Tag: Press Release

  • PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 62 – UK General Comment on the draft resolution on freedom of expression [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 62 – UK General Comment on the draft resolution on freedom of expression [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 7 July 2026.

    UK General Comment on the draft resolution on freedom of expression. Delivered by UK Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

    Thank you, Mr President

    The UK is pleased to join consensus on this important resolution and thanks the Core Group for its leadership throughout the negotiations. Freedom of opinion and expression is a cornerstone of democratic societies, accountability, and the protection of all human rights.

    At a time when journalists, media workers, human rights defenders, and civil society actors face growing threats, this resolution sends a clear signal that they must be able to carry out their work freely and safely. The strengthened  language on safety of journalists, combating impunity, transnational repression, and strategic lawsuits against public participation is welcome.

    We particularly welcome the resolution’s strong recognition of the barriers that women and girls continue to face in exercising their right to freedom of opinion and expression. The strengthened language on technology-facilitated gender-based violence, digital inequalities, and the importance of women’s and girls’ full, equal, meaningful and safe participation online and offline is especially important.

    We welcome the resolution’s focus on digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and information integrity. Responses to disinformation must remain rooted in international human rights law while promoting transparency, accountability, and access to reliable information.

    As co-chair of the Media Freedom Coalition alongside Finland, the UK remains steadfast in its commitment to media freedom worldwide and is proud once again to support this resolution.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 62 – UK General Comment on the draft resolution on disinformation [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 62 – UK General Comment on the draft resolution on disinformation [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 7 July 2026.

    UK General Comment on the draft resolution on disinformation. Delivered by UK Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

    Thank you, Mr President,

    The UK is pleased to be member of the core group and thanks Ukraine, as penholder, for its leadership and constructive engagement throughout the negotiations. This resolution addresses and recognises disinformation as a growing challenge to the enjoyment of human rights and democratic participation.

    We have seen first-hand the harmful impact of disinformation, including foreign information manipulation and interference, both in the UK and internationally. Such activity seeks to undermine trust in democratic institutions, distort public debate and, in some cases, exacerbate conflict and human rights violations.
     

    We therefore particularly welcome updates to the text that reflect the evolving information environment, including references to foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI), synthetic media, information integrity, and the human rights implications of artificial intelligence. These additions strengthen the resolution’s relevance and underscore the need for rights-respecting responses to emerging threats.  

    We encourage all delegations to support the draft.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : New heart disease and strokes plan to save thousands of lives [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : New heart disease and strokes plan to save thousands of lives [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 7 July 2026.

    National framework launched to help reduce premature deaths from heart disease and strokes by a quarter over the next decade.

    • New partnership with Diabetes UK to educate public on links between cardiovascular disease and diabetes and how to reduce risks for millions of people
    • Action to tackle the 70% of preventable cardiovascular disease linked to risk factors including high blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking and other behaviours to help reduce pressure on NHS and reduce health inequalities

    Thousands of lives could be saved and millions more improved as the government sets out plans for the health and care system to help cut the one in four early deaths caused by heart disease and strokes.

    Today (Tuesday 7 July) the government has launched the Cardiovascular disease modern service framework, which will be used to drive better prevention, earlier diagnosis, faster treatment  and more consistent care through health and care services across the country.

    Every 3 minutes somebody in the UK dies from heart or circulatory disease with around 33,000 people dying prematurely from heart disease and stroke every year.

    The framework supports the government’s ambition to cut premature deaths from heart disease and stroke by 25% over the next 10 years and will be supported through a series of partnerships between government and charities – beginning today with Diabetes UK.

    The partnership with Diabetes UK will raise awareness of the links between type 2 diabetes and heart disease and include a public awareness campaign as well as greater use of the Know Your Risk tool so people better understand the risks to their health and the positive actions they can take.

    Cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes are closely linked, with people living with diabetes or prediabetes at significantly higher risk of heart attack and stroke. More than 4 million people in the UK have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, with a further 1.3 million thought to be living with it without knowing.

    Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, James Murray, said:

    Too many people are dying early from heart attacks and strokes that we know are preventable.

    This is not good enough and that’s why we are setting clear priorities to help people stay healthier for longer, identify and diagnose serious disease much earlier, and deliver better treatment when it is needed.

    But we know we cannot do all this by ourselves. That is why I am proud of our new partnership with Diabetes UK, the first of many, through which we will work closely with expert organisations to help people reduce their risk of getting ill and know where to get help.

    Supporting delivery of the 10 Year Health Plan, the framework marks a clear shift from reactive care to prevention, improving population health while reducing pressure on NHS services.

    The framework will establish 12 immediate priorities over the next 3 years, setting out initiatives local health and care systems should deliver to cut mortality and reduce inequalities.

    Priorities include:

    • finding and supporting people with high-risk conditions, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, chronic kidney disease, diabetes and heart failure, to stay healthier for longer through better management and personalised care
    • ensuring people who have a heart attack or stroke receive faster, higher quality treatment when every minute counts
    • improving access to rehabilitation and ongoing support so people can recover well and return to everyday life

    Successful implementation of the framework could prevent between 1,600 and 2,400 premature deaths annually from heart disease and stroke (in those aged under 75) in the first 3 years, and between 3,850 and 4,900 such deaths per year after 10 years, while supporting wider efforts across the health and care system to improve outcomes.

    Public Health Minister, Sharon Hodgson MP, said:

    Thousands of lives are being cut short every year by preventable conditions. We know how to prevent and treat these conditions and we must do more to ensure people are getting the help they need.

    The new cardiovascular disease modern service framework is an important step forward, committing local services to work together and deliver care for the people most in need. This is how we move from reactive care to prevention.

    Colette Marshall, Chief Executive at Diabetes UK, said:

    We’re pleased to be partnering with the Department of Health and Social Care to support its goal of reducing premature deaths from cardiovascular disease over the next decade.

    Diabetes can lead to serious complications, including heart attacks, strokes and other cardiovascular conditions, but the risk of these can be reduced if people have equitable access to high-quality care.

    We welcome the focus these new plans place on finding and supporting those at risk of type 2 diabetes and preventing the condition where possible. These improvements will also help people living with all types of diabetes manage their condition better and live longer, healthier lives.

    Professor Frankie Swords, National Medical Director of NHS England, said:

    Millions of people are living with common risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes without even knowing it, putting them at increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.

    Through our prevention accelerators, NHS staff are already working with local partners to find those most at risk and offer them the right support and treatment before a silent health problem turns into a potentially life-threatening emergency.

    This new partnership with Diabetes UK will build on that work, ensuring even more people understand their risk, so they are able take steps to improve their health with the support of NHS staff.

    Our cardiovascular disease modern service framework sets out how we will cut premature deaths from heart disease and stroke by a quarter within a decade.

    We will do this by shifting care closer to home, prioritising early diagnosis and prevention, and by delivering joined-up cardiovascular, kidney and metabolic care.

    The prevention accelerators programme, which launched last month, will help deliver the priorities set out in the framework, bringing together local NHS services, councils and community partners to identify people at risk, improve uptake of high-impact cardiovascular disease and diabetes interventions and support healthier behaviours.

    Jules Payne, Chief Executive of Heart UK, the cholesterol charity, said:

    We applaud the government’s ambition to reduce premature deaths from cardiovascular disease, as set out in the modern service framework.

    High cholesterol is a key risk factor for heart attack and stroke, so raised cholesterol needs to be prevented, diagnosed and managed earlier rather than later in life.

    We also need to better detect and manage inherited lipid (or blood fat) conditions such as familial hypercholesterolaemia and lipoprotein(a). Heart UK looks forward to being involved in the implementation of this strategy to better tackle prevention together.

    Professor Bryan Williams, Chief Scientific and Medical Officer at the British Heart Foundation (BHF), said:

    Today’s publication cements cardiovascular disease as a national priority and is a significant step towards saving more lives from heart attack and stroke.

    With extraordinary pressure on the NHS, and cardiovascular disease claiming one life every 4 minutes in England, this focus on cardiovascular care cannot come too soon.

    We welcome plans to double down on prevention, as keeping people healthy and preventing disease in the first place is how we meet the scale of this challenge. It shows the government is serious about its ambition to reduce early deaths.

    We look forward to working alongside government to help deliver the change that patients need.

    Juliet Bouverie OBE, Chief Executive of the Stroke Association, said:

    We welcome the government’s renewed commitment to both saving and improving the lives of people affected by cardiovascular disease, including stroke. At a time when more people of all ages are having strokes, this has never been more urgently needed.

    We look forward to partnering with the government and NHS, so these changes become reality for the 240 people who survive stroke every day in the UK.

    We know that implementation needs to tackle the inequalities which all too often blight stroke prevention and treatment as well as ongoing recovery. Only then will stroke patients not only survive, but also get the rehabilitation and support they need to recover and rebuild their lives.

    Alison Railton, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at Kidney Research UK, said:

    People with chronic kidney disease are 20 times more likely to die from cardiovascular disease than kidney failure, but early intervention can reduce these risks. Of the 7.2 million people in the UK with kidney disease, around half are undiagnosed, often living in the dark until crisis point.

    That makes the government’s commitment to targeted testing vital to finding the missing millions. We look forward to working with the government to help deliver the changes set out in this strategy, including better access to life-saving drugs such as SGLT2 inhibitors, which can slow kidney disease progression and protect heart health.

    Greg Fell OBE, President of the Association of Directors of Public Health, said:

    Like with many conditions, cardiovascular disease can only be reduced by working together to tackle its causes and manage its impacts, and today’s announcement shows a clear commitment to support national and local partnerships to do just that.

    Alongside improving diagnosis, creating environments which reduce the chance of developing cardiovascular disease is crucial to reducing deaths.

    Directors of public health and their teams already work in partnership with charities, primary care and the wider health system to build healthier places for us all to live, work and play in, regardless of our background or where we live, and are uniquely placed to support this work, helping to save lives now, and prevent heart and circulatory diseases for generations to come.

    Background information

    The framework will introduce priority areas for change designed to:

    • use neighbourhood outreach, population health tools and digital records to locate the missing millions of people with undiagnosed cardiovascular disease or whose lifestyles put them at increased risk
    • better target and manage the care for those at higher risk of conditions including high cholesterol or blood pressure, and increase the proportion of people with well-managed high blood pressure to 80% over the next 3 years
    • bring a renewed focus on underserved groups and communities who already experience health inequalities
    • speed up and improve acute care for stroke, reducing treatment delays
    • improve access to rehabilitation

    The programme forms part of the government’s 10 Year Health Plan, shifting the NHS from treating illness to preventing it, while helping to reduce pressure on GP services and hospitals.

    This announcement follows on from the June launch of 5 prevention accelerators to test new ways of identifying people at risk of serious illness earlier and helping them stay healthier for longer.

    Prevention accelerators programme

    The programme is an important part of the government’s commitment to shift the health service from treating sickness to preventing illness.

    The first prevention accelerators are being established in Greater London, Greater Manchester, Liverpool City Region, South Yorkshire and the West Midlands. The initial focus will be on preventing cardiovascular disease and related conditions, as cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of premature death in England.

    The programme will support local NHS organisations, local councils, mayoral combined authorities and community partners to work together and identify people at risk before they become seriously unwell.

    Prevention accelerators will help more people access blood pressure checks and earlier support to manage conditions that can lead to heart attacks and strokes. The initiative will test innovative, community-led approaches that can be expanded across the country if proven successful.

    The programme aims to tackle health inequalities by targeting communities where preventable illness and premature death are highest. Evidence suggests that improving blood pressure control could prevent millions of healthcare episodes over the next decade, reducing pressure on GP practices and hospitals.

    Learning from the 5 prevention accelerator sites will inform future efforts to improve prevention services and help people live longer, healthier lives.

    Prevention accelerators is about actively finding people at risk earlier and better managing their condition, including by taking simple health checks into everyday settings where people already are, rather than waiting for them to turn up at GP surgeries or in A&E.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 62 – UK Explanation of Position on the draft resolution on Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 62 – UK Explanation of Position on the draft resolution on Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 7 July 2026.

    UK Explanation of Position on the draft resolution on Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar. Delivered by UK Chargé d’Affaires ad Interim to Myanmar, Andrew Jackson.

    Thank you Mr President, 

    The UK would like to thank the OIC for presenting Resolution L.20 on the human rights situation of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar. 

    As we have heard repeatedly throughout this Council, including from the High Commissioner and Special Rapporteur, the Rohingya and other minorities in Myanmar continue to suffer from appalling human rights violations and abuses at the hands of the Military and other armed groups.  

    The High Commissioner’s latest report highlights the continued deterioration of the situation in Myanmar, including at least 702 civilian deaths during the reporting period, of which 476 resulted from airstrikes. Behind these stark figures are lives lost, families torn apart and communities living in fear every day. The UK condemns the Military’s continued use of violence, which is inflicting immense suffering on civilians and deepening an already devastating humanitarian crisis. 

    The Rohingya continue to face persecution, discrimination, statelessness, and restrictions on freedom of movement. Ongoing violence in Rakhine State has further exacerbated their vulnerability, alongside other minority communities, exposing many to sexual and gender-based violence and forcing thousands more to flee their homes in search of safety.

    The UK recognises the important role played by Bangladesh in hosting over 1.2 million Rohingya refugees and acknowledges the immense challenges it faces, including pressures on infrastructure and security in the camps. Greater self-reliance for refugees and improved safety and security are vital to supporting the wellbeing of the Rohingya, and in creating the conditions for eventual safe, voluntary, sustainable and dignified returns. 

    This resolution rightly maintains the Council’s attention on the plight of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar. We welcome its strong focus on accountability including through ongoing international processes and mechanisms. Ending impunity is essential to breaking cycles of violence and ensuring justice for victims and survivors. 

    Mr President, 

    While we will join consensus on this resolution, we wish to place on record the UK’s position that though we continue to address human rights violations and abuses, wherever they occur in Myanmar, we must be clear that the military bears primary responsibility for systematic violations against the Rohingya and other civilian populations. 

    The situation in Myanmar deserves sustained collective attention and resolve of this Council. The United Kingdom remains committed to working with the OIC and international partners to address the root causes of the crisis, support accountability, and advance the rights and dignity of the Rohingya and all people of Myanmar. 

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Millions invested in new missile to strengthen British Army’s capability and NATO deterrence [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Millions invested in new missile to strengthen British Army’s capability and NATO deterrence [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 7 July 2026.

    The UK will join the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) programme, supporting a transformation in the British Army’s ability to strike targets further away and strengthening the UK’s contribution to NATO deterrence.

    • British Army to acquire the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM), a proven supersonic ballistic missile capable of hitting targets up to 500km away.
    • PrSM will help the Army’s ability to find, fix and strike threats to destroy enemy systems and supply lines before they can threaten NATO forces and territory.
    • Procurement backed by £190 million from the Government’s £298 billion Defence Investment Plan, expected to support British jobs.

    The UK will join the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) programme, supporting a transformation in the British Army’s ability to strike targets further away and strengthening the UK’s contribution to NATO deterrence.

    Backed by £190 million in the Government’s £298 billion Defence Investment Plan, the procurement of PrSM will extend the Army’s current land-based strike range significantly.

    PrSM is a proven ballistic missile capable of reaching supersonic speeds and travelling up to 500km. It is fully compatible with the UK’s existing upgraded M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) launchers, meaning no additional vehicle modifications will be required.

    Currently built by Lockheed Martin, the missile provides the capability to take out stationary enemy systems and weapons up to 500km away. Future development could enhance the capability further. 

    The investment in PrSM gives the British Army a deep surface-to-surface ballistic missile capability that will complement the Army’s One Way Effector (OWE) drone and ground-launched cruise missile capability. This will create a mix of long-range precision strike options that the British Army needs to defend and deter as part of NATO.

    PrSM is a collaborative programme between the United States and Australia. Subject to agreement with them, the UK could receive the first deliveries in 2027. The announcement follows NATO Defence Ministers meeting which focused on cooperation and deterrence, and where Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis met with US Secretary of War Hegseth.

    Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis MBE MP said:

    I am absolutely determined to give our soldiers the weapons they need as they defend our nation and NATO.

    This new investment into a precision strike missile will help to strengthen our Army and our security at this increasingly dangerous time.

    The US and Australia are vital defence partners, and I am working with Secretary Hegseth and Deputy Prime Minister Marles to deliver this programme alongside AUKUS.

    UK participation will provide significant benefits to the UK, US, Australia and NATO beyond the immediate military capability. Benefits include working collaboratively to further develop the missile – bringing in the best of British industry, and workshare to produce the missile – creating good jobs in the UK. Working with the US and Australia, the programme aligns strongly with AUKUS Pillar 2.

    The UK remains firmly committed to the Deep Precision Strike and European Long Range Strike Approach with European partners, including Germany. PrSM will be a complementary capability available immediately and does not replace longer-term collaborative programmes.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Sir Andy Marsh announced as preferred candidate for HM Chief Inspector [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Sir Andy Marsh announced as preferred candidate for HM Chief Inspector [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Home Office on 7 July 2026.

    College of Policing chief executive has 30 years’ policing experience and led significant reforms in professional standards, leadership and technology.

    The Home Secretary has today (7 July 2026) confirmed Sir Andy Marsh QPM as the government’s preferred candidate for the role of HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary in England and Wales and Chief Inspector of Fire & Rescue in England (HMCI).

    Sir Andy Marsh has been Chief Executive of the College of Policing since September 2021.

    Sir Andy has over 30 years’ policing experience, having joined Avon and Somerset Police in 1987 and rising to senior leadership roles including Chief Constable of Hampshire Constabulary and Avon and Somerset Police.

    Sir Andy has led significant reform across policing, including improvements in professional standards, leadership development, and the use of technology and evidence-based practice. He was awarded the Queen’s Police Medal in 2018 and was knighted in 2024 for services to policing.

    The recommendation follows a fair and open recruitment process, conducted in accordance with the Governance Code on Public Appointments.

    Crime and Policing Minister, Sarah Jones, said:

    Sir Andy Marsh has extensive experience at the highest levels of policing. He is the right person to take on this vital role as we deliver the most ambitious reforms to policing in two centuries and help shape the future of the fire sector.

    I would like to thank Michelle Skeer for her leadership of the Inspectorate since April.

    Sir Andy Marsh said:

    It is a privilege to be named as preferred candidate at what is a pivotal moment for policing and fire. I’ve spent my career alongside the dedicated officers and staff who work every day to keep the public safe, and I know first-hand the difference the right leadership, standards and support can make. My focus will be on the issues that matter most to our communities, and on making sure the people doing this vital work have everything they need to do it well.

    Pre-appointment scrutiny by the Home Affairs Select Committee (HASC) will follow shortly, which is an important part of the process for some of the most significant public appointments made by ministers. It is designed to provide an added level of scrutiny to verify that the recruitment meets the principles set out in the Governance Code.

    If Sir Andy’s appointment is finalised, he will succeed HMCI Michelle Skeer OBE QPM, who has been in post on an interim basis since the departure of HMCI Sir Andy Cooke QPM DL in April 2026.

    Following a pre-appointment hearing on 14 July, HASC will publish their recommendations, which the government will consider before deciding whether to finalise the appointment.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Local journalism to benefit from new government funding to reach new audiences [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Local journalism to benefit from new government funding to reach new audiences [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 7 July 2026.

    Local news outlets can now apply for grants of up to £125,000 to support their long-term financial sustainability.

    • Local News Fund is part of the government’s Local Media Action Plan – a strategy backing the essential role of local media in our towns and communities 
    • Second year of the Fund will also be used to tackle ‘news deserts’, by helping to revive a local news presence in communities that currently lack one.

    Local news outlets can now bid for a share of up to £12 million in government funding over the next two years, which will ensure communities can continue to benefit from trusted, high-quality local journalism.

    Part of ‘Amplify: The Local Media Action Plan’, the Fund will provide £6 million in 2026/27 and up to a further £6 million in 2027/28, which will help ensure the long-term provision of high-quality local news by enabling organisations to continue innovating towards a digital and sustainable future.

    The Plan demonstrates the government’s commitment to the future of local journalism, ensuring it can continue to enrich our national conversation, strengthen communities and social cohesion, rebuild social trust, and support local growth.

    The majority of the 2026/27 Fund will be awarded to local news outlets in print, online, or independent local TV and radio stations, through a competitive bidding process, with £125,000 the maximum available to a single organisation. The funding can be used to invest in the tools and services – such as apps or innovative use of multimedia channels – needed for sustainable innovation which can help local media tap into new or younger audiences and generate new sources of revenue.

    The remainder of the Fund will be allocated through a separate bidding process which also opens today, reserved for organisations which are developing the infrastructure that can benefit the industry as a whole, with bids allowed up to £275,000. 

    Evidence shows that up to 37 local authority districts now have no print, online, TV or radio outlet dedicated specifically to that area – leaving as many as 4.4 million citizens in local ‘news deserts’, which disproportionately occur in the most deprived urban areas.

    That’s why in the second year of the Fund, £1 million will be dedicated to tackling these local news deserts in collaboration with key community stakeholders, to revive or establish a local news presence in areas of need. This will help address news inequality, as local news closures disproportionately affect deprived urban districts, while new enterprises are concentrated in more affluent communities.

    Subject to availability, up to a further £5 million in 2027/28 will provide continued support for the financial sustainability and innovation of the sector. 

    To qualify for local news outlet funding, prospective bidders must be able to demonstrate a track record in the provision of local news to audiences in England or Wales. 

    Media Minister Ian Murray MP said: 

    Local media is a cornerstone of our civic life and when it declines, communities lose access to accurate information, scrutiny of decision-makers and a vital local voice. That’s why we’re launching the Local News Fund – with up to £12 million available over the next two years, it marks an important step towards securing the future of local media across the UK. 

    I encourage local news organisations, publishers and innovators to come forward with ambitious proposals that will help to strengthen local media for the long term, ensuring communities continue to benefit from high-quality, trusted local reporting.

    Polly Curtis, Co-Chair of the Local News Fund Steering Board, said:

    Strong local news creates stronger communities. This £6 million fund is an investment in civic life, democracy and the trusted journalism that helps bring people together. 

    We encourage everyone who is working in local news to put forward their most innovative ideas to help build shared resilience for the future for local journalism.

    Jeremy Clifford, Co-Chair of the Local News Fund Steering Board, said:

    The local news industry has a track record of innovating and responding to the many challenges it has faced down the years. However, often those innovations fail to get off the ground because they cannot be funded. 

    We strongly believe this fund can help to ignite that innovative thinking and be the catalyst for delivering some exciting and imaginative experiments.

    Laura Davison, NUJ General Secretary, said:  

    The NUJ welcomes the launch of the Local News Fund. For many years the union has campaigned for government grants to preserve and bolster local journalism subject to appropriate safeguards. 

    The Fund is recognition that the industry cannot be left to the vagaries of the market and that our members working in local news play a pivotal role in upholding social cohesion and democracy.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 62 – UK Explanation of Vote on the draft resolution on Eritrea [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 62 – UK Explanation of Vote on the draft resolution on Eritrea [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 7 July 2026.

    UK Explanation of Vote on the draft resolution on the human rights situation in Eritrea. Delivered by UK Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

    Mr President,

    The UK remains concerned by the human rights situation in Eritrea. The system of indefinite national service has a suffocating impact on the lives of Eritreans, especially young people, and has contributed to mass emigration including to the UK. It requires urgent reform.  

    We welcome areas of progress that have been made in Eritrea; including relating to essential health services and education. In particular, and as recognised in this draft resolution, we are pleased to see the release of some arbitrarily detained persons held for political or religious reasons. We encourage the Eritrean government to extend these releases to the many more that remain arbitrarily detained. 

    It is clear that the Special Rapporteur’s efforts to report on the human rights situation in Eritrea continues to be needed. As such, the UK supports the draft resolution on the human rights situation in Eritrea and its outcome to extend the mandate of the Special Rapporteur.

    We thank the core group behind this resolution for  constructive and transparent engagement with the Council and support the adoption of this resolution by consensus.

    If a vote is called, we will vote YES and encourage others to do the same.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 62 – UK Introductory Statement on the draft resolution on Sudan [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 62 – UK Introductory Statement on the draft resolution on Sudan [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 7 July 2026.

    UK Introductory Statement on the draft resolution on Sudan. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

    Thank you, Mr President,

    I deliver this statement on behalf of the Sudan Core Group: consisting of Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, and the UK.

    Mr President, as we heard from so many during the Urgent Debate last week, the imminent risk of large-scale atrocities in and around El Obeid demands our attention.

    Escalating drone strikes have killed civilians and destroyed civilian infrastructure in El Obeid. Key supply routes have been hit, along with fuel stations and the electricity grid. 500,000 civilians are in grave danger, at risk of atrocities that would deepen the wounds already inflicted on Sudan.

    Mr President, just eight months ago this council stood united in condemning the wave of devastating violence and displacement by the Rapid Support Forces in El Fasher. These horrors must not be repeated.

    The Rapid Support Forces must end their siege of El Obeid. All parties to the conflict must immediately de-escalate, facilitate safe, voluntary passage for civilians and guarantee rapid, unhindered humanitarian access.

    Mr President, we know that ending impunity in Sudan is essential for long-term peace. The key outcome of this resolution is the urgent inquiry to be carried out by the UN Fact-Finding Mission. Its efforts to document and preserve evidence of any violations and abuses lay the groundwork for justice. Without it, accountability will remain out of reach, and the cycle of impunity will continue.

    We also pay tribute to the Sudanese civil society actors who continue to serve their communities under extraordinary pressure. Their courage and resilience are a reminder of the values this Council is designed to uphold.

    It is not enough to express shock and concern. We must take concrete action to support accountability for these crimes. This Council must make a reality of its role in preventing atrocities.

    The strongest signal we can send is to adopt this resolution by consensus today.

    Let us show the people of El Obeid that they are not forgotten.  And that this Council will take action to prevent atrocities.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Better protections for children in custody [July 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Better protections for children in custody [July 2026]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 7 July 2026.

    Children in youth custody will be better protected through stronger safeguarding, dedicated social workers, tougher vetting and independent oversight.

    • Dedicated social workers to investigate abuse concerns
    • Stronger staff vetting, improved training and new unit to oversee child protection
    • Part of Government action to make sure horrors of historical abuse at Medomsley Detention Centre are not repeated

    Children in youth custody settings will be better protected from abuse under major safeguarding reforms announced by the Government today (7 July). 

    Set out by the Minister for Sentencing and Youth Justice Jake Richards, the new measures include stronger staff training, tougher vetting for anyone working directly with children and overhauled safeguarding processes to ensure all allegations of wrongdoing are investigated robustly and acted upon swiftly. 

    Central to the reforms will be a requirement for every site in the youth estate to have access to a dedicated social worker with extensive child protection expertise. This means no serious concern can be ignored or handled only internally. It also gives each child a trusted, independent person they can turn to if something is wrong. 

    Today’s intervention comes in direct response to an independent review into youth custody safeguarding arrangements published today by Isabelle Trowler, Chief Social Worker for Children and Families in England. The Government commissioned the review following a report into the horrific abuse that took place at Medomsley Detention Centre, Co. Durham, between 1961 and 1987.  

    Ministers have now accepted all 34 of Ms Trowler’s recommendations in principle, with several already implemented to ensure children in custody receive the best possible protection and the systemic failures at Medomsley are never repeated. 

    This action builds on the Government’s Youth Justice White Paper published in May, which seeks to provide earlier intervention, more targeted support and tackle the root causes of youth crime.  

    Minister for Sentencing and Youth Justice, Jake Richards, said:     

    The abuse that took place at Medomsley is a national scandal and it is right that the Government has apologised. While we cannot undo the pain suffered by victims, we can make sure nothing like it ever happens again. 

    That is why we’re taking forward all 34 recommendations, including independent oversight of every abuse allegation, giving every child in custody access to a social worker, and strengthening staff vetting to keep children in custody safe. 

    A system that fails to protect children in custody creates more victims, not fewer. These reforms are about breaking that cycle.

    Isabelle Trowler, Chief Social Worker for Children and Families for England, said:     

    Following on from the Ombudsman’s important report last year into the Medomsley Detention Centre, my review examined the safeguarding challenges that persist across the youth custodial estate. I make a number of recommendations which make clear the urgent action required to better protect some of our most vulnerable children. While there have been improvements in recent years, the evidence is unequivocal: more must be done to ensure every child in custody is safe, listened to and treated with dignity. It is now incumbent upon the Government and, in turn, HMPPS and local authority children’s services to make change happen. 

    Meeting children currently in custody and hearing directly about their experiences has been both a privilege and a profound responsibility. This experience, and the stories children shared, will likely stay with me forever. We owe it to them, and to those who suffered in the past, to ensure that the findings of this review lead to meaningful and lasting change.

    The courage and determination of the survivors of Medomsley in their pursuit of truth and justice was instrumental to this work. Without them, the vulnerability of today’s children in custody would not have been brought into sharp relief.

    Adrian Usher, Prisons and Probation Ombudsman, said: 

    My investigative report revealed the full scale and horror of what happened to thousands of victims at Medomsley Detention Centre. The abuse that took place there was a profound failure by those responsible for the care and protection of children and young people in custody. 

    I welcome the Government’s commitment to implementing the recommendations from the Trowler Review and strengthening safeguarding across the youth estate. While nothing can undo the harm suffered by victims, these reforms are an important step towards ensuring lessons of the past are learned and that children in custody are better protected in the future.

    Meanwhile, a new safeguarding board has been set up to monitor child protection across all youth custody sites, reporting directly to Ministers. All staff working with children in custody must now also complete mandatory safeguarding training, and enhanced criminal record checks will be renewed every three years.  

    Recruitment processes have also been strengthened to better root out unsuitable candidates, with training for frontline staff being redesigned to better meet the needs of vulnerable children. 

    Further action announced today includes: 

    • Under the new system, a trusted adult, such as a family member, advocate or social worker, will be able to raise a complaint on a child’s behalf. 
    • Welcome packs and information given to children on arrival will be redesigned so that children with reading difficulties or learning differences can understand their rights from day one. 
    • The Government will take forward plans to give all children in custody the same formal protections as children in care. This will require new legislation, but in the meantime social workers will proactively check in with children and provide a safe, private space to raise any concerns. 
    • A new National Practice Framework will set clear, consistent standards for how all staff working with children in custody should behave, train and develop in their careers. 
    • A formal learning review process at the heart of how the Youth Custody Service approaches safeguarding, ensuring continuous improvement. 
    • A review of policies, with a focus on those that do not account for the needs of children. 

    The Government has apologised unreservedly to the men who suffered shocking and systematic abuse at Medomsley Detention Centre. 

    The youth custodial estate today bears little resemblance to the one in which the abuse took place, with children no longer detained for less serious offences and the number of children in custody having fallen significantly in the last 20 years.  

    However, the Government is determined that those who do require custody receive the best care and support they need to turn their lives around. 

    Today’s announcement comes ahead of a Youth Custody Transformation Plan later this year, setting out the long-term vision for a safer system which rehabilitates children, reduces crime and protects communities. 

    Notes to editors 

    • The Trowler Review was commissioned by the Minister for Sentencing and Youth Justice and led by Isabelle Trowler, Chief Social Worker for Children and Families in England. 
    • The review makes 34 recommendations for the Ministry of Justice, the Youth Custody Service, the Department for Education, and other government partners. All recommendations are being accepted in principle. 
    • The youth custodial estate comprises Young Offender Institutions, Secure Training Centres, Secure Children’s Homes and the Secure School, Oasis Restore. As health, social care and education are devolved in Wales, the majority of the actions set out in the response relate to England. 
    • The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman report into Medomsley Detention Centre was published in November 2025 and examined abuse that occurred at the centre between 1961 and 1987.