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Tag: Press Release

  • PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 55 – UK Statement for Item 2 General Debate [March 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 55 – UK Statement for Item 2 General Debate [March 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 4 March 2024.

    HRC55: UK Statement for Item 2 General Debate. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Rita French.

    High Commissioner,

    We continue to support implementation of the peace agreement, as South Sudan works towards credible and peaceful elections. But accountability remains severely limited and we urge this Council to extend the mandate of the Commission on Human Rights.

    In Sudan, warring parties must be held accountable for the egregious human rights violations and abuses. We call for an immediate and sustainable ceasefire and a return to a civilian-led democratic transition.

    We urge President Ortega to fully respect the human rights of all Nicaraguans and call for the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners.

    Civil society in Libya continues to face restrictions and regular reprisals by armed groups and security actors. The UK urges all sides to engage in the UN-facilitated Libyan-led political process in good faith.

    Civilians are paying the price for the conflict in Amhara and Oromia in Ethiopia. Civilians must be protected and we offer our assistance to find peaceful resolution and support for reconciliation and transitional justice.

    High Commissioner, it has been 18 months since your office published its Xinjiang Assessment. We have still seen no progress or meaningful engagement by China on its recommendations. We welcome an update from your office on this.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Nearly £300m of drugs seized by Royal Navy in the Caribbean Sea [March 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Nearly £300m of drugs seized by Royal Navy in the Caribbean Sea [March 2024]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 4 March 2024.

    A Royal Navy warship seized drugs with a street value of £290.66m in two separate blows to drug runners in the Caribbean.

    British sailors, Royal Marines and a US Coast Guard team on HMS Trent intercepted a suspected smuggling speedboat south of the US Virgin Islands.

    The smugglers began offloading their illegal cargo as they fled towards land, but Trent, her fast sea boats and an American patrol aircraft gave chase – eventually recovering over 2,700kg of cocaine and other drugs, with an estimated street value of £220.56m.

    Secretary of State for Defence, Grant Shapps said:

    This operation sends a clear message: The Royal Navy remains resolute in its efforts to disrupt and dismantle the operations of drug traffickers across the world.

    We will continue to ensure that those who seek to profit from illegal drugs face the full force of justice.

    I’d like to congratulate the ship’s company for their invaluable work keeping illegal drugs off our streets.

    This was HMS Trent’s second drugs bust in the space of only three weeks, having seized £70.1m of cocaine in a separate operation in January.

    During a high-speed chase, the smugglers tried to offload their illegal cargo, but Royal Marines coxswains and the USCG boarding team closed in, took control of the vessel, and detained four crew members.

    During a ten-hour search, Trent’s 60-strong crew scoured 24 square miles of ocean for the abandoned cargo, eventually retrieving almost 900kg of cocaine.

    A Royal Marine who took part in the operation and cannot be named for operational reasons said:

    This was a challenging operation and required us to push the boats to their limit.

    Despite their best efforts to evade us, they finally gave up the chase and we were able to get alongside and enable members of the US Coast Guard to seize the vessel.

    Commanding Officer, Commander Tim Langford, said:

    The achievements of this ship and her crew in the last nine months have been spectacular, and it is brilliant to see the hard work and dedication of this amazing team paying off.

    The team is rightly proud of their efforts, and those of our USCG colleagues.

    Trent’s second bust more than tripled her total amount of drugs seized – again in a coordinated operation with the USCG and a US Maritime Patrol Aircraft.

    These successful interceptions not only disrupt criminal networks in the UK but also underscore the Royal Navy’s vital role in maintaining maritime security and upholding international law in the region.

    HMS Trent’s Executive Officer, Lieutenant Commander Mike Rydiard, who was in temporary command for the second drugs bust, said:

    I am immensely proud of my combined team of Trent Ship’s company, UCSG team and 47 Commando Royal Marines who carried out the intercept and pursuit in challenging conditions to get the right result.

  • PRESS RELEASE : £360 million to boost British manufacturing and R&D [March 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : £360 million to boost British manufacturing and R&D [March 2024]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 4 March 2024.

    The Chancellor has today (4 March) announced a significant investment package in the UK’s life sciences and manufacturing sectors.

    • Chancellor to announce significant funding package for R&D and manufacturing projects across the life sciences, automotive and aerospace sectors.
    • £92 million joint government and industry investment to expand facilities to manufacture life-saving medicines and diagnostics products.
    • £200 million joint investment in zero-carbon aircraft technology to develop a more sustainable aviation sector and almost £73 million in automotive technology.
    • Follows the Advanced Manufacturing Plan to give the industry the long-term certainty to grow and invest in the UK, backed by £4.5 billion of targeted support announced at Autumn Statement to boost the British manufacturing sector.

    Ahead of the Spring Budget this week, the Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has today (Monday 4 March) announced a significant investment package in the UK’s life sciences and manufacturing sectors, as part of the government’s plan to grow the economy, boost health resilience and support jobs across the UK.

    The funding will go towards several companies and projects who are making cutting edge technology in sectors key to economic growth and part of wider government support to ensure the UK is the best place to start, grow and invest in manufacturing.

    This includes £7.5 million to support two pharmaceutical companies who are investing a combined £84 million to expand their manufacturing plants in the UK. Almac, a pharmaceutical company in Northern Ireland produces drugs to treat diseases such as cancer, heart disease and depression, while Ortho Clinical diagnostics in Pencoed, Wales, is expanding its facilities producing testing products used to identify a variety of diseases and conditions.

    These new life sciences investments are the latest step in the government’s plan to grow our economy, encourage innovation and support levelling up with nearly 300 supported jobs across the UK.

    The Chancellor is also confirming that companies will soon be able to apply for a share of the £520 million funding for life sciences manufacturing announced at Autumn Statement, with competitions for large scale investments opening for expressions of interest this summer and medium and smaller sized companies in the autumn. The fund is designed to build resilience for future health emergencies such as influenza pandemics and capitalise on the UK’s world-leading research and development.

    On top of this, the government has announced almost £73 million in combined government and industry investment for cutting-edge automotive R&D projects to support the development of electric vehicle technology, delivering highly skilled jobs and cementing the UK’s position as a global hub for EV manufacturing.

    Supported by more than £36 million of government funding awarded through Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC) competitions, this includes four projects which are developing technologies for the next generation of battery electric vehicles, making them more efficient and competitive, led by companies including automotive manufacturers YASA and Empel Systems.

    This funding is also supporting a project led by Integrals Power, developing and scaling up high-performance battery systems ahead of testing their mass-commercialisation, enhancing safety, power density, and cost-efficiency.

    These projects build on the record of the government’s established automotive initiatives. The Autumn Statement provided future certainty, announcing over £2 billion across five years from 2025 to unlock investment in the manufacturing and development of zero emission vehicles, their batteries and supply chain. The government will ensure a seamless transition to the new Auto2030 programme which will deliver support in future, and investors are still able to apply to the current schemes.

    The government has already spent over £2 billion to accelerate the uptake of zero emission vehicles, including reducing the upfront cost of electric vehicles and supporting the roll-out of charging infrastructure. The UK’s first ever Battery Strategy published last year outlines our plan for the UK to attract investment and achieve a globally competitive battery supply chain by 2030, with the battery sector alone expected to create 100,000 highly paid and skilled jobs in the UK.

    The significant funding package for R&D and manufacturing projects announced today is targeted to support sectors where the UK is or could be world-leading and is designed to unlock investment from the private sector by providing certainty to investors – supporting the government’s priority to grow our economy by protecting existing and creating new jobs, so we can deliver the long-term change our country needs to deliver a brighter future.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt said:

    “We’re sticking with our plan by backing the industries of the future with millions of pounds of investment to make the UK a world leader in manufacturing, securing the highly-skilled jobs of the future and delivering the long-term change our country needs to deliver a brighter future for Britain”.

    Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch said:

    “Today’s announcement builds on the success of our Advanced Manufacturing plan announced last year, and will ensure we continue to grow the economy, help create jobs and secure the future of great British manufacturing.

    “Our plan for the British economy is working – which is why firms like Airbus and BMW are continuing to bet on Britain.”

    Science Secretary, Michelle Donelan, said:

    “The UK’s £108 billion life sciences sector is driven by the pioneering contributions of over 300,000 highly-skilled individuals who transform lives through groundbreaking advancements in drug discovery and diagnostics.

    “We fuel this progress by fostering a dynamic environment where cutting-edge technologies like AI and genomics meet world-class research to create the next generation of healthcare solutions, including in our NHS. By investing in advanced manufacturing facilities, we are protecting our communities by ensuring we can rapidly respond to future health emergencies and deliver life-saving innovations when they are needed most.”

    Further measures include:

    • As part of the investments announced today, almost £200 million of joint government and industry funding is also going to aerospace R&D projects, supporting the development of energy efficient and zero-carbon aircraft technology and accelerating the transition to net zero aviation.
    • This includes £40 million which is going towards a project developing zero-carbon aircraft engine technology – led by Cambridge-based Marshall Group – and around £96 million is being invested in Airbus-led projects. Airbus, which manufactures almost all its aircraft wings in the UK bringing in jobs and investment to the UK economy – is developing more efficient wing designs and increasing carbon fibre production rates for wing components, reducing CO2 emissions and fuel burn.
    • Funding for these projects will be delivered through the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) programme. It was also confirmed today that the £975 million in aerospace funding over five years from 2025, announced at Autumn Statement, will be allocated to the ATI programme. The programme has facilitated over £3.6 billion of joint government and industry R&D investment to date – providing industry with continued confidence and security to invest in the UK for the long term – and includes R&D support for small businesses through the ATI SME competition.
    • The Chancellor is also announcing up to £120 million increase to the Green Industries Growth Accelerator (GIGA) to further support expansion of low carbon manufacturing supply chains across the UK, lowering costs and accelerating the transition. The government is also confirming today that the total fund, which has now increased to almost £1.1 billion, will be split between the clean energy sectors, with around £390 million earmarked to expand UK-based supply chains for electricity networks and offshore wind sectors, and around £390 million for carbon capture, utilisation and storage and hydrogen sectors.
    • The remaining £300 million has been previously announced for UK production of the fuel required to power high-tech new nuclear reactors, known as HALEU.
    • The GIGA funding will enable the UK to seize growth opportunities through the transition to net zero, building on our world-leading decarbonisation track record and forms part of the government’s priority to grow the economy focusing on making the right long-term decisions for a brighter future by creating better-paid jobs and opportunity right across the country.

    Energy Security Secretary Claire Coutinho said:

    “We are backing our green industries with extra cash for the Green Industries Growth Accelerator – taking the total to more than £1 billion. We have long been energy pioneers in advanced manufacturing and this will allow us to carry on that great British tradition. While we have attracted £300bn in low carbon investment since 2010, with £24bn since September alone, this will help to unlock even more.”

    • Alongside this, the Chancellor has today set out further details of the two-year £50 million apprenticeship growth sector pilot announced at Autumn Statement.
    • Following engagement with the sector, from April eligible apprenticeship providers of apprenticeship standards including pipe welder, nuclear technician and laboratory technician will now benefit from targeted payments worth £3k for every start of an apprentice.
    • It is intended the funding will be used to support providers in making capital investment that will unlock their ability to grow and deliver the standards in scope of the pilot, such as purchasing course specific equipment, tools, and machinery that will last beyond delivery of a single apprenticeship.
    • This will explore ways to stimulate training and break down barriers to high-quality training in advanced manufacturing and engineering, green industries, and life sciences apprenticeships. Further detail will be set out in upcoming guidance later this month.

    Today’s announcements follow £4.5 billion announced at Autumn Statement to increase investment in strategic manufacturing sectors – auto, aero, life sciences and clean energy – across the UK for five years from 2025.

    Katherine Bennett, CEO of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult said:

    “Today’s funding announcements from the Chancellor for R&D and manufacturing projects are welcome news for our domestic life sciences, automotive and aerospace sectors and will support the growth of cross-sector low carbon supply chains across the UK.

    “From developing technology for lower-carbon aircraft wings, to supporting the expansion of UK-based supply chains in offshore wind, hydrogen and electrification our network of innovation centres is helping drive industrial transformation across the UK”

    Stephen Phipson, Chief Executive of Make UK, said:

    “Industry will welcome this announcement as yet another boost for key sectors that will put advanced manufacturing at the heart of the UK’s economic future. These industries will be key to addressing many of the societal challenges we face in a competitive world and highlight what can be achieved with a constructive dialogue between Government and business. Taken together they are another piece in the jigsaw of a modern industrial strategy to make the UK a world leader in key sectors of the future.”

    APC Chief Executive Officer Ian Constance said:

    “We’re committed to building the electric vehicle supply chain in the UK. By investing in the capability and expertise in this country we will grow businesses and take decisive action towards creating zero tailpipe emission technology. Our latest R&D funding does just that.”

    Today’s announcements come alongside wider progress across government’s commitments set out in the Advanced Manufacturing Plan including:

    • The industry co-chaired Made Smarter Commission met earlier this year to advise on delivery of the Autumn Statement commitment to expand the Made Smarter Adoption programme. The Made Smarter Adoption programme supports manufacturing SMEs to use advanced digital technologies. As part of the 2023 Autumn Statement and Advanced Manufacturing Plan, government committed to expanding the programme from 2025-26.
    • This month the government will hold the first meeting of the Hydrogen Propulsion Manufacturing Taskforce involving leading manufacturers across auto, aero, rail and marine. This taskforce will make recommendations to government and industry to maximise investments in the UK manufacture of hydrogen propulsion systems.
    • In the coming weeks, Minister for Industry Nusrat Ghani and Brian Holliday of Siemens will convene the new Industry Innovation Accelerator with leading digital companies and manufacturing businesses to identify how to speed up and widen the adoption of transformative AI solutions across manufacturing. The work of this group will complement the wider work of the AI Opportunity Forum, announced by the PM late last year.
    • The renewed Battery Strategy Taskforce will meet quarterly to identify knowledge gaps requiring further research and consider potential risks to UK battery supply chains.

    A full breakdown of the auto and aero winning projects is included below:

    Advanced Propulsion Centre Collaborative R&D projects led by:

    • Nissan Technical Centre Europe: Building the UK R&D electric vehicle capability and enhancing the knowledge base in the UK EV battery industry as a whole.
    • JLR: Developing a next generation EDU ‘toolkit’; a modular family of electric machines, inverters and transmissions for future vehicle platforms.
    • YASA: Developing a dual inverter for regenerative braking in BEVs, enabling new vehicle designs with EV specific, optimised electronics and safety systems.
    • EMPEL Systems: Developing a UK-designed and sourced innovative silicon carbide power module for use in high efficiency automotive inverters and DC-DC converters.

    Advanced Propulsion Centre Scale-up Readiness Validation (SuRV2) competition funded by the Automotive Transformation Fund:

    • Integrals Power: The scale up of high-performance, low-cost Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery chemistry, that offers superior performance including high discharge rate, improved capacity retention and rate recovery, specifically in extreme temperatures.

    9 Aerospace Technology Institute Programme projects led by:

    • Marshall Group: Developing and testing a smart, connected liquid hydrogen (LH2) fuel system for the next generation of zero emission aircraft.
    • Airbus and National Composites Centre: Developing technology which increases the production rate of carbon fibre upper covers for aircraft wings.
    • Airbus: Developing ultra-efficient technologies to cut fuel burn and weight, independent of the fuel choice.
    • Airbus: Developing wing design and manufacturing technologies for lighter, more efficient aircraft.
    • Spirit AeroSystems: Developing technologies for the storage and integration of liquid hydrogen on large aircraft.
    • Goodrich: Developing a power-dense electric propulsion motor drive system aimed at hybrid and electric aircraft including helicopters and potentially next generation single aisle planes.
    • TT Electronics: Developing technology to support electrical power conversion and electric machines for future more electric and all electric aircraft operating at higher voltages.
    • Safran Landing Systems: Developing new designs, methodologies, and technologies to accelerate and catalyse benefits for current and next generation landing gears.
    • Phoenix Scientific Industries: Transforming the production of titanium powder via ‘cold-crucible’ gas atomisation to enable high volume production.
  • PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 55 – Core Group Statement on Item 2 General Debate – Sri Lanka [March 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 55 – Core Group Statement on Item 2 General Debate – Sri Lanka [March 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 4 March 2024.

    HRC55 Item 2 General Debate: Sri Lanka. Core Group Statement delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Rita French.

    Thank you, Mr President.

    This statement is on behalf of the Sri Lanka Core Group comprising Canada, Malawi, Montenegro, North Macedonia, the United Kingdom and the United States.

    High Commissioner,

    There have been several important legislative developments regarding human rights, reconciliation and civic space. Unfortunately, some of these developments give cause for concern.

    The Online Safety Act has the potential to severely restrict online communication and could potentially criminalise nearly all forms of expression, creating an environment that has a chilling effect on freedom of expression. We urge the government to enact amendments to align the Act with Sri Lanka’s human rights obligations and commitments.

    We continue to call for the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) to be replaced with legislation that is consistent with Sri Lanka’s international obligations. We acknowledge the recent release of nine Tamil leaders detained last November.  We encourage the release of unjustly held long-term PTA detainees and for Sri Lanka to maintain a moratorium on its use.

    While we note the government’s efforts to establish a Commission on Truth, Unity and Reconciliation, we stress the importance of an inclusive participatory process to build trust in advance of any legislation. Any future commission must be independent, inclusive, meaningful, and transparent, meet the expectations of affected communities, build upon previous transitional justice processes, and provide pathways for accountability.

    As the government brings forward other legislation with potentially serious implications for fundamental freedoms and civic space, we encourage comprehensive consultations with stakeholders, including civil society, and due legislative process.

    We welcome the government’s stated commitments on land releases but note with concern reports of increased tensions around land seizures in the north and, particularly, the east of the country.

    High Commissioner,

    We urge the government to engage with you and your office to address these and other challenges, and we remain ready to support Sri Lanka in addressing HRC resolution 51/1.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : £10 million to support suicide prevention [March 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : £10 million to support suicide prevention [March 2024]

    The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 4 March 2024.

    Those struggling with their mental health will be better supported thanks to a £10 million funding boost for charities working to prevent suicides.

    • £10 million for 79 charities across England to help prevent suicide
    • New funding will benefit helpline services, support in schools and groups in area with highest rates of suicide
    • Delivers on government’s suicide prevention strategy which sets out plans to prevent self-harm and suicide to save lives
    • Organisations benefiting include helplines, groups providing therapy to men at risk of suicide and charities providing targeted support in high-risk areas

    People struggling with their mental health will be better supported thanks to a £10 million funding boost for organisations working to prevent suicides.

    A total of 79 organisations, including a suicide prevention helpline, will receive funding through the government’s Suicide Prevention VCSE Grant Fund. This will expand access to support services covering every region in the country, including the areas with the highest rates of suicide.

    Both national charities and small community-led charities, which provide tailored support for local areas, will receive new funding to support people with their mental health.

    Many charities will deliver services through partnerships and alliances, to help ensure joined-up support for individuals seeking help.

    This represents an important milestone in delivering the suicide prevention strategy, which sets out the government’s actions to prevent self-harm, suicide and save lives.

    Minister for Mental Health Maria Caulfield said:

    Every suicide is a tragedy which leaves a terrible mark on the families and communities affected.

    Non-profit organisations play a hugely important role in supporting people with their mental health and preventing suicide in England.

    This new funding will support people who need it the most and build on the brilliant work happening across the country on suicide prevention.

    The fund was announced in the 2023 Autumn Statement to support charities in either meeting increased demand for suicide prevention services, or to support a range of diverse and innovative activity that can help to prevent suicides in England.

    The organisations set to receive grants include James’ Place Charity and PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide – both have been awarded £625,000.

    James’ Place Charity will use the funding to prevent men dying by suicide in Liverpool, Newcastle and London, and will provide 2 full-time-equivalent therapists in each James’ Place centre, to help save the lives of men in active suicidal crisis.

    PAPYRUS aims to establish 6 new community hubs, largely down the east coast of England, which will go towards engaging and training parents and caregivers, providing them with free resources and free training.

    Professor Sir Louis Appleby, the national advisor to the suicide prevention strategy, said:

    The new funding is in recognition of the role of voluntary organisations large and small in suicide prevention.

    They offer support to people in crisis or on the margins of society because of poverty, disability or prejudice.

    They often work alongside the NHS but in settings where many who need help feel more comfortable.

    The new government strategy says that bringing down the suicide rate is a national priority, and the ability of the voluntary sector to reach people at risk is vital.

    We Hear You CEO, Lucy Kitchener, said:

    Along with every other charity we know, We Hear You is finding fundraising extremely challenging right now.

    Hearing the news that we have been awarded suicide prevention funding is wonderful, therefore.

    Better still, this grant will fund counselling sessions with the people who come to our service feeling the most distraught.

    Public Health England figures show that 1 in 10 suicides are from people with a chronic health condition. We Hear You supports people who are affected by cancer and life-threatening conditions.

    The Samaritans will receive a grant of £530,000, to support its 24/7 helpline services and wider innovative suicide prevention activities.

    This will include:

    • postvention, which is an intervention that takes place after a suicide by supporting the family and friends of the person who has died, in schools and colleges
    • preventing suicides in high-risk locations
    • research to increase understanding of the needs of callers and how to reach people who don’t use the service
    • targeting groups including marginalised communities, such as ethnic minorities, LGBT, and people in the justice system

    Julia Bentley, CEO of Samaritans, said:

    This funding will help Samaritans continue our mission to save lives.

    The voluntary sector plays a crucial part in suicide prevention and, in this challenging environment, financial support for charities has never been more important.

    Today’s announcement is a welcome step towards the resourcing needed to deliver the national suicide prevention strategy.

    The suicide prevention strategy commits to more than 130 measures, from prevention and earlier intervention, through to more targeted and proactive support for people in crisis.

    Background information

    See the full provisional shortlist for the Suicide Prevention Grant Fund 2023 to 2025.

    All grants awarded are currently provisional and subject to finalisation of grant agreements. Funds will begin being distributed from April.

    See our suicide prevention strategy for England: 2023 to 2028.

  • PRESS RELEASE : New laws to crack down on online prison content [March 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : New laws to crack down on online prison content [March 2024]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 4 March 2024.

    New laws will see harmful content filmed inside prisons removed from social media platforms more quickly – shielding victims from further trauma and protecting prison security.

    • new measures to stamp out harmful content illegally filmed in prisons
    • social media companies obliged to remove material
    • legal loophole closed as part of plan to protect victims, staff and boost prison security

    The Prison Media Bill, introduced by Katherine Fletcher MP, will for the first time put beyond doubt the illegality of filming and uploading footage filmed behind bars.

    Currently it is not an offence for someone outside a prison to upload a video they have been sent by someone in custody.

    The new laws close this loophole and criminalise posting of videos – as well as photographs and audio recordings – regardless of whether the uploader is in custody or not. It will also criminalise unauthorised filming of staff, including by so-called ‘auditors’, or content captured by drones. Those found guilty will face prosecution and an unlimited fine.

    Crucially by creating new offences social media companies will now be compelled to remove the illegal content quicker.

    Last year 890 pieces of harmful prison content were found online – retraumatising victims, threatening the security of our prisons and the safety of staff.

    Edward Argar MP, Minister for Prisons, Parole and Probation, said:

    Tackling harmful content filmed behind bars is critical to our plan to protect the public and ensure the safety and security of our prisons.

    There is no place for such footage on the internet, and our priority is safeguarding the welfare of victims and our hardworking staff.

    Those who upload this illegal content will no longer have anywhere to hide.

    Katherine Fletcher, MP, who introduced the Private Members’ Bill that the government is supporting, said:

    Crucially, for the first time, this Bill means it will not matter whether the uploading of unauthorised images happened inside or outside the prison – an offence would have been committed either way. The public and particularly victims of crime must have confidence that images of those convicted of offences are not shown to the outside world to be commented on or celebrated.

    Importantly, the Bill will also force social media platforms to remove such content as their use would then be for illegal or unlawful purposes and against their terms of service.

    Previously content filmed in prisons has remained on social media platforms if it could not be proven that it was uploaded from inside a prison’s walls.

    The Bill toughens up existing legislation, namely the Prison Act 1952, by removing the loopholes that criminals have been hiding behind to disseminate illicit and distressing content to the public.

    It follows a £100 million investment in prison security, with airport-style scanners stopping illegal mobile phones being smuggled by prisoners internally and new airspace restrictions making it illegal to fly a drone within 400 metres of a prison.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Change of Governor of Gibraltar – Lt Gen Sir Ben Bathurst [March 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Change of Governor of Gibraltar – Lt Gen Sir Ben Bathurst [March 2024]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 4 March 2024.

    Lieutenant General Sir Ben Bathurst KCVO, CBE has been appointed Governor of Gibraltar in succession to Vice Admiral Sir David Steel KBE, DL. Sir Ben Bathurst will take up his appointment during June 2024.

    Curriculum vitae

    Full name: Benjamin John Bathurst

    Dates Role
    2024 to present Pre-posting activities, plus voluntary role as Army Commissioner for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission
    2020 to 2023 Brussels, UK Delegation to NATO, UK Military Representative to NATO and the EU
    2016 to 2019 London, Major General Commanding the Household Division and General Officer Commanding London District
    2015 to 2016 London, Royal College of Defence Studies
    2014 to 2015 Kabul, Senior British Military Representative-Afghanistan
    2011 to 2014 Army Headquarters, Andover, Director Training (Army)
    2010 to 2011 Pirbright, Commander, Initial Training Group
    2008 to 2009 Baghdad, Deputy Director Strategy Policy & Assessment
    2006 to 2008 Ministry of Defence, Director Public Relations (Army)
    2004 to 2006 St Athan, Wales; Maysan, Iraq; London: Commanding Officer, 1st Battalion Welsh Guards
    2003 to 2004 Baghdad, Deputy Combined Joint Operations 5
    2001 to 2003 Ministry of Defence, NATO and EU Policy
    1999 to 2001 Ministry of Defence, Equipment Capability Anti-Armour Systems
    1987 to 2000 Appointments/Detachments from 1st Battalion Welsh Guards   with 4 tours of Northern Ireland; Bosnia; Belize; Canada; Germany
    1987 Commissioned into Welsh Guards from Sandhurst
  • PRESS RELEASE : Siemens announces £100m investment for R&D facility in Britain [March 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : Siemens announces £100m investment for R&D facility in Britain [March 2024]

    The press release issued by HM Treasury on 4 March 2024.

    Siemens Mobility to invest £100 million in a brand-new manufacturing and R&D centre in Chippenham.

    • Over 800 skilled workers will build the next generation of rail signalling and control systems for Britain, keeping the rail and transport network on track.
    • Chancellor champions growth opportunities of innovation in technology on same day that over £360 million of investment into advanced manufacturing is announced.

    Siemens has announced it is to invest £100 million in a centre of manufacturing excellence in Wiltshire.

    The new cutting-edge facility will replace the company’s current Chippenham factory, from which generations of British workers have designed, manufactured and delivered signalling and control systems for the Elizabeth Line, North Wales Coast, Birmingham New Street and many others across the world since the 19th Century.

    The new centre is expected to be operational by 2026, with around 800 skilled manufacturing, research, engineering and reporting roles transitioning to the new site and no interruption in production.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt said:

    This new commitment from Siemens is a big boost for Britain’s world-class manufacturing sector and shows our plan for the UK to be the best place to invest and grow a business is working.

    This digital technology will improve the safety, reliability and connectivity of our railways and drive sustainable opportunities in higher-paid jobs and exports – as part of our plan to grow our economy.

    Joint CEO of Siemens Mobility UK & Ireland, Rob Morris, said:

    This €115 million investment is a strong commitment to Chippenham and our country. Siemens Mobility’s Chippenham site, along with our 30 sites across the country, has been transforming rail, travel, and transport in Britain – and it will continue to do so with cloud-based rail technology connecting the real and the digital worlds, digitalizing rail.

    We are very excited to soon start construction of one of the most sophisticated rail factories, digital engineering and R&D sites in the UK, supporting local jobs and skills for the future. There’s a piece of Britain in everything we build.

    Siemens’ investment comes on the advent of one of the most significant modernisation programmes in two centuries of Britain’s railways, with digital rail systems set to better connect communities and make it easier for people to access a wider range of job opportunities.

    The plans are also expected to be a boost for the local economy in Chippenham and the wider Wiltshire region, with Siemens Mobility working closely with local small and medium enterprises across the supply chain. As part of today’s investment, Siemens Mobility will continue to develop and code the digital signalling systems to transform rail travel on the East Coast Main Line.

    British manufacturing is of great strategic importance for the country on the global stage. The sector makes up over 40% of all UK exports, employs around 2.6 million people and overtook France for output in 2021. To capitalise on this success, the government published its Advanced Manufacturing Plan last year to ensure the UK continues to lead in the development and deployment of digital manufacturing technologies.

    This was published shortly after the Chancellor announced £4.5 billion of funding for strategic manufacturing sectors in the UK as part of his Autumn Statement, including £960 million earmarked for a Green Industries Growth Accelerator to support clean energy. It was announced today this is to be boosted by an up to further £120 million increase. This funding will be available from next year for five years, providing industry with longer term certainty about their investments in line with Prime Minister’s focus on making long-term decisions to grow the economy.

    Mr Hunt also announced Full Expensing to support manufacturers in investing for less. As the biggest British business tax cut in history – made possible by the progress the government has made on the people’s economic priorities – this represents an effective corporate tax cut of £55 billion over the next five years and will help manufacturers invest in plant and machinery technologies. The Chancellor outlined at a Make UK event last week how this will benefit hard-working Brits and help to close the productivity gap with the likes of France and Germany – two economies which the UK has grown faster than since 2010.

    Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch said:

    Our plan for attracting more inward investment into the UK is working. From the measures in our advanced manufacturing plan that offer certainty to investors, to promoting the UK at our Global Investment Summit, the Government is making sure that investors, like Siemens, choose the UK.

    Transport Secretary Mark Harper said:

    This vital investment will help futureproof our rail network as part of our plan to deliver more reliable journeys for millions of passengers across the country through important upgrades.

    Rail manufacturing plays an important role in our economy, supporting thousands of skilled jobs, with this new facility supporting hundreds more.

    Siemens’ investment comes on the same day that the government announced over £360 million will be invested in advanced manufacturing and the life sciences, securing thousands of jobs and building a stronger economy including through the further investment it will help to leverage over the long-term through the private sector. The UK has attracted more new investment since 1997 than any other European nation, and last year’s Global Investment Summit confirmed over £29.5 billion of additional investment in Britain.

  • PRESS RELEASE : New law to make justice more accessible for innocent people wronged by powerful companies [March 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : New law to make justice more accessible for innocent people wronged by powerful companies [March 2024]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 4 March 2024.

    Ordinary people mistreated or wronged by big, powerful companies will have a better chance of bringing them to court to access justice, thanks to plans unveiled today (4 March 2024).

    • change in law to help people pursuing claims against big businesses secure funding to take their case to court
    • move to allow third parties to fund legal cases on behalf of the public in order to access justice and hold corporates to account
    • important change to further bolster UK’s thriving £34 billion legal services sector

    The Lord Chancellor, Alex Chalk, will introduce a new law to make it easier for members of the public to secure the financial backing of third parties when launching complex claims against moneyed corporations with sizeable legal teams which they could otherwise ill-afford.

    Today’s news will restore the position that existed before the Supreme Court’s ruling last year, which made many litigation funding agreements unenforceable. As a result, cases can continue being funded.

    The new legislation makes it easier for members of the public to secure funding for their legal fights against powerful corporations – such as those caught up in the Horizon scandal.

    This move has been called for by people who have needed third-party litigation funding in the past, including former sub-postmaster Alan Bates, who described his case as a David vs Goliath. The post-masters’ claim was only possible due to the backing of a litigation funder.

    Lord Chancellor, Alex Chalk, said:

    It’s crucial victims can access justice – but it can feel like a David and Goliath battle when they’re facing powerful corporations with deep pockets.

    This important change will mean more victims can secure vital third party funding to level the playing field and support their fight for justice.

    The sub-postmasters were able to secure third party funding in their legal action against the Post Office. Now others will too.

    The government is also considering options for a wider review of the sector and how third-party litigation funding is carried out. This could consider whether there is a need for increased regulation or safeguards for people bringing claims to court, particularly given the growth of the litigation funding sector over the past decade. Further details will be set out in due course.

    Notes to editors

    • this legislation will be introduced shortly
    • this legislation only applies to England and Wales
    • the next steps and any Terms of Reference of the review will be set out in due course
  • PRESS RELEASE : New recruitment campaign for Victims’ Commissioner launched [March 2024]

    PRESS RELEASE : New recruitment campaign for Victims’ Commissioner launched [March 2024]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 4 March 2024.

    The government has relaunched the recruitment process for the Victims’ Commissioner in line with the standard public appointments process.

    The competition will run from today (4 March 2024) until 25 March 2024 with the successful candidate taking on the role in the following months.

    The Victims’ Commissioner promotes the interests of victims and witnesses, encourages good practice in their treatment, and regularly reviews the Code of Practice for Victims which sets out the services victims can expect to receive.

    The Victims and Prisoners Bill bolsters the role of the Victims’ Commissioner by requiring authorities within their remit to publicly respond to their recommendations and set out the rationale for accepting or rejecting them.

    Note to editors

    The job advert can be found at Role details – Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales – Apply for a public appointment – GOV.UK