Tag: Press Release

PRESS RELEASE : Government confirms scope of Essex mental health inquiry [April 2024]
The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 10 April 2024.

The Department of Health and Social Care has today published the terms of reference for the statutory inquiry following the deaths of mental health inpatients in Essex.

The inquiry – which is chaired by Baroness Lampard CBE – was set up to understand the events that led to the tragic deaths of mental health inpatients under the care of NHS trusts in Essex between 2000 and 2023.

The terms of reference will enable the inquiry to continue the work of the former Essex Mental Health Independent Inquiry and will play an important role in identifying learnings from those events for the future. The chair will be responsible for the progress of the inquiry and will set out a series of recommendations to improve the provision of mental health inpatient care.

Health and Social Care Secretary, Victoria Atkins, said:

Patients should feel confident, safe and supported – especially when receiving help for their mental health, which can be an incredibly vulnerable experience.

This was not the case for mental health inpatients in Essex between 2000 and 2023, where so many patients ended up tragically and needlessly passing away – leaving their bereaved families with questions that need answering.

We take this need seriously and through the Lampard Inquiry, we will ensure lessons are learned and patient safety is improved. We have today published the terms of reference, to allow the inquiry to continue, and for families to get the answers they’re looking for.

The terms of reference are set by the Health and Social Care Secretary after consultation with the chair, who has engaged with the families and other stakeholders.

When investigating the inpatient deaths, the inquiry will cover:
- the serious failings related to the delivery of safe and therapeutic inpatient treatment and care
- the actions, practices and behaviours of staff providing mental health inpatient care
- the culture and governance of and at the trusts and how that affected care and treatment
- the quality of investigations and responses by and on behalf of the trusts
- the interaction between the trusts and other public bodies including commissioners, coroners, professional regulators and the Care Quality Commission
The government confirmed on 28 June 2023 that the inquiry would be placed on a statutory footing and it was formally converted to a statutory inquiry on 27 October 2023. This gives the inquiry legal powers to compel evidence from relevant individuals and organisations. The chair undertook a public consultation on the proposed terms of reference for the inquiry in November 2023 and wrote to the Secretary of State with her recommendations in December 2023.

Baroness Lampard is a former barrister with experience in leading high-profile government reviews, including the NHS investigations into Jimmy Savile and investigations into the Borders, Immigration and Citizenship System. She took over as chair of the inquiry from Dr Geraldine Strathdee, who stepped down in 2023 for personal reasons.

The chair will provide a final report as soon as practically possible.

For more detail, visit the Lampard Inquiry website.
April 12, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : UK and Ukraine sign new defence pact [April 2024]
The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 10 April 2024.

The UK and Ukraine sign a new defence agreement to encourage cooperation on defence and industrial issues.
- UK and Ukraine sign new arrangement on defence and industrial cooperation.
- Signing came during UK’s largest ever trade mission to Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion, with 29 UK defence businesses in Kyiv to meet Ukrainian businesses.
- Trade Minister Greg Hands also in Kyiv to sign the arrangement, co-chair Infrastructure Taskforce and attend trade mission.
The UK and Ukraine have signed a new defence agreement to encourage cooperation on defence and industrial issues.

The signing, which took place in Kyiv, came during UK’s largest ever trade mission to Ukraine, with a delegation of 29 UK businesses travelling to the country to speak about their expertise and find opportunities for cooperation.

The arrangement is the latest sign of the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s defence efforts and long-term recovery and will help make Ukraine’s military operations more efficient. It’s designed to enable both countries to work together to tackle security challenges, enhance defence industries, and deliver high-profile joint projects over the coming months.

Increased co-operation could see dozens of projects between some of the UK’s biggest defence companies, Ukraine’s Armed Forces and Ukrainian companies – from establishing strategic military repair facilities to rebuilding civilian infrastructure and implementing technology to defend against cyber-attacks.

During the trade mission to Kyiv, UK defence company BAE Systems agreed a contract with the UK Ministry of Defence to maintain and repair gifted L119 Light Guns in Ukraine. This means L119s which were donated by the UK to Ukraine can be serviced in country and returned to the frontline quicker and provides vital support for Ukraine’s defence infrastructure.

UK Minister for Trade Policy Greg Hands, who accompanied the business delegation and signed the arrangement, said: > The UK has led the world in support of Ukraine following Russia’s full-scale invasion.   > > Now is the time to double down on our support so Ukraine not only wins the war but emerges from it as a strong and resilient country. Defence is a critical element of that which is why we’re facilitating further defence trade between our nations with this Agreement. > > Our trade missions, alongside this signing, are testament to the UK’s integral role in boosting Ukraine’s war-time economy and facilitating their long-term recovery.

UK Minister for Defence Procurement, James Cartlidge said: > This is the latest demonstration of the UK’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine, as they continue to fight back against Putin’s illegal invasion.   > > This is now a war of industrial production and so it is key that we unleash the capability, capacity, ingenuity and innovation of our respective industrial bases.   > “The Framework Arrangement will augment this joint activity, further supporting the brave men and women of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.”

Alexander Kamyshin, Minister of Strategic Industries of Ukraine, said: > It was the UK that was the first country to sign the Security Cooperation Agreement with Ukraine, and it was British defence companies that were the first to open their offices here after the start of the great war.   > > Our partnership is developing, and today we are one step closer to British manufacturers being the first to start producing their weapons in Ukraine.

Gabby Costigan, BAE Systems’ Group Managing Director, Business Development said: > We’re extremely proud to work with the UK Government in supporting Ukraine’s long term defence requirements.   > > Our experience providing support in challenging environments as well as our leading defensive cyber capabilities mean we’ve played a leading role in identifying solutions that will help Ukraine secure victory and we look forward to strengthening our relationship further.

The UK has now provided almost £12 billion in military, humanitarian and economic support to Ukraine.

This new Framework Arrangement follows the historic UK-Ukraine Agreement on Security Cooperation, which was signed by the Prime Minister and President Zelenskyy in January 2024, and marked the start of an unshakeable hundred-year partnership between the UK and Ukraine.

The UK’s private sector plays an important role in Ukraine’s recovery. As part of the mission, the UK-Ukraine Infrastructure Taskforce, which provides expertise on the rebuild of Ukraine’s infrastructure, met with Trade Minister Greg Hands and Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov agreeing further support for Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts.

The National Digital Twin Programme also showcased UK creativity and expertise and extended an offer of capability building workshops to facilitate smart cooperation in critical infrastructure projects covering the entirety of Ukraine.

Further to this, joint work between UK Export Finance (UKEF) and the Government of Ukraine has led to the opening of the first of six bridges as part of our ongoing support through the Infrastructure Taskforce to rebuild critical infrastructure in Ukraine.

Background:
- HMG has been supporting Ukraine in various ways since the war began. We were the first European country to provide lethal aid to Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. Since the start of the conflict, the UK has sent almost 400 different types of capabilities to Ukraine.
- The UK has now provided almost £12 billion in military, humanitarian and economic support to Ukraine and has often been the first-mover on vital lethal aid, from Storm Shadow cruise missiles to a squadron of Challenger 2 tanks.
- The UK’s non-military support to Ukraine since the start of the invasion comes to £4.7bn. This includes £4.1bn in fiscal support, and over £660m in bilateral assistance.
- We have introduced the largest and most severe package of sanctions ever imposed on Russia or indeed any major economy. And we have now sanctioned over 1700 individuals and entities since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
- Total trade in goods and services between the UK and Ukraine amounted to £1.5 billion in the four quarters to the end of Q2 2023.
April 12, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Tough new measures to bolster landmark victims’ law [April 2024]
The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 9 April 2024.

Victims of serious crimes committed by those with mental disorders will be able to explain in their own words the impact the offence has had on them.
- Decisive government action to hold criminal agencies to account
- Bolstered role for Victims’ Commissioner to ensure support available to all
- Victims and families able to make impact statements at Mental Health Tribunal
Victims of serious crimes committed by those with mental disorders will be able to explain in their own words the impact the offence has had on them, thanks to tough new amendments to the Victims and Prisoners Bill.

New measures will mean survivors are provided with the opportunity to make a Victim Impact Statement during the Mental Health Tribunal process, which takes places before offenders are released and allows survivors to request release conditions.

The police and other criminal justice agencies will also be placed under greater scrutiny through a new statutory duty, which will mean they have to not only inform victims of their rights under the Victims’ Code – but deliver services in accordance with it.

Compliance with this duty will be overseen by the Victims’ Commissioner, and ministers will be required to consult the commissioner when agencies fail to deliver the required standard of services for victims ahead of being issued “notifications of non-compliance”.

Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, Alex Chalk KC, said:

Navigating the criminal justice system can feel complex and overwhelming so it is right that we hold agencies to account to ensure victims are getting the support they need.

These new duties will improve transparency, accountability and consistency, ensuring all victims receive support wherever they are, whatever the crime.

Justice Minister, Edward Argar, said:

The Victims’ and Prisoners Bill is a pivotal step towards ensuring all victims feel listened to, supported, informed, and are treated with dignity and respect.

These additional measures build on those foundations and will mean victims always know what help they should receive.

The Home Office is also tabling an amendment which will make it mandatory for the police to notify schools and colleges when they believe a child may be a victim of domestic abuse, so that they can provide support at the earliest possible opportunity. This builds on the landmark Domestic Abuse Act, which formally recognises children as victims in their own right when they see, hear or experience the effects of domestic abuse.

Minister for Victims and Safeguarding, Laura Farris said:

Today’s amendments stand as testament to the importance of victims’ voices, transparency and information sharing throughout the criminal justice system.

We have already legislated to ensure children are recognised as victims of domestic abuse in their own right, but we are now going further and ensuring that the police inform schools when abuse occurs, which will improve protection for vulnerable children.

Further amendments to the bill tabled by the government include:
- a requirement to consult the Victims’ Commissioner on all changes to the Victims’ Code, to ensure measures are in the best interests of victims of crime
- a requirement for ministers to review agencies’ compliance with the Code to publish public non-compliance notifications to tackle severe and persistent issues, ensuring no agency can hide if they are not providing victims with the support they deserve
- a duty for ministers to publish an annual report on compliance with the Victims’ Code
- clarification that confidentiality clauses cannot be legally enforced if they prevent victims from reporting a crime and will ensure information related to criminal conduct can be disclosed to support services without fear of legal action
The bill will also cement in primary legislation the four overarching principles which must underpin the Victims’ Code. These are that victims require:
- information to help them understand the criminal justice process
- access services which support them (including, where appropriate, specialist services)
- the opportunity to make their views heard in the criminal justice process; and
- the ability to challenge decisions which have a direct impact on them
Alongside new legislation, the government is also continuing to bolster support services, quadrupling victims’ funding by 2024 to 2025, up from £41 million in 2009 to 2010, and using ringfenced funding to increase the number of Independent Sexual Violence and Domestic Abuse Advisors by 300 to around 1,000 – a 43% increase by 2024 to 2025.

Further information

The Ministry of Justice’s #VictimsCode campaign aims to raise awareness of the Victims’ Code and ensure that victims of crime are aware of the rights that they can expect to receive, and the support available to them, as they move through the criminal justice system. The campaign aims to promote that the Victims’ Code is there for every victim, whatever the crime. The campaign directs victims to understand their rights at victimscode.org.uk.
April 12, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : The United Kingdom remains committed to supporting broad and lasting peace in Colombia – UK statement at the UN Security Council [April 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 9 April 2024.

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the UN Security Council meeting on Colombia.

Thank you, President. I thank SRSG Ruiz Massieu and Ms Sánchez for briefing us today and I welcome Foreign Minister Murillo to our meeting. I would also like to thank the Colombian government for hosting the Security Council in February. The visit was an important opportunity to see firsthand the progress, and challenges, on the ground and to demonstrate the Council’s continued commitment to supporting sustainable peace in Colombia.

President, the 2016 Peace Agreement is a roadmap to achieve peace and security through territorial transformation. We welcome the government’s commitment to full implementation, one of the key messages we heard during our visit. We encourage the government to make full use of the 2016 peace architecture to deliver against the commitments made in the agreement. The “Commission for the Follow-up, Promotion and Verification of the Implementation of the Final Agreement”, is an important mechanism for driving this progress, and we look forward to seeing it continue to meet, with sustained energy and commitment from all sides.

We welcome the government’s commitment to rural reform, including the announcement of $8 million for the Rural Women’s Development Fund.

As set out by Ms Sanchez, violence and criminality – including the killings of former combatants, social leaders, human rights defenders, and members of the LGBTQ community – continue to undermine the implementation of the agreement. We call on the government to take urgent steps to address this, including further support for prevention and protection measures, and redoubling efforts to tackle impunity.

The Special Jurisdiction for Peace has a central role to play, as part of the transitional justice architecture established in the Peace Agreement. And I welcome the presence of Roberto Vidal, the Head of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace.

As the Secretary-General notes in his report, concerns have been raised by former members of the FARC-EP Secretariat about the scope of the Jurisdiction’s work. We encourage the parties to address their differences through constructive, open dialogue.

With respect to current peace dialogues, we welcome the extension of the ceasefire with the ELN and progress on releasing detainees. We now call on the ELN to deliver on its commitments to protect civilian populations, respect international humanitarian law, and move ahead with a broader political process.

We condemn recent attacks by the group referred to as the Estado Mayor Central on both civilian populations and security forces. These attacks call into question its commitment to pursue dialogue instead of violence. We call on the group to demonstrate a genuine will to work for peace.

President, in the words of the SRSG, let 2024 be the year of implementation. The United Kingdom remains committed to supporting broad and lasting peace in Colombia.

I thank you.

April 12, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Rishi Sunak meeting with President Kagame of Rwanda [April 2024]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 9 April 2024.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak welcomed the President of Rwanda Paul Kagame to Downing Street today.

The Prime Minister reflected on the thirty-year anniversary of the genocide against the Tutsi people in Rwanda, noting the importance of this time of remembrance and that it is a reminder of just how far Rwanda has come. President Kagame thanked the Prime Minister for the UK’s continued support.

They discussed regional security and the deteriorating conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The Prime Minister underlined the importance of a political process to resolve the situation.

The leaders also discussed the pioneering UK and Rwanda Migration and Economic Development Partnership which will break the business model of criminal gangs risking lives at sea, and the Prime Minister updated President Kagame on the next stages of the legislation in Parliament.

Both leaders looked forward to flights departing to Rwanda in the spring.

April 12, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Royal Air Force fighter squadron arrives in Romania to co-lead NATO air policing mission [April 2024]

The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 9 April 2024.

Six RAF fighter jets will commence a four-month mission in Romania from today, flying air policing missions alongside the Romanian Air Force.

Royal Air Force fighter jets have started protecting NATO’s eastern flank, close to the Black Sea, following a handover ceremony today in Romania.

Six RAF Typhoon fighter aircraft are taking part in the four-month mission, with jets from IX (Bomber) Squadron, along with more than two hundred RAF personnel from 140 Expeditionary Air Wing (140EAW) deployed from RAF Lossiemouth to Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base in Romania. They will fly alongside the Romanian Air Force as part of NATO’s enhanced Air Policing mission (eAP) until August.

The air policing mission begins this week following a ceremony today involving RAF personnel, their Romanian counterparts, and NATO officials. The personnel involved in the mission will be on standby at a moment’s notice to launch Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) intercepts of Russian aircraft approaching NATO airspace.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said:

Our NATO air policing deployment helps to keep Europe’s skies secure, and I pay tribute to the dedicated personnel delivering this important mission.

Ready to launch at a moment’s notice for the next four months, the Typhoon pilots will respond with professionalism to threats and incidents in support of our collective security.

We’re showing the scale of our commitment to NATO in its 75th year, with deployments like this and thousands of personnel operating and exercising across the alliance to keep the UK and our allies safe.

The countries involved in NATO’s air policing missions rotate on a regular basis, with the RAF having flown to intercept more than 50 Russian aircraft in the first half of last year while leading the Alliance’s enhanced air policing mission from Estonia. This will be the fifth time the RAF have participated in the air policing mission in Romania.

Personnel from 140EAW could be required to launch in their fighter jets to intercept Russian aircraft that do not liaise with NATO-controlled regional air traffic agencies and do not file flight plans, therefore failing to adhere to international norms. This, in turn, creates a flight safety risk that must be investigated and monitored by NATO aircraft to ensure the safety of all air traffic in the region.

Aircraft frequently intercepted by the RAF during previous air policing missions include Russian long-range strategic bombers, surveillance aircraft, and transport aircraft. QRA intercepts are key to maintaining airspace security and protecting international borders, as well as acting as a clear deterrent against threats.

Air Commodore Martin Cunningham, 11 Group Assistant Chief of Staff of Operations, said:

The Royal Air Force is very proud to be back in Romania as part of the UK’s contribution to NATO, working with our Romanian colleagues. Our presence here is another example of the UK’s steadfast commitment to NATO and for the RAF, a further demonstration of our air power projection capability.

As with every operation, there has been an enormous amount of preparation to get us to this point: from the huge road moves, delivery of equipment, training of our expeditionary air wing personnel and of course to the Typhoon squadron from RAF Lossiemouth arriving. I wish to extend my sincere thanks to all involved in the herculean effort to ensure smooth accreditation and wish them a successful deployment.

Enhanced Air Policing deployments are planned in advance and rotate between NATO Allied Air Forces, ensuring collective deterrence and defence protecting and securing the integrity of NATO’s airspace.

NATO’s enhanced Air Policing in the south was introduced in 2014 to reassure Allied populations along the eastern flank after Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine’s Crimean peninsula.

Wing Commander Karl Bird, Commanding Officer of 140 Expeditionary Air Wing, said:

This will be the RAF’s fifth eAP rotation in Romania, having completed the first iteration in 2014. The missions contribute to the development of the reaction and deterrence capacity and is a strong sign of the Alliance’s cohesion. Ensuring NATO is ready to secure the skies 24/7.

The air policing mission is part of the UK’s wider commitment to NATO and the security of its eastern flank, alongside the presence of around a thousand British soldiers in Estonia as part of NATO’s enhanced Forward Presence.

April 12, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Half a million more benefit claimants set to benefit from back to work support as Universal Credit expands [April 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 9 April 2024.

Half a million people claiming old benefits will be invited to claim Universal Credit, unlocking all the work support it offers.
- Expansion of move to Universal Credit will help 500,000 more people unlock the employment support on offer.
- Letters will be sent to people on certain benefits notifying them of the action they need to take.
- People on Universal Credit are more likely to have a job within six months of making a claim.
More than 130,000 people have already successfully switched from tax credits to the modern digital Universal Credit system which allows claimants to access their benefits more easily and amend their claim should their circumstances change.

The expansion this year will continue for people claiming:
- Income Support and Tax Credits with Housing Benefit from April
- Housing Benefit only from June
- ESA (Income Based) with Child Tax Credit from July
- Tax Credits (Pension Aged including mixed aged couples) from August
- JSA (Income Based) from September
Universal Credit helps people move closer to work and greater financial security through a range of support – including training placements and upskilling – as well as tailored support from a dedicated Work Coach.

Recent findings have shown Universal Credit claimants are more likely to be in work within six months of making a claim.

The move comes as the DWP’s £2.5 billion Back to Work Plan is set to help over a million people, including those with disabilities and long-term health conditions to break down barriers to work.

Minister for Employment, Jo Churchill MP said:

Universal Credit is a proven benefits system fit for the modern age.

With even more people moving to Universal Credit, we can continue to provide the best level of support for people to secure financial independence through work.

I would encourage all those who receive their Migration Notices to take action to ensure they continue to receive the benefits they are entitled to.

By moving to Universal Credit, benefit claimants, including those with limited work requirements, will be able to access to a range of employment support.

We know one in five people currently on the highest tier of incapacity benefits with no work preparation requirement, would like to work in the future with the right support. We’re helping them do this not just though Universal Credit, but with specialist employment support, record levels of mental health provision and the Chance to Work Guarantee, meaning millions can try work free from the fear that they could lose their benefits.

Recent data shows working age adults living in workless households are around seven times more likely to be in absolute poverty than those in households where all adults work, while children living in workless households are six times more likely than those where all adults work.

Benefit claimants will not lose out financially when moving to Universal Credit. Where an individual’s entitlement to Universal Credit is lower than their legacy benefit entitlement, they will be entitled to a top-up payment known as Transitional Protection. This ensures that their Universal Credit is the same as their legacy benefit entitlement.

People will soon start to receive letters – known as Migration Notices – asking them to move to Universal Credit. Recipients who don’t act within three months risk losing their current benefit entitlements.

Additional support is available through a dedicated helpline for claimants who receive a Migration Notices, via face-to-face support in local Jobcentres and independent support through Help to Claim, delivered by Citizens Advice while extensions can be arranged for those who need more time to make a claim.

Paul from Ashington is one of thousands of claimants who has already successfully made the move and benefited from the support provided to help make the move.

Paul said:

I was so worried about having to move to Universal Credit, because I thought I would be pushed into a job search I didn’t feel comfortable or ready for. The move has been made easy because of the support and help I received from my Work Coach, Pauline.

Moving to Universal Credit has been so much easier than I expected. I’ve been able to keep on top of my payments and I’m now closer than ever to finding work!

The expansion of Universal Credit comes as part of the Government’s plan to make sure work always pays, with a huge boost to the National Living Wage and tax cuts worth an average of £900 for 29 million hardworking people.

Additional Information
- Migration Notices will be issued to all legacy benefit types, apart from ESA claimants, over the next six months.
- Evidence to date shows that most Tax Credit claimants have been able to claim Universal Credit without the need for additional support.
- Since the resumption of Managed Migration some claimants have naturally moved to Universal Credit following a change in their circumstances and claimants have always been able to make a claim for Universal Credit if they wish to do so.
- The DWP has recently launched a Move to UC advertising campaign to notify legacy benefit claimants of the need to make a claim to Universal Credit which includes print, radio, and online advertising.
- Claimants can claim Universal Credit directly online or via the dedicated Universal Credit Migration Notice helpline for free on 0800 169 0328 or by visiting your local jobcentre. Claimants that require more time to claim can also call DWP for free on 0800 169 0328.
- For claimants requiring additional support to complete their application support is available including through Citizens Advice Help to Claim for those living in England or Wales and Citizens Advice Scotland Help to Claim for those living in Scotland, which delivers step by step support to complete a UC claim.
April 12, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Government reaffirms commitment to backing pensioners with £900 rise to state pension [April 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 9 April 2024.

The State Pension is increasing by 8.5 percent today as part of the Government’s commitment to support pensioners in retirement.
- Millions of pensioners set to benefit from 8.5 percent increase to the State Pension today
- In one of the largest ever cash increase will mean pensioners will receive an extra £900 a year on the full rate of the new State Pension
- Universal Credit and other working-age benefits to see a 6.7 percent rise, while Government slashes National Insurance to help make work pay
- Comes as the Government has provided support worth an average £3,800 support households between 2022-25
The State Pension is increasing by 8.5 percent today as part of the Government’s commitment to support pensioners in retirement.

It comes on the heels of the highest ever cash increase to State Pension in history of 10.1 percent last year, plus a package of support for pensioners this winter worth nearly £5 billion.

Underlining the Government’s commitment to backing Britain’s pensioners, this means pensioners receiving the full new State Pension will get an extra £900 a year from today. The full yearly basic State Pension will also be £3,700 more than in 2010, while the full rate of the new State Pension will be over £11,500 a year.

This commitment centres around offering dignity and security to those who have worked hard all their lives and deserve support at a stage when they may be unable to grow their income through work. The Triple Locked State Pension remains a cornerstone of this commitment, as it is only right and fair that pensioners incomes are protected.

Pension Credit, a passport benefit to provide additional support for low-income pensioners, will also see a significant rise, with the average award worth over £3,900. The DWP is also increasing Local Housing Allowance rates, putting £800 back in the pockets of over 1.5 million recipients of Universal Credit or Housing Benefit.

This unprecedented support has all been made possible because we are sticking to the plan and our economy has turned a corner– enabling people the opportunity to build a financially secure life for themselves and their family.

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Mel Stride MP said:

Thanks to the Triple Lock and our efforts to drive down inflation, we are putting money back in the pockets of pensioners. This is only possible because we have stuck to our plan and our economy has turned a corner.

This will make a meaningful difference to all those who rely on the State Pension and ensure we continue to provide a safety net for those who need it most while making work pay wherever possible.

Minister for Pensions, Paul Maynard MP said:

It’s only right that after a lifetime of work that we protect our pensioners’ incomes.

Our sustained commitment to the Triple Lock demonstrates our determination to continue to combat pensioner poverty, and to ensure that the State Pension will continue to provide the foundation of income in retirement so many need.

Minister for Employment, Jo Churchill MP, said:

We are continuing to protect those in need through boosting benefits by 6.7% and providing the largest cost of living support package in Europe.

The welfare system will always be there for people who need it, but work is the best way to secure long-term financial security and our £2.5 billion Back to Work Plan will help even more people secure employment.

At the same time we are making work pay through generous tax cuts and the rise in the National Living Wage.

To ensure the most vulnerable are also supported, from today those on Universal Credit will see a 6.7 percent increase to ensure a genuine safety net whilst the Government supports their move towards financial independence through work. This 6.7 percent rise extends to other DWP benefits, such as Personal Independence Payment, Disability Living Allowance and Employment and Support Allowance, among others.

In cash terms this means an additional £470 for the 5.5 million households on Universal Credit with over 19 million families across Britain benefiting from uprating, including working parents who can now receive up to £20,800 a year in childcare support.

The Government’s drive to support the most vulnerable has helped reduce absolute poverty by 1.1 million individuals compared to 2010 with over 200,000 pensioners being lifted out of poverty since 2010 after housing costs are taken into account. With inflation more than halved and forecast to reduce further, it is right that we help people back into work and grow the economy, while continuing to provide support to those who need it most.

That is why the Government has provided support worth an average £3,800 for vulnerable households between 2022-25 and is injecting £2.5 billion as part of the Back to Work Plan to help people with disabilities, health conditions, or who are long-term unemployed find and stay in work.

Alongside this, the Government is making work pay for workers and the economy: rewarding work by slashing National Insurance contributions for employed and the self-employed by a third since the autumn and putting £900 back in the pockets of the average hard-working employee. Taken together, this means the equivalent of 200,000 more people in work – filling one in five vacancies and adding 0.4% to GDP and 0.4% to GDP per head, according to the OBR.
April 12, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Government upgrade dials up 4G coverage in Lake District [April 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 9 April 2024.

Rural towns and villages in the Lake District are the first to benefit as government delivers on its plan to improve 4G mobile coverage in hard-to-reach areas.
- People living, working and travelling near the market town of Keswick, Cumbria are first in England to benefit from government-funded mobile network upgrades
- First of dozens of UK Government-funded 4G mast upgrades planned as part of the Shared Rural Network – a joint £1 billion programme with telecoms firms to improve rural mobile coverage
- It means local residents and businesses, as well as visitors to the area, can now access fast and reliable mobile coverage – regardless of which operators they’re signed up with
Rural towns and villages in the Lake District have become the first in England to benefit as government delivers on its plan to improve 4G mobile coverage in hard-to-reach areas.

The first of 83 government-funded mast upgrades planned in England were switched on today (9 April) near the market town of Keswick in Cumbria.

It means dozens of local businesses and community organisations in areas including Naddle, Thirlmere and St Johns-in-the-Vale, can now take advantage of better connectivity thanks to the Shared Rural Network – a £1 billion programme brokered by the government and joint-funded with mobile network operators aimed at increasing mobile coverage in rural areas.

The boost has been carried out by upgrading existing mobile masts which previously only connected EE customers and anyone making 999 calls, meaning communities can benefit from improved connectivity without the visual impact involved when building new masts.

It will enable residents, tourists and businesses to access reliable 4G coverage from all four mobile network operators – EE, VMO2, Three and Vodafone – closing the connectivity blackhole and boosting economic growth in the region.

Digital Infrastructure Minister Julia Lopez said:

We’re dialling up fast and reliable mobile coverage across the UK through the Shared Rural Network. Our latest upgrade in the Lake District is one of many we’re working hard to deliver as part of our mission to clamp down on the headache of mobile ‘not spots’.

The coverage boost will provide endless benefits for communities and visitors, ensuring people stay connected on the go, enabling people to work more efficiently and attracting vital investment to the rural economy.

Ben Roome, CEO of Digital Mobile Spectrum Limited (DMSL) said:

In England, since the Shared Rural Network was announced in March 2020, 4G coverage from all four operators has expanded across an additional 5,400 square kilometres – an area larger than Norfolk. As more shared mobile sites go live, people visiting and living in rural areas will see better 4G service thanks to this programme.

Today marks an important milestone in the rollout of the Shared Rural Network aiming to bring reliable 4G signal to 95 per cent of UK landmass by the end of 2025.

Since the Shared Rural Network programme began in 2020, an additional 13,000 sq km – roughly the size of Northern Ireland or two million football pitches – have been able to receive coverage from all four operators, EE, Three VMO2 and Vodafone.

The government and the UK’s four mobile network operators aim to provide coverage to an additional 280,000 premises and 16,000km of the UK’s roads.

The programme also aims to improve geographic coverage to 79% of Areas of Natural Beauty, up from 51% before the programme launched, and 74% of National Parks up from 41%, benefitting millions of visitors every year.

The UK government is investing around £500 million into the Shared Rural Network, including £184 million to upgrade Extended Area Service (EAS) masts to provide coverage from all four mobile operators. Currently, commercial coverage from EAS masts is only available from EE – the operator responsible for the Emergency Services Network. The remaining government funding will go towards eliminating total ‘not spots’, places where there is no coverage from any mobile operator.

The telecoms sector is also investing over £500 million to target partial ‘not spots’, where customers can only access 4G if they’re signed up with a mobile network operator that is active in the area. This part of the programme has already delivered significant coverage improvements across the UK, including in the areas of Shetland, Yorkshire, Fermanagh and Devon.
April 12, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Crackdown on water firms sees millions invested into local action [April 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 9 April 2024.

Up to £11 million in water company fines and penalties will be reinvested back into a new Water Restoration Fund (WRF), Environment Secretary Steve Barclay announced today (Tuesday 9th April).

All water company environmental fines and penalties since April 2022 have been ringfenced to directly improve the water environment.

The Water Restoration Fund will offer grant funding on a competitive basis to support local groups, farmers and landowners and community-led schemes, bolstering their capacity and capabilities for on-the-ground projects to improve the water environment. This could include activities that improve biodiversity and community access to blue and green spaces in areas where water companies have been issued with fines or penalties.

This delivers on the government’s long-term plan, set out in its Plan for Water, to clean up our waters and make polluters pay for the damage they cause to the environment.

The launch of the Fund follows significant action taken in recent months to hold water companies to account, including a ban on bonuses for water company executives where firms have committed serious criminal breaches, subject to Ofwat consultation, and plans to quadruple the Environment Agency’s regulatory capacity, enabling them to carry out 4,000 water company inspections by the end of this financial year.

Funding for the Water Restoration Fund comes exclusively from water company fines and penalties. These penalties and fines are additional to any reparations that water companies make when they have breached environmental regulations.

Environment Secretary Steve Barclay said:

I know how important our precious waterways are to local communities and to nature, which is why we’re taking tough action to ensure our regulators are well-equipped to hold those who pollute them to account.

Through the Water Restoration Fund, I will be making sure that money from fines and penalties – taken from water company profits only – is channelled directly back into our waterways.

Community-led projects are vital to improving and maintaining water quality across the country, and this fund will help build on that success.”

Natural England’s chief executive Marian Spain said:

Natural England welcomes the creation of Defra’s Water Restoration Fund, using the money from water company fines and penalties to improve water and wetlands for nature and people, and looks forward to supporting Defra to make good use of the funds now available.

The fund is great opportunity for landowners, communities and nature bodies to help make a real difference to the condition of our Sites of Special Scientific Interest and to restore natural processes in catchments to provide the nature and health benefits that society needs from water.

The fund will be open to a range of organisations in England, including farmers and landowners, eNGOs, Local Authorities, catchment partnerships, National Parks and National Landscapes.

The £11 million in fines and penalties collected will be allocated for water improvements in the water company areas on which they were accrued in:
- Anglian Water: £3,085,000
- South West Water: £2,150,000
- Thames Water: £3,334,000
- United Utilities: £800,000
- Yorkshire Water: £1,600,750
Applicants will have an eight-week window to apply from today, with grant awards expected to be issued from late July. For further details, please refer to our application guidance.

Further improvements recently delivered to the water environment include:
- Requiring companies to monitor 100% of storm overflows in England – providing a complete picture of when and where sewage spills happen.
- Removing the cap on civil penalties for water companies and broadening their scope so swifter action can be taken against those who pollute our waterways.
- Requiring the largest infrastructure programme in water company history – £60 billion over 25 years – to revamp ageing assets and reduce the number of sewage spills by hundreds of thousands every year.
- Increasing protections for coastal and estuarine waters by expanding the Storm Overflow Discharge Reduction Plan, prioritising bathing waters, sites of special scientific interest and shellfish waters.
- Providing £10 million in support for farmers to store more water on their land through the Water Management Grants to support food production and improve water security.
- Speeding up the process of building key water supply infrastructure, including more reservoirs and water transfer schemes.
April 11, 2024