farming becomes more profitable and businesses are viable for the future – delivering the long-term food security this country needs.

    Investing in innovation and technology will help farmers produce food more sustainably and profitably, and get the equipment they need to help their bottom line.

    And with nature being so crucial to long-term food security, we’re rewarding the pioneers of nature-friendly farming – including many upland farmers.

    Our £110 million investment in innovation, equipment, technology includes:

    • The launch of one round of the Farming Equipment and Technology (FETF) Fund in the spring, providing grants of between £1,000 and £25,000.
    • New Farming Innovation Programme (FIP) grants worth more than £42.5 million, including competitions focussed on unlocking the benefits of precision breeding and supporting the net zero transition.
    • Our new ADOPT fund will provide £20 million of additional funding for farmer-led trials that bridge the gap between new technologies and their real-world application, giving farmers the confidence investments in tech will deliver the returns they need.

    Alongside these grants, we are also extending the Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme to continue to support and improve England’s most precious areas of natural beauty, and improving animal health and welfare through government funded vet visits.

    Through the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway farmers will be able to apply for visits to cover every eligible species they have from this week, and from summer they will also be able to apply for a visit for every eligible herd or flock of the same species.

    Additionally, the recruitment campaign for the Commissioner for Tenant Farming Sector role is now live. The Commissioner will encourage behaviour in the sector to meet standards set out in the Agricultural Landlord and Tenant Code of Practice for England.

    As part of the government’s Plan for Change, we are delivering on the Government’s New Deal for Farmers, with the first steps set out by the Secretary of State at the Oxford Farming Conference.

    We will work with the sector to boost profitability through fair competition across the supply chain, use planning reforms to support food production and monitor food currently bought in the public sector and where it is bought from.

    We will help farmers diversify income streams and make additional money from selling surplus energy from solar panels and wind turbines by accelerating connections to the grid.

    We are going further to develop a 25-year farming roadmap to make the sector more profitable in the decades to come.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government announces raft of new policies and major investment to boost profits for farmers [February 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government announces raft of new policies and major investment to boost profits for farmers [February 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 25 February 2025.

    Environment Secretary to announce reform package to boost farmers’ profitability as part of the Plan for Change.

    New reforms to make farming more profitable will be announced today by the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Steve Reed.

    Speaking to farmers at the NFU conference in Westminster, Steve Reed will reveal new plans to deliver a profitable farming sector, while reaffirming Government’s cast iron commitment to food production, and unlocking rural growth.

    The speech will announce a raft of new policies to put money into the pockets of British farmers including:

    • Extending the Seasonal Worker visa route for five more years giving farms a pipeline of workers and certainty to grow their businesses. Annual quota reviews will ensure we strike the right balance – supporting farms while gradually reducing visa numbers as we develop alternative solutions.
    • Back British produce: British farmers handed a major boost under new requirements for government catering contracts to favour high-quality, high-welfare products that local farms and producers are well placed to serve. The move marks a major leap in achieving the government’s ambition for at least 50% of food supplied into the £5 billion public sector catering contracts to be from British producers or those certified to higher environmental standards.
    • £110 million investment in technology: The Farming Innovation Programme which supports research and development of agri-technology for farmers, for example the chemical free cleaning for integrated milking equipment, which lowers energy costs and chemical use. The Farming Equipment and Technology Fund provides grants of up to £25,000 to buy new equipment such as electric weeders to reduce chemical use.
    • Protecting farmers in trade deals: The government will uphold and protect our high environmental and animal welfare standards in future trade deals.
    • Strengthening Britain’s biosecurity: Setting up a new National Biosecurity Centre to transform the Animal and Plant Health Agency animal health facility at Weybridge, investing £200 million to improve our resilience against animal disease to protect farmers and food producers.

    Speaking about profitability, Steve Reed, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is expected to say:

    The underlying problem is that farmers do not make enough money for the hard work and commitment they put in.

    I will consider my time as Secretary of State a failure if I do not improve profitability for farmers across the country.

    My focus is on ensuring farming becomes more profitable because that’s how we make your businesses viable for the future. And that’s how we ensure the long-term food security this country needs.

    This builds on the commitments made at the Oxford Farming Conference, where the Environment Secretary set out the government’s vision for farming including:

    • Using planning reforms to support food production: Ensuring our reforms make it quicker for farmers to build the buildings, barns and other infrastructure they need on their farms to boost food production.
    • Diversifying income streams: Helping farmers make additional money from selling surplus energy from solar panels and wind turbines by accelerating connections to the grid, supporting them during difficult harvests and supply shocks.
    • A fair supply chain: Boosting profitability through fair competition across the supply chain. New rules for the pig sector will come this spring, ensuring contracts clearly set out expectations and changes can only be made if agreed by all parties. Similar regulations for eggs and fresh produce sectors will follow with the government ready to intervene with other sectors if needed.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Professor Sir Ian Chapman appointed next CEO of UK Research and Innovation with renewed focus on economic growth [February 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Professor Sir Ian Chapman appointed next CEO of UK Research and Innovation with renewed focus on economic growth [February 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology on 25 February 2025.

    Sir Ian will lead the team at UKRI in backing thousands of researchers and innovators in developing solutions which improve people’s lives and help grow the economy.

    Professor Sir Ian Chapman will become the next CEO of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), leading a refreshed mission that puts economic growth at the heart of public investment in R&D, helping to fulfil the potential of science and technology in improving lives, Science Minister Lord Vallance has announced today (Tuesday 25 February).

    UKRI is the country’s largest public research funder, with a budget of £9 billion per year, giving it a central role in ensuring public funding is invested in ambitious, pioneering research that will benefit the whole of the UK and provide a clear return on investment for hardworking taxpayers.

    Its work in recent years includes backing the Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine, which has saved countless lives and the construction of the world’s most advanced wind turbine test facility, helping the UK to become a clean energy superpower. It has also been a major contributor to the £1 billion of UK public investment in AI R&D so far so the UK captures the technology’s opportunities to enhance growth and productivity as the third largest AI market in the world.

    Sir Ian will lead its team in supporting thousands of bright researchers and innovators in developing solutions from life-saving medicines to protecting our environment – ultimately making a visible, positive difference to people’s lives and supporting the missions at the heart of the Government’s Plan for Change.

    His experience will be a major asset in drawing on the UK’s world-leading research talent, facilities, universities and businesses, as drivers of R&D which will kickstart economic growth, make Britain a clean energy superpower and build an NHS fit for the future.

    During his time as CEO of the UK Atomic Energy Authority, Sir Ian has led the transition from an organisation rooted in deep R&D excellence, to one that is now also delivering a major infrastructure project to design and build a prototype powerplant; driving inward investment and economic growth; and enabling development of a skilled workforce and supply chain.

    Science Minister, Lord Vallance, said:

    “Growing the economy is this government’s number one mission and taking full advantage of the innovative ideas, talent and facilities across our country is key to reaching that goal and improving lives across the UK.

    “Sir Ian’s leadership experience, scientific expertise and academic achievements make him an exceptionally strong candidate to lead UKRI in pursuing ambitious, curiosity-driven research, as well as innovations that will unlock new benefits for the UK’s people and drive our Plan for Change.

    “We also thank Dame Ottoline Leyser ahead of her stepping down this summer, recognising her pivotal work in guiding UKRI through challenging times, notably during the Covid pandemic and through the UK’s return to participation in Horizon Europe.”

    Incoming UKRI CEO, Professor Sir Ian Chapman, said:

    “I am excited to be joining an excellent team at UKRI focussed on improving the lives and livelihoods of UK citizens.

    “Research and innovation must be central to the prosperity of our society and our economy, so UKRI can shape the future of the country.

    “I was tremendously fortunate to represent UKAEA, an organisation at the forefront of global research and innovation of fusion energy, and I look forward to building on those experiences to enable the wider UK research and innovation sector.”

    Through our world-class universities and institutes, UKRI develops and nurtures future talent who can maintain the UK’s position as a global hub of research, development and deployment in the long term while collaborating with partners around the world so that scientific and technological advances driven in the UK can benefit lives at home and around the world.

    UKRI plays a key part in driving up UK participation in the world’s largest research programme, Horizon Europe, helping to build a more efficient and joined-up approach to research funding and unleashing the power of UK research and innovation.

    UKRI will also play an increasing role in steering our long-term industrial strategy, removing barriers to growth and building on the UK’s strategic advantage in its fundamental science capability.

    UKRI Chairman, Sir Andrew Mackenzie, said:

    “The board and I are delighted that Ian will become UKRI’s next CEO in the summer.

    “Research and Innovation are fundamental to UK growth. Ian has the skills, experience, leadership and commitment to unlock this opportunity to improve the lives and livelihoods of everyone. We look forward to working with him on the next phase of UKRI’s development and our stewardship of the UK’s innovation culture and systems.

    “We thank Ottoline for an outstanding five years as UKRI’s CEO. She has delivered a step-change in operational effectiveness and cross-discipline work through collective and inclusive leadership and secured more social and commercial impacts from our investments.”

    Climate Minister Kerry McCarthy said:

    “I’d like to thank Sir Ian for his many years of dedicated service at UK Atomic Energy Agency, the last nine as CEO. In that time, he has transformed the organisation into a world leading hub for fusion energy commercialisation and driven the UK and global strategy for fusion development forward.

    “I am delighted that the UK will continue to benefit from his drive and expertise in his new role. We will shortly begin recruiting a new UKAEA CEO to lead the UK’s world-class fusion programme into the next decade.”

    Notes to editors

    • Established in 2018, UKRI is a non-departmental public body that combines the strengths of nine distinct research and innovation funders:
    • Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC)
    • Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)
    • Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)
    • Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)
    • Innovate UK (IUK)
    • Medical Research Council (MRC)
    • Natural Environment Research Council (NERC)
    • Research England (RE)
    • Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)
    • Sir Ian – who currently sits on UKRI’s Board – will take up the post in the summer, bringing strong leadership experience from his role as CEO of the UK Atomic Energy Authority since 2016 and links to academia. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society, the Royal Academy of Engineering, and the Institute of Physics, and a visiting Professor at Durham University.
    • With a background in fusion and firm grasp of the part that ambitious and targeted R&D can play in improving lives, he has published over 100 journal papers and received several awards for his research.
    • His appointment follows an open recruitment process launched in August 2024, after Professor Dame Ottoline Leyser announced her intention to stand down as UKRI’s CEO from June 2025.
    • Having held the post since 2020, Dame Ottoline leaves a strong foundation to build on, from navigating the continued delivery of research through the pandemic to supporting the UK’s return to participation in Horizon Europe – putting UKRI in a strong position to bolster its role as an engine for delivering pioneering research to improve lives and grow our economy.
    • The UKAEA Board has provisionally agreed that Tim Bestwick (UKAEA deputy CEO) will take over as interim CEO of UKAEA after Sir Ian leaves, whilst a permanent replacement is appointed.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Shortlist Of Design Teams Announced For National Memorial For Queen Elizabeth II [February 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Shortlist Of Design Teams Announced For National Memorial For Queen Elizabeth II [February 2025]

    The press release issued by the Cabinet Office on 25 February 2025.

    The Government is pleased to announce the shortlisted design teams for the national memorial to Queen Elizabeth II.

    The shortlisted design teams include:

    • Foster + Partners with Yinka Shonibare and Michel Desvigne Paysagiste
    • Heatherwick Studio with Halima Cassell, MRG Studio, Webb Yates and Arup
    • J&L Gibbons with Michael Levine RDI, William Matthews Associates, Structure Workshop and Arup
    • Tom Stuart-Smith with Jamie Fobert Architects, Adam Lowe (Factum Arte) and Structure Workshop
    • WilkinsonEyre with Lisa Vandy and Fiona Clark, Andy Sturgeon Design, Atelier One and Hilson Moran

    The finalists were shortlisted following the first stage of a two-stage open competition. Designers were required to submit examples of previous projects relevant to the vision for the memorial set out by the Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee, alongside details of the unique skills of their multi-disciplinary teams. The competition attracted a wide range of excellent creative talent from across the UK and internationally. The shortlisted teams will be required to submit their design concepts later in the Spring.

    The winning design team will be announced in Summer 2025 after the Selection Panel reviews the five shortlisted teams’ concepts. Design teams have been asked to create a memorial masterplan that celebrates Queen Elizabeth II’s extraordinary life of service and provides a space for pause and reflection. The designs will also be assessed against wider criteria, including value for money, placemaking and visitor experience.

    The team that is ultimately selected following the competition will add, in discussion with the Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee, an artist or sculptor for the figurative representation of Her Late Majesty, and this appointment will be announced in Summer 2025.

    The site for the new national Queen Elizabeth II Memorial will include the area of St James’s Park adjacent to The Mall at Marlborough Gate, and land surrounding the pathway down to the lake, including the Blue Bridge. The site was chosen because of its proximity to the ceremonial route of The Mall, its historical and constitutional significance and personal connection to Queen Elizabeth.

    The final design will be formally announced in April 2026, to coincide with what would have been Queen Elizabeth’s hundredth birthday year.

    The Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee was established by the UK Government and Royal Household in 2023 and comprises eight senior figures from across British public life, selected for their expertise, and chaired by The Late Queen’s former Private Secretary Lord Robin Janvrin.

    The Committee is also continuing its work to develop proposals for a UK-wide legacy programme to commemorate Queen Elizabeth.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Emergency homelessness fund boosted to £60 million [February 2025]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on 25 February 2025.

    An extra £30 million has been confirmed for the Winter Pressures Funding this year.

    • Urgent homelessness funding, previously tripled, has now been increased sixfold for this year to reach more people
    • Extra cash boost will see thousands of struggling people avoid homelessness, with councils stepping in early to help prevent evictions and secure accommodation
    • Builds on the government’s Plan for Change to deliver the biggest increase in tenant protections and affordable housing in decades, ensuring safe and secure housing for all

    Thousands on the brink of homelessness will receive lifechanging support to remain in their homes, thanks to new emergency funding of £30 million for homelessness services announced today.

    Today’s funding is targeted at 295 areas that are facing the highest risks of homelessness through housing costs and rent arrears. The cash will be specifically given to councils to step in early and keep people in their homes before eviction notices are served, or support people off the streets into accommodation – a lifeline for thousands to regain financial stability, stay in their communities and maintain access to local GPs and support networks.

    For councils, this emergency funding means fewer people reaching crisis point and ending up on the streets which will free up resources and ease demand on social services, healthcare, and emergency housing teams.

    Last year alone, 146,360 households turned to their council for help, with many on the brink of eviction through no fault of their own, whether from a sudden job loss, a health emergency, an unexpected bill, or a relationship breakdown.

    It brings the total Winter Pressures Funding for homelessness and rough sleeping to £60 million this year, with this extra £30 million to bolster resources at councils to act fast when negotiating with landlords, covering emergency rent shortfalls, and making sure people can get on with living their lives in safe and secure housing. This builds on the largest-ever investment in homelessness prevention services of almost £1 billion.

    Minister for Homelessness, Rushanara Ali said:

    “No one should be forced live in constant fear of losing their home and too many people are being pushed to the brink of homelessness as a direct consequence of the system we’ve inherited.

    “That’s why I’m providing an extra £30 million in emergency support for councils– taking real, immediate action to stop people falling through the cracks, stay in their homes, and help them rebuild their lives.

    “Our Plan for Change is tackling the worst housing crisis in a generation by delivering the biggest boost in social and affordable housing in a generation, fixing the broken rental market and getting us back on track to end homelessness once and for all.”

    The Deputy Prime Minister has personally directed the Ministry of Housing to prioritise remaining departmental funds towards homelessness support. This comes as her dedicated Inter-Ministerial Group is developing a long-term strategy – with ministers across government – to tackle the root causes of rough sleeping and get the country back on track to ending homelessness for good.

    This comes as the government’s landmark Renters’ Rights Bill remains on track to become law this year that will abolish one of the leading causes of homelessness, Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions. This is alongside stopping rental bidding wars for tenancies and empowering tenants to challenge unreasonable rent increases, providing much-needed stability for millions of working people and families.

    Today’s emergency cash injection is just one branch of the government’s Plan for Change to raise living standards for working people and families, strengthen rights and protections for tenants, and drive forward the biggest overhaul of the private rented sector in over 30 years.

    The government recently announced a further £20 million to ensure rough sleepers have a safe, warm place to stay with hot meals and specialist care. This is on top of the £10 million announced before Christmas, providing additional resources for emergency accommodation and targeted interventions aimed at getting people off the streets and into stable housing.

    As part of long-overdue reforms to the Right to Buy scheme, councils can now keep all receipts from sales to invest in building and buying more homes. On top of this, councils received an additional £450 million last year to secure and create housing for families at risk of homelessness.

    Government investment in housing has now increased to £5 billion for this year, including a top-up of £800 million for the existing Affordable Homes Programme, which is supporting efforts to build tens of thousands of affordable and social homes across the country.

    Further information

    Last year, the government launched an emergency £10 million package for rough sleepers, with a further £20 million in January.

    A full breakdown of funding allocations for each council is available here.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Powers for landlords to collect rent from benefit payments to be re-examined [February 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Powers for landlords to collect rent from benefit payments to be re-examined [February 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 25 February 2025.

    A controversial system that automatically approves landlord requests to deduct tenants’ benefits to pay rent arrears and ongoing rent payments is being re-examined, Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall announced today.

    • Work and Pensions Secretary pledges to “right the wrongs” of controversial benefit deduction system.
    • Follows decision by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) not to appeal court judgement which found one claimant’s landlord payments were unfair.
    • Action is part of wider plans to make the benefits system fairer and protect people from falling into debt.

    It comes amid concerns that the system – aimed at helping people avoid issues with their landlords such as eviction – may actually be pushing the poorest into debt.

    Currently, a computer program automatically approves landlord requests to deduct up to a fifth of someone’s monthly Universal Credit payments for outstanding rent repayments without them being consulted by either their landlord or DWP.

    The department will now look at this process and consider better ways of ensuring landlords get the rent they are owed in a fair and proportionate way while benefit claimants are protected from falling into debt.

    It comes as part of wider efforts by the Work and Pensions Secretary to fix the broken welfare system to make it fairer and ensure it improves living standards which will unlock economic growth – a key commitment in the government’s Plan for Change.

    Work and Pensions Secretary, Rt Hon Liz Kendall MP, said:

    I am determined to right the wrongs that have persisted in the benefits system for too long. The automatic approval of landlords’ requests for tenants’ benefits to be deducted is one of these.

    As well as urgently reviewing this system, I am bringing forward major changes to the health and disability benefits system so that it works for everyone, underpinned by the biggest employment reforms in a generation.

    We will continue to listen to people’s concerns, and transform our benefits system to one of fairness, not punishment.

    This decision comes in response to a high-profile legal challenge in January, which was won by Nathan Roberts whose benefits were deducted and automatically paid to his landlord to cover alleged rent arrears and ongoing rent payments – despite a dispute about repairs to the property.  The Work and Pensions Secretary has confirmed DWP will not appeal this decision.

    Minister for Social Security and Disability, Rt Hon Sir Stephen Timms MP, said:

    The benefits system needs urgent reform and we are taking action across the board to do this – whether that’s tackling the huge accumulation of debt by Carer’s Allowance recipients through no fault of their own, or this automatic deduction of benefits purely at the request of a landlord.

    Combined with our efforts to Get Britain Working and our upcoming health and disability benefits reform, all of this will lead to better support for those who need it, and open doors for those who can work.

    This comes ahead of a manifesto commitment to deliver a wider review of Universal Credit to ensure it is getting people into work, making work pay and tackling poverty.

    In April, the Universal Credit Fair Repayment Rate will also come into force, reducing the cap on how much can be deducted from someone’s benefits from 25% to 15%. This means approximately 1.2 million households will keep more of their Universal Credit payment each month, with households expected to be better off by £420 a year on average.

  • PRESS RELEASE : £120 million to roll-out more electric vans, taxis and motorbikes [February 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : £120 million to roll-out more electric vans, taxis and motorbikes [February 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 25 February 2025.

    We are making it easier, faster and cheaper for people across the UK to switch to electric vehicles.

    • government extends support to help drivers, businesses, fleets and cabbies make the switch to cleaner vehicles
    • red tape blocking businesses from switching to zero emission vans to be cut
    • part of £2.3 billion to help make a supported transition to zero emissions vehicles, creating jobs and delivering the Plan for Change

    Drivers, cabbies and businesses are set to benefit from £120 million in government funding to make the switch to cleaner vans, wheelchair accessible vehicles and taxis easier, faster and cheaper.

    Today (25 February 2025) Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood confirmed that the department is extending the Plug-in van grant for another year, to help van drivers and businesses transition to zero emission vehicles.

    The extension will mean businesses and van drivers can receive grants up to £2,500 when buying small vans up to 2.5 tonnes and up to £5,000 for larger vans up to 4.25 tonnes.

    The Plug-in van grant has helped sell over 80,000 electric and zero emission vans since its launch, as the government continues to back businesses all over the country.

    The department is also making it easier to switch to zero emission vans – which can be heavier than their petrol and diesel counterparts despite being of the same size – by removing the requirement for additional training that is currently in place only for zero emission vans but not their petrol and diesel equivalents.

    This will help businesses by taking away training costs, cutting red tape and making it easier to hire drivers when operating electric vans.

    Today’s funding is part of over £2.3 billion to help industry and consumers make a supported switch to electric vehicles (EVs). This is creating high paid jobs, supporting businesses up and down the country and tapping into a multi-billion pound industry to make the UK a clean energy superpower and deliver the government’s Plan for Change.

    Future of Roads Minister, Lilian Greenwood, said:

    From van drivers and businesses, to drivers with accessibility needs, bikers and cabbies, today we are making it easier, faster and cheaper for people to switch to electric vehicles.

    By making the transition to zero emissions a success, we’re helping to drive growth all over the UK, putting more money in people’s pockets and rebuilding Britain to deliver our Plan for Change.

    The department is also supporting taxi drivers make the switch to electric for another year, by making £4,000 available to buy an iconic zero emission black cab amongst other models, making journeys cleaner and more comfortable for passengers.

    The Plug-in wheelchair accessible vehicle grant cap is also being increased from £35,000 to £50,000, giving consumers a wider choice of vehicle models and removing barriers for disabled passengers, so that they can get around more easily and with greater peace of mind.

    Today is a positive day for bikers as well, who will continue to enjoy a £500 grant from government to buy an electric motorbike for another year.

    Alongside this financial support, the government strengthened incentives to purchase zero emission vehicles in the Autumn Budget 2024 by maintaining generous ZEV incentives in the Company Car Tax regime.

    The transition to electric continues at pace. With over 382,000 electric cars sold in 2024 – up a fifth on the previous year – there’s never been a better time to switch to EVs, with one in 3 used electric cars under £20,000 and 21 brand new electric cars RRP under £30,000.

    Owning an electric car is also becoming increasingly cheaper, with drivers able to save up to £750 a year if they mostly charge at home compared to petrol.

    There are now over 74,000 public chargers in the UK, with a record of nearly 20,000 added last year alone. With 24/7 helplines, contactless payments, and up-to-date chargepoint locations, charging has become easier than ever.

    With £200 million announced in the budget to continue powering the chargepoint rollout and £6 billion of private investment in the pipeline, the UK’s charging network will continue to see tens of thousands of chargers added in the coming years so that EV owners can drive with the confidence that they’re never too far from a socket.

    Last year saw record numbers of people making a supported switch to electric vehicles, with the UK leading Europe in sales, and growth of more than a fifth on the previous year. The government has been engaging closely with car manufacturers on how to support them to deliver the transition to electric vehicles with a consultation recently closing, which sought views from industry on how to deliver the manifesto commitment to restore the 2030 phase out date for new purely petrol and diesel cars.

    The average range of a new electric car is now 236 miles – that’s about 2 weeks of driving for most people – all the while emitting just one-third of the greenhouse emissions of a petrol car during its lifetime.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK businesses lead the way with record numbers of female leaders [February 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK businesses lead the way with record numbers of female leaders [February 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 25 February 2025.

    FTSE Women Leaders Review and UK Government publish latest report on women in leadership roles at FTSE350 companies.

    • UK leads the world in drive to increase the number of women on boards and in leadership at the top of firms.
    • More than 60% of FTSE350 companies within striking distance of the 40% target for women’s representation in boardrooms
    • Supporting women into leadership roles could unlock billions in economic growth and deliver on Plan for Change

    Top British companies are continuing to lead the way for gender equality in boardrooms with women occupying over 43% of roles on company boards according to a new report published today (Tuesday 25 February).

    The FTSE Women Leaders Review report for 2025, backed by the government and sponsored by sector giants Lloyds Banking Group and KPMG LLP, shows that women now occupy 1,275 or 43% of roles on company boards and 6,743 (35%) of leadership roles at the 350 FTSE companies.

    This marks a year-on-year increase and means the target of 40% women’s representation by the end of this year continues to be achieved by FTSE350 businesses. The results of this review show the progress being made to break down barriers to opportunity at the highest levels, within some of the most innovative and important companies in the UK.

    Delivering equal opportunities for women is at the heart of the government’s growth mission as part of the Plan for Change, by ensuring they have fair access to a stable, well-paid jobs which will also help drive up living standards.

    At a London event this evening, business leaders, ministers and the leaders of the Review will come together to reflect upon and celebrate this progress as well as the contribution it is making to creating a stronger, more dynamic economy.

    But the government recognises there is still more to do to bring more women into roles such as company Chairs and CEOs and to increase the number of women on boards and in leadership who hold executive roles. The government will work with FTSE companies and other organisations to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to achieve their full potential based on their talent.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    The UK is leading the charge for gender equality in boardrooms, but we cannot rest on our laurels.

    We must break down the barriers that stop many women being represented in decision-making roles, so that top talent reaches the highest levels of leadership in businesses driving economic growth across Britain.

    Minister for Investment Baroness Gustafsson OBE said:

    I know from founding my own business how strong female voices inspire positive change throughout an organisation, bringing new ideas and adding greater value.

    Today’s report shows that whilst the momentum is with us, we have so much further to go. Working with business leaders and investors, we will do everything we can to unlock more opportunities for women at the highest levels as we go for growth and deliver our Plan for Change.

    The UK’s approach to gender equality in boardrooms is setting an international precedent for inclusive business, coming second only to France in the G7, with 43.4% representation compared to 45.4%.

    Whilst France and many other countries employ the use of quotas, the action taken by British companies has been entirely voluntary demonstrating the ability of the private sector to lead the way, alongside government support, but without overburdening regulation.

    By leading the way and committing to improving gender equality companies are demonstrating the market value of increased representation of women in senior roles and the diversity of thinking that this brings, trickling down into small and medium sized businesses who look to replicate this success.

    The government’s flagship Employment Rights Bill and Plan to Make Work Pay will further strengthen women’s rights in the workplace and increase protections for women going through the menopause, as well as protections from dismissal whilst pregnant or on maternity leave.

    Vivienne Artz, CEO of the FTSE Women Leaders Review, said:

    In an increasingly disruptive world in which companies are faced with a combination of economic, geo-political and technological change British businesses are setting an international standard for balanced and inclusive leadership.

    With its unique Government-backed and business-led voluntary approach, the UK has spearheaded a world-leading transformation in the highest ranks of industry. Whilst FTSE 350 company boards are now gender-balanced, sustained effort and determination is required to achieve the 40% target for women in leadership by the end of this year.

    We look forward to working with businesses to deliver on this ambition.

    Penny James and Nimesh Patel, Co-Chairs of the FTSE Women Leaders Review, said:

    The UK is nothing short of world-leading in driving gender balance at the top of business with business leaders delivering change through voluntary action rather than quotas. Despite many competing priorities companies continue to see equality of opportunity as key to improving productivity and achieving growth.

    Balance on FTSE 350 boards has been achieved and women’s representation on executive teams is steadily increasing but a step-up in commitment is required to deliver parity in the key leadership roles.

    Over the coming year we urge UK business to remain focused on sustaining momentum, harnessing all of the available talent and driving towards a business environment that offers opportunity for all.

    NOTES TO EDITORS:

    • The FTSE Women Leaders Review (the Review) is sponsored by Lloyds Banking Group and KPMG LLP.

    Sir Robin Budenberg, Chair of Lloyds Banking Group, said:

    As proud co-sponsor of the FTSE Women Leaders Review, we applaud the significant progress made over the years in increasing gender balance on both the boards and leadership teams of the UK’s biggest companies.

    A strong, diverse workforce is fundamental to business success. When leadership reflects the society it serves, companies are better equipped to understand their customers, drive innovation and deliver long-term sustainable growth. And if business does not employ the full breadth of society, it will not benefit from all the talent available.

    At Lloyds Banking Group we have a gender-balanced board and over 45% representation of women at leadership level but we recognise that progress is neither linear nor inevitable. The responsibility lies with all of us to lead inclusively and to keep gender equality at the top of the agenda. By doing so, we strengthen our businesses and help build a more dynamic, successful economy.

    Bina Mehta, Chair of KPMG LLP, said:

    With the final year of the FTSE Women Leaders Review ahead, I’m delighted we have continued to make substantial progress in achieving greater gender balance in senior roles, something that reflects many years of voluntary effort and collective action.

    It’s particularly encouraging to see the progress made by the UK’s Top 50 Private companies in their first three years of reporting. These companies are keeping pace with the FTSE100 and are currently reporting 35% of Executive Committee roles are held by women.

    As Chair of KPMG UK, I am proud that our firm continues to grow the number of women in leadership roles, maintaining our position in the ‘Top Ten Best Performers’. As a firm we recognise the importance of creating an environment where everyone can succeed and thrive.

    With the country’s renewed focused on economic growth, if businesses continue to work together, we can help to deliver long term prosperous and sustainable growth.

    The Review

    The FTSE Women Leaders Review is the independent, business-led framework supported by the Government, which sets recommendations for Britain’s biggest companies to improve the representation of women on their boards and leadership teams. The scope of the Review covers the FTSE 350 and 50 of the UK’s biggest private companies.

    Adopting a voluntary approach, the Review captures and publishes progress on 26,000 roles on boards and in leadership two layers below the board, across all sectors of British business on an annual basis.

    Women on Boards: 2024

    1. Reported numbers for Women on Boards of FTSE 350, as of 10th January 2025, show:

    Source – BoardEx:

    • FTSE 100 is at 44.7%, up from 42.6% in 2023
    • FTSE 250 is at 42.6%, up from 41.8% in 2023
    • FTSE 350 is at 43.4.%, up from 42.1% in 2023
    • 50 largest UK private companies are at 30.5% (30.6% in 2023)
    1. Almost three quarters of FTSE 350 Boards (73.4%) have met or exceeded the current 40% target with that number now standing at 257 up from 235 in 2023.
    2. The UK FTSE 350 is in 2nd place when compared internationally to the G7 countries but this is being achieved at a greater scale and through entirely voluntary action as opposed to mandatory quota systems. In the UK 350 companies are in scope compared with 40 in France which has quota legislation in place.
    3. FTSE 100 companies top the rankings for women on boards compared with other international indices (excluding the G7) including the Euronext 100, IBEX and S&P ASK FTSE 100: 44.7% v Euronext 100: 42.2%, IBEX: 40.9% S&P ASX: 40.2%

    Women in Leadership: 2024

    1. Reported numbers for Women in Leadership (defined as the Executive Committee & Direct Reports to the Executive Committee on a combined basis) show:

    Source – FTSE Women Leaders, Leadership Data Collection Portal as at 31 October 2024:

    • FTSE 100 is at 36.6% up from 35.2% in 2023
    • FTSE 250 is at 34.2% up from 33.9% in 2023
    • FTSE 350 is at 35.3% up from in 34.5% in 2023
    • 50 largest UK private companies are at 36.8% up from 35.6% in 2023

    Four Key Roles: 2024

    1.   Women continue to be appointed to the Chair role with a gain of seven FTSE 350 women Chairs in 2024. As a result, the number of women in the Chair role in the FTSE 350 has increased from to 53 in 2023 to 60 in 2024 (17%).

    2.   The number of women SIDs has increased to 192 across the FTSE 350 in 2024, up from 162 in 2023. Now over half of FTSE 350 companies (56%) have a woman SID.

    3.   The percentage of women Finance Directors in the FTSE 350 has increased from 48 in 2023 to 57 in 2024 (22%).

    4.   FTSE 350 women CEOs have reduced from 20 in 2023 to 19 in 2024.

    The Recommendations for the Review

    There are four Recommendations that were announced in February 2022 to fuel further progress in delivering gender balance at the top of British business:

    • The voluntary target for FTSE 350 Boards and Leadership teams was increased to a minimum of 40% women’s representation by the end of 2025.
    • Companies should have at least one woman in the Chair, Senior Independent Director role on the board and/or one woman in the Chief Executive Officer or Finance Director role by the end of 2025.
    • Key stakeholders should continue to set best-practice guidelines or use alternative mechanisms to encourage any FTSE 350 Board that has not yet achieved the previous 33% target for the end of 2020, to do so.
    • The scope of the Review is extended beyond FTSE 350 companies to include 50 of the UK’s largest private companies.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK Statement on response to the situation in Eastern DRC [February 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 25 February 2025.

    The UK has issued a statement in response to the situation in Eastern DRC.

    A UK Government spokesperson said:

    The UK is deeply concerned by the situation in eastern DRC. The Foreign Secretary met with President Tshisekedi in Kinshasa and President Kagame in Kigali on 21 and 22 February.

    In his meetings, he was clear that there can be no military solution to the conflict. There must be an immediate cessation of hostilities. The recent offensives by M23 and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), including the capture of Goma and Bukavu, are an unacceptable violation of DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and a breach of the UN Charter.

    The Foreign Secretary urged both leaders to engage meaningfully and in good faith with African led peace processes to find a lasting political solution. They must honour all commitments made at the Joint EAC-SADC Summit on 8 February. The UK will continue to discuss with African and other partners what more it can do to support these efforts.

    The humanitarian situation in eastern DRC is critical. Close to a million people have been recently displaced in eastern DRC and hundreds of thousands are in desperate need of lifesaving support. There is a responsibility on all parties to protect the people of eastern DRC who have suffered so much in this conflict.

    The Foreign Secretary has been clear that there would be a strong response from the international community in response to the escalating conflict. In recent weeks, the UK has coordinated closely with international partners, including those from the G7 and the International Contact Group on the Great Lakes, on that response. We have also used every appropriate opportunity at the United Nations Security Council and the Human Rights Council to call for a resolution to the conflict in Eastern DRC.

    During the Foreign Secretary’s visit, he announced an additional package of £14.6 million of humanitarian support to help those in Eastern DRC who are suffering most.

    The UK calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities, humanitarian access, respect for international humanitarian law, meaningful engagement with African-led peace processes, and the withdrawal of all Rwanda Defence Forces from Congolese territory.

    Until significant progress is made, the UK will take the following measures:

    1. Cease high-level attendance at events hosted by the Government of Rwanda.
    2. Limit trade promotion activity with Rwanda.
    3. Pause direct bilateral financial aid to the Government of Rwanda, excluding support to the poorest and most vulnerable.
    4. Coordinate with partners on potential new sanctions designations.
    5. Suspend future defence training assistance to Rwanda.
    6. Review export licences for the Rwanda Defence Force.

    Rwanda may have security concerns but it is unacceptable to resolve these militarily. There can only be a political solution to this conflict. We encourage DRC to engage with M23 as part of an inclusive dialogue.

    We will continue to keep our policy under review.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Extra energy bill support for the country [February 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Extra energy bill support for the country [February 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 25 February 2025.

    The government is bringing forward strengthened support for millions of households to help pay their energy bills next winter.

    • Nearly 3 million more families would be eligible to receive the £150 Warm Home Discount next winter under new proposals to help people with their energy bills
    • 1 in 5 families in Britain would get help with their bills through these proposals, giving households a helping hand to deal with an unpredictable international energy market
    • comes alongside plans to accelerate a debt relief scheme which will help tackle debt and reduce households’ energy costs

    Almost 3 million more households, including almost 1 million households with children, would get support to pay their energy bills next winter, as the government consults on proposals to offer more support to consumers across the country.

    Due to global gas price spikes this winter and the continued impacts of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the energy regulator Ofgem has announced today (Tuesday 25 February) an increase in the energy price cap for April to June 2025. This price is set independently of the government, reflecting changes in wholesale prices and global markets.

    In response, the government is acting to protect billpayers by consulting on the expansion of the Warm Home Discount, giving eligible households £150 off their energy bills. This would bring around 2.7 million households into the scheme – pushing the total number of households that would receive the discount next winter up to an estimated 6.1 million.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

    This is worrying news for many families.

    This government is determined to do everything we can to protect people from the grip of fossil fuel markets. Expanding the Warm Home Discount can help protect millions of families from rising energy bills, offering support to consumers across the country.

    Alongside this, the way to deliver energy security and bring down bills for good is to deliver our mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower- with homegrown clean power that we in Britain control.

    The government will also work closely with Ofgem to accelerate proposals on a potential debt relief scheme, first consulted on last year, to target unsustainable debt built up during the energy crisis.

    The proposed debt support scheme, alongside the Warm Home Discount, is an important first step to cut the costs of servicing bad debt, which is currently contributing to higher bills for all billpayers. Under these plans, the target would be to reduce the debt allowance to pre-crisis levels, with Ofgem estimating that these plans could lower these costs by £25 to £30 per year.

    This additional support for households complements the government’s mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower, delivering energy security and bringing down bills for good. The expected rise in the price cap shows once again the cost of remaining reliant on the unstable global fossil fuel markets that are driving price increases. Three years on from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, wholesale gas prices have now risen by 15% compared to the previous price cap period, which is directly affecting the cost of generating power and heating of homes. Moving to a power system based on homegrown, clean energy will reduce the UK’s reliance on volatile markets and protect billpayers.

    To achieve this, government has set out the most ambitious reforms of the UK’s energy system in a generation. Within its first 8 months in office, the government has lifted the onshore wind ban, established Great British Energy, approved nearly 3 GW of solar, delivered a record-breaking renewables auction and kickstarted the carbon capture and hydrogen industries in the UK. Reforms to nuclear planning rules have also been introduced to clear a path for smaller, and easier to build nuclear reactors – helping to deliver energy security, grow the economy and deliver clean, cheap energy.

    Ofgem CEO Jonathan Brearley said:

    Energy debts that began during the energy crisis have reached record levels and without intervention will continue to grow. This puts families under huge stress and increases costs for all customers.

    We’re developing plans that could give households with unmanageable debt the clean slate they need to move forward. We welcome the government’s support for these plans, and their plans to expand the Warm Home Discount, which will also offer financial help to nearly 3 million more households that need it most.

    While the government presses on with the clean power mission, swift action has already been taken to shield energy consumers from high prices. These measures include:

    • extended the Household Support Fund to provide help through local councils to struggling households with essential costs, including energy bills
    • worked with energy suppliers to negotiate a £500 million winter support package for consumers
    • rolled out the next steps of the Warm Homes Plan, which will upgrade 300,000 homes this financial year
    • consulting on boosting living standards in the private rented sector by requiring all private landlords in England and Wales to meet Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) C or equivalent in their properties by 2030, which will help a million renters out of fuel poverty
    • announced a comprehensive review of the energy regulator Ofgem, empowering it to facilitate growth and innovation and become a stronger champion for consumers
    • driving forward with pro-consumer reforms:
      • challenging unlawful back billing; taking action on inaccurate bills
      • driving the smart meter rollout
      • giving every family the option of a zero standing charge tariff, so they have more choice in how they pay for their energy
      • ensuring compensation for wrongful installation of prepayment meters

    In addition, government has also moved quickly to protect working people from wider cost of living pressures, including:

    • helping to keep prices down at the pumps by freezing fuel duty for an additional 12 months, saving motorists £3 billion in 2025 to 2026
    • targeting support with the largest increase to the Carer’s Allowance earnings limit since it was introduced in 1976 – worth £41 a week
    • capping the amount that can be deducted cut from Universal Credit payments when repaying short-term loans and debts, saving 1.2 million of the poorest families in the UK £420 a year on average
    • through the government’s commitment to the Triple Lock, millions will see their State Pension rise by up to £1,900 over this parliament

    Taken together, these reforms will help to improve the lives of working people and put more money in their pockets, secure home-grown energy and kickstart economic growth, as part of the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change. Through this ambitious programme, the government will deliver a decade of national renewal and fix the foundations of the country.