Tag: Press Release

  • PRESS RELEASE : Leaders’ declaration on tackling migrant smuggling [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Leaders’ declaration on tackling migrant smuggling [June 2026]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 17 June 2026.

    Leaders’ declaration on tackling migrant smuggling.

    We, the Leaders of the G7, reaffirm our enduring efforts to prevent and counter the smuggling of migrants. Taking stock of the G7 Leaders’ statements adopted in Apulia in 2024 and Kananaskis in 2025, we renew our commitment to preventing, countering and dismantling organised criminal networks that profit from the smuggling of migrants, the trafficking in persons and other related crimes, as well as to disrupting the business models of organised criminal enterprises. Partner countries of the G7, Kenya and the Republic of Korea, also support this declaration.

    Migrant smuggling and human trafficking constitute serious transnational crimes that erode the sovereign right of States to control their borders and expose smuggled and trafficked persons to life-threatening risks. We are committed to tackling organised illegal migration. We remain committed to fight against all forms of abuse and exploitation of migrants, ensuring protection of the most vulnerable, including refugees and forcibly displaced persons.

    Accordingly, we task our relevant Ministers to continue taking robust action to further deliver on the G7 Action Plan to Prevent and Counter the Smuggling of Migrants.

    We recognise ongoing work to adopt targeted sanctions and other restrictive measures against individuals and entities involved in migrant smuggling, including online, where consistent with our legal systems. In that regard, we recall our determination, expressed under the Canadian presidency, to intensify our cooperation with online platforms and relevant actors for them to detect, prevent and remove online content used to conduct smuggling operations.

    We will also deepen cooperation with countries of origin and transit to dismantle smuggling and trafficking networks, and to prevent organised illegal migration by strengthening our efforts to build stability in order to enable all individuals to live and thrive in their own countries, safeguarding their safety, rights and dignity, including through improved economic conditions.

    We note the obligations on States to accept return of their own nationals and to enhance processes to ensure timely, safe, lawful and dignified return of those with no legal right to stay in our territories. Respectful of national competences, we take note of new lawful approaches explored by some members with third countries to strengthen migration management.

    This declaration reflects the outcome of the discussion between G7 members, benefiting from productive exchanges of views with partner countries.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK backs communities on the ocean’s front line with £13.9 million investment [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK backs communities on the ocean’s front line with £13.9 million investment [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 17 June 2026.

    The funding supports international programmes delivering for people and nature, from flood protection to tackling plastic pollution.

    Ocean ecosystems will be protected and resilience increased in some of the world’s most climate-vulnerable coastal communities thanks to £13.9 million UK investment in new funding, Marine Minister Emma Hardy announced today at the eleventh Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa, Kenya.

    Channelled through the UK’s Blue Planet Fund, which marks its fifth anniversary this year, the investment will support three international programmes delivering measurable results for people and nature: PROBLUE, the World Bank’s Blue Economy Multi-Donor Trust Fund, the Ocean Risk and Resilience Action Alliance (ORRAA) and the Global Plastic Action Partnership (GPAP).

    PROBLUE is a World Bank-managed fund, supported by multiple donors, that partners with countries to protect and sustainably manage their marine resources.

    ORRAA brings together the finance sector, governments and civil society to develop new ways of investing in the protection of coastal communities and marine environments, particularly in developing countries.

    GPAP is the World Economic Forum’s flagship initiative on plastic pollution. It creates national partnerships that bring together governments, businesses and civil society to tackle plastic pollution and increase investment in waste management and the circular economy transition in over 20 countries.

    A £6.7 million contribution to PROBLUE, up to £2.2 million in additional ORRAA funding and £5 million for GPAP bring the UK’s total commitment to these programmes to over £86 million since 2021.

    Marine Minister Emma Hardy said:

    Behind every statistic is a community better protected from storms, a mangrove forest pulling carbon from the atmosphere, a family no longer at risk of losing their home to rising seas.

    This funding reaffirms the UK’s position at the forefront of international ocean protection. As climate pressures on our oceans intensify, investing in the resilience of coastal communities is not only the right thing to do, but essential.

    In São Tomé and Príncipe, one of the world’s smallest and most climate-exposed nations, UK-backed funding through PROBLUE is building coastal resilience. The programme is working to reduce flood risk for over 800 households and supporting 2000 people through job-focussed interventions. Every dollar of PROBLUE funding has unlocked more than three in wider World Bank investment.

    Off the Kenyan coast, ORRAA-supported work in Vanga Bay is pioneering a new approach to ocean finance: developing one of the world’s first marine biodiversity credit schemes in the global south, creating a sustainable income stream for coastal communities tied directly to the restoration and protection of seagrass ecosystems.

    Karen Sack, Executive Director of ORRAA, said:

    The UK’s Blue Planet Fund has been instrumental in supporting ORRAA’s work in developing an investable finance and insurance product pipeline that supports the resilience of climate vulnerable coastal communities in the Global South, and in building the Alliance.

    This latest wave of funding will be critical as we double-down and scale-up vital action for the health of the Ocean and the communities it supports.

    Clemence Schmid, Director, Global Plastic Action Partnership, World Economic Forum, said:

    Since 2018, the United Kingdom’s continued leadership and partnership have helped the Global Plastic Action Partnership grow into the world’s largest multistakeholder platform tackling plastic pollution, connecting a global community of partners with 25 National Plastic Action Partnerships that translate global ambition into local action.

    At a pivotal moment for the global plastics treaty, this renewed commitment will help strengthen this network. This includes NPAP Kenya, which we are proud to launch at the Our Ocean Conference this week, helping unlock investment, create jobs and accelerate the transition to a circular plastics economy.

    We are grateful to the United Kingdom for its continued leadership in advancing the global circular plastics agenda.

    UK Special Representative for Nature Ruth Davis OBE said:

    Our ocean is fundamental to life on Earth and this investment will deliver real, measurable benefits for marine nature, from seagrass meadows to coral reefs that shelter extraordinary biodiversity.  

    Tackling plastic pollution, restoring coastal ecosystems and building the finance mechanisms that make long-term marine protection viable are all essential steps in halting and reversing the decline of ocean nature.  

    The UK’s continued leadership through the Blue Planet Fund shows what is possible when we treat the ocean crisis with the urgency it deserves.

    Whilst in Kenya, Minister Hardy also signed a High-Level Global Commitment on Protecting Climate Resilient Coral Reefs on behalf of the UK and its Overseas Territories. The commitment calls on signatories to integrate reef protection into national plans, reduce local pressures on reefs, and mobilise global finance to support their conservation. This builds on the UK’s support of the Global Fund for Coral Reefs, which is helping to scale businesses that build sustainable livelihoods and protect coral reefs in critical locations across the globe. 

    These announcement form part of the UK’s broader engagement at a pivotal moment for international ocean and environmental diplomacy, ahead of the first Conference of the Parties to the High Seas Treaty, CBD COP17 and UNFCCC COP31 later this year.

    Delivering this work globally helps protect the UK’s own interests by supporting healthier seas, strengthening food security, and building resilience to climate impacts, recognising that our economy, environment and wellbeing all depend on a thriving natural world.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister secures major jobs and energy investment at G7 to deliver growth and security at home [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister secures major jobs and energy investment at G7 to deliver growth and security at home [June 2026]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 17 June 2026.

    Prime Minister secures major jobs and energy investment at G7 to deliver growth and security at home.

    • £1.3 billion in new investment secured from leading companies in France and India to back clean energy and AI projects in the UK
    • More than 1,400 new jobs to be created in Manchester, Leeds and Birmingham
    • Major new battery storage and clean power projects to boost energy security and help bring down bills for working people

    The Prime Minister will unveil a major package of international investment into the UK economy at the G7 Summit, delivering more than a thousand jobs, strengthening energy security and helping to bring down costs for working people.

    The deal includes major investments from French and Indian firms into Britain’s clean energy infrastructure and AI sector – backing high-skilled jobs in cities including Manchester, Leeds and Birmingham while helping deliver more stable and affordable energy.

    At a time of rising global instability, including conflict in Ukraine and the Middle East, the Prime Minister is using the summit to work with partners to reduce pressures on household bills, strengthen supply chains and unlock new opportunities for British workers.

    Today’s investments come as the Prime Minister meets world leaders to drive growth and security at home in an increasingly uncertain global context. They include:

    • £25 million investment from Indian based tech firm Hexaware Technologies to expand its UK operations, creating around 1,200 jobs in Manchester, Leeds and Birmingham in AI, digital services and quantum technologies
    • £1 billion from InfraVia to invest in a pipeline of battery storage and flexible energy projects across the UK — helping ensure electricity remains available when demand is high, and keeping the grid stable and affordable
    • More than £300 million from Atri Energy Transition to develop large-scale battery storage and advanced manufacturing creating more than 100 jobs and supporting the UK’s clean energy future

    Together, these investments will support high-skilled jobs, strengthen the UK’s energy independence, and help protect households from volatile global energy prices.

    The government is determined to accelerate the shift to homegrown power, reducing reliance on international fossil fuel markets and helping deliver more stable, affordable energy for families and businesses over the long term.

    Today’s announcement cements the UK’s leadership in clean energy, with the government having secured £90 billion in private investment into renewable projects since taking office.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    The world is more dangerous than it has been for a generation, with conflict abroad washing up on our shores.

    That’s why I’m focused on making the UK the best place to do business by offering global investors the stability and competitive environment they need to grow, even in the face of global uncertainty.

    These investments will create thousands of high-skilled jobs, back British innovation and strengthen our energy system so families are better protected from global shocks.

    The announcements also underline the UK’s standing as a leading destination for investment, particularly in new and emerging industries such as AI and clean energy and build on the Government’s modern Industrial Strategy.

    Hexaware Technologies, which is based in India, is set to expand its presence in the UK through the expansion of its delivery centre in Birmingham and establishment of its R&D Centres in Manchester and Leeds. The investment will support innovation at scale in new and emerging technologies including AI and quantum computing and is expected to create around 1,200 jobs over the next three to five years, supported by £25 million in capital investment.

    Atri Energy Transition – an India-based clean energy investor – will invest more than £300 million in the UK to develop large-scale battery storage and advanced manufacturing. This includes new facilities supporting more than 100 jobs and helping store energy so it can be used when demand is highest. This will strengthen the UK’s energy security and help protect households from spikes in global energy prices.

    InfraVia’s £1 billion investment will fund a pipeline of projects across the UK, including battery storage and a flexible energy platform that can be switched on to boost supply when renewable energy is low. In practice, this means a more reliable electricity system that can keep the lights on during periods of high demand, helping to stabilise energy prices and reduce the risk of sudden spikes in household bills.

    CEO of Hexaware Technologies Srikrishna Ramakarthikeyan said:

    Hexaware has worked alongside businesses in the UK for more than three decades. We have very high ambitions for our growth, creating impact in the UK and proudly supporting the Government’s inclusive vision for AI. 

    Our investments are focused on developing young talent, working with unique published datasets, and collaborating with government at all levels across the country to create a positive impact for the citizens of the UK. These investments in AI research, digital innovation for citizen services, and talent incubation will create meaningful social impact while fuelling and accelerating the UK’s long-term economic growth.

    CEO & Founder of InfraVia Capital Partners Vincent Levita said:

    We believe the launch of Supernova Power is the kind of investment the UK needs as it moves towards a more electrified, digital and low-carbon economy. 

    As digital infrastructure, EV and the wider electrification of industry increase pressure on power systems, flexible generation and battery storage will be essential to maintaining energy security, strengthening grid resilience and enabling more renewable power to come online. This investment is a strong vote of confidence in the UK’s energy infrastructure market and testimony on the stability of its regulation and commitment towards renewable energy.

    The Prime Minister is working with G7 partners to ease pressures on global energy markets, including efforts to stabilise key shipping routes and de-escalate tensions in the Middle East to help bring down costs for households.

    By securing investment through international engagement, the Government is delivering tangible benefits at home – from new jobs and investment in communities to stronger energy security and lower household bills.

  • PRESS RELEASE : AI tool to slash planning decision times as government accelerates push to build 1.5 million homes [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : AI tool to slash planning decision times as government accelerates push to build 1.5 million homes [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on 17 June 2026.

    Millions of homeowners could benefit from faster planning decisions, as 2 new AI tools are unveiled to modernise England’s planning permission system.

    • New AI prototype that aims to halve decision times for routine planning applications is now being tested in three English counties
    • Smart use of AI will support plans to modernise England’s planning system and build 1.5 million homes this Parliament
    • Complements existing AI that converts decades of historic planning records into digital data in minutes, which is now available to every council in England

    Millions of homeowners waiting for permission to extend their homes, convert lofts or make other improvements could see faster decisions, with 2 new AI tools unveiled today (Wednesday 17 June) to modernise England’s planning system.

    The first is a new AI prototype that aims to halve the time it takes to process householder planning applications – down from 8, to 4 weeks in an average case.

    It is in early stage testing with Barnet, Camden and Dorset councils. The prototype triages applications, summarises key information and provides planning officers with an initial assessment they can consider when making their decision. It has been created by government together with Google DeepMind, Google Cloud, Faculty and local planning authorities.

    The second is that another tool, Extract, is now available to all councils in England as promised by the Prime Minister last year.  It uses AI to help planning officers convert decades-old planning documents and maps, sometimes with handwritten notes, into readily useable data in minutes.

    Householder applications account for nearly 70% of planning applications each year. By reducing the time spent on straightforward cases, the prototype being tested in Barnet, Camden and Dorset could help planning officers focus more on complex applications, including new housing and major developments communities rely on.

    If successful, the technology will be rolled out nationwide by 2027 – with every assessment reviewed and approved by a qualified planning officer before any decision is made.

    The announcement marks another step in the government’s commitment to build 1.5 million homes and use technology to improve public services.

    Minister for Data and Modern Digital Government Ian Murray said:

    When someone wants to add a bedroom or convert their loft, they shouldn’t be waiting months for a straightforward decision. And planning officers shouldn’t be spending hours digging through decades of paper records when making the decisions that really matter.

    These tools give planning officers better support to make quicker decisions – and give families the answers they deserve, faster.

    This isn’t about replacing the expertise and judgement of planning professionals; it’s about taking admin off their desks so they can focus on the skilled work their communities need most.

    Housing and Planning Minister, Matthew Pennycook said:

    Our planning system remains heavily reliant on cumbersome paper-based processes that consume the time of expert planning officers and cause delays on even the most routine types of application.

    We are dragging the system into the twenty-first century by harnessing the power of AI to streamline the planning application process, freeing up planners to make quicker and better decisions and reducing unnecessary delays.

    Cllr Ross Houston, Cabinet Member for Homes and Regeneration at Barnet Council, said:

    Barnet has one of the busiest Planning Departments in the country. This new AI-Augmented Planning Decisions tool could significantly reduce the time it takes the council to process householder planning applications submitted by residents. Early participation in this programme has given Barnet a direct influence on the design and development of the tool, which could fundamentally change how planning decisions are supported across England. It is also an important opportunity to gain hands‑on experience of AI‑assisted planning.

    From today, Extract is now available to all local planning authorities in England. It will slash the estimated 250,000 hours a year spent by planning officers manually checking these documents. Digitising and publishing these documents, as data, helps officers and the public access high-quality planning data more easily, and create the right foundation for the next generation of tools that could dramatically reduce delays that plague the system.

    Around 350,000 planning applications are submitted a year in England, yet the system remains heavily reliant on checking old documents. For every application, planning officers must check the local planning rules that apply, many of which are hidden away in hundreds of pages of documents, before reaching a decision.

    This represents a step-change in productivity, freeing up thousands of hours for planning officers to focus on decision-making to speed up housebuilding. It will also accelerate the delivery of much-needed housing, improve reliability in the planning process, reduce costs and save time for councils and developers.

    It comes as the government laid regulations in Parliament earlier this month to overhaul planning committees – speeding up decisions on small planning applications, such as larger home extensions and loft conversions, through a new National Scheme of Delegation. 

    Marc Warner, CEO of Faculty, CTO of Accenture, said:

    For decades, England’s gummed up planning system has slowed families seeking simple home improvements – like new windows, or attic conversions.

    By using AI to support planning officers with clear recommendations – with humans retaining final sign off – we will help cut approval times on simple renovations in half.

    This will give councils more time and resource to focus on the bigger infrastructure projects that will improve communities and drive economic growth.

    Lila Ibrahim, Chief AI Readiness Officer, Google DeepMind said:  ​​​

    The UK has an opportunity to build the homes our communities need, but local councils face a mountain of paperwork.

    That’s why we’re co-creating a sophisticated planning tool directly with councils to solve real-world bottlenecks. This will help significantly cut decision times, freeing up planners to focus on the future to get Britain building faster.

    Following trials across 20 local planning authorities in England including Exeter and Hillingdon, Extract is expected to save the average council around 255 hours of manual work digesting documents into digital form. This is down from more than 500 – giving staff more valuable time back to focus on complex work that delivers value for the communities they serve.

    Last year the Prime Minister announced that Extract would be made available to every local planning authority in England by Spring 2026 – today the government is delivering on that commitment.  

    Extract was developed by the government’s expert applied AI team, the Incubator for AI (i.AI), working with MHCLG’s Digital Planning programme. You can read more about i.AI’s work on https://ai.gov.uk/.

    Notes to editors 

    APD is being developed under an MHCLG contract with Google  Cloud, Google DeepMind, and UK AI company Faculty as delivery partners. Alpha trials began in May 2026.

    MHCLG is funding APD (Augmented Planning Decisions) with an £8.2million contract with Google Cloud, Google DeepMind and delivery partner Faculty.

    Subject to successful results, the government expects to expand trials to up to 10 additional councils later in 2026, with national rollout planned from 2027.

    You can find out more about Extract at: Extract – Check and provide your planning data including a video demonstration. It is available for use by local authorities.. It is a specialist tool to support planning officers and council workers; it does not replace them.

    As part of Extract’s rollout, the goal is that three national planning datasets – Article 4 Directions, Conservation Areas, and Tree Preservation Orders – will be published on the Planning Data Platform.

    AI support for householder applications will help planning officers to make recommendations; people will remain the final decision makers.

    Around 350,000 planning applications are submitted in England every year. Householder applications make up the majority of local planning authority workloads.

    Maureen Costello, Vice President, UK, Ireland and Sub-Saharan Africa, at Google Cloud said:

    True digital transformation happens when advanced innovation is built on a resilient, secure foundation. Google Cloud is proud to partner with the UK Government to bring AI out of the lab and into production-ready public services to deliver faster outcomes for councils nationwide.

    Graham Stallwood, Interim Chief Executive at the Planning Inspectorate said: 

    The Planning Inspectorate is following closely the work being led by MHCLG and Local Authorities to enable greater use of new AI-enabled tools like Extract and the Augmented Planning Decisions Prototype. 

     AI guidance provided by the Planning Inspectorate upholds public and professional responsibility for the information generated and supports human control and oversight. We will keep our guidance under review to maintain this ‘golden rule’ for AI use, as this technology improves and we understand more about the impact on any casework.

    Mike Keily, Chair of the Planning Officers Society said:

    The Planning Officers Society welcomes this key announcement along our Digital Planning journey. Extract is a game changing tool as it unlocks the data trapped in PDFs and makes it available in digital form to be used by AI and other systems. We look forward to future announcements from MHCLG as their investment bears fruit.

    Sarah McLaughlin, spokesperson for the Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning and Transport (ADEPT) said:  

    ADEPT welcomes digital advancements that support efficiency, transparency and effective decision-making. By embracing innovative technologies, local authorities can streamline processes and deliver improved outcomes for communities and businesses. Digital innovation enables more collaborative, accessible and future-focused planning, helping towns and communities adapt to changing needs, while supporting economic growth, environmental responsibility and high-quality place-making.

    Dr Wei Yang OBE, CEO at the Digital Task Force for Planning said:

    High-quality, standardised planning data is essential for a modern planning system. Extract can help local planning authorities accelerate the transition from document-based processes to data-enabled planning by making it easier to convert existing planning information into usable digital data. This represents an important step forward in improving efficiency, transparency and evidence-based decision-making across the planning system.

    Rachel Fisher, Chief Executive of the Royal Town Planning Institute, said:

    While some of the UK’s planning departments are ahead of the digital curve, not everyone is applying the most up-to-date technology. ‘Extract’ will therefore be a refreshing update to a local planning authority’s toolbox, which can sometimes feel out of date and unfit for purpose in today’s digital landscape.

    With the ability to draw on robust datasets, this new tool could help planners make better-informed decisions. While a planner’s work should never be fully autonomous, tools that help alleviate pressure from hard-working local authorities while helping planners deliver better outcomes for their communities are always welcome.

    RIBA President, Chris Williamson, said:

    Given our research at the end of last year showed that 80% of practices were experiencing significant project delays due to planning system backlogs, with over 10% abandoning projects entirely, we welcome the Government’s willingness to experiment with AI to help speed up applications. This is an exciting opportunity for local planning authorities to benefit from the efficiencies AI can bring to digitise applications, while maintaining the critical human oversight of architects and planners within teams to ensure high-design quality.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer meeting with Prime Minister Modi of India

    PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer meeting with Prime Minister Modi of India

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 16 June 2026.

    The Prime Minister met the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, at the G7 this afternoon.

    The leaders began by reflecting on the peace deal struck between the United States and Iran on Sunday, and paid tribute to President Trump’s efforts, and all partners involved, to secure a way forward.

    It was vital the Strait of Hormuz was now opened with no tolls and full freedom of navigation for global shipping, they agreed.

    The leaders then discussed the success of their respective visits to India and the UK and underlined the strength of the friendship between both countries.

    That relationship was delivering growth, opportunity and jobs in both countries, the leaders agreed.

    UK businesses were keen to invest and collaborate with Indian partners across a whole range of sectors, including defence and AI, the Prime Minister added.

    The leaders agreed to stay in close touch.

  • PRESS RELEASE : The UK provided over $190m towards the humanitarian response in Yemen, and we remain committed to working collectively with partners to reach those most in need – UK statement at the UN Security Council [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : The UK provided over $190m towards the humanitarian response in Yemen, and we remain committed to working collectively with partners to reach those most in need – UK statement at the UN Security Council [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 16 June 2026.

    Statement by Jennifer MacNaughtan, UK Minister Counsellor, at the Security Council meeting on Yemen.

    Thank you, Under-Secretary General Fletcher and Special Envoy Grundberg for your briefings. 

    Firstly, I would like to welcome the Special Envoy’s announcement of agreement to release detainees related to the conflict. We commend the efforts of the UN, the ICRC and Saudi Arabia to secure this, and express our thanks to Jordan and Oman for their support.

    The UK urges all parties to ensure the full and timely implementation of the agreement and to build further on this positive momentum.  

    However, even as we welcome this positive and tangible step, we reiterate our condemnation of Houthi detentions of staff from the UN, NGOs, civil society and diplomatic missions. We remain deeply concerned for the welfare of those held some of whom have now been separated from their families for over 2 years.

     Earlier this month, Security Council members reaffirmed our demand for the unconditional, safe and immediate release of those detainees, including 73 United Nations personnel. Council members also reiterated that humanitarian personnel must be able to operate safely in line with international humanitarian law.

    Threats to those delivering humanitarian assistance are unacceptable and have resulted in the pause of lifesaving programmes, worsening the dire situation for millions of Yemenis in need.  

    The UK welcomes continued efforts across the United Nations and through all possible channels to secure their immediate and unconditional release.   

    Second, we remain deeply concerned by food insecurity situation in Yemen and have heard powerful further information on this today from USG Fletcher. 

    Over 18 million Yemenis – nearly half the population – are already food insecure, with many forced to resort to extreme coping strategies such as selling their house or land to meet basic food needs. Integrated Food Security Phase Classification analysis projects a further decline over the coming months. 

    Last year, the UK provided over $190m towards the humanitarian response in Yemen, and we remain committed to supporting these efforts and working collectively with partners to reach those most in need. 

    Third, despite the challenging regional context, we must keep international attention on the pursuit of stability and security for Yemen. 

    The Government of Yemen have made significant progress since February, including with the support of the Saudi Arabia, whose provision of fuel derivatives came at a critical moment. 

    The UK will continue our strong support for President Al-Alimi and Prime Minister Zindani as the Government pursues important reforms and works towards a new National Development Plan for Yemen.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer meeting with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer meeting with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine [June 2026]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 16 June 2026.

    The Prime Minister met President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine at the G7 in France this afternoon.

    The Prime Minister began by updating President Zelenskyy on the UK’s latest package of support, including £210 million of UK Export Finance support to power Ukraine’s nuclear power plants, and 70 new sanctions targeting Russia’s decrepit shadow fleet, military procurement supply chains and illicit finance networks.

    The leaders discussed Ukraine’s momentum on the battlefield and reflected on the session held by G7 leaders earlier in the day, which had underlined their unity on Ukraine.

    It was clear there was a collective resolve to put pressure on Putin, both leaders agreed.

    It was now vital G7 countries gave Ukraine the support it needed to continue its success in driving back Russian forces, the Prime Minister added.

    The leaders looked forward to speaking again soon.

  • PRESS RELEASE : G7 Leaders’ call on the fight against cancer [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : G7 Leaders’ call on the fight against cancer [June 2026]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 16 June 2026.

    G7 Leaders’ call on the fight against cancer.

    We, the Leaders of the G7, reaffirm our commitment to accelerate the fight against cancer. Partner countries of the G7, Brazil, Egypt, India, Kenya and the Republic of Korea, also support this call on the fight against cancer.

    Cancer kills nearly 10 million people each year worldwide and new cases are projected to increase by 80 per cent globally by 2050, given the aging of the population and its interactions with environmental and behavioural risk factors, placing an ever-greater burden on societies, health systems and economies. Improvements in access to cancer prevention – including through screening, diagnosis and care – can and should be made. While major scientific advances have been achieved in several critical areas, progress should be accelerated by alignment of research efforts and faster translation of innovation into care. In this regard, we welcome that such advances have brought the elimination of cervical cancer within reach and we will accelerate our efforts to that end.

    We are determined to deepen international scientific cooperation, close persistent gaps in prevention and early detection, and ensure that progress in oncology reaches every patient. While acknowledging our existing financing efforts and the shared global responsibility, where we have taken a leadership role, we commit to strengthening our endeavours to advance cancer research and development.

    We commend the scientific advances made through international, regional and national initiatives. We have made concrete progress on aligning our cancer research programmes, strengthening collaboration between leading cancer institutes and advancing interoperable data standards for paediatric and adolescent cancers.

    Accelerating international data access for paediatric, adolescent and young adult cancers.

    We recognize that no single country possesses sufficient data to generate robust evidence across the full range of paediatric, adolescent and young adult tumour types. Building on existing international, regional and national initiatives – in accordance with our legislation, priorities, capacities and resources, and in compliance with applicable rules on privacy, data protection and intellectual property rights – we intend to work towards:

    • Promoting collaboration between existing data resources and programmes, where appropriate, to bridge national registries, advance interoperability standards and enable responsible cross-border data collaboration, in accordance with applicable legal and regulatory frameworks while respecting national competences.
    • Supporting large-scale, multi-dimensional data integration, including clinical, genomic and imaging data, which enables safe and secure data use without the necessity for direct data transfer, drawing on artificial intelligence, where appropriate and according to legal and regulatory frameworks.
    • Building on existing international, regional and national initiatives to avoid duplication, close gaps and strengthen international research collaboration for paediatric, adolescent and young adult cancers.

    Intensifying our fight against cancers with poor prognosis.

    We recognize that mortality from cancers with poor prognosis is one of the foremost global scientific challenges. Building on existing international, regional and national initiatives, we intend to work towards:

    • Supporting research on cancers with poor prognosis and the work towards establishing a shared international definition and research agenda for cancers with poor prognosis, recognizing them as a major global challenge.
    • Setting ambitious targets for the roll-out of screening programmes and for the diagnosis of more cancers at stage 1, as appropriate within national health systems and country contexts, to improve survival rates for cancers with poor prognosis, and in particular to significantly reduce lung cancer mortality in the next ten years.
    • Fostering innovative international research programmes, improving cooperation on clinical trials and accelerating the translation of scientific advances – including through digital technologies, artificial intelligence and quantum research – into clinical practice for patients.

    Strengthening access to quality cancer care for all.

    We recognize that access to quality cancer care for all remains a pressing challenge. We intend to work towards:

    • Supporting country-led efforts to strengthen resilient and self-reliant health systems capable of delivering high-quality cancer care for all.
    • Encouraging the development of comprehensive cancer centres, as anchors of research excellence, care quality and education internationally.
    • Promoting the secure, responsible and trustworthy use of evidence-based digital technologies, artificial intelligence and quantum research to improve early detection, support clinical decision-making, strengthen palliative care and expand the reach of evidence-based care for all, while preserving patients’ privacy.

    We will remain engaged and review progress on these commitments.

    This call for action reflects the outcome of the discussion between G7 members, benefiting from productive exchanges of views with partner countries.

  • PRESS RELEASE : G7 Leaders’ call for a coordinated response to the Bundibugyo ebola outrbreak [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : G7 Leaders’ call for a coordinated response to the Bundibugyo ebola outrbreak [June 2026]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 16 June 2026.

    G7 Leaders’ call for a coordinated response to the Bundibugyo ebola outrbreak.

    We, the Leaders of the G7, call for a strong and coordinated response to address the health security risks posed by the re-emerging outbreak of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda. Partner countries of the G7, Egypt, India, Kenya and the Republic of Korea, also support this call.

    We are deeply saddened by the loss of lives and the burden that the disease is inflicting on the affected communities and stand in solidarity with the countries affected. The current outbreak is centred in an isolated, conflict-affected area in DRC which makes containment, medical treatment and response logistics challenging. Existing vaccines, diagnostics, and therapies are not fully effective on the rare viral strain at issue. We recognize the courageous efforts undertaken by healthcare workers, volunteers and local communities, and the stepped-up efforts by national governments to respond to this outbreak.

    Recalling previous G7 efforts to combat Ebola, we are committed to working with partner countries to overcome these challenges. In line with our approach of mutually beneficial partnerships, our first goal must be to prevent further spread, both within the affected area in the eastern DRC and to neighbouring countries and other parts of the world. Containing and ending the outbreak will depend on effective contact tracing, infection prevention and control, quarantine and isolation practices, laboratory testing, cross-border preparedness, border surveillance and community engagement. To minimize the outbreak’s impact, we must ensure that the virus remains confined to as small an area as possible, where we can surge medical and humanitarian resources.

    We are resolved to providing and mobilizing support for a coordinated global response to facilitate the development and effective delivery of dedicated vaccines, diagnostics and treatments to fight this outbreak over the next months. We commend G7 members, partners and other institutions that have already brought financial and technical support, including the deployment of medical personnel and expertise, to ensure a rapid international response to this outbreak, and those that will continue to announce additional support. We commend the United States’ rapid deployment of more than 370 million dollars in health and humanitarian resources for the region and its commitment to spend up to an additional 500 million dollars on Ebola response efforts specifically, in addition to 650 million dollars in humanitarian support for the Great Lakes region. We also commend the ongoing European Union support of 493 million euros in emergency aid, vaccines, treatment and health security in the Great Lakes and Uganda region, including 84 million euros in immediate humanitarian aid, development and research funding in response to the outbreak. The Continental Preparedness and Response Plan is mobilizing 518 million dollars to support African countries in preparing for, rapidly detecting, and responding to the outbreak. We call on other countries and partners beyond the G7 to dedicate resources to tackling this global threat through the means they deem most appropriate. Recognizing the important role of the private sector in responding to the outbreak, we also encourage the accelerated development of tools for prevention, preparedness and response.

    In this regard, the G7 affirms its support for the humanitarian reset led by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and its plan to reach 87 million people with lifesaving aid in 2026. G7 members have provided over two thirds of the funding raised so far this year, and we call on other countries to join our efforts.

    We continue to closely monitor the situation as it evolves, along with our partners, to ensure that this dangerous virus does not spread, including across borders. Millions will travel globally for business and tourism, and to enjoy the World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico in the weeks ahead. We must ensure that they can do so safely. To that end, while respecting national prerogatives, we are committed to strengthening the coordination between our national authorities and working towards coherence on appropriate and effective travel, quarantine, and isolation procedures for individuals who have been in the affected regions, in line with the highest international public health and safety standards.

    We note that effective public health measures are hampered by ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC. To that end, we call for all parties to honour their commitments and fully implement the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity and the Doha Framework.

    Finally, we call on relevant response actors to improve coordination and avoid duplication to ensure the fastest and most effective response to this crisis. In this context, we encourage alignment with the plans and needs identified by the United Nations.

    The United States will convene a G20 Foreign Ministers’ meeting to discuss further collective action and secure broader financial support for an impactful and coordinated global response to this public health emergency.

    This call for action reflects the outcome of the discussion between G7 members, benefiting from productive exchanges of views with partner countries.

  • PRESS RELEASE : More families to benefit from lower bills through plug-in panels [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : More families to benefit from lower bills through plug-in panels [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 16 June 2026.

    Retailers join government plans to bring plug-in solar panels to UK homes, helping families save money on bills.

    • B&Q and Currys join Government plans to bring plug-in solar to UK homes
    • Rooftop solar panels are already saving families up to £480 a month
    • Government launches consultation for industry views on ensuring consumer safety

    More families are set to save money on bills as flagship retailers Currys, B&Q, Amazon and Lidl join Government plans to bring plug-in solar panels to UK homes. 

    At a roundtable of some of the biggest retailers in the country, with a combined total of almost four thousand stores and significant online presence, Minister for Energy Consumers Martin McCluskey discussed the crucial role of plug-in solar in the clean energy revolution.

    Those in attendance included Amazon, Asda, B&Q, Currys, Screwfix and Wickes, who discussed the technology and how it can offer a cheaper route for people to save money on bills.

    This follows rule changes announced by the government earlier this year that will allow UK homeowners to self-install plug-in solar panels in the coming months and builds on savings of up to £480 consumers can already make from rooftop panels.

    Minister for Energy Consumers Martin McCluskey said:

    Plug-in panels can be transformative for renters or those on lower incomes, so I welcome the conversation today with household names such as B&Q and Currys showing a huge amount of support for getting the panels in people’s homes.

    This easy to install tech can cut people’s bills and help make the UK less reliant on global fossil fuel markets.

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

    This is a fantastic opportunity to make renewable energy more accessible to people around the UK. Amazon is the largest corporate buyer of carbon-free energy in the UK – we’ve invested in over 40 large scale solar and wind projects to date.

    Enabling households to generate their own power with self-install plug-in solar panels is a practical step that supports household budgets and delivering against net zero goals.

    Graham Bell, CEO of B&Q, said:

    We welcome the introduction of plug-in solar panels to the UK market, which will help households to generate their own energy and reduce their bills. This builds on our existing range of portable solar and battery solutions.

    We are working closely with Government and suppliers to understand and help shape the guidance, ensuring any products we offer are safe, compliant and straightforward to install. We look forward to making plug-in solar available to our customers as soon as possible.

    Georgina Hall, corporate affairs director at Lidl GB, said:

    At Lidl GB, we want to make sustainable choices affordable and accessible to every household which is why we are supporting DESNZ’s latest steps toward modernising regulations for ‘plug-and-play’ technology.

    By establishing a clear, robust framework to bring plug-in solar to market safely and efficiently, it could unlock a highly effective, low-cost route for people to reduce their energy bills. We welcome this consultation and look forward to working alongside the Government and industry partners to explore how these products can safely play their role in the UK’s clean energy revolution.

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

    We’re delighted to be working with DESNZ to bring plug-in solar panels to the UK market. With energy bills continuing to rise, enabling the safe roll-out of these products will mark an important step for consumers across the UK – including the more than 80% of UK households that shop at Currys.

    This technology, already widely used by households throughout Europe, is easy to install and could save many households significant amounts on their energy bills, while helping make the UK less reliant on global fossil fuel markets.

    The low-cost panels can be put on balconies or in any outdoor space, providing free solar power that can be used directly through a mains socket like any other device, without an installation cost, thereby reducing the amount of electricity taken from the grid.   

    Alongside the roundtable, the government has today (16 June) launched a consultation seeking industry views on enforcing the rules so consumers can safely install plug-in panels in their homes.

    Households across Britain are already embracing solar power in record numbers. 2025 saw a record 269,000 solar installations completed in the UK – the highest total ever recorded in a calendar year and 37 per cent larger than the year before.

    Around 255,000 of these were rooftop solar – meaning at least 95 per cent of all new solar was installed on homes, businesses and other buildings. This equates to a new rooftop solar installation every two minutes throughout 2025.