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  • PRESS RELEASE : Expert taskforce to spearhead a new generation of new towns [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Expert taskforce to spearhead a new generation of new towns [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on 31 July 2024.

    A new generation of new towns to kickstart economic growth and get Britain building again.

    • Long-term vision to deliver largescale new communities of at least 10,000 new homes each set out.
    • Housing expert Sir Michael Lyons to lead an independent New Towns Taskforce, supported by Deputy Chair Dame Kate Barker.
    • Appropriate locations for new towns to be recommended within 12 months.

    The largest housebuilding programme since the post-war period will begin today through a new generation of new towns, as part of the government’s work to kickstart economic growth and get Britain building again.

    The programme of new towns will create largescale communities of at least 10,000 new homes each, with many significantly larger. These places could deliver hundreds of thousands of much-needed affordable and high-quality homes in the decades to come, tackling the barriers to growth and helping more working people across the country own their own home.

    The new towns will help unlock the economic potential of existing towns and cities across the country, and the government will continue to drive growth and regenerate areas that have been held back by constraints on their expansion for far too long. While the programme will include large-scale new communities that are separate from existing settlements, a far larger number of new towns will be urban extensions and regeneration schemes that will work with the grain of development in any given area.

    These new communities will be governed by a ‘New Towns Code’ – a set of rules that developers will have to meet to make sure new towns are well-connected, well-designed, sustainable and attractive places where people want to live. They will have all the infrastructure and public services necessary to support thriving communities. The towns will also help meet housing need by targeting rates of 40% affordable housing with a focus on genuinely affordable social rented homes.

    The Deputy Prime Minister has asked regeneration expert Sir Michael Lyons to spearhead a new independent New Towns Taskforce as its Chair. The group will work to make this vision a reality and present a final shortlist of recommendations on appropriate locations to ministers within 12 months, supported by top housing economist Dame Kate Barker as Deputy Chair.

    Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner said:

    “Our new towns will deliver housing fit for the future, shaping new communities with real character that people can be proud to call home.

    “With Sir Michael in the driving seat, I know his Taskforce will work together with local people to help us decide on the right places for these new towns, delivering more homes, jobs and green spaces.

    “We are getting Britain building again and our long-term vision for a new generation of new towns will enrich the lives of working people in the years to come.”

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

    “Getting Britain building is at the heart of our mission to grow the economy and make every part of the country better off.

    “Alongside our landmark reforms to the planning system, this programme of new towns will kickstart economic growth and give businesses the confidence to invest.”

    New towns will also spread opportunities for every walk of life – creating good jobs and delivering the transport links, access to public services like GP surgeries and schools, and high quality green spaces that communities need – which will be part of the New Towns Code.  This aligns with the government’s new golden rules to ensure development improves existing green spaces and creates new ones.

    Sir Michael’s team will work in lockstep with mayors, local leaders and communities to advise on the right places for new towns, listening to those who know their areas best.

    Their mission to accelerate the vision of new towns over the next year includes:

    • Meeting with new and existing communities to hear first-hand about the design of desirable developments.
    • Recommending locations for new towns within the next year.
    • Publishing a final report within 12 months following engagement with local communities.

    New Towns Taskforce Chair, Sir Michael Lyons said:

    “A new generation of new towns and largescale urban extensions could play a significant role in the government’s plans for economic growth as well as offering new homes on an ambitious scale.

    “I am proud to lead the New Towns Taskforce to make sure new towns deliver on the government’s vision and meet the needs of local people.

    “Our mission begins today and we will work closely with local leaders and their communities as well as the wider development and investment sectors to make sure these new towns are built in the right places.”

    New Towns Taskforce Deputy Chair, Dame Kate Barker said:

    “I am enthusiastic about working with Sir Michael on proposals for the new towns badly needed to enable more households to live in homes where they can flourish. It will be vital to ensure the locations will also support economic growth over coming decades.”

    Government is also taking immediate action to increase housing supply and work towards building 1.5 million homes over this Parliament – recognising every city, town and village has a role to play in boosting growth – by bringing in mandatory housing targets for councils through a new growth-focused National Planning Policy Framework. This also includes a focus on prioritising brownfield and ‘grey belt’ land for new development and setting a gold standard aim for more affordable and social housing.

    Local leaders are also receiving new powers from Whitehall over planning, skills, transport, employment and streamlined funding settlements, backed by a new English Devolution Bill announced in the King’s Speech. Through delivering local growth plans, this greater devolution of decision making will ensure every part of the country is driving economic growth.

    Further information

    Policy statement on new towns can be read in full here.

    Sir Michael Lyons biography

    • Sir Michael is the non-executive Chairman of the English Cities Fund, a joint venture set up by three partners – including Homes England – which has large scale regeneration developments in London, Liverpool, Plymouth, Salford and Wakefield.
    • He is also the non-executive Chairman of SQW Ltd and has spent 26 years in local government, including 17 years as Chief Executive of three major UK local authorities including Birmingham City Council.
    • He has been a member of the boards of Redrow homes and Sage Housing as well as a strategic adviser on public asset management and regeneration to the commercial real estate and investment firm CBRE. He was also a former Chair of the BBC.
    • He previously chaired the Housing Commission in 2014 established by Ed Miliband, which set out how the UK can boost housing supply. He also led the national ‘Lyons Inquiry into Local Government’ in 2007 about workings and funding of local government which argued for greater devolution and emphasised the local authority’s role in ‘placeshaping’.

    Dame Kate Barker biography

    • Dame Kate Barker chairs the trustee for the Universities Superannuation Scheme, and is also a Church Commissioner for the Church of England. She chairs the Governing Council of the Productivity Institute.
    • She was a former non-executive director at Taylor Wimpey plc, at Man Group plc and at the Yorkshire Building Society. She was an external member of the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee between 2001 and 2010.
    • During that time, she was commissioned by the government to conduct a major independent policy review of UK Housing Supply in 2004 followed by a review of Land Use Planning in 2006. She has also authored a book titled ‘Housing: where’s the plan’ and was previously a Commissioner for the National Infrastructure Commission.
  • PRESS RELEASE : The UK is deeply concerned by the escalation of tensions in the Middle East: UK statement at the UN Security Council [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : The UK is deeply concerned by the escalation of tensions in the Middle East: UK statement at the UN Security Council [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 31 July 2024.

    Statement by UK Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East.

    The UK is deeply concerned by the escalation of tensions in the Middle East and the impact this may have on regional security and stability. I will make three points.

    First, escalation and a cycle of endless violence is in no-one’s interests. We do not want to see further bloodshed. We urge calm and call for immediate restraint.

    Our Foreign Secretary is in the region as we speak, reiterating this call and encouraging de-escalation.

    The path to peace must be through diplomatic negotiations. Long-term peace will not be secured by bombs and bullets.

    Second, in recent weeks we have seen reckless attacks launched by the Houthis against Tel Aviv killing one person and Hezbollah rockets fired on innocent children in Majdal Shams resulting in at least 12 deaths and many more injured.

    We have repeatedly been clear in this Council of Iran’s role in destabilising the region through its use of proxies including Lebanese Hezbollah and the Houthis. These attacks are enabled by the continued supply of advanced weaponry by Iran, especially missiles, to proxy groups. This must cease.

    The UK is resolute in our commitment to Israel’s security. We support Israel’s right to defend itself in the face of such aggression, in line with international humanitarian law.

    Third, since October 7 last year, we have seen the terrible toll on Israelis, Palestinians and many others in the region. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is truly appalling with nearly 40,000 Palestinians killed. The impact of this devastation is particularly acute for women and children.

    The attempts by Iran and their proxies to use the suffering of those in Gaza as justification for further violence is perverse and we reject them entirely. We support all ongoing efforts to bring stability to the region and an end to the suffering. We reiterate our call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, to protect civilians, get all the hostages out, get more aid in and open a pathway towards long-term peace. This will require the parties to commit to a renewed peace process resulting in a two-state solution with a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian State.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Culture Secretary declares culture, media and sport sectors crucial to national growth mission [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Culture Secretary declares culture, media and sport sectors crucial to national growth mission [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 31 July 2024.

    Lisa Nandy sets out vision for unlocking growth and opportunity in the UK’s £170 billion culture, media and sport sectors.

    • In her maiden speech, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy sets out vision for unlocking growth and opportunity in the UK’s £170 billion culture, media and sport sectors
    • Event brings together more than 150 organisations including Warner Bros, Amazon, BBC, Paramount, Premier League, Sky, Channel 4, Royal Shakespeare Company in Manchester
    • Nandy calls on DCMS sectors to help contribute to the government’s national growth mission, bringing people together and improving living standards in more villages, towns and cities

    The Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has brought together leaders representing more than 150 strategically important organisations – spanning the creative industries, sport, media, youth services, tourism and the arts – at a summit in Manchester (Wednesday 31 July) to invite them to work with DCMS in delivering the Government’s national mission of economic growth over the next five years.

    The event at Manchester’s Science and Industry Museum – the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution – highlights the Government’s clear statement of intent on widening opportunity outside of London and building closer partnerships with businesses across the whole country.

    In her first major speech, she emphasised the social and economic potential of DCMS sectors for national renewal. Lisa Nandy told the audience:

    Through our investment in grassroots sport and our determination that the legacy of the Paris Olympics and Euro 2024 is measured not just in trophies but in choices and chances for every child wherever they live and whatever their background.

    Through our partnerships with our Mayors, Councils, Businesses and Charities to put rocket boosters under our growing industries – film and theatre, TV, fashion, video games, heritage and tourism – to take the brakes off the economy, create opportunity for every child and export our incredible talent to the world.

    And through my drive to ensure the public appointments we make truly reflect our country in all its glorious diversity. Not to fulfil a quota, but to ensure that our government draws on the creative might of all of our people.

    This is the first in a series of events that DCMS Ministers will carry out around the country to engage DCMS sectors, which are worth more than £170 billion and support more than four million jobs. The UK creative industries alone are worth £125 billion – more to the economy than life sciences, automotive manufacturing, aerospace and the oil and gas sectors combined.

    On writing communities back into a new national story, and enhancing these sectors as vehicles for economic growth in all parts of the UK, the Culture Secretary said:

    When we turn to face the nation again in 5 years time, it is our ambition that we will face a self-confident country, at ease with itself, where all our people see themselves in the story we tell ourselves about ourselves as a nation – and our contribution is seen and valued.

    And my message to each and every one of you is that if you share that belief in our country. If you have that zest. If you want to challenge us and are willing to be challenged in turn.

    Then I promise you. That we will walk alongside you. We will have your back. And we will give voice to the country many of us have believed in all our lifetime but never quite yet seen.

    The speech comes after the Culture Secretary recently announced an end to politically-driven culture wars, a commitment to the television licence fee for the remainder of the current Charter period until 2027 and plans to support grassroots football clubs to ensure that girls and boys across the country get more access to gold standard facilities. The Government has also announced plans to introduce an independent football regulator as soon as possible, that will ensure clubs across England are financially sustainable and fans are given a greater say in the way their clubs are run.

    Organisations with representatives at the summit include:

    • Warner Bros.
    • Discovery
    • Paramount
    • Amazon Prime Video
    • BBC
    • Channel 4
    • ITV, Sky
    • News UK
    • Reach, Daily Mail General Trust
    • Global
    • Society of Editors
    • News Media Association
    • Google Play
    • British Cycling
    • Sport England
    • Kick It Out
    • Premier League
    • Rugby Football League
    • English Football League
    • Arts Council England
    • Society of London Theatres
    • HarperNorth
    • Writers’ Guild Of Great Britain
    • Royal Opera House
    • Royal Shakespeare Company *Southbank Centre
    • Association of British Orchestras
    • Creative Industries Council
    • Musicians’ Union
    • Creative UK
    • UK Music
    • National Gallery
    • Association of Independent Museums
    • Science Museum
    • National Portrait Gallery
    • Tate
    • British Library
    • Royal College of Music
    • London Philharmonic Orchestra
    • Birmingham Royal Ballet
    • English National Opera
    • Merlin Entertainments
    • UK Hospitality
    • Visit Britain
    • O2 Arena
    • Prince’s Trust
    • Duke of Edinburgh Award
    • British Council
    • Also in attendance are regional museums such as Birmingham, Derby, Sheffield and Manchester.

    The Culture Secretary also met young people representing Girlguiding and the National Citizen Service, as well as local Manchester youth group HideOut Youth Zone, who are currently working with the Science Museum on an exhibition.

    Managing Director Prime Video UK Chris Bird said:

    The UK is a creative industries powerhouse with a rightly deserved reputation for producing some of the world’s greatest artists, authors, producers and technicians. Across TV, film, books, music, sport and more, Amazon has invested more than £4 billion in the Creative Industries across the UK since 2010 and we welcome the Government’s ambitions for continued growth in the sector.

    Prime Video’s reach and impact extend nationwide, with productions from The Rig and Fear in Scotland, to Mammals in Cornwall and multiple productions in the North West of the UK, and last week we announced the acquisition of the iconic Bray Studio. Our £10 million skills, training and education, programme; Prime Video Pathway, is designed to open up access to the arts for people from every corner of the country too. The creative industries are driving material long-term growth, creating and developing exciting and fulfilling careers, and we look forward to partnering with the Government to continue this growth and fuel the ambitions for the next generation of UK creatives.

    Andrew Georgiou, President and Managing Director, Warner Bros. Discovery U.K & Ireland and WBD Sports Europe, said:

    Warner Bros. Discovery has a proud UK heritage – present for over 90 years, with a significant employee base which extends North to South across 5 cities. The UK is our biggest base outside of the US and, in our view, one of the best places in the world to do business. We remain committed to the UK and our ambition to grow and strengthen our sector.  It is only in partnership that we can continue to make standout British content, support and develop British creatives, and bring the British public access to the best in film, TV, gaming, streaming, news, sport and more.  We look forward to a continued and productive relationship between Government and the industry.

    Darren Henley, Arts Council England Chief Executive said:

    Our artists, arts organisations, museums and libraries are among our country’s greatest assets. Their creativity unlocks a world that enables everyone to imagine and experience life beyond the everyday. But they do so much more to increase our national happiness: they bring communities together, help people maintain their mental health, provide skilled and fulfilling jobs, and boost the economy. The Arts Council is determined to make sure that everyone can enjoy these benefits, no matter where they live or what their background. We look forward to working with the new government and the Secretary of State in service of our audiences, participants and visitors to raise the nation’s spirit and nurture its soul.

    Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England said:

    England has world class heritage at the heart of every community and it’s an engine for good growth, helping people and places flourish. We wholeheartedly support the Culture Secretary’s vision to boost the economy by using what makes our villages, towns and cities special, because we know it works; heritage is a catalyst for regeneration and boosting local pride. And historic places matter to people, with 93% of people agreeing that local heritage raises their quality of life – it makes people feel good. Let’s use it to make our country better and fairer for everyone.

    Andrew Leveson Royal Shakespeare Company Executive Director and Daniel Evans and Tamara Harvey, Co-Artistic Directors said:

    We welcome the Culture Secretary’s ambitions for unlocking economic growth and opening up opportunity and access to the arts for everyone, wherever they live. Through our many partnerships nationwide with schools, theatres and communities in areas of structural disadvantage, we know that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. We have significant statistical evidence about the positive difference that arts and culture can make to individual lives, whole schools and communities. There’s much to do to make sure the arts & cultural sector continues its vital contribution to our society, our economy, and to showcasing the UK on the global stage. We look forward to working with the DCMS team and wider government departments to grow and amplify this impact.

    Sir Ian Blatchford, Director of the Science Museum Group said:

    We are honoured to host this event at the Science and Industry Museum, one of our four national museums in the north of England that are in the midst of transformation, delivered with local partners in communities striving for growth. The Culture Secretary is right to point to our role in building a stronger economy. Museums are engines for innovation, they drive tourism and as our colleagues support a better future by igniting young people’s curiosity about science, our work across the globe is increasing the UK’s international clout today.

    Andrew Lovett OBE, Chair of the Association of Independent Museums said:

    Independent museums welcome nearly 20 million visitors annually to the bustling city centres and beautiful rural settings they are found in across the UK. Powered by thousands of passionate staff and volunteers, they sit proud at the heart of the places and the communities they serve. The stories they tell not only represent and engage us but help make sense of the world and our place in it. At the Association of Independent Museums, we’re excited to get to work with DCMS on unlocking the power of museums and heritage to stimulate economic growth and ensuring that everyone can benefit from our rich history and promising future.

    Sarah Elliott, Chief Executive Officer at the National Council for Voluntary Organisations said:

    Charities aren’t just a force for good, they’re also a force for growth. Our sector is a major employer that makes a vital contribution to the UK economy – adding an estimated £200bn, including the value that our army of amazing volunteers bring. Whether it’s through our sector’s work on housing, skills, health or education, to name a few, the incredible range of services charities deliver help broaden opportunities, support more people into work, and enable society to be more economically active. Through early collaboration with charities, government can help even more people live happy, healthy and fulfilling lives, while also achieving its mission of growing a sustainable economy that works for all.

    Sanjay Bhandari, Chair of Kick it Out said:

    Football is the lifeblood of the country, and runs deep into our society, but we know there is more untapped talent to emerge from under-represented communities. We’ve been working hard to develop that talent through our programmes and using our voice to ensure that those communities are heard and can play their part in growing the game even further.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Record breaking funding for clean energy in Britain [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Record breaking funding for clean energy in Britain [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 31 July 2024.

    Government announces budget of over £1.5 billion to deliver homegrown clean energy projects and boost UK’s energy security.

    • Government backs industry with £1.5 billion budget for next renewable energy auction, boosting energy security
    • increase of over 50% on previous budget with biggest boost for offshore wind
    • new milestone in mission for clean, cheap energy for families and businesses

    Renewable industry to bid for record breaking funding as the Energy Secretary unveils the largest-ever budget for delivering new homegrown clean energy projects in the UK –  boosting energy security, securing cheap power for families, and unlocking economic growth and jobs for the country.

    Ed Miliband today (Wednesday 31 July) announced the budget for this year’s renewable energy auction is being increased by £500 million to over £1.5 billion – a record budget – helping build new green infrastructure as part of the mission to deliver clean power by 2030.

    Funding will accelerate the delivery of clean, cheap, low-carbon electricity to families and businesses, generated by renewable energy technologies such as wind turbines and solar panels.

    Families across the country have suffered during the cost of living crisis, as the UK’s over-reliance on fossil fuel markets was exploited by Putin. Investing in clean energy is part of the government’s plans to make Britain a clean energy superpower. This will boost the country’s energy independence, so that families and businesses are never left that vulnerable again.

    This includes £1.1 billion for offshore wind – the backbone of the UK’s clean energy mission –  which has more budget available than all of the previous auctions combined, sending a strong signal to industry to invest in UK waters.

    The uplift comes on the day of the first meeting of the Clean Energy Mission Board – chaired by the Energy Secretary and attended by Ministers from across Whitehall – as part of plans for a mission-driven government. The board will meet to ensure a relentless focus on delivering the mission of clean power by 2030 and accelerating towards net zero.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

    Last year’s auction round was a catastrophe, with zero offshore wind secured, and delaying our move away from expensive fossil fuels to energy independence.

    Instead, we are backing industry to build in Britain, with this year’s auction getting its biggest budget yet. This will restore the UK as a global leader for green technologies and deliver the infrastructure we need to boost our energy independence, protect billpayers, and become a clean energy superpower.

    Industry will now bid for a share of the funding through the government’s sixth renewable auction – known as the Contracts for Difference scheme – which provides developers with initial subsidies for clean electricity projects across Britain with a built-in design to keep costs low for billpayers.

    These subsidies are paid back when wholesale electricity prices are higher than the agreed Contract for Difference price. This was seen over Winter 2022/2023, when Contracts for Difference payments reduced the amount needed to fund government energy support schemes by around £18 per typical household.

    The scheme’s design means the central government’s budget will not be impacted, following findings from a Treasury spending audit revealed £22 billion of unfunded pledges inherited from the previous government.

    Overall, the funding uplift represents more than a 50% increase on the budget previously set in March, driving clean energy investment in the UK, supporting high quality jobs in industrial heartlands and coastal communities, while protecting household bills from volatile fossil fuel prices.

    Energy Minister Michael Shanks said:

    It is our mission for the UK to be more energy secure and to do that we need more renewable energy projects connected to the grid and powering our homes.

    Increasing the budget by more than 50% will boost industry confidence to back clean energy, attracting cutting edge clean technologies to Britain as we accelerate to a decarbonised power sector by 2030.

    The Contracts for Difference scheme works by developers bidding for contracts to help deliver renewable energy projects, with the scheme providing a guaranteed price for the clean electricity they generate. This gives industry greater certainty to invest, knowing that when electricity prices fluctuate, they will always get a set price for their projects.

    The scheme’s design awards contracts through a series of competitive auctions, where the lowest price bids are successful – providing value for money and cheap power for consumers.

    Building new, clean renewables also reduces exposure to volatile global gas prices which drove peak average wholesale electricity prices to record highs in 2022. Investing in renewables will protect household bills in the long-term and put Britain in control of its energy security.

    Developers can bid for more funding and bring forward more renewable energy projects, which will deliver the government’s 2030 clean power target while supporting local economies grow across the country.

    Following the increase, the Allocation Round 6 (AR6) budget includes:

    • £1.1 billion for offshore wind, an uplift of £300 million
    • £185 million for established technologies such as onshore wind and solar, an uplift of £65 million
    • £270 million for emerging technologies such as floating offshore wind and tidal, an uplift of £165 million

    The increase means the AR6 budget is 7 times higher than that of Allocation Round 5 (AR5).

    Responding to the government’s announcement on the next Contracts for Difference auction round (AR6), Energy UK’s chief executive, Emma Pinchbeck said:

    It’s a real boost for our clean energy ambitions that the upcoming auction round will now be able to deliver more renewable power. The sooner we can get new wind and solar projects up and running, the sooner we can boost our energy independence with clean, homegrown power that reduces our reliance on expensive foreign gas and helps protect us from a repeat of the price shocks that have hit customers hard in recent years.

    Offshore wind is critical to hitting the government’s 2030 target and we know that the vast majority of this capacity must be delivered through this auction round and next year’s. That remains a huge challenge but this is certainly a big step in the right direction and another welcome demonstration of the government’s ambitions.

    As the latest figures show, renewables supplied almost half of the UK’s power last year so we’ve already seen what can be achieved – not just through generating our own clean energy but also how such projects can bring investment, growth and high-quality jobs to all parts of the country, boosting local economies and supply chains.

    Dan McGrail, Chief Executive of Renewables UK, said:

    It’s great to see government choosing to unlock more investment in renewable energy projects by increasing the budget for the next Contracts for Difference auction. These new wind and solar farms will improve our energy security, drive economic growth, support thousands of new green jobs and ensure we continue to create a lowest cost electricity system for billpayers.

    This builds on a series of positive announcements from government which are increasing investor confidence in the UK, including ending the ban on onshore wind in England and approving new large-scale solar farms.

    This auction will not unlock investment in all shovel-ready projects, so the government will need to ensure that the next auction rounds focus on project delivery to ensure we achieve the Prime Minister’s clean power mission and increase the confidence of investors in the UK’s supply chain.

    Neil McDermott, CEO, LCCC, said:

    The increase in budget allowance acknowledges the critical role the Contracts for Difference plays in accelerating Net Zero.

    At LCCC we stand ready to work with new and existing generators to bring new renewable generation online.

    Claire Mack, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables, said:

    Heightened ambition for 2030 must be matched by bold action and the welcome increase to the Allocation Round 6 budget sends a positive signal to industry that the UK government is serious about achieving its clean power mission.

    To maintain our globally competitive advantage, empower our supply chains and enrich our communities, it is essential that we enable deployment at pace across all clean energy technologies through the Contracts for Difference scheme.

    Unleashing the full potential of Scotland’s renewable energy pipeline, in particular floating and fixed offshore wind, will require building on Allocation Round 6 to maximise deployment through future allocation rounds.

    This will drive economic growth, deliver energy security and achieve the UK government’s clean power mission.

    Last week the government launched Great British Energy in partnership with the Crown Estate, backed by £8.3 billion of new money, which is estimated to create up to 20-30GW of new offshore wind developments reaching seabed lease stage by 2030.

    The budget increase for Contracts for Difference marks the latest milestone in the government’s clean energy superpower mission, building on the lifting of the onshore wind ban and the approval of major solar farms powering the equivalent of almost 400,000 homes.

    Now the budget has been set, the auction will take place in August with successful projects to be announced in September 2024.

    Notes to editors

    A Contract for Difference (CfD) is a private law contract between a low carbon electricity generator and the Low Carbon Contracts Company (LCCC), a government-owned company.

    CfDs work by guaranteeing a set price for electricity – known as a strike price – that generators receive per unit of power output.

    When the market price for electricity generated by a CfD Generator is below the strike price set out in the contract, payments are made by the LCCC to the CfD Generator to make up the difference. However, when the market price is above the strike price, the CfD Generator pays LCCC the difference.

    The 2-way design of the scheme also protects consumers and businesses from future uncertainty on the global energy market. This is because when wholesale electricity prices are higher than the agreed CfD price, generators pay back into the scheme which is then passed back to billpayers.

    In this auction the maximum strike price for this auction are as follows:

    • offshore wind £73/MWh
    • onshore wind £64/MWh
    • solar £61/MWh
    • floating offshore wind £176/MWh
    • geothermal £157/MWh
    • tidal £261/MWh

    Today also saw the first inaugural meeting of the Onshore Wind Taskforce which brings together industry experts to accelerate the development of onshore wind across England.

    Explanatory notes

    Pot budgets, including this year’s £1.555 billion budget split across the 3 pots, are presented in 2011-2012 prices, in line with what has been published in the Budget Notice. These figures are:

    • an estimate of annual support in the years following deployment. Actual annual figures will vary over the lifetime of the contract depending on future wholesale electricity prices, and outcomes of the auction process
    • equivalent to approximately £2.215 billion in today’s prices, based on CPI inflation (June 2024 CPI, ONS data)
  • PRESS RELEASE : Venezuela’s election results – G7 Foreign Ministers’ statement [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Venezuela’s election results – G7 Foreign Ministers’ statement [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 31 July 2024.

    In a joint statement, G7 Foreign Ministers call on Venezuela to publish transparent election results.

    Statement from the G7 Foreign Ministers:

    We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and the High Representative of the EU, express our solidarity with the people of Venezuela, who peacefully exercised their right to vote in large numbers on July 28 to shape the future of their country.

    Independent domestic and international observers’ reports have raised serious concerns about the announced results of Venezuela’s Presidential elections and about the way the electoral process was conducted, especially regarding the irregularities and lack of transparency in the final tabulation of the votes. It is of paramount importance that the result reflects the will of the Venezuelan people.

    We call on relevant representatives to publish the detailed electoral results in full transparency and we ask electoral representatives to immediately share all information with the opposition and independent observers.

    As the process unfolds, we call for maximum restraint in the country and for a peaceful, democratic and Venezuelan-led solution.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Regional de-escalation a priority as Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary travel to the Middle East [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Regional de-escalation a priority as Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary travel to the Middle East [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 31 July 2024.

    The Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary have travelled to the Middle East to call for an end to conflict in Gaza and de-escalation in the wider region.

    • Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary use their first official joint visit to the Gulf to progress efforts to end the conflict in Gaza and call for de-escalation in the wider region
    • they will meet UK personnel working in the region to showcase the strength of the UK-Qatar defence relationship
    • David Lammy and John Healey will commit to strengthening and expanding UK-Qatar cooperation on growth and security

    The Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary have arrived in Qatar to drive forward efforts to bring the conflict in Gaza to an end and to press for de-escalation in the region.

    In a joint visit, the Foreign Secretary David Lammy – in what will be his second trip to the Middle East since becoming Foreign Secretary – and the Defence Secretary John Healey will reiterate the UK’s support to Qatar for the country’s role in mediating and end to the war in Gaza – including efforts to deliver an immediate ceasefire agreed by both sides.

    They will reiterate the UK’s calls for de-escalation in the wider region, warning that rising tensions and destabilisation would be in no one’s interests. This follows the Foreign Secretary’s condemnation of the strikes in the occupied Golan Heights at the weekend which tragically claimed at least 12 lives.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

    Escalation and destabilisation are in no one’s interests.

    It is absolutely vital that we engage closely with partners like Qatar, who play a key role in mediating the conflict in Gaza, so that we can bring this devastating war to an end.

    The UK and Qatar have a long-standing and close partnership, and we will also look to build lasting stability and security in the region, and advance our shared priorities, like deepening economic ties, to drive UK growth and seize the opportunities of the clean energy transition.

    Defence Secretary John Healey said:

    De-escalation must be our primary focus as this region stands at a crossroads. The loss of innocent life in recent weeks and months is unbearable. This has to end.

    All sides must step back from conflict and step-up diplomacy. We will work with important partners like Qatar as our government leads a renewed push for peace.

    During their time in Qatar, the Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary will meet with UK Armed Forces personnel who are helping to protect UK security interests and support regional stability.

    They are expected to meet with the Emir of Qatar, HH Sheikh Amir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, HE Dr Khalid Al Attiyah, where the ministers will recommit to building upon the strong UK-Qatar relationship, including growth and security.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government commits to a genuine living wage for working people [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government commits to a genuine living wage for working people [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 30 July 2024.

    In a move to put more money in working people’s pockets, the government has today [Tuesday 30th July] overhauled the remit of the Low Pay Commission (LPC).

    • Government takes first step to deliver on the promise of a genuine living wage for working people.
    • Ministers overhaul the Low Pay Commission’s remit to factor in the cost of living when recommending minimum wage rates.
    • Discriminatory age bands set to be removed so that all adults can benefit as work gets underway on the plan to Make Work Pay.

    In a move to put more money in working people’s pockets, the government has today [Tuesday 30th July] overhauled the remit of the Low Pay Commission (LPC).

    This will, for the first time, ensure the independent body takes into account the cost of living when it makes future recommendations to government on the minimum wage.

    The Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    For too long working people have faced the worst of the cost of living crisis, but this Government is taking bold action to address it and make work pay.

    The new remit to the LPC is the first of many vital steps we will take to support more people to stay in work and improve living standards.

    Our focus remains on putting more money in working people’s pockets and boosting economic growth.

    The Business and Trade Secretary and Deputy Prime Minister have also instructed the LPC to narrow the gap between the minimum wage rate for 18–20-year-olds and the National Living Wage. This will be the first step towards achieving a single adult rate.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    Economic growth is our first mission, and we will do everything we can to ensure good jobs for working people. But for too long, too many people are out of work or not earning enough.

    The new LPC remit is an important first step in getting people into work and keeping people in work, essential for growing our economy, rebuilding Britain and making everyone better off.

    The advent of the minimum wage has been one of the most effective and successful policy interventions of the last 25 years, and this announcement is the next step in achieving the promise of a genuine living wage for working people.

    In addition to the cost of living, the remit of the LPC will continue to also consider the impact on business, competitiveness, the labour market and the wider economy.

    TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said:

    Hard work should pay for everyone. These are significant first steps towards making the minimum wage a real living wage and will make a difference to millions. We welcome the Government’s decision to ask the Low Pay Commission to be more ambitious next year and into the future.

    We also support the Government’s commitment to ending discriminatory age bands for minimum wage workers. Young people face the same cost of living pressures as other adult workers and will welcome their pay being brought into line.

    The Secretary of State and Deputy Prime Minister have written to the Chair of the Low Pay Commission. The letter and the full remit can be found here.

    This builds on the Government’s Plan to Make Work Pay, which sets out a significant and ambitious agenda to ensure workplace rights are fit for a modern economy, empower working people and deliver economic growth.

    These changes are the first steps in realising the Government’s mission to grow the economy and raise living standards across the country.

    Peter Jelkelby, Chief Executive and Chief Sustainability Officer, IKEA UK & Ireland:

    People are at the heart of IKEA’s success, and we recognise the challenges they face from inflationary pressures and rises in the cost of living. IKEA are committed to paying a fair, sustainable rate of pay based on the true cost of living and what’s happening in the wider economy.

    IKEA has been a proud member of the Living Wage Foundation since 2016 and is the largest accredited retailer. Our business relies on a skilled, engaged, and committed workforce, so ensuring that living wages reflect the true cost of living is a powerful route to providing security and stability for our co-workers and their families.

    Emma Jones, CBE, founder and CEO of small business support platform and membership community, Enterprise Nation, said:

    Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and we know they are facing unprecedented pressures. We wholeheartedly support the principle of a living wage for all workers and look forward to continuing to work with the Government to recognise the unique challenges faced by micro-businesses.

    We want to create an environment where both businesses and workers can thrive and will continue to advocate for a balanced approach that will ensure the survival, growth and success of small enterprises.

    Notes to editor

    • The Secretary of State Jonathan Reynolds made a statement to parliament today on the Low Pay Commission remit. See the full Written Ministerial Statement here: https://questions-statements.parliament.uk/written-statements/detail/2024-07-30/hcws43
    • The Government sets the minimum wage rates each year following the advice of the LPC. These recommendations are made by the LPC each October – for minimum wage rates to apply from the following April – in line with the parameters set out in the annual remit from the Department for Business and Trade.
    • We recognise the importance of providing sufficient notice of changes to the minimum wage, so the timelines remain unchanged in the new remit. We have asked the LPC to report back by the end of October, and the rates will increase in April 2025. Employers and workers alike can be confident that they will have sufficient advance knowledge of next year’s increases.
    • The LPC is an internationally renowned, independent body. The Government commends their expertise and diligence in seeking to agree new rate recommendations by consensus, and we fully expect they will strike an appropriate balance.
    • The Government continues to support HMRC in their approach of minimum wage enforcement and compliance. In addition to requiring the repayment of arrears and issuing penalties, publicly naming employers who have failed to comply with the law remains an important part of our toolkit.
    • This is a core part of the Government’s mission to grow the economy and raise living standards across the country.
    • The Plan to Make Work Pay was first announced in the Labour Manifesto here: https://labour.org.uk/updates/stories/a-new-deal-for-working-people/
  • PRESS RELEASE : New redress scheme opens for postmasters with overturned convictions [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : New redress scheme opens for postmasters with overturned convictions [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 30 July 2024.

    Postmasters whose convictions have been overturned by the Post Office Offences Act can now apply to a new redress scheme.

    • This new redress scheme has been specifically designed for postmasters whose conviction was not already overturned by the courts.
    • Victims will have the choice of taking a fixed settlement of £600,000 or having a fully detailed assessment.

    Postmasters whose convictions have been overturned by the Post Office Offences Act (including that passed by the Scottish Government) can now apply to a new redress scheme.

    From today, postmasters are invited to come forward and register for the scheme, known as the Horizon Convictions Redress Scheme (HCRS).  Once eligibility is confirmed the new scheme will provide swift and fair redress, allowing those affected to rebuild their lives.

    Many victims have been traumatised by the Post Office Horizon Scandal and this scheme aims to ensure that postmasters receive redress without unnecessary bureaucracy.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    Postmasters have suffered immeasurably so I hope today’s new redress scheme brings some relief to postmasters who have waited far too long to get back the money that is rightfully theirs.

    Any postmaster who thinks they are eligible for this scheme can come forward and register. We know that every case is different, and this government fully supports the right of every postmaster to choose what is best for them.”

    Postmasters eligible can either accept a fixed settlement of £600,000 or those who believe their losses exceed that amount can choose a full claim assessment route. This will mean their application will be fully examined by a team of dedicated caseworkers in the Department for Business and Trade.

    The scheme will be delivered by the Department for Business and Trade with a key aim of providing as much transparency as possible about how it will operate and how decisions will be taken on redress.  Guidance has been published today which will allow postmasters to see how much redress they may be eligible for and what will be taken into account when assessing applications.

    Following Royal Assent of the Post Office Offences Act, hundreds of postmasters had their convictions overturned providing they met the following criteria:

    • Prosecutions were brought about by the Post Office or Crown Prosecution Service (or in Northern Ireland, the state prosecutor or the police).
    • Offences were carried out in connection with Post Office business between 1996 and 2018.
    • Offences were for relevant offences such as theft, fraud and false accounting.
    • Offences were against sub-postmasters, their employees, officers, family members or direct employees of the Post Office working in a Post Office that used the Horizon system software.
    • The conviction has not been considered by the Court of Appeal

    The Department for Business and Trade will work closely with the Ministry of Justice to confirm the eligibility of individuals registering for the scheme and postmasters with overturned convictions will begin to receive written confirmation of their exoneration from the Ministry of Justice from this week.

    The letters will also explain how criminal justice agencies will be amending their court and criminal records. If there is insufficient evidence to confirm that a conviction can be quashed, postmasters may receive a request to submit further information.

    Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice Shabana Mahmood, said:

    Justice must be a reality, not an ideal. Today we begin putting this into practice by overturning the convictions of the innocent postmasters affected by this inexplicable and unprecedented miscarriage of justice.

    I pay tribute to those hard-working men and women for their courage and determination. I am pleased today we can begin to right this wrong and ensure they are quickly and fairly compensated.”

    The Government has committed to paying all reasonable legal fees for postmasters’ legal representation to ensure more of their own money is not spent on this appalling scandal.

    The independent inquiry continues its work of uncovering the truth behind the Horizon scandal so that the right people can be held to account, and justice can be served.

  • PRESS RELEASE : All aboard – Kenyan Marines getting into Ship-shape [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : All aboard – Kenyan Marines getting into Ship-shape [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 30 July 2024.

    The Kenyan Marine Commando Unit (KMCU) has taken part in action-packed training exercises delivered by the UK Royal Marines, as part of a visit to Kenya by HMS LANCASTER, a British Royal Navy Frigate.

    After Royal Marines from 42 Commando delivered training and practical demonstrations, Kenyan Marines-in-the-making took on the challenge of completing visit, board, search, and seizure exercises – tactics frequently used to counter piracy, terrorism, and smuggling.

    These exercises are in addition to the basic training that the KMCU receive and show the UK and Kenya’s continued commitment to build a strong, capable, and adaptable Kenya Defence Forces as an anchor of regional stability and security.

    The creation of the KMCU is a five-year partnership between the UK and Kenya to establish a self-sustaining training cycle through which the Kenyan Navy will be able to train their own Marine Commandos.

    The KMCU made history in May 2023 when the first-ever cohort of Kenyan Marines completed a rigorous training programme which largely mirrors that undertaken by the Royal Marines.

    The US Military have also played an integral role in the creation of the KCMU by ensuring this specialist and formidable force are equipped to the highest standard.

    British High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, said:

    It’s fantastic to see that the UK and Kenya have taken advantage of this opportunity to add serious value to the Kenyan Marines training programme – a great example of how our security partnership is making a real difference to Kenya’s military capacity and capability. Together, we’re going far – making Kenya, the UK, and the region safer and more secure.

    Commander Chris Sharp Royal Navy, Commanding Officer HMS Lancaster (Port):

    HMS Lancaster’s visit to Kenya is a fantastic opportunity for Lancaster’s Royal Marines to train and exercise boarding operations with the Kenyan Marine Commando Unit, contributing to the UK and Kenya’s joint commitment to improve regional stability and security.

    HMS LANCASTER visited the Port of Mombasa for a short operational break from patrols and as part of Combined Task Force 150, where it has recently conducted drug busts and completed other maritime security serials. It will then return to her long-standing presence in the Gulf region, focussed on promoting peace and stability. Her visit to Mombasa provides an opportunity to demonstrate the close, historic relationship between the UK and Kenyan Armed Forces.

    The UK-Kenya Strategic Partnership is an ambitious five-year agreement delivering mutual benefits for the UK and Kenya and keeping our people safe; it is underpinned by the Defence Cooperation Agreement that provides the framework for this training programme.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Thailand hosts 40th anniversary celebration of Chevening awards [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Thailand hosts 40th anniversary celebration of Chevening awards [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 30 July 2024.

    40 Thai Cheveners received awards to recognise and celebrate their significant impact and contributions to Thai society.

    In January 2024, the British Embassy Bangkok, in partnership with Thailand Chevening Alumni Association, hosted the Chevening 40th Anniversary Celebration at the British Club Bangkok, presenting awards to honour 40 Thai Cheveners for their significant impact and contributions to Thai society and to broaden UK-Thailand relations.

    The event welcomed Cheveners from various sectors, ranging from international relations, human rights, sustainability, journalism to business and more. Dr Lalida Pariyakanok, the Director of Thai Red Cross Eye Bank, who was the very first cohort of Chevening recipients in Thailand was also present at the event. It was an opportunity for Cheveners in Thailand to reconnect and share their experiences and expertise.

    British Ambassador to Thailand, Mark Gooding, said:

    Our Chevening Alumni are leaders in their fields, working tirelessly for Thailand’s advancement and have effectively become a vital pillar of the UK-Thailand relationship, especially where we work together on shared goals. The insights, access, frank opinion, and friendship that you give me, and the Embassy team are invaluable to our work in Thailand. I am truly proud of our Chevening community, and I believe we should continue to identify opportunities to support each other’s efforts.

    From studies to success: How Chevening scholarships change lives

    In the special panel discussion, Chevening Alumni shared their experiences from their Chevening years, which led to their current success in various sectors.

    Pongsadhorn Pokpermdee, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Public Health (2000-2001 Chevening cohort) said:

    Chevening Scholarship is a gateway to many opportunities. Getting to this doorway might not be simple, but its challenges are the building blocks of my self-confidence. Studying in a UK university and being surrounded by international friends encourages creative thinking and enriches our learning techniques. Having encountered a variety of ways of thinking in an open society allows me to consider how we may improve our communities.

    Karuna Buakumsri, Journalist (1996 to 1997 Chevening cohort) said:

    One of the interviewers asked me how I could be sure that I could make positive contributions to the Thai society. At that time, I said I do not know yet, but I would like a chance to prove myself […] Receiving Chevening Scholarship has been a commitment for me to prove myself that I would do my best. Chevening Scholarship led to new friendships. The change of environment also broadened my horizon and allowed me to understand more about humanity.

    Kornkanok Wathanabhoom, Mekong legal Advisor, Earthrights International (2018 to 2019 Chevening cohort) said:

    Chevening Scholarship is an opportunity for everyone. You do not have to be the best in class, but you must have determination and dedication to become a leader in your field and develop your potential. If you look at the programmes, they are diverse and interesting. The knowledge we gained empowers us to enhance our capabilities, benefiting our careers and our country.  As society advances, Thailand will thrive.

    Chatchavej Chitvarakorn, Managing Partner, Siam Premier International Law Office Limited (2003-2004 Chevening cohort) said:

    Even though I am in the private sector, I am proud to have been one of the catalysts that help drive the country’s business and economy forward. What I have gained from the scholarship is the methods of thinking. Chevening is a significant fully funded scholarships programme. The work we put in led us to have communities of Chevening scholars not only in Thailand but also in many other countries with similar networks.

    The evening concluded with the Chevening networking reception where Cheveners had a chance to reconnect while enjoying what the British traditional food had to offer.

    • Chevening Scholarship, a fully funded UK government scholarship, started off as a ‘Pym Package’ in 1983 after the UK Foreign Secretary at the time. Since then, there have been 57,000 Chevening scholars, including over 600 Chevening scholars from Thailand. Cheveners around the world have made significant contributions to their home countries around the world
    • the scholarships support one-year taught master’s degrees at UK universities for individuals with demonstrable potential to become future leaders, decision-makers, and opinion formers
    • the Chevening programme accepts applications annually from August to October. You can find more information at https://www.chevening.org/apply/