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Tag: Press Release

  • PRESS RELEASE : The UK calls for the immediate and unconditional release of detained UN personnel – UK statement at the UN Security Council [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : The UK calls for the immediate and unconditional release of detained UN personnel – UK statement at the UN Security Council [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 23 July 2024.

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

    First, we call on the Houthis to stop their escalatory behaviour that threatens the prospect of stability in Yemen and the region. We, once again, condemn the Houthi attack on Tel Aviv which saw an Israeli civilian killed and 10 other civilians wounded. We are deeply concerned about the risk and the consequences of escalation in the region and we call for all parties to exercise restraint.

    We also remain deeply concerned by the Houthis’ detention of United Nations personnel, as well as the staff and former staff of non-governmental organisations and diplomatic missions. We echo the calls from Special Envoy Grundburg and Acting Under-Secretary-General Msuya on the Houthis to immediately and unconditionally release those held. As well as the personal distress for the individuals and their families, these detentions have also severely impeded the delivery of vital aid to those most in need and further constrained the humanitarian community working across Yemen. All humanitarian, UN, and diplomatic staff should be free to operate safely and securely throughout Yemen.

    Second, the UK has been clear, that the continued flouting of the arms embargo under UNSCR 2216 is unacceptable and serves only to fuel further regional tensions. The increasing reports of ships entering Hodeidah without reporting to UNVIM for inspection is deeply worrying because the inspection of vessels is fundamental to stopping illicit arms entering Houthi controlled areas, while also ensuring the import of commercial goods. We must continue to provide unwavering support to UNVIM and ensure it has the necessary funding to stop the smuggling of illicit arms.

    Finally,  we welcome the commitment of the parties to de-escalate economic tensions and to start convening meetings to discuss all economic and humanitarian issues based on the roadmap. The UK reaffirms that the only way to peace in Yemen is through dialogue and engagement with the Special Envoy. It is important that we remain unified in support of his efforts to secure an inclusive and sustainable peace in Yemen. We continue to urge all parties to de-escalate tensions and preserve space for negotiations.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Kendall launches blueprint for fundamental reform to change the DWP from a ‘Department of Welfare to a Department for Work’ [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Kendall launches blueprint for fundamental reform to change the DWP from a ‘Department of Welfare to a Department for Work’ [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 23 July 2024.

    Liz Kendall will today set out how Britain’s system of employment support must be fundamentally reformed to tackle the “most urgent challenge” of spiralling economic inactivity.

    • Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall will use landmark first speech to set out the Government’s plans to reverse dire labour market inheritance and drive up Britain’s employment
    • Major new reforms will be at heart of Government’s ambition to reach an 80% employment rate, with a white paper on getting Britain working again
    • Kendall set to empower local leaders to tackle economic inactivity, alongside a new Labour Market Advisory Board to help drive change and get Britain working again.

    At the launch of the “Pathways to Work” report in Barnsley Ms Kendall will lay the path for a new Government white paper to get Britain working. This is central to delivering the Government’s first mission – to kickstart economic growth; making everyone, not just a few, better off.

    She will set out the dire inheritance from the last 14 years including:

    • Britain remaining the only country in the G7 whose employment rate has still not returned to pre-pandemic levels.
    • 2.8 million people out of work due to ill health or disability
    • 1 in 8 young people not in education, employment or work
    • Spending on sickness and disability benefits is set to increase by £30bn over the next five years according to the OBR
    • Too many people trapped in low paid, poor quality work, with little prospect of improving their lot in life. Of those in low in pay in 2006, only one-in-six escaped it a decade later.

    Ms Kendall will argue:

    The fundamental problem we face is that the current system of employment support is designed to address the problems of yesterday – not today, tomorrow and beyond.

    She will say over the last 14 years the DWP has focused almost entirely on the benefits system, and specifically on implementing Universal Credit, and that “nowhere near enough attention has been paid to the wider issues – like health, skills, childcare and transport – that determine whether people get work, stay in work and get on in work.

    She will call time on the approach of the previous government and instead seek “employment opportunity unleashed for all” as part of the government’s long-term ambition to reach 80 per cent employment, with better quality of work, and higher earnings.

    The Secretary of State will set out bold plans to tackle economic activity by enabling local leaders to tailor schemes to get people back into work – and to prioritise good, rewarding, well paid work. She will say:

    I can confirm today that we will empower local leaders and local areas to tackle economic inactivity and open up economic opportunity.

    We will give local places the responsibility and resources to design a joined-up work, health and skills offer that’s right for local people.

    DWP will support local areas to make a success of this new approach.

    And we will devolve new powers over employment support to catalyse action and change.

    Setting out her vision for reform, the Work and Pensions Secretary is also expected to say:

    Over the last 14 years millions of people have been denied their rightful chance of participating in the labour market, and the hope of a brighter future. They’ve been excluded, left out, categorised and labelled. Britain isn’t working.

    We need fundamental reform so the department for welfare becomes a genuine department for work.

    We’ll pursue an ambitious plan alongside the government’s goals to raise productivity and living standards and to improve the quality of work. To get Britain growing again, get Britain building again and get Britain working again.

    As part of her drive to tackle economic inactivity, the Secretary of State will also announce a new group of external experts who will provide labour market insight and advice to drive change throughout the system.

    The Labour Market Advisory Board, which will be chaired by Paul Gregg – Former Director of the Centre for Analysis of Social Policy at the University of Bath – is expected to meet quarterly and will provide advice to the Work and Pensions Secretary and offer insight, expertise, and challenge to the department’s plans.

    The speech follows the announcement by the Work and Pensions Secretary, that the Government will, as part of the Growth Mission, publish a White Paper which will build on manifesto commitments of a three-pillared approach to support people into work:

    • A new national jobs and career service to help get more people into work, and on in their work.
    • New work, health and skills plans for the economically inactive, led by Mayors and local areas.
    • A youth guarantee for all young people aged 18 to 21.

    It forms part of a cross-government approach to help people into work, including the launch of Skills England, and cutting NHS waiting lists to build the healthy society needed for a healthy economy.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Defence Secretary champions UK industry at Farnborough Air Show [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Defence Secretary champions UK industry at Farnborough Air Show [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 22 July 2024.

    Defence Secretary John Healey announces a £6.5 billion complex weapons partnership and trials of a laser weapon fired from a British Army vehicle.

    The British defence industry’s positive economic impact was championed by Defence Secretary John Healey on the first day of Farnborough International Air Show – where he announced a £6.5 billion complex weapons partnership and ground-breaking trials of a laser weapon fired from a British Army vehicle.

    Meeting with industry leaders and defence apprentices, the Defence Secretary stressed the importance of replenishing stockpiles for the UK and Ukraine as he announced the renewal of a complex weapons partnership with MBDA, who manufacture the Storm Shadow missile used on Ukraine’s front line. This 10-year partnership will deliver battle-winning complex weapons faster and at lower cost. The contract will also support more than 5,500 jobs across the North-West, East of England and the South-West, as well as thousands of other jobs in UK’s supply chain.

    The Defence Secretary also revealed that scientists and engineers have successfully fired a laser weapon from a British Army vehicle, in a first for the UK. The ground-breaking trials, conducted at the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) range in Porton Down, saw the laser weapon neutralise targets at the speed of light from more than 1km away, with each shot costing less than a cup of tea. The Raytheon-developed laser weapon could be mounted onto various armoured vehicles to defeat a range of drones, helping protect soldiers from aerial threats.

    Defence Secretary, John Healey said:

    “Farnborough International Air Show showcases the best of British industry and how a vibrant industrial base keeps us all safe and contributes to UK economic growth.

    “As Defence Secretary, I want to take the politics out of national security so where there is important work begun under the previous government, we will take it forward in the interest of national security. That is why we are renewing important partnerships with industry and continuing to push technological boundaries. This will drive prosperity and create skilled jobs across the country.”

    The partnership with MBDA, signed with Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), the MoD’s procurement arms, is expected to deliver new systems to the UK such as the Future Cruise and Anti-Ship Weapon, Land Precision Strike and continue the evolution of Meteor missile system. It will enable ‘always-on’ manufacturing, holding industry at a high-state of readiness to respond to defence demands. As part of this partnership, a further £500 million will be invested in British manufacturing and technologies.

    The trialled laser weapon requires only two personnel to operate and could take less than two weeks to be trained on. The next phase of testing will involve trials with Army personnel later this year, further evaluating the system’s capabilities and benefits in real-world scenarios. The demonstrator has been tested by Team Hersa, comprising Dstl and DE&S, and developed in collaboration with a consortium of UK suppliers and showcases the potential of advanced technology in modern warfare. The British supply chain includes Raytheon UK, Fraser Nash, NP Aerospace, LumOptica, Blighter Surveillance Systems, and Cambridge Pixel.

  • PRESS RELEASE : The UK condemns Houthi attacks against Israel and their wider destabilising activity in the Red Sea – UK statement at the UN Security Council [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : The UK condemns Houthi attacks against Israel and their wider destabilising activity in the Red Sea – UK statement at the UN Security Council [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 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 alarmed by the Houthi attack on Tel Aviv which saw an Israeli civilian killed in his home and 10 other civilians wounded. My Foreign Secretary condemned this reckless escalation in his statement to the UK Parliament last week. We call for urgent de-escalation.

    Since October 7th, the Houthis have launched UAVs and missiles towards Israel, in dangerous and illegal attacks. These actions risk a further deterioration in the stability and security of the region and we call upon the Security Council to condemn the Houthi attacks against Israel in addition to their wider destabilising activity in the Red Sea. This includes launching over 305 attacks against international shipping, impacting over 100 ships and killing innocent crew. We call for the immediate and unconditional release of the Galaxy Leader and its crew illegally detained by the Houthis since November 2023.

    In addition, we must not lose sight of the fact that Houthi actions, enabled by support from Iran, are part of a wider Iranian strategy to destabilise the region with its malign influence and use of proxies. We call upon Iran to cease its nefarious support to armed groups and terrorist organisations in the Middle East which only serve to increase the suffering of ordinary people.

    Finally, while we can confirm that there was no UK involvement in the Israeli strikes against the Houthis on 20 July, the UK remains resolute in its support to Israel’s right to self-defence in line with international law and international humanitarian law. The Houthis seek to use the situation in Gaza as justification for their reckless behaviour. Let me be clear, there is no justification for these attacks and more broadly there can be no military solution to the conflict in the Middle East. Yemenis are once again paying the price for the destructive actions of the Houthis and further escalation will only worsen an already dire humanitarian situation.

    A diplomatic solution in the region is the only way forward. We strongly support the ongoing efforts of Egypt, Qatar and the US to bring about a ceasefire in Gaza, get the hostages out and humanitarian aid in. The deal, as endorsed by this Council in resolution 2735, is the best chance to secure lasting peace. Innocent Palestinians continue to face unfathomable human suffering in Gaza, with a devastating impact on women and children. At least 120 hostages remain in horrific conditions. We urge both sides to show flexibility in negotiations and to recommit themselves to a renewed peace process resulting in a two-state solution. President, I reiterate the UK’s call for de-escalation and for meaningful progress to bring about lasting peace and security for the region.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Aid access in Syria should be granted for as long as it is needed – UK statement at the UN Security Council [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Aid access in Syria should be granted for as long as it is needed – UK statement at the UN Security Council [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 July 2024.

    Statement by Deputy Political Coordinator Laura Dix at the UN Security Council meeting on Syria.

    First, as you’ve made clear, the humanitarian situation across Syria remains dire, borne out of over a decade of conflict and the actions of the regime. This includes its recent decision to blockade aid into Rukban camp, which has led to severe food scarcity. We call on the regime to permit commercial access into Rukban camp and to ensure all routes for humanitarian access – including into North West Syria – are sustained and predictable. Short-term, last-minute decisions are not appropriate as the UN continues to make clear. Access should be granted for as long as humanitarian needs demand it.

    Second, in light of the UN sanctions report published last week, I wanted to underscore that our sanctions against the Assad regime have a clear purpose: they are designed to hold to account those responsible for committing abhorrent atrocities over the last 14 years, including perpetrators of serious human rights violations and chemical weapons use. We have taken clear steps to ensure that sanctions and any tools aimed at holding the Assad regime accountable do not impact the wider Syrian population or the delivery of humanitarian support. We resolutely support those affected by the ongoing devastating conflict.

    Third, the only route out of this crisis is via a comprehensive and sustainable political settlement. This month’s parliamentary elections in Syria were held with the aim of sustaining Assad’s dictatorship and giving a semblance of popular legitimacy to his unreformed and undemocratic regime. In response, we have seen protesters inside Syria boycott the elections and demand a fairer and more transparent process. Legitimate elections in Syria can only be a product of a genuine political process in line with UNSCR 2254, which allows for the participation of all eligible Syrians, including members of the diaspora.

    President, I end by recalling that it is in Assad’s power to end this intolerable conflict and to take responsibility for the human rights violations and abuses that Syrians have endured. It is time to deliver on the legitimate demands of the Syrian people and to make a genuine commitment to peace in line with resolution 2254.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Skills England to transform opportunities and drive growth [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Skills England to transform opportunities and drive growth [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Education on 22 July 2024.

    New body launched to bring together key partners to meet the skills needs of the next decade across all regions.

    The Prime Minister and Education Secretary have announced the launch of Skills England to bring together the fractured skills landscape and create a shared national ambition to boost the nation’s skills.

    The Education Secretary has also today (22 July 2024) appointed Richard Pennycook CBE, former chief executive of the Co-operative Group and lead non-executive director at the DfE, as the interim Chair.

    Skills are crucial to economic growth, with a third of productivity improvement over the last two decades explained by improvements to skills levels.

    But between 2017 and 2022 skills shortages in this country doubled to more than half a million, and now account for 36% of job vacancies.

    Skills England will bring together central and local government, businesses, training providers and unions to meet the skills needs of the next decade across all regions, providing strategic oversight of the post-16 skills system aligned to the government’s Industrial Strategy.

    Supporting local areas to develop the skilled workforces they need – in particular across construction and healthcare – is fundamental to the government’s mission to raise growth sustainably. By working with the Migration Advisory Committee, Skills England will also help reduce reliance on overseas workers.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    Our skills system is in a mess, which is why we are transforming our approach to meet skills needs over the coming decades.

    They will help to deliver our number one mission as a government, to kickstart economic growth, by opening up new opportunities for young people and enabling British businesses to recruit more home-grown talent.

    From construction to IT, healthcare to engineering, our success as a country depends on delivering highly skilled workforces for the long-term. Skills England will put in place the framework needed to achieve that goal while reducing our reliance on workers from overseas.

    Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said:

    Our first mission in government is to grow the economy, and for that we need to harness the talents of all our people to unlock growth and break down the barriers to opportunity.

    The skills system we inherited is fragmented and broken. Employers want to invest in their workers but for too long have been held back from accessing the training they need.

    Skills England will jumpstart young people’s careers and galvanise local economies. It will bring businesses together with trade unions, mayors, universities, colleges and training providers to give us a complete picture of skills gaps nationwide, boost growth in all corners of the country and give people the opportunity to get on in life.

    The organisation will identify the training for which the growth and skills levy will be accessible – an important reform, giving businesses more flexibility to spend levy funds on training for the skills they need, which employers have long been calling for.

    Skills England will be established in phases over the next 9 to 12 months to create a responsive and collaborative skills system.

    The Skills England Bill announced this week will transfer functions from the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) to Skills England.

    This sits alongside work to simplify and devolve adult education budgets to mayoral combined authorities to ensure that they can address their adult skills needs directly and support growth in their areas.

    Next steps for establishing Skills England:

    • The first phase of Skills England’s launch involves setting up the organisation in shadow form within the DfE, and starting work on an assessment of future skills needs while building strong relationships with employers. A permanent board, Chair and CEO will be appointed in due course.
    • The route for employers to shape skills training is currently offered by the IfATE. IfATE’s functions will transfer to Skills England, as part of the new organisation’s broader remit. IfATE will continue its important work in the interim as the transition of functions to Skills England is finalised.
    • Skills England will hold responsibility for maintaining a list of levy-eligible training to ensure value for money, and that the mix of government-funded training available to learners and employers aligns with the identified skills needs.
    • The government will also bring forward a comprehensive strategy for post-16 education to break down barriers to opportunity, support the development of a skilled workforce, and drive economic growth through our industrial strategy.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Business and Trade Secretary gives lift-off to over £100 million for greener air travel [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Business and Trade Secretary gives lift-off to over £100 million for greener air travel [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 22 July 2024.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds has announced over £100 million of funding for cutting-edge aerospace research and development projects.

    • £103 million government-industry funding for cutting-edge new green aerospace projects, supporting thousands of high-wage jobs across the UK.
    • Funding delivered through Aerospace Technology Institute Programme to help pioneer groundbreaking new tech, including zero emission hydrogen flight and sustainable propulsion systems.
    • Business and Trade Secretary announces funding at launch of the 2024 Farnborough Airshow, reinforcing government’s commitment to championing aerospace and advanced manufacturing in new Industrial Strategy.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds has today (22 July) announced over £100 million of government-industry funding for cutting-edge aerospace tech projects to support greener air travel, at the launch of the 2024 Farnborough Airshow.

    It comes as the latest figures from the aerospace industry’s trade body ADS show the sector contributed £38 billion to the UK economy in 2023.

    Just under £103 million of funding in total, delivered through the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) Programme, has been announced for five aerospace R&D projects led by GKN Aerospace, Queens University, Rolls-Royce, Short Brothers and ZeroAvia.

    The projects will help pioneer innovations such as zero emission hydrogen-powered flight, new sustainable propulsion systems and turbine technologies, boosting thousands of high-skilled aerospace jobs across the UK and encouraging investment into the UK’s aerospace industry, as the Government prepares to launch its new Industrial Strategy.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    Our world-class aerospace sector added almost £40 billion to the economy last year, and by backing it to pioneer cutting-edge new technologies we’re delivering economic growth and supporting high-skilled jobs in every part of the UK.

    It’s fitting that I’m launching this new support here at Farnborough Airshow, where the best of British innovation is showcased on the global stage, reinforcing our commitment to placing innovation and manufacturing at the heart of our Industrial Strategy.

    Aerospace Technology Institute CEO Gary Elliott said:

    The ATI Programme is continuing to target investment in world-class research projects that will deliver benefit for UK aerospace: accelerating technology development, growing our manufacturing capability, strengthening our supply chain and ensuring that the sector continues to generate economic return to the UK.

    The projects announced today focus on advanced technologies that take us a significant step closer to sustainable aviation, from new lightweight materials to new fuel systems. We look forward to building on this investment in support of an ambitious Industrial Strategy.

    Rolls-Royce Director of Research and Technology Alan Newby said:

    The HOTLINE project, together with other projects that have been supported by the ATI, will improve the cost competitiveness and product performance of our current and future engines, vital for meeting not only industrial and government Net Zero targets but potential growth opportunities for the UK.

    Full details of ATI projects:

    • The ATI Programme is a joint government and industry investment. Its purpose is to competitively offer funding for research and technology development in the UK, to maintain and grow the UK’s competitive position in civil aerospace and accelerate the transition to net zero aviation.
    • The Department for Business and Trade has a dynamic approach to supporting the aerospace sector. Since 2013, government has co-invested with industry through the ATI Programme a total project cost of about £3.6 billion in total costs (grant and industry match funding). These projects have had 438 unique partners involved from across the UK, including 290 SMEs.
    • The Hot Section Lifting and Materials (HOTLINE) project – led by Rolls Royce, with project partners Cranfield University and the University of Birmingham will develop turbine technologies that reduce unit and life cycle costs. Total Project cost of £20.5 million.
    • Advanced Fuel Cell for Aviation Decarbonisation (AFCAD) – builds on ZeroAvia’s success with the Hyflyer I and II projects, to take the high temperature (HTPEM) fuel cell stacks technology to commercialisation stage, enabling zero emission hydrogen flight, with applications for rotorcraft and eVTOL. Total project cost of £17.5 million.
    • Scenic Composites – By developing a variety of high value testing and manufacturing equipment at the Advanced manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC), this project led by Queens University Belfast will build capability in the aerospace cluster in the Belfast region around composite materials. Total project cost of £10.9 million.
    • IVI – Spirit AeroSystems (Short Brothers) are leading this project with a key objective to produce lighter, more structurally efficient aerostructures with fewer parts, increasing fuel efficiency for a range of aircraft platforms, and enabling transition to new sustainable technologies. Total project cost of £10 million.
    • H2FlyGHT – led by GKN Aerospace and a UK-based consortium of major aerospace suppliers and academic partners, including Parker-Meggitt Aerospace and the universities of Nottingham and Manchester aims to develop and test a fully integrated liquid hydrogen fuel system and 2 megawatt cryogenic electrical propulsion system for the next generation of zero emission aircraft. Total project cost of £44 million.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Situation in Bangladesh – FCDO Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State’s statement [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Situation in Bangladesh – FCDO Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State’s statement [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 July 2024.

    FCDO Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State Catherine West gave a statement on the current situation in Bangladesh.

    Catherine West, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), said:

    The UK is deeply concerned by the violence we have seen in Bangladesh in recent days, with reports of hundreds killed and thousands injured. The loss of life is unacceptable. Peaceful protestors must not be subject to violence.

    The rights to protest, to peacefully assemble and to express different political views are rights which the UK holds dear and must be protected.

    Access to the internet and communications services must be restored quickly so people in Bangladesh can be reconnected with their families and friends in the UK and across the globe.

    We urge an end to the violence and loss of life and call on all sides to find ways to restore calm across Bangladesh, including by establishing a pathway for constructive political dialogue in the interests of the people of Bangladesh.

    Our thoughts are with everyone affected. The people-to-people connections between our two countries are strong, with a strong Bangladeshi community in the UK contributing enormously.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK soldiers test next generation of body-worn technology [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK soldiers test next generation of body-worn technology [July 2024]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 21 July 2024.

    • Major advances made in body-worn technology for UK soldiers.
    • Improving operational advantage by connecting soldiers to data tools and new technology.
    • A range of technologies, such as laser detection systems and on person drone control will enhance battle fighting tactics.

    The next generation of body-worn technology has been put through its paces by British soldiers, bringing a modernised advantage to the battlefield. The aim of the trials is to integrate available technology into wearable tech for soldiers, advancing battlefield awareness and allowing faster tactical decision making.

    This announcement comes as part of the new government’s commitment to procuring state-of-the-art defence capabilities. The Future Soldier programme delivers on the aim of adapting military equipment programmes to meet emerging requirements, as outlined in the launch of the Strategic Defence Review this week.

    Examples of the technologies being looked at by the Army include laser detection systems to warn if enemies are targeting personnel, drone thermal detection to identify enemies, and ground sensors to detect enemy movement with alerts sent to body-worn systems.

    The digital system is standardised and provides customised control that can be tailored to each individual mission.

    Troops from Leicestershire-based 2nd Battalion, The Royal Anglian Regiment, tested cutting-edge data visualisation tools, integrated sensors, and live intelligence feeds all connected in a single system.

    The trial, conducted by scientists from the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), demonstrates that even minor changes to infantry-level tactics with Command and Control, Communications, Computing and Information Systems, can vastly improve operational outcomes.

    Improved outcomes can include:

    • Increasing the tempo of a battle – outthinking the enemy by creating a faster understand, decide, act loop.
    • Increase situational awareness meaning better informed decision making based on real-time local operating picture of where friendly and enemy forces are, as well as other assets are on the battlefield.
    • Enhanced decision making – the ability to send data, such as images and full motion video, from the soldier to wider teams.

    Minster for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle said:

    This government is clear in our commitment to advancing technology that ensures the safety and superiority of UK Armed Forces. This cutting-edge technology will bolster operational lethality and elevate battlefield awareness.

    I welcome the continued collaboration between government, industry, and scientists on this innovative programme.

    Dstl scientists are carrying out this research as part of the Future Integrated Dismounted Soldier Vision (FIDSV) with research into how the next generation of ‘digitally connected soldier’ technology can improve capability and operational advantage.

    The range of technologies tested includes:

    • A helmet mounted strobe alert system to identify friend or foe.
      • An electronic system that emits an identifiable beacon when it detects an incoming laser.
    • Laser detection system to warn if enemies are targeting personnel.
      • A system that detects the wavelengths of incoming lasers and warns the user.
    • On person drone control which gives the user the ability to control and pre-programme drones.
    • Drone thermal detection to aid enemy detection.
    • Laser range finder – a device on the weapon that calculates the range of an object/target.
    • Advanced digital day and night optics for weapons, powered via the weapons’ Picatinny rail.
    • Smart hub – the ‘brain’ of the integrated power and data supply for all digital devices.
    • Mesh network – a type of radio configuration that permits “hopping” from one soldier’s radio to another to enhance range.
    • Ground sensors to detect movement with alerts sent to body-worn systems.

    Dstl chief executive Dr Paul Hollinshead OBE MBA said:

    Dstl is working closely with industry to develop and integrate technologies that will transform our armed forces, making them more capable and lethal.

    Building on our decades of expertise, this work is delivering mission success, protecting the nation and helping it prosper.

    Jon Russell, Dstl’s Senior Principal Scientist on the research, said:

    This technology will protect the lives of our Armed Forces by improving operational capability by giving them the advantage over the enemy.

    It is great to see the Future Integrated Dismounted Soldier Vision is clearly proving how a soldier system containing multiple knowledge capabilities that are designed to combine crucial data to improve operational advantage.

    “Our aim is to develop the most capable armed forces in the world, by merging different technologies to advance battlefield awareness.”

    Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) at the infantry Trials and Development Unit said:

    The trial, led by Dstl, was a showcase of future technologies and digital integration. The research has now advanced, bringing together industry to enhance capabilities with Command, Control, Communications, Computing and Information Systems.

    As the Army’s lead in dismounted close combat trials and development, we are at the forefront of improving operational advantage and look forward to supporting its future development.

    Dstl, in partnership with industry, will make use of the lessons learned from this latest testing on Salisbury Plain’s military training area to develop the need for future equipment for defence.

    The next phase will include vehicle mounted options, as well as develop a joint soldier system with UK allies. Further development and experimentation will continue over the next five years and will evolve as and when new technologies become available.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Chancellor vows ‘big bang on growth’ to boost investment and savings [July 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Chancellor vows ‘big bang on growth’ to boost investment and savings [July 2024]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 20 July 2024.

    • Chancellor launches landmark review to boost investment, increase pension pots and tackle waste in the pensions system.
    • New Pensions Bill confirmed in King’s Speech could boost pension pots by over £11,000, with further consolidation and broader investment strategies to potentially deliver higher returns for pensions.
    • An investment shift in defined contribution schemes could deliver £8 billion of new productive investment into the UK economy.
    • Action will be taken to unleash the full investment might of the £360 billion Local Government Pension Scheme to make it an engine for UK growth.

    The Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced a landmark pensions review as part of the new Government’s mission to ‘boost growth and make every part of Britain better off’.

    Under plans unveiled by the new Chancellor, billions of pounds of investment could be unlocked in the UK economy from defined contribution schemes alone and pension pots for savers in defined contribution schemes could be boosted by over £11,000.

    The Review will also, working closely with the Minister of State at MHCLG Jim McMahon, look at how to unlock the investment potential of the £360 billion Local Government Pensions Scheme, which manages the savings of those working to deliver our vital local services, as well as how to tackle the £2 billion that is being spent on fees.

    The announcement comes ahead of the first Growth Mission Board on Tuesday. This will be chaired by the Chancellor and drive the Government’s work to achieve the highest sustained growth in the G7. New measures have already been announced to fix the planning system, the creation of a new National Wealth Fund and the overhaul of the listings regime to boost UK stock exchanges.

    The work announced today – focusing on investment – is the first phase in reviewing the pensions landscape and will be led by the first ever joint Treasury and Department for Work and Pensions Minister, Emma Reynolds (Minister for Pensions). The next phase of the review starting later this year will consider further steps to improve pension outcomes and increase investment in UK markets, including assessing retirement adequacy.

    The Chancellor and the Pensions Minister will chair a roundtable with the pensions industry on Monday to start intensive industry engagement for the Review.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    Despite a very challenging inheritance, this new Government is getting on with the job of delivering our mandate to get the economy growing so we can make every part of our country better off.

    The review we are announcing is the latest in a big bang of reforms to unlock growth, boost investment and deliver savings for pensioners. There is no time to waste. That is why I am determined to fix the foundations of our economy so we can rebuild Britain and improve people’s lives.

    Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said:

    After putting in years of hard graft serving their communities, the very least our frontline workers deserve – millions of whom are low paid, millions of whom are women – is dignity and security in retirement.

    That’s why we want to make sure their hard-earned money works harder for them so we ensure they receive the pensions they have earned, whilst unlocking growth across our economy.

    Pensions Minister Emma Reynolds said:

    As the first ever joint Treasury and DWP Minister I am uniquely placed to tackle the twin challenges of productive investment and retirement outcomes.

    Over the next few months the review will focus on identifying any further actions to drive investment that could be taken forward in the Pension Schemes Bill before then exploring long-term challenges to ensure our pensions system is fit for the future.

    There is so much untapped potential in our pensions markets, with an industry worth around £2 trillion. The measures we have already set out in our Pension Schemes Bill will help drive higher investment and a better deal for our future pensioners.

    Legal & General Group Chief Executive António Simões said:

    As the UK’s largest manager of money for pension clients, we welcome the ambition set out by the government today. Driving pensions capital into areas such as science, technology and infrastructure can help support better returns for millions of retirement savers, as well as stimulate much needed long-term growth for the economy. Having recently launched our own fund offering Defined Contribution savers access to high growth private market sectors, we look forward to continuing to work closely with government on the next stages of reform to help unlock further funding routes to power UK businesses, communities and society. We also strongly welcome the Government’s intention to consider the adequacy of overall pension provision in the next stage of the review.

    BVCA Chief Executive Michael Moore said:

    We are very encouraged that the Government has brought forward their Pensions Review so quickly. The Chancellor has a real opportunity to deliver economic growth by facilitating increased investment in UK businesses to the benefit of returns to pension savers as well as the wider economy.

    Legislative and policy changes, including further consolidation of pension schemes to increase pension schemes’ ability to deploy capital into UK private capital funds are vital, as is greater industry partnership.

    The BVCA’s Investment Compact has already brought together over 100 growth equity and venture capital firms committed to working with pensions schemes to consider effective structures that attract investment.

    If the Government is ambitious and considers a wide range of options in this review we are optimistic that this will deliver the clear roadmap we have called for, building on the work of the BVCA’s Pensions and Private Capital Expert Panel.

    Aviva Director of Workplace Savings and Retirement Emma Douglas said:

    We welcome the government’s determination to undertake a pensions review as an early priority. We fully support government’s ambition to get pension funds invested in a way that both supports UK growth and improves outcomes for savers. We see this as an important next step and look forward to working with government and industry on the Review.

    Phoenix Group CEO Andy Briggs said:

    The announcement of a pensions review by the government is much needed and is welcome news. Phoenix Group has committed to allocate 5% of assets in our default funds to unlisted equities by 2030 which will allow UK savers to invest in a more diversified portfolio. Our key priority is to deliver good outcomes for our customers and we are confident that Phoenix Group could invest up to £40 billion to support the economic growth agenda whilst keeping policyholder protection at its core.

    With only one in seven people in the UK saving enough for a decent standard of living in retirement, we are happy to see that this review will expand to look at pension adequacy. This is vitally important for people across the UK and we hope this will include a commitment to increasing auto-enrolment contributions.

    Defined contribution schemes will be managing around £800 billion in assets by the end of the decade and the Review will explore ways to increase their investment into productive assets. Even a 1 percentage point shift of assets into productive investments could mean £8 billion of new productive investment to grow the economy and build vital infrastructure by the end of the decade.

    This would also help savers using these schemes build up better retirement pots as productive assets are more likely to provide higher returns. Immediate action has already been taken to boost retirement savings through the Pensions Bill, which introduces a Value for Money Framework to promote better governance and achieve higher returns – boosting the pension pot of an average earner who saves over their lifetime in a defined contribution scheme by over £11,000.

    The first stage of the review will examine actions to support greater productive investment and better retirement outcomes, including through further consolidation and encouraging at-scale schemes to increase returns through broader investment strategies.

    The Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) in England and Wales is the seventh largest pension fund in the world, managing £360 billion worth of assets. Its value comes from the hard work and dedication of 6.6 million people in our public sector, mostly low-paid women, working to deliver our vital local services. Pooling this money would enable the funds to invest in a wider range of UK assets and the government will consider legislating to mandate pooling if insufficient progress is made by March 2025.

    To cut down on fragmentation and waste in the LGPS, which spends around £2 billion each year on fees and costs and is split across 87 funds – an increase in fees of 70% since 2017, the Review will also consider the benefits of further consolidation.

    The first stage of the review will report in the next few months and consider further measures to support the Pensions Bill. It will take account of the need to prioritise gilt market stability, liquidity and diversity. It will then broaden out to consider the wider pensions landscape to strengthen security in retirement. In the meantime, immediate action has been taken through new laws announced to Parliament in The King’s Speech.

    Barclays CEO C. S. Venkatakrishnan said:

    We welcome the Government’s timely review of the pensions sector. Pensions reforms are critical to unlocking institutional investment in growth equity, and alongside a streamlining of listing requirements, will give a significant boost to UK capital markets and growth. Building institutional demand is also an important signal in encouraging private share ownership.

    Association of British Insurers Director General Hannah Gurga said:

    This review is an important opportunity to provide much needed long-term strategy for the significant role the UK pensions sector plays in investment and economic growth. We welcome the holistic approach with the interests of savers going hand in hand with further boosting investment in the UK. Good outcomes for savers and providing stability must ultimately be at the heart of the reforms and we look forward to working with the government to achieve this.

    M&G plc CEO Andrea Rossi said:

    A Pensions Review is long overdue and to be welcomed. M&G has a rich heritage of investing in the UK and there are significant opportunities ahead to give the real economy a boost over the next decade and beyond. We know from experience, through our PruFund offer, that a large pooled fund gives savers access to a wider range of productive assets that aims to maximise benefits over the long-term. Consolidation, combined with the role of advice, has huge potential to align the interests of savers with the UK’s growth ambition. We look forward to supporting the Government on this landmark review.

    Border to Coast CEO Rachel Elwell said:

    Our focus is on delivering a strong and sustainable LGPS to enable it to pay the pensions of the 6.6 million local government workers in an affordable and sustainable manner.  Through the commitment and support of our Partner Funds, Border to Coast has developed innovative and cost-effective investments, while cutting Private Market fees by almost 30%.   We welcome the opportunity to work with the Government on a co-ordinated review to consider how the LGPS can continue to deliver for hard-working members, generate even greater value to local taxpayers, and deliver productive investment in the UK.

    Nest CEO Ian Cornelius said:

    Nest members represent a third of the UK workforce. Why wouldn’t we want to help invest in their jobs, their communities, and the infrastructure they use? Nest already invests more than £8.5bn into the UK.  As one of the world’s biggest economies, there are further great investment opportunities available to pension schemes like Nest and we welcome the opportunities being announced to explore increasing investment in the UK.

    Pension Protection Fund CEO Michelle Ostermann said:

    Pension consolidation, and a fresh approach, can unlock billions in new UK growth-supporting investments and support the UK gilt market whilst securing the retirement incomes of many more pension members.  We welcome the launch of the government’s review, marking the start of an important process, and look forward to playing our part.

    Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association Director of Policy and Advocacy Nigel Peaple said:

    It is positive the Government has acted quickly to initiate its promised review of our pensions savings system. Pension schemes already invest one trillion pounds in the UK economy, with this amount expected to grow as our defined contribution system matures. With the right regulatory framework and Government action to ensure a healthy pipeline of investible opportunities, we look forward to working with Ministers to create a pension system that works for the country and for savers.

    Pensions & Private Capital Expert Panel Chair and co-founder of IQ Capital Kerry Baldwin said:

    An early and ambitious review of the pensions landscape is an extremely important step in prioritising returns for UK savers and driving economic growth. The Chancellor’s Pensions Review will add further impetus to the work of the Investment Compact for Venture Capital and Growth Equity, which has brought together the private capital and pensions industries to support pension savers and to encourage investment from pension funds into unlisted equities.

    There has been significant progress through this collaboration.  We are already developing a greater understanding of the ways we can work together to deliver new options for UK pension savers at the same time as supporting high growth, innovative UK companies with new sources of capital. The Review offers us the opportunity to develop this shared agenda further and deliver better outcomes for all the stakeholders.

    TheCityUK CEO Miles Celic said:

    Creating the right investment environment is critical both for improving people’s retirement incomes and for boosting growth across the UK. The government’s new Pensions Review will be an important mechanism to help deliver this. We look forward to working closely with government and regulators to ensure that an effective long-term strategy that supports financial resilience is developed.

    Royal London Group Chief Executive Barry O’Dwyer said:

    Pensions already play an important role in supporting UK economic growth, and the review announced by the Chancellor is a welcome opportunity to consider reforms that could strengthen this further. We are particularly pleased the review will focus on delivering better retirement outcomes for people, as this must always be the main priority of the pensions system. We are also encouraged that the next phase of the review will examine retirement adequacy, as creating a long-term plan for increasing contributions will have a major impact on improving retirement outcomes and helping to finance growth.

    Citi UK CEO Tiina Lee said:

    We welcome the Government announcing a pensions review to boost investment in the UK economy.

    The UK is home to the second-largest pool of long-term capital in the world. Based on Citi’s experience with global investors, increasing pension fund investment will reinvigorate funding in British companies and infrastructure projects and bring real benefits to our economy and society.