Tag: Press Release

PRESS RELEASE : RAF to police NATO skies in Iceland following mission in Romania [August 2024]

The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 8 August 2024.

British F-35B jets have started arriving in Iceland this week to take part in a NATO air policing mission.

This mission will see RAF pilots from 617 squadron defending the alliance’s airspace in the Artic Region.

NATO air policing is a permanent peacetime mission, that preserves the security of Allied skies. It is a collective task and involves the continuous presence of fighter aircraft and crews, which are ready to react quickly to possible airspace violations.

This latest mission comes as the Prime Minister underlined the UK’s cast iron commitment to NATO at its Summit in Washington last month, as he emphasised his determination to safeguard the future of the Alliance and face down global threats to Britain and its western allies.

Minister for the Armed Forces, Luke Pollard said:

The UK is unshakeable in its commitment to NATO. With threats increasing and growing Russian aggression, it is vital that we stand shoulder to shoulder with our allies.

This latest air policing mission in Iceland displays the UK’s ability to operate and deter our adversaries across the alliance’s airspace.

Following a successful mission in Romania, where six Typhoon fighter jets and over two hundred personnel were stationed at Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base, defending NATO’s eastern border, the RAF will now move to Iceland. This time, four cutting edge F-35B jets from 617 squadron will be patrolling Icelandic airspace, having travelled from RAF Marham.

This is the first time British jets have taken part in such activity in Iceland since 2019, when four Typhoon jets and flew 59 training sorties and more than 180 practice intercepts.

The F-35B Lightning is held at high readiness to deploy in support of UK and NATO operations Worldwide – from both land and sea.

It is a multi-role combat aircraft equipped with advanced sensors, mission systems and low observable stealth technology. This means that enemy radar systems cannot easily detect the aircraft, giving those nations operating the F-35B a significant tactical advantage in many operational scenarios.

Lightning Force Commander, Group Captain John Butcher said:

This will be the first time that the Lightning Force has deployed to contribute to NATO Air Policing, and will no doubt once again prove the flexibility that this platform offers as it demonstrates its capability to operate from both a land and maritime environment.

RAF Typhoons and Voyagers also conduct air policing in the UK through the Quick Reaction Alert Force, based at RAF Coninsgby, Lossiemouth and Brize Norton, protecting UK airspace 24/7, 365 days a year.

02/09/2024
PRESS RELEASE : UK envoy to Malaysia to take on new role in 10 Downing Street [August 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 8 August 2024.

British High Commissioner to Malaysia Ailsa Terry CMG has been appointed the UK Prime Minister’s Private Secretary for Foreign Affairs – advising Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer on foreign policy issues, and working closely with the UK’s Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office in London.

This is the first time that a British High Commissioner to Malaysia has been nominated as the Private Secretary to the Prime Minister. Terry will officially take on her new role in No. 10 Downing Street early next month.

On her move, Terry says:

This is a huge privilege. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has set out ambitious plans for the country. I am honoured to be given this opportunity to serve in the Prime Minister’s Office.

Since I started as the British High Commissioner to Malaysia in August 2023, my team here and I have accomplished so much in strengthening the UK-Malaysia’s partnership in the areas of trade, technology, education, climate, defence and security. I have visited many states and my family and I have also made so many friends around Malaysia. We will miss the people, sights and sound, smell and flavours of Malaysia.

With effect from 29 August 2024, David Wallace will take over as Chargé d’Affaires. Wallace, who has been the Deputy High Commissioner since 2022, will ensure that the work of the High Commission continues as usual during this transition.

02/09/2024
PRESS RELEASE : “We cannot lose focus in the fight against Daesh” – UK statement at the UN Security Council [August 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 8 August 2024.

Security Council Statement by Jess Jambert-Gray, Deputy Political Coordinator, at the UN Security Council meeting on threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts.

The UK remains deeply concerned about the rising threat from Daesh and its affiliates. Whilst Daesh has been unable to resurge territorially it continues to propagate its poisonous ideology globally. Its branches present an acute threat to at-risk communities, whilst its propaganda seeks to exploit global events to inspire terrorist violence across the world.

The increasing threat from Daesh’s continued focus on Africa, including attacks from Daesh affiliates ISWAP and ISSP in West Africa and the Sahel threatens regional stability. As the Secretary General’s report notes, their activities in the region afflict grave violations on children, and in particular girls. This Council’s recent decision to include sexual and gender-based violence as a criterion for listing under the 1267 regime sends a strong message that these crimes should not go unpunished.

The development of African-led initiatives like the Abuja Process are a crucial response. Working closely with Regional Economic Communities and with the support of UN entities, the African Union plays a central role in these efforts. The Malabo declaration for a whole-of-government and a whole-of-society approach to tackling terrorism was a positive step forward and we stand ready to support the development of national action plans. It is vital these collective approaches work to address the underlying drivers of terrorism including reducing corruption, improving governance, and ensuring respect for the rule of law.

The threat from ISKP is increasing, and in recent months we have seen abhorrent attacks by the group on civilians in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, Russia and Turkey. This emphasises our need to tackle ISKP at a strategic level. The international community must take a collective and creative approach to understand how they operate, starve their resources, and tackle their propaganda.

As part of this effort, the UK launched the ISKP Diplomatic Grouping in May 2023 to focus on increasing threats with regional partners. The Grouping most recently convened in Doha last month to share expertise and drive action on countering ISKP finance, travel, and propaganda.

Attacks on military bases in Iraq are increasing tensions across the Middle East, causing instability and threatening Iraq’s and the coalition’s collective ability to counter Daesh. De-escalation should be a collective priority, and we call for continued work with partners to suppress the threat.

As we mark ten years since Daesh perpetrated genocide against the Yazidi people, we cannot lose focus in the fight against Daesh as it spreads to new theatres.

02/09/2024
PRESS RELEASE : Keir Starmer call with President El-Sisi of Egypt [August 2024]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 8 August 2024.

The Prime Minister spoke to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi this afternoon.

The Prime Minister thanked the President for his congratulations on the election and reiterated the UK’s commitment to a strong partnership with Egypt, especially on regional security and mutual prosperity.

Turning to the situation in the Middle East, the leaders shared their deep concern over the potential for escalation in the region and the importance of restraint.

The Prime Minister reiterated the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the return of hostages and more humanitarian aid to be delivered across Gaza. He underscored the UK’s commitment to a two-state solution through a peace process.

The leaders agreed to keep in touch.

02/09/2024
PRESS RELEASE : AUKUS trilateral statement [August 2024]

The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 8 August 2024.

Trilateral statement on the signing of an agreement for co-operation on naval nuclear propulsion.

On 5 August 2024, AUKUS partners signed the trilateral Agreement Among the Government of Australia, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the Government of the United States of America for Cooperation Related to Naval Nuclear Propulsion (the “Agreement”).

In March 2023, the AUKUS Leaders announced an ambitious plan to support Australia’s acquisition of a conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarine capability at the earliest possible date, while ensuring Australia’s capacity to safely operate, maintain, and regulate this technology. The Agreement will enable AUKUS partners to continue to share submarine naval nuclear propulsion information between the partners, and allow the United Kingdom and the United States to transfer material and equipment to Australia required for the safe and secure construction, operation and sustainment of conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS partnership.

Since the announcement of this endeavour, the AUKUS partners have been resolute that this initiative will be undertaken in a way that sets the highest non-proliferation standard, while protecting classified and controlled information, material, and equipment. To this end, the Agreement re-affirms, and is consistent with, AUKUS partners’ respective existing international non-proliferation obligations. As a non-nuclear-weapon State Party to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, Australia has re-affirmed unequivocally that it does not have and will not seek to acquire nuclear weapons.

The Agreement is a significant milestone and a demonstration of the AUKUS partners’ commitment to delivering this critical capability.

02/09/2024
PRESS RELEASE : Plans announced to redevelop Cawdor Barracks for landmark radar initiative [August 2024]

The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 8 August 2024.

Plans to redevelop Cawdor Barracks in Pembrokeshire, Wales to host a landmark radar initiative have been announced by the Ministry of Defence.

Known as the Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability (DARC), the initiative will secure long-term jobs and help protect essential satellite communication and navigation networks.

DARC will see a network of ground-based radars in Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States provide global space monitoring, increasing AUKUS nations’ ability to detect, track and identify objects in deep space, up to around 36,000km away from earth.

This capability will benefit these nations’ land, air, and maritime forces, as well as protecting critical infrastructure and benefitting domestic construction and space industries. DARC will play a crucial role in AUKUS nations’ ability to support safety and security in the Indo-Pacific and the rest of the world.

Defence Secretary, John Healey said:

The proposed redevelopment of Cawdor Barracks secures jobs at home and defence capabilities for the future.

Space plays a crucial role in our daily lives – used by everything from our mobile phones to banking services. It is also used by UK Defence to conduct vital tasks such as supporting military operations, navigating forces and gathering intelligence.

This new radar programme will not only enhance our awareness of deep space, but also help protect our space assets alongside our closest partners.

Cawdor Barracks has a long history of supporting the UK’s military. The site has been both a Royal Air Force flying station and a Royal Navy base. Currently home to 14 Signal Regiment, the Ministry of Defence announced in 2016 that the barracks would close no earlier than 2028. The redevelopment of the site for DARC would keep the site open, with a permanent presence of up to 100 personnel to operate and maintain the radar capability.

Secretary of State for Wales, Jo Stevens said:

The proposed redevelopment of Cawdor Barracks will help secure jobs in the area as well as protecting our national security.

This is an important project for Pembrokeshire and this government is committed to working with the local community to ensure it is a success.

The Ministry of Defence is committed to undertaking all necessary planning and environmental processes required to gain consent for the proposed redevelopment of the site and its safe operation. A comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment, including a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, is underway in support of a planning application to Pembrokeshire County Council. The Council’s granting of planning permission is conditional on DARC meeting all the required safety standards.

In particular, the safety processes will ensure that DARC meets international environmental and health standards as set by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) and the World Health Organisation, and this is standard practice for all MOD installations.

Engagement will also take place with the local community in developing proposals for DARC and there will be two local public information events prior to the statutory consultation period that is required by Pembrokeshire County Council. Members of the MOD DARC programme team will attend these events to discuss the proposals, answer any questions and hear local community views.

Public information events are being hosted over the period 13-14 September 2024.

Friday, 13 September 2024

4pm-7pm

Solva Memorial Hall, 39 High St, Solva, Haverfordwest SA62 6TE

Saturday, 14 September 2024

10am-2pm

St David’s City Hall, High St, St Davids, Haverfordwest SA62 6SD

The information boards will also be uploaded to a dedicated engagement website on Monday, 16 September 2024.

02/09/2024
PRESS RELEASE : UK response to the dissolution of the Move Forward Party [August 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 7 August 2024.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has responded to the dissolution of the main opposition party in Thailand.

In response to the Thai Constitutional Court’s decision to dissolve the Move Forward Party, an FCDO spokesperson said:

Pluralism and freedom of speech are central principles of democracy. The dissolution of another major political party in Thailand is therefore a setback for these principles. We encourage all parties to uphold democratic rights and representation.

02/09/2024
PRESS RELEASE : Chancellor Reeves – Pension funds can fire up the UK economy [August 2024]
The press release issued by HM Treasury on 7 August 2024.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves calls on UK pension schemes to invest more in the UK economy and deliver better returns for savers.
- Chancellor Rachel Reeves wants UK to learn lessons from ‘Canadian model’ ahead of meeting with major Canadian retirement funds
- Reeves confirms first Mansion House address will focus on financial service sector’s role in delivering more investment and financing growth as work continues to fix foundations of the economy, rebuild Britain and make every part of the country better off
The Chancellor Rachel Reeves has called on pension funds to “learn lessons from the Canadian model and fire up the UK economy”. The Chancellor will host a roundtable with the so-called ‘Maple 8’ group of Canadian retirement funds in Toronto on Wednesday 7 August, who have invested billions of pounds in the UK economy in recent years.

She will urge the funds to continue backing Britain and take home lessons about how consolidation of pension schemes into larger funds can help drive investment in productive assets such as vital infrastructure and high-growth businesses.

The meeting is part of intensive industry engagement for the landmark review of pension fund investment announced last month to boost investment in the UK and deliver higher returns for people’s pension pots.

Also on the Chancellor’s agenda to deliver more investment and finance growth is the financial services sector, with Rachel Reeves confirming her first Mansion House address will set out how she will work in partnership with industry and regulators to deliver growth. This will include delivering the stability the sector needs to grow, the support it needs to invest across the UK and reforms it needs to remain at the cutting-edge of new innovations and technologies.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

The size of Canadian pension schemes means they can invest far more in productive assets like vital infrastructure than ours do.

I want British schemes to learn lessons from the Canadian model and fire up the UK economy, which would deliver better returns for savers and unlock billions of pounds of investment.

We’re already beginning to see schemes announce plans to invest. That’s a vote of confidence in our work to fix the foundations of the economy, rebuild Britain and make every part of our country better off.

Industry strongly welcomed the announcement of the pension fund investment review, with supportive comments made by groups such as Legal & General, the BVCA, Aviva, Barclays and Phoenix.

New investment vehicles have since been announced to channel pension fund money into infrastructure and the UK’s fastest growing companies. Last week Phoenix and Schroders launched their Future Growth Capital co-investment fund, which will invest up to £20 billion in the UK over the next decade.

Channelling more pension fund money will release investment demand and comes alongside measures to unlock supply through fixing the broken planning system, setting up a National Wealth Fund and the biggest overhaul of listings rules for the UK stock exchange.
30/08/2024
PRESS RELEASE : Britain is open for business – Chancellor visits North America in investment drive [August 2024]
The press release issued by HM Treasury on 7 August 2024.

Rachel Reeves to bang the drum for Britain in visit to New York City and Toronto this week.
- Chancellor to share her vision for growth and champion UK sectoral strengths across financial services, clean energy and infrastructure to investors and CEOs.
- Trip to build momentum for the International Investment Summit on 14 October.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves on 5 August set off on a visit to New York and Toronto with the message that Britain is open for business.

She will meet with CEOs and senior representatives from major players across the US and Canada’s foremost industries, highlighting that early steps taken by the government to fix the foundations and restore economic stability makes the UK an attractive destination for investment.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves:

I’ve wasted no time in my first month in office in taking the difficult decisions necessary to fix the foundations of our economy, so we can rebuild Britain and make every part of the country better off. That means restoring economic stability so we can attract the investment needed to create good jobs, boost wages, and improve opportunity across Britain.

There is no credible plan for growth without private sector investment. That’s why I’m breaking down barriers at home and banging the drum for Britain abroad as we gear up to host the International Investment Summit.

While in New York, the UK’s first female Chancellor of the Exchequer will meet with Wall Street leaders and host a reception to celebrate women in finance. The US is the UK’s biggest financial services trading partner, with UK exports to the US valued at £23.4bn annually. The sector is at the heart of the government’s core mission to deliver sustainable economic growth as a jewel in the crown of the UK economy and one of its success stories, contributing almost 10% of UK GVA and employing 1.2 million people.

In Toronto, the Chancellor will meet with names in the world of clean energy and infrastructure. The government’s mission to make Britain a Clean Energy Superpower will bring opportunities for economic growth whilst helping the UK meet its target of clean power by 2030. That mission has started in earnest with the creation of Great British Energy to partner with the private sector and secure the investment needed to accelerate the transition, the sweeping away of barriers to onshore wind farms, and a record £1.5 billion budget for this year’s renewable energy auction to get Britain building green.

During her time in the US and Canada, Reeves will point out that the government has moved quickly to create a stable environment where businesses have the confidence to invest in the UK. This has included reform of a planning system that has long frustrated investment, ending the ban on on-shore wind and the establishment of a National Wealth Fund, backed by £7.3 billion to catalyse further private investment in our world-leading green and growth industries of the future.

The UK is already Europe’s leading hub for investment, with UK markets raising more capital than the next two highest European exchanges combined in 2023. But the Chancellor heads to North America with a renewed purpose to build upon this, with it being announced yesterday that Britain is to play host to the International Investment Summit on 14 October.

In doing so, Reeves will be looking to deepen the strong economic relationship between Britain and the two North American countries. The United States is the largest source of foreign investment in the UK and the UK is the third largest investment destination for Canadian companies, whom invested more than $73 billion of FDI stock in 2021.
30/08/2024
PRESS RELEASE : UK bolsters support to British nationals in Lebanon as Foreign Secretary says “leave now” [August 2024]
The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 7 August 2024.
- ministers call for British nationals in Lebanon to leave now “as situation could deteriorate rapidly”
- government strengthens its support for British nationals as regional tensions in the Middle East increase
- Border Force, consular officials and military personnel deployed to the region to support embassy staff following Ministers visiting the Middle East this week
The government has called for British nationals in Lebanon to leave now as it bolsters its support for British nationals still in the Middle East.

The UK continues to advise against all travel to Lebanon and advises British nationals still in the country to leave now while commercial options remain available. British nationals in Lebanon are also advised to sign up to Register your presence to receive the latest information and important updates directly from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

Officials have been sent to the region – including Lebanon – to provide additional support to embassy staff as part of government’s preparatory planning for a range of possible conflict scenarios, and with regional tensions rising.

Consular experts will assist with strategic planning and responding to enquiries from British nationals to make sure they get the help and advice they need, and Border Force has deployed officers who stand ready to aid consular operations.

With the potential for exit routes out of Lebanon – including roads – being affected, limited, or closed, due to events escalating with little warning, teams will continue to urge British nationals to leave while commercial options remain available.

Military personnel are also in the process of deploying to the region to provide Embassies with operational support to help British nationals. This is alongside Landing ship RFA Cardigan Bay and HMS Duncan already being in the eastern Mediterranean to support allies with humanitarian requirements, with the Royal Air Force also putting transport helicopters on standby.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

Tensions are high, and the situation could deteriorate rapidly. While we are working round the clock to strengthen our consular presence in Lebanon, my message to British nationals there is clear – leave now.

A widening of this conflict is in nobody’s interest – the consequences could be catastrophic. That’s why we continue to call for de-escalation and a diplomatic solution.

The deployment of additional staff to the region follows the Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary visiting the Middle East, including Lebanon this week, where the pair stressed the need to de-escalate tensions and pushed calls for peace and stability.

Defence Secretary John Healey said:

Our Armed Forces will always step up to support British citizens around the world and reinforce regional stability with their professionalism and bravery.

As I told leaders in the Middle East this week, de-escalation must be the primary focus in the region, and we are urging all to dial down tensions. There must be an end to the fighting, an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, and a diplomatic path to peace and security.
30/08/2024