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  • PRESS RELEASE : The most effective way to protect civilians is the immediate cessation of hostilities – UK statement at the UN Security Council [November 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : The most effective way to protect civilians is the immediate cessation of hostilities – UK statement at the UN Security Council [November 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 12 November 2024.

    Statement by Lord Collins of Highbury, Minister for Africa and the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Sudan.

    After eighteen months the conflict in Sudan has had a devastating impact on civilians.

    Almost 19,000 people have been killed and 33,000 injured. These numbers, and the suffering they mask, are unacceptably high.

    The UN reports that mass rape, torture, the destruction of livelihoods, ethnically-targeted killings have been perpetrated on a large scale.

    I thank the Secretary-General for his recommendations on the protection of civilians, as requested by resolution 2736. The overarching message is clear – the most effective way to protect civilians is an immediate cessation of hostilities.

    Efforts to secure this continue: we must offer our full support to the UN as they seek to mediate between the parties, and we call on the parties to engage in good faith with this process.

    But the last eighteen months have also shown that we cannot just wait for a ceasefire.

    We must act now, and these recommendations are a positive step towards more action to protect civilians. It is now for us as states, civil society and members of the UN family to consider how to use them.

    To be successful, we must confront the context we face, rather than the one we would want or like to see.

    I note the Secretary-General’s assessment that the conditions do not currently exist for the effective deployment of a UN force to protect civilians in Sudan.

    We must keep this under review but also remember that the deployment of UN forces is only one lever amongst many.

    We can all see that the warring parties have failed to uphold their commitments in the Jeddah Declaration to protect civilians and allow unfettered humanitarian access.

    I urge them to establish a robust and transparent compliance mechanism to ensure their commitments bear tangible results on the ground.

    They can achieve this, including with the support offered by the UN. Many civilians are suffering because of direct violence. But many more because they are starving, deliberately stopped by the warring parties from getting life-saving help.

    I strongly support the Secretary-General’s recommendation that the parties agree to humanitarian pauses to allow the safe passage of civilians and facilitate the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid.

    The potential closure of the Adré border crossing looms large. Its closure would mean millions more civilians would be at risk.

    The crisis demands adaptable approaches.

    Ordinary people have stepped up and taken unimaginable risk to protect their communities, through the Emergency Response Rooms and other mutual aid groups.

    The international community must listen to the Secretary-General’s call to consider how we can further support those local efforts. And this requires warring parties to back scalable, locally-negotiated ceasefires and violence reduction measures.

    I urge all member states, civil society organisations, and stakeholders to be motivated by the Secretary-General’s recommendations, to step up coordinated, international action to protect the people of Sudan.

  • PRESS RELEASE : The worst case scenario is now playing out in northern Gaza: UK statement at the UN Security Council [November 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : The worst case scenario is now playing out in northern Gaza: UK statement at the UN Security Council [November 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 12 November 2024.

    Statement by Lord Collins of Highbury, Minister for Africa and the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on the protection of civilians in armed conflict.

    Colleagues, Gaza is in the grip of a humanitarian catastrophe, with over 43,000 Palestinians killed, hospitals and roads destroyed and winter approaching.

    We must see an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of all hostages.

    Ending the war is the best way to stop the suffering.

    The humanitarian situation is intolerable and we need to act immediately to improve it. Aid deliveries last month were the lowest since the conflict began. And now, imminent famine looms over northern Gaza – while food and other lifesaving supplies are stuck at the border.

    This is appalling.

    It is completely unacceptable that trucks, humanitarian workers and medics, funded by the international community, are unable to travel the last few miles to reach civilians.

    The Famine Review Committee has issued a shocking and urgent warning – one which Israel must heed, and act on today.

    As the Committee put it, it is abundantly clear that a worst case scenario is now playing out in areas of northern Gaza, where starvation, malnutrition and deaths are believed to be rising fast.

    Colleagues, time has run out, and urgent solutions are required now, to prevent the very worst from unfolding.

    There is no excuse for the Israeli government’s ongoing restrictions on humanitarian assistance. They fly in the face of Israel’s public commitments. So let me be clear: my government condemns these restrictions in the strongest terms.

    So, we are calling on Israel to finally, and immediately, make good on its commitment to flood Gaza with aid.

    We want to see greater variety and quantity of essential items surging in, including food, water, fuel and medicine.

    Israel must urgently enable safe and effective aid distribution. This includes repairing roads to deliver aid, and enabling continuous access to northern Gaza from southern Gaza.

    Civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected. Evacuation orders should be rescinded as soon as possible so families can return home.

    And humanitarians must be able to work safely and effectively.

    The United Nations and its agencies must be able to fulfil their mandate.

    UNRWA remains the backbone of the humanitarian response in Gaza and provides essential basic services.

    The international community has been clear that Israel must not undermine its role and must meet all legal obligations as the Occupying Power.

    Colleagues, we cannot allow famine to take hold – there is no time to waste. The international community must now act as one, and work with Israel to take every possible measure to prevent this disaster.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK and Kuwait continue celebrations to mark 125 years of partnership [November 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK and Kuwait continue celebrations to mark 125 years of partnership [November 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 12 November 2024.

    • As the UK and Kuwait continue celebrations to mark 125 years of partnership, the Minister for the Middle East visited for key meetings with counterparts.
    • His visit focused on defence, security and investment co-operation and reaffirms UK commitment to supporting de-escalation across the Middle East.
    • Discussions also centred on the urgent humanitarian situation in both Gaza and Lebanon and efforts to uphold regional stability.

    125 years of diplomatic relations between the UK and Kuwait are being marked by a visit from UK Minister for the Middle East, Hamish Falconer MP, in his first visit to Kuwait since taking office in July.

    Reiterating the UK’s call for an immediate ceasefire in both Gaza and Lebanon, he discussed the deeply concerning situation in the Middle East and ways in which the UK and Kuwait, as close friends and partners, could work together to address this.

    The Minister met senior Kuwaiti officials, including the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, alongside who he had co-chaired the 21st Kuwait-UK Joint Steering Group in London on 4 September; and the Managing Director of the Kuwait Investment Authority, Ghanem Al-Ghenaiman.

    Reflecting on his visit, Minister Falconer said:

    For over a century and a quarter, the UK and Kuwait have shared strong diplomatic relations. This landmark anniversary year has provided us with the opportunity to reflect on our shared history, whilst also strengthening current and future collaboration.

    With a focus on ensuring regional stability, the UK is committed to working alongside Kuwait on de-escalating tensions across the Middle East and securing unimpeded aid access into Gaza.

    Addressing a range of bilateral priorities, the Minister welcomed last month’s deal for the UK’s SRT Marine Systems to support the development of the Kuwait Coastguard’s capabilities, noting the defence and security co-operations between the two nations.

    Turning to the UK government’s commitment to growth, the Minister also discussed plans to continue strengthening substantial trade and investment ties, highlighting the Sovereign Investment Partnership signed in August 2023 and positive progress of negotiations on a free trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council. In 2023, the GCC was equivalent to the UK’s 9th largest trading partner – with total trade worth £57 billion.

    The Minister rounded off his visit by attending the first King’s Birthday Party to take place in Kuwait. While the theme was horticulture and heritage crafts – mutual interests of His Majesty the King and His Highness the Amir – Minister Falconer used his speech to stress the huge importance the UK places on its partnership with Kuwait, which spans a broad range of areas including trade and investment, defence and security, and culture and education.

    The Minister is visiting Kuwait as part of a wider Gulf tour. He will also visit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia this week to discuss the importance of a ceasefire in both Gaza and Lebanon and de-escalation in the region.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Secretary of State pledges to contain NHS agency spend [November 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Secretary of State pledges to contain NHS agency spend [November 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 11 November 2024.

    Wes Streeting will set out plans to clamp down on temporary workers in speech at NHS Providers conference.

    • Trusts could be banned from using agencies to cover gaps in entry level positions, and agencies could be banned from re-introducing NHS workers that leave permanent jobs
    • Understaffed NHS forced to spend £3 billion on agency staff last year
    • Wes Streeting to address healthcare leaders in Liverpool and unveil package of radical reforms to ensure every penny for NHS is well spent

    The government and NHS England are set to reveal bold plans to reduce the NHS’ reliance on agency staff, as the cost to the health service of hiring temporary workers sits at a staggering £3 billion a year.

    Under joint plans to be put forward for consultation, NHS trusts could be banned from using agencies to hire temporary entry level workers in band 2 and 3, such as healthcare assistants and domestic support workers.

    The consultation will also include a proposal to stop NHS staff resigning and then immediately offering their services back to the health service through a recruitment agency.

    The proposed measures could save the NHS significant sums, improve quality of care and enhance patient safety, as reducing reliance on agency staff has been shown to decrease clinical incidents.

    Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:

    For too long desperate hospitals have been forced to pay eye-watering sums of money on temporary staff, costing the taxpayer billions, and pulling experienced staff out of the NHS. We’re not going to let the NHS get ripped off anymore.

    Last month the Chancellor made a historic investment in our health service which must reform or die. I am determined to make sure the money is well spent and delivers for patients.

    These changes could help keep staff in the NHS and make significant savings to reinvest in the frontline.

    Recruitment agencies have charged NHS trusts up to £2,000 for a single nursing shift, thanks to the 113,000 staffing vacancies across the service.

    Costs of this kind were driven up further thanks to periods of strike action. The move, announced this week, will form part of government efforts to reform and improve efficiency in the NHS – with more action planned in the future to cut reliance on short-term agency staffing.

    The proposals will also provide greater fairness in the workplace by ensuring staff carrying out the same roles are not paid significantly different sums.

    Julian Kelly, NHS Chief Financial Officer, said:

    The NHS is committed to ensuring every penny of taxpayer money is used wisely to the benefit of patients and to ensure fairness for our permanent staff. While agency spend is at a record low, with trusts on track to save £1 billion over two years, we want to go further still.

    That’s why the NHS, working alongside the government and providers, will launch a consultation with a view to stop using agencies to fill entry level posts, building on the approach we have successfully imposed for administrative and estates staff.

    The Health and Social Care Secretary will unveil a package of tough reforms this week to cut wasteful spending in the NHS and ensure the health service delivers greater value for money. This follows the Chancellor’s investment in last month’s Budget to mend crumbling wards and bring healthcare tech into the 21st century.

    Kicking off the biggest ever conversation on the future of the NHS last month, Mr Streeting announced how reforms in the 10-Year Health Plan will shift healthcare from hospital to community, analogue to digital, and sickness to prevention.

    Addressing the nation’s health leaders at the NHS Providers Conference in Liverpool on Wednesday, he is expected to announce a series of rigorous measures to make sure the investment announced in the Budget delivers shorter waiting times for patients.

    A consultation will be launched by NHS England in the coming weeks, seeking views on the new proposals from staff, unions, and NHS provider organisations.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Freedom of Religion or Belief – UK Statement to the OSCE Warsaw Human Dimension Conference [October 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Freedom of Religion or Belief – UK Statement to the OSCE Warsaw Human Dimension Conference [October 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 8 October 2024.

    The UK calls on OSCE participating States to build mutual understanding and combat intolerance based on religion or belief.

    Thank you, Madam Moderator, good morning colleagues.

    Human rights and fundamental freedoms are interdependent, mutually reinforcing and crucial to securing lasting peace and security in the world. With more countries engaged in conflict than at any time since the Second World War, we must work harder to ensure respect for human rights.

    Vibrant and diverse civic spaces where people can access and enjoy their rights to the freedoms of peaceful assembly, association, and expression are foundational to governance and democracy. A world where civic space continues to decline is one which is less secure.

    Similarly, religious intolerance and persecution fuels instability, impeding both conflict prevention and resolution. However, when freedom of religion or belief is respected, and interreligious dialogue is promoted, we can build trust and understanding between communities, helping to secure sustainable peace.

    Last year, the UK was pleased to lead with the UAE a landmark UN Security Council resolution on “Tolerance and International Peace and Security,” which directly addresses, for the first time, the persecution of religious minorities in conflict settings.

    In putting into practice our commitment to Freedom of Religion or Belief, we must learn the lessons of the past. The global surge in both antisemitism and Islamophobia since October 7th 2023 highlights that there is still much work to be done. All forms of religious hatred are completely unacceptable.

    Antisemitism has no place in society, and the UK is determined to tackle it in all its forms. We have committed further funding to the Community Security Trust, enabling them to continue their vital work in protecting UK Jewish communities until 2028.

    Alongside domestic action, the UK proudly holds the presidency of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance this year. Our presidency’s theme is “In Plain Sight”, drawing attention to the fact that the Holocaust did not happen in a dark corner. Our presidency is focussing on safeguarding remembrance of the Holocaust, securing the narrative for the future and tackling Holocaust distortion.

    We are also taking action to support Muslim communities in the UK. Islamophobia is abhorrent and has no place in society. Our Protective Security for Mosques Scheme provides physical protective security measures in both mosques and associated Muslim faith community centres. The Government is also committed to supporting programmes which monitor and support victims of Islamophobia.

    The UK welcomes the work of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights to foster tolerance and non-discrimination.  We proudly support the Office’s programme combatting hate crime in our region.

    We must all, individually and collectively, work to build mutual understanding and combat intolerance based on religion or belief.  Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Millions of workers to benefit from modernised new pensions system [October 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Millions of workers to benefit from modernised new pensions system [October 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 8 October 2024.

    Millions of workers stand to benefit from greater financial security in later life following a consultation launched today.

    • Government unveils plans to modernise pensions and give workers greater security in retirement
    • Consultation launched to extend Collective Defined Contribution (CDC) pension provision, helping support the Government’s growth mission
    • Regulations form part of wider plans for future of workplace pensions to help increase returns for more people and ensuring greater value for money

    Following the Chancellor’s recent visit to Canada to see how retirement schemes successfully pool contributions from employees into larger funds that are managed by investors, the UK government is fast-tracking plans to modernise its own pensions system by broadening access to Collective Defined Contribution schemes.

    Collective Defined Contribution (CDC) pension schemes, first introduced to the UK in 2022, have the potential to deliver reliable returns for savers, while ensuring more predictable costs for employers.

    Today, industry experts, savers and pension providers can have their say on new proposals to extend the current offering of CDC pension schemes to more employers, delivering better value for money for future pensioners and unlocking huge investment potential.

    In Canada, the funds from pooled pension contributions are invested into a wider range of assets like infrastructure, startups and private equity – which can benefit the wider economy and boost returns.

    Extending CDCs could similarly allow for greater return on investment for those saving into the schemes and allow for larger investment in the UK – supporting the Government’s growth mission to boost the economy.

    Minister for Pensions, Emma Reynolds, said:

    We are seizing this exciting opportunity to modernise our pensions market to deliver better outcomes for millions of workers.

    People work hard to put money aside for their pension with every pay cheque. This significant innovation will offer a more predictable income and greater finance security for future pensioners.

    Currently only single or connected employers can set up CDC schemes, with the first scheme launched by the Royal Mail yesterday.

    Building on the significant appetite from industry for extending CDC provision, the Government is now seeking to broaden access further by allowing unconnected multiple employer schemes – making this pension model more accessible to a wider range of businesses and employees.

    This work builds on plans to review our pensions landscape as well as our new Pension Schemes Bill which could boost pension pots – with further consolidation and broader investment strategies to possibly deliver higher returns for pensioners.

    The consultation seeks views from employers, industry experts, pension providers and the public on draft regulations and their potential impact.

    The consultation will run for six weeks – opening today and running until 19 November 2024.

    Supportive statements:

    John Ball, Chief Executive of the Church of England Pensions Board said:

    We welcome the publication today of draft regulations that support the creation of multi-employer CDC pension schemes. We look forward to scrutinising the detail, and to seeing how in due course, such an arrangement might transform retirement plans for those who work for the Church.

    Andy O’Regan, Client & Strategic Partnerships Director at TPT Retirement Solutions, said:

    The introduction of multi-employer whole-of-life CDC scheme regulations will be a landmark moment for UK pensions. Previously, CDC schemes had only been viable for the largest employers. These new rules will make it possible for all employers to provide their staff with a CDC pension scheme. We’ve already been speaking to around 200 employers who have expressed interest in how a CDC scheme could be delivered for their employees.

    Multi-employer CDC schemes have the potential to bring a host of advantages to pension savers when compared to traditional DC schemes. CDC schemes pool longevity and investment risk. This means that, compared to DC, they are expected to achieve higher benefits as well as provide members with an income for life. An added benefit is the removal of some of the complex financial decisions pension savers are required to make under DC. CDC schemes may also be more likely to invest in productive assets which could encourage economic growth and generate higher long-term returns for scheme members.

    This consultation will open the door to CDC for all employers regardless of size, with the first multi-employer CDC scheme potentially launching within a couple of years. We believe many employers, pension savers, and the wider economy could benefit from the introduction of these schemes. We look forward to responding to this consultation in due course.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK sanctions Russian troops deploying chemical weapons on the battlefield [October 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK sanctions Russian troops deploying chemical weapons on the battlefield [October 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 8 October 2024.

    Russian troops involved in the abhorrent use of inhumane chemical weapons on the battlefield in Ukraine have been targeted by new UK sanctions.

    • Russia’s Radiological Chemical and Biological Defence (CBR) troops and their commander have been sanctioned for the deployment of barbaric chemical weapons in Ukraine
    • UK calls out Russia’s flagrant violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and urges Russia to immediately cease all such activity
    • action continues the Foreign Secretary’s personal mission to target the full spectrum of the Kremlin’s malign activity through our arsenal of sanctions

    Russian forces have openly admitted to using hazardous chemical weapons on the battlefield, with widespread use of riot control agents and multiple reports of the use of the toxic choking agent chloropicrin – first deployed on the battlefields of WW1.

    Russia’s flagrant disregard for the Chemical Weapons Convention is a serious violation of international law. Agents of Putin’s mafia state were also responsible for deploying the deadly nerve agent Novichok on the streets of Salisbury in 2018, and against opposition leader Alexei Navalny in 2020.

    Among those sanctioned today are the Radiological, Chemical and Biological Defence Troops of the Russian Armed Forces and its leader Igor Kirillov, responsible for helping deploy these barbaric weapons. Kirillov has also been a significant mouthpiece for Kremlin disinformation, spreading lies to mask Russia’s shameful and dangerous behaviour.

    Foreign Secretary, David Lammy said:

    The UK will not sit idly by whilst Putin and his mafia state ride roughshod over international law, including the Chemical Weapons Convention. I have made it my personal mission to challenge this malign activity, and I will not back down.

    Russia’s cruel and inhumane tactics on the battlefield are abhorrent and I will use the full arsenal of powers at my disposal to combat Russia’s malign activity.

    Let me be clear; Putin and those who carry out his will have nowhere left to hide. We will continue to use sanctions to directly target and counter the Kremlin’s attempts to sow fear, division and disorder.

    Defence Secretary, John Healey said:

    Our message to Putin and his regime is clear: you cannot break international law without facing the consequences.

    We will not allow such blatant violations of the Chemical Weapons Convention and rules-based international order to go unpunished.

    The UK is cracking down on those responsible for these horrific chemical attacks in Ukraine. Our support for Ukraine is ironclad and will continue for as long as it takes.

    Also sanctioned today are two Russian Ministry of Defence laboratories for providing support for the development and deployment of these inhumane weapons for use on the frontlines.

    The UK is steadfast in supporting Ukraine’s fight for freedom, liberty and victory in the face of these barbaric attacks. We have provided Ukraine with vital equipment and training to protect its people against chemical weapons.

    The UK has also committed to delivering £3 billion of military aid to Ukraine every year for as long as they need. The UK’s military, financial, diplomatic and political support for Ukraine is iron-clad. We cannot and will not let aggressors like Putin succeed.

    Background

    Today’s action comes as the UK delivers a statement to the Organisation’s Executive Council laying out the UK’s commitment to the Chemical Weapons Convention and the OPCW in the face of those who act to undermine it. The full speech can be found here.

    Those sanctioned today are:

    • the Radiological Chemical and Biological Defence Troops of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation
    • Igor Kirillov, Head of the Radiological Chemical and Biological Defence Troops of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation
    • the Russian Ministry of Defence 27th Scientific Centre
    • the Russian Ministry of Defence 33rd Central Scientific Research and Testing Institute

    These targets have been designated under the UK’s Chemical Weapons (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019. The individual will be subject to an asset freeze and travel ban, and entities subject to an asset freeze. The asset freeze will apply to all persons within the territory and territorial sea of the UK and to all UK persons, wherever they are in the world. It also prevents funds or economic resources being provided to or for the benefit of the designated person. An individual subject to a travel ban must be refused leave to enter or to remain in the United Kingdom.

  • PRESS RELEASE : OPCW 107th Executive Council – UK national statement [October 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : OPCW 107th Executive Council – UK national statement [October 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 8 October 2024.

    Statement by UK Permanent Representative to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) Joanna Roper, at the 107th Executive Council.

    Mr Chair, Director General, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates,

    I would like to express my thanks to His Excellency, Ambassador Parral, for his continuing strong leadership of this Executive Council. I would also like to thank the Director General, His Excellency, Mr Fernando Arias, for his comprehensive report detailing this organisation’s continuing determined efforts to rid the world of chemical weapons. The achievements are even more remarkable considering the growing challenges presented by a difficult international security environment.

    Mr Chair,

    The United Kingdom’s national statement will be posted online but I would like to take this opportunity to comment on the appalling situation in Ukraine and the UK’s response.

    Russia used the lethal nerve agent, Novichok, on the streets of the UK in 2018, ultimately leading to the death of Dawn Sturgess. Russia used Novichok again to poison Alexei Navalny in 2020. And now we are witness to Russian breaches of the Chemical Weapons Convention on the frontlines in Ukraine. Russia is making systematic use of chemical weapons against Ukrainian forces, including multiple reports of the use of the choking agent chloropicrin, with complete contempt for its legal and moral obligations to uphold the CWC.

    The UK will hold all those who use these barbaric weapons to account. Today, my government has therefore announced sanctions on Russia’s Radiological, Chemical and Biological Defence Troops and their commander Igor Kirillov, and 2 of their subordinate laboratories, for their role in Russia’s use of chemical weapons in Ukraine.

    We call on Russia to immediately cease its use of these appalling weapons and to meet its obligations under the Chemical Weapons Convention.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy has sent a clear message to President Putin – and I quote – that “Russia’s cruel and inhumane tactics on the battlefield are abhorrent and I will use the full arsenal of powers at my disposal to combat Russia’s malign activity.”

    Alongside these sanctions, we remain committed to working through this Council and other international forums to reduce the growing threat to international security posed by Russia’s chemical weapon use. We reiterate our request to the Executive Council under Article IX paragraph 3 to assist in clarifying reports that Russian armed forces have repeatedly breached the Chemical Weapon Convention in Ukraine.

    The UK is committed to supporting Ukraine’s fight for freedom, liberty and victory in the face of these inhumane attacks. The UK has now committed £12.8 billion in military, humanitarian and economic support to Ukraine. As part of this package of support, we have recently announced a further voluntary contribution to the OPCW’s Assistance to Ukraine trust fund. The UK welcomes the recent OPCW technical assistance visit to Ukraine – delivering vital equipment and training to ensure Ukraine can protect its people.

    Mr Chair,

    The OPCW remains one of the foremost arms control bodies, fundamental to international security. Yet, the challenges it faces are growing. The UK is fully committed to working with other states and the Technical Secretariat to meet these challenges to achieve a world free of chemical weapons.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Game-changing tech to reach the public faster as dedicated new unit launched to curb red tape [October 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Game-changing tech to reach the public faster as dedicated new unit launched to curb red tape [October 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 8 October 2024.

    Science Secretary launches new Regulatory Innovation Office today to speed up public access to new technologies.

    • Regulatory Innovation Office to reduce the burden of red tape and speed up access to new technologies that improve our daily lives – from AI in healthcare to emergency delivery drones
    • Search begins for a Chair to lead the office, driving economic growth through regulatory reform that enables innovation
    • New Office delivers on a key manifesto commitment and is among steps to back business in buildup to UK hosting International Investment Summit

    New technologies, like AI for better treatments in our NHS and drones delivering emergency supplies to all corners of the UK, could reach the public faster through a dedicated new office that will reduce the burden of red tape on innovation and help kickstart economic growth.

    The new Regulatory Innovation Office (RIO) will reduce the burden for businesses hoping to bring new products and services to the market in some of the UK’s fastest-growing sectors through innovations like –AI training software for surgeons to deliver more accurate surgical treatments for patients and drones which can improve business efficiency and quickly send critical deliveries to remote parts of the country.

    To do so, it will support regulators to update regulation, speeding up approvals, and ensuring different regulatory bodies work together smoothly. It will work to continuously inform the government of regulatory barriers to innovation, set priorities for regulators which align with the government’s broader ambitions and support regulators to develop the capability they need to meet them and grow the economy.

    The announcement comes ahead of further plans to reduce the burden of red tape and support the government’s key mission of kickstarting growth across the country. The new Office will also help set the scene for when the UK hosts the International Investment Summit on Monday 14 October, where the Chancellor will make clear that the UK is “open for business” as the government resets relations with trading partners around the globe.

    The launch of the RIO comes hot on the heels of a raft of public and private investments announced on Sunday (6 October) aimed at transforming cancer treatments for patients while bringing a wave of cutting-edge UK-made MedTech products to the global market.

    The RIO’s mission will initially support the growth of four fast-growing areas of technology making a difference to people’s lives before backing further technologies and sectors as the Office evolves. These are:

    • Engineering biology – this is the use of synthetic biology and biotechnology to create new products and services derived from organic sources. These technologies can improve health with new treatments like innovative vaccines, help create cleaner fuels and make food production more efficient and sustainable such as through pest resistant crops and cultivated meat. The new RIO will help regulators to bring those products to market safely and more quickly – realising the environmental and health benefits they can bring to our lives.
    • Space – the UK’s space industry is growing fast, supporting everything from GPS on phones to vital communication systems, as new innovations improve our weather forecasting to disaster response systems. To sustain this growth, regulatory reform is needed for greater agility and clarity to help foster competition, encourage investment, and open up market access.
    • Artificial Intelligence and digital in healthcare – with increasing pressures on the NHS, AI is set to revolutionise healthcare delivery so doctors can diagnose illnesses faster and improve patient care. It will help run hospitals more efficiently with medical staff able to spend less time on administration, cutting waiting times and it could enable more personalised medicines, tailoring treatment to individuals. RIO will support the healthcare sector to deploy AI innovations safely, improving NHS efficiency and patients’ health outcomes.
    • Connected and autonomous technology – autonomous vehicles like drones can deliver emergency supplies to remote areas quickly and efficiently and work to approve this technology could play a key part in supporting emergency services to keep people safe. Greater support could also enable more drones to be used by businesses across the UK, building on projects like the drone service used by Royal Mail to deliver to Orkney and improving efficiency.

    The cross-cutting nature of these emerging technologies, which do not fit neatly into existing regulatory frameworks can mean a slower process in getting them onto the market. The new Office will work closely with government departments including the Department for Transport, the Department for Health and Social Care, and the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs to address regulatory barriers in these initial growth areas.

    The new office will also bring regulators together and working to remove obstacles and outdated regulations to the benefit of businesses and the public, unlocking the power of innovation from these sectors to generate tens of billions of pounds for the UK economy in the coming years.

    Science and Technology Secretary, Peter Kyle, said:

    The launch of the Regulatory Innovation Office, a key manifesto commitment, is a big step forward in bringing the UK’s most promising new technologies to the public faster and safely while kickstarting economic growth.

    By speeding up approvals, providing regulatory certainty and reducing unnecessary delays, we’re curbing the burden of red tape so businesses and our public services can innovate and grow, which means more jobs, a stronger economy, and a better quality of life for people across the UK.

    From breakthroughs that could help doctors diagnose illnesses earlier to satellite navigation for more accurate weather forecasting and getting emergency supplies to where they are needed, quickly and effectively, RIO will make sure UK companies are at the forefront of the next generation of technologies.

    The Science and Technology Secretary is also looking to appoint the RIO’s first Chair to lead the charge in backing business and safe innovation, and work with regulators and partners to shape a regulatory environment that is fit for the future. Applications are now being welcomed for an ambitious, visionary leader committed to driving that change.

    The organisation has been established within DSIT, where it will incorporate the existing functions of the Regulatory Horizons Council and the Regulators’ Pioneer Fund.

    Alongside the launch of the RIO, the government is already making progress in developing regulatory frameworks for emerging technologies, becoming the first country to outline how it will approach quantum regulation, offering certainty to the sector and encouraging the responsible development of the technology.

    This is set out in our response to the Regulatory Horizon Council’s report on quantum technologies, also published today. It marks a crucial first step in regulating innovation in a technology that will increasingly underpin powerful computers, secure communications and advanced sensors, in sectors from healthcare to national security.

    Alongside this package of announcements, today we are announcing:

    • A £1.6 million award to the Food Standards Agency (FSA) as part of round one of the Engineering Biology Sandbox Fund, which aims to test innovative regulatory approaches for products like cultivated meat. Cell-cultivated products are foods created through the isolation of cells from meat, seafood, fat, offal or eggs which are grown in a controlled environment. It could result in food production which is more environmentally friendly and sustainable, using just 1% of the land used for animal equivalents, while increasing food security. Programmes like this will help bring innovative food products to shop shelves safely but without unnecessary delay and at lower costs, giving consumers more choice.
    • The publication of new voluntary screening guidance for synthetic nucleic acid. These technologies allow companies to ‘print’ DNA and RNA, enabling academics and businesses to study and engineer biological systems that help sectors like healthcare and accelerate our path to net-zero. The guidance emphasises the government’s intent for a pro-innovation culture in the engineering biology ecosystem through providing well-defined guardrails for customers and producers of synthetic nucleic acid.

    Neil Ross, Associate Director for Policy at techUK, said:

    The UK is home to amazing array of innovation, however, historically we have been slow to deploy new technologies at pace and at scale.

    techUK and our members are supportive of the aims of the Regulatory Innovation Office (RIO), which intends to address this historic problem. By smoothing the path to deployment of new technologies, the RIO can open the door to significant applications both in the commercial sphere and for public services.

    If we get this right this could unleash billions of pounds of additional investment. This will require the RIO, and its chair, to work closely with the private sector to identify the most promising opportunities, move quickly to deliver tangible results, and seek new opportunities on a rolling basis.

    Steve Bates OBE, CEO of the BioIndustry Association, said:

    The UK’s world-class strength in engineering biology and AI is a unique opportunity to drive economic growth and deliver innovative products that improve all our lives, from healthier food with a smaller carbon footprint to precision cancer vaccines with reduced side-effects.

    Regulation when done right can be an enabler of innovation, not a hinderance. We welcome this rapid progress by the new Labour government to install a new body tasked with making sure great British innovations reach the public faster so that we can all benefit.

    BIA has been closely involved in the development of this new approach to engineering biology through the Regulatory Horizons Council and the Biosecurity Leadership Council. We look forward to engaging further as the Regulatory Innovation Office takes shape.

    We also hope that this leads to greater collaboration between regulators to ensure a joined-up and comprehensive approach to new innovations in the pipeline.

    Naomi Weir, CBI Director of Technology and Innovation, said:

    The focus of the new Regulatory Innovation Office represents an ambitious statement from the government of their intent to put innovation at their heart of their mission to grow the economy. Getting the economy firing on all cylinders requires an approach to regulation that sets out clear steps for unlocking private sector investment and involves meaningful partnership with business.

    Improving the pace of decisions, coherence between regulators and building regulator capability will all be welcomed by businesses as practical steps that will build confidence. Focusing on how regulation can be deployed to bring new ideas to market at pace and scale will enhance the UK’s competitiveness in the global race for investment.

    Steve Lee, Director of Diagnostics & Digital Regulation, ABHI, said:

    Regulation not only ensures patient safety but also shapes the UK’s reputation as a hub for healthcare innovation and investment. ABHI welcomes the Regulatory Innovation Office (RIO), a key step towards regulatory reform.

    In our Spring 2025 Spending Review submission, we recommended that the RIO and MHRA conduct a rapid review of the system that supports how we carry out UK regulation in HealthTech, which can improve efficiency and support initiatives like the Software as a Medical Device roadmap. We look forward to collaborating with DSIT and the RIO to drive forward these important reforms.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Women in the bus industry celebrated as Transport Minister visits Manchester [October 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Women in the bus industry celebrated as Transport Minister visits Manchester [October 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 8 October 2024.

    Simon Lightwood spoke with women in the industry and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a bus revolution.

    • Local Transport Minister attends award event to celebrate women’s achievements in the bus, coach and community transport industry
    • the Minister heard first-hand the barriers that women in the industry face and discussed how their skills can meet the biggest bus overhaul in a generation
    • bus revolution gathering momentum as consultation closes on removing obstacles to local councils taking back control of bus services from private operators

    Women’s achievements in the bus, coach and community transport industry have been celebrated at a special awards event in Manchester today (8 October 2024), attended by the Local Transport Minister.

    During the event, Simon Lightwood discussed Women in Bus and Coach’s key aims to:

    • stand in solidarity across the profession
    • uplift female role models in engineering, driving and management
    • challenge industry policies that do not meet women’s needs

    The awards come as the government continues to overhaul the bus industry, by handing power back to councils to grow passenger numbers and deliver better services for all, no matter where people live.

    The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the brightest minds in the industry are in the driving seat as these plans progress.

    Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, said:

    I was delighted to celebrate the incredible achievements of women in the bus and coach industry up and down the country.

    Our plans to deliver better buses will end the postcode lottery that has determined the quality and frequency of bus services for too long.

    As we deliver this biggest overhaul to buses in a generation, the work of each and every driver, engineer, manager and the countless others who keep our country moving will be vital.

    Yesterday (7 October 2024) marked another landmark in the roll out of bus franchising, as the government’s month-long consultation on updating guidance to reduce barriers to franchising closed. This has seen the government discuss franchising closely with industry, and the outcome will be announced in due course, alongside next steps for implementing the Bill.

    Attendees at the event also heard from Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who has overseen a dramatic transformation of regional bus services over the last year, with the introduction of the Bee Network.

    Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said:

    In Greater Manchester we’re bringing buses back into local control, with cheaper fares, better buses and, crucially, more reliable services all attracting more people onboard.

    Our success is down to the hard work and dedication of Bee Network staff, including the many brilliant women working tirelessly to deliver a great service to the people of Greater Manchester, whether that’s driving buses, working at our bus stations, interchanges or Travelshops, or leading our franchising programme.

    It was fantastic to see that recognised today, and as we grow the Bee Network and take forward our plans to transform technical education in Greater Manchester through the MBacc, we want to encourage even more women into the industry.

    The Bee Network called time on the previous broken system of regulation and has set a new bar for urban bus services by introducing capped fares, integrating buses into a citywide transport network and unifying services under a singular, recognisable identity.

    The government wants to replicate this nationwide, as it seeks to drive growth and share opportunities by providing regular, reliable and affordable services for passengers.

    Louise Cheeseman, Chair and Founder of Women in Bus and Coach, said:

    I am proud to see the incredible achievements of women across our industry celebrated at the 2024 Women in Bus and Coach summit. This event not only highlights the inspiring individuals shaping the future of the bus, coach and community transport sector, but also reinforces our collective commitment to breaking barriers and creating opportunities for women.

    We warmly welcome the government’s plans to deliver the biggest overhaul of bus services in a generation, and we look forward to working together to ensure these changes empower a more inclusive, accessible, and innovative future for all.

    The visit also comes as GoAhead buses announced a major £500 million investment to decarbonise its fleet today, including creating a new dedicated manufacturing line and partnership with UK bus manufacturer Wrightbus.