Tag: Press Release

PRESS RELEASE : One million premises upgraded to gigabit broadband by government [February 2024]
The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 22 February 2024.

The government is rolling out gigabit networks faster than any other country in the EU.
- Government has delivered faster, more reliable connectivity to an average of one building every six minutes since project began, as one million properties connected
- majority are in hard-to-reach locations, where previously many people would have struggled to stream TV shows or run small businesses
- comes as two more Project Gigabit contracts signed to connect around 32,400 premises in Gloucestershire and Yorkshire
- further support announced through £70 million Future Telecoms Programme and Very Hard to Reach Alpha Trials to boost satellite connectivity
More than one million homes, businesses and public buildings can now access the best internet speeds on the market as a result of the UK government’s rollout of faster, more reliable broadband – showing our plan to connect hard-to-reach communities is working.

For over a decade the UK government has been investing in the construction of ‘gigabit-capable’ networks in areas that are too difficult or expensive for broadband suppliers to reach as part of their commercial plans.

This long-term decision has helped to grow the rural economy, create jobs, and ensure those in rural and remote communities across the country can reap the rewards of lightning-fast connectivity, from hamlets surrounding Land’s End in Cornwall to a Royal Air Force radar station in the northern isles of Shetland.

New data shows 1,006,800 homes and businesses have been connected, or are able to access, a better broadband connection thanks to UK government-funded programmes since the first upgrade was delivered in August 2012 – the equivalent of rolling out to one home, business or public building every six minutes.

The majority of these premises are in hard-to-reach rural locations, where residents and businesses previously would have struggled to perform basic online tasks that others take for granted such as shopping or banking online, participating in a work video call, streaming a high-definition film or online learning.

Thanks to upgrades delivered under government-backed broadband rollout programmes, these premises can now access more reliable services than traditional copper-based networks. Gigabit speeds mean households can download a high-definition film in under one minute, shop online across several different devices at once and utilise high definition video calls, such as with a GP, allowing for better healthcare.

The million premises includes 5,300 public buildings – including schools, libraries, hospitals, police stations, council offices and more. The upgrades have helped boost productivity in public services and create better experiences for those who use them, while encouraging broadband companies to extend the network to surrounding homes and businesses – improving economic security and opportunity for everyone.

Businesses – which have already increased turnover by £2.6 billion in areas targeted by our Superfast programme – will particularly benefit from gigabit capable technologies, with greater speed and reliability allowing them to bring in more orders and complete more work remotely anywhere in the UK, in turn boosting growth across our country.

The UK government’s rollout is continuing to gather pace, with more than £77 million worth of Project Gigabit contracts signed today to connect around 32,400 rural premises across Gloucestershire, West and parts of North Yorkshire. Project Gigabit is a record £5 billion programme to ensure hard-to-reach areas are not left behind in the national upgrade to gigabit broadband.

This forms part of the UK building gigabit networks faster than any country in the EU, thanks in part to government measures to stimulate competition and bust barriers to rollout.

Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan said:

Achieving a million gigabit-ready premises shows our plan to turbocharge British broadband is working. Thanks to our investment, rural communities held back by achingly slow internet can now tap into the best speeds on the market.

The UK is rolling out gigabit networks faster than any country in the EU, with 8 in 10 premises now able to access upgrades. It is a track record that shows we are rapidly building the infrastructure Britain needs to improve lives and grow the economy.

To mark the milestone, Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan is visiting the rural town of Wooler in Northumberland on Thursday (22 February) to see the impact of the government’s rollout. She will meet one entrepreneur who launched a successful hotel business as a result of the upgrades, as well as firms and employees who say the broadband boost has helped improve their productivity.

Most of the 1 million premises are spread across hard-to-reach areas of the UK, including 68,800 in Scotland, 108,800 in Wales and 118,900 in Northern Ireland. Hundreds of thousands more will be connected in the coming months and years via Project Gigabit. Over £1.1 billion has already been signed in Project Gigabit contracts to connect more than 700,000 premises in England, from Northumberland, Durham and Cumbria to Cornwall, Norfolk and Suffolk.

Clive Selley, Openreach CEO said:

We’re proud at Openreach to be leading the UK’s digital transformation – investing £15 billion to build a new ultrafast, ultra-reliable full fibre broadband network throughout the country.

In recent years, the UK’s telecoms sector has been supported by policies and regulation – including the super deduction – which encouraged this massive investment, and we’re on track to reach more than 25 million homes and businesses by the end of 2026, including millions in rural communities.

Our network, in-turn, will support future growth and prosperity for everyone so we hope this supportive environment will continue and we’re working with partners across the industry to get the job done.

Now, around 80 per cent of the UK is covered by gigabit broadband, up from just 6 per cent in 2019, and the UK is on track to achieve 85 per cent by 2025. Having the fastest connections also means the UK is fit-for-the-future, with broadband infrastructure designed to deliver for people’s needs for decades to come.

Carolyn Dawson, CEO, Founders Forum Group, said:

For founders, entrepreneurs and businesses, a reliable, high-speed internet connection can provide the rocket fuel that their ambitions need, supporting their day-to-day work and helping them to grow, so we have been delighted to see the success of Project Gigabit to date.

When Founders Forum Group became the custodian of the much-loved Tech Nation brand last year, we inherited its remit to champion startups from all corners of the UK, and investments like this support the growth of innovative and exciting businesses in locations across country.

For those building a business in Inverness or Eastbourne, the rapid rollout of these high-speed internet connections should be welcomed.

Alex Veitch, Director of Policy and Insights at the British Chambers of Commerce said:

It’s hugely welcome that more businesses across the UK now have access to gigabit broadband. Fast and reliable connectivity is fundamental to helping firms grow and thrive in a modern economy.”

It’s vital that the rollout continues apace so many more firms in rural parts of the country can also reap the benefits of this important project. In the coming months, we will also be setting out our ambitions for bringing down existing barriers to broadband coverage, recognising the important role it plays for businesses.

Julian David, CEO of techUK, said:

This announcement underscores the crucial role that high-quality communications infrastructure plays in driving the UK’s economy, connecting society, and fostering prosperity.

techUK is particularly pleased to see the continued investment in the innovative telecoms technology of tomorrow. These advancements are pivotal in shaping the future landscape of innovation, powering a plethora of emerging technologies, ranging from quantum computing to AI, automation, and edge computing.

Today’s announcement comes as the government outlines details of UKRI’s £70 million Future Telecoms Programme, funded through the UKRI Technology Missions Fund and supporting one of five critical technologies, which will see 16 UK projects share £22 million to support development and commercialisation of cutting-edge tech solutions and lay the groundwork for the networks of the future.

Meanwhile £40 million will provide further support for three existing Future Telecoms Research Hubs – led by Imperial College London, Oxford, and Cambridge Universities – alongside the creation of a dedicated national infrastructure for future telecoms testing and development linked to the UK National Dark Fibre Facility – to support research in 6G, developing new architectures and networks for end-to-end connectivity, embedding AI and computing and developing wireless access systems such as cell-free networks and optical wireless integration.

Dr Kedar Pandya, UKRI Technology Missions Fund Senior Responsible Owner, said:

The investment announced today will play an important role in advancing the telecoms technologies of tomorrow, supporting both early-stage research and market-ready solutions.

It underlines the role the Technology Missions Fund and UKRI support plays in unlocking the potential of new technologies that will have a profound impact on society and the economy.

The UK is also delivering high-speed, reliable connectivity to some of our very hardest to reach locations using satellite connectivity through the ‘Very Hard to Reach Alpha Trials’. These trials are testing the extent to which low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites can be used to deliver high-speed low latency broadband connections to areas which are typically beyond the building capability of internet service providers. This includes transforming connectivity for some of the country’s most important wildlife havens and sites of historical importance within protected landscapes.

Further Information

Premises are classified as passed by gigabit-capable broadband if it is possible to access a gigabit-capable service for the standard price and be connected in the standard timescale.

All premise count figures are rounded to the nearest 100, meaning they may not sum due to rounding.

The total number of premises connected have been funded via a range of active and legacy programmes, including the Superfast Programme, Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme, Gigabit Infrastructure Subsidy (Project Gigabit contracts) and Gigahubs.

There are already alpha trials live in a number of areas including the Shetland Islands, Eryri National Park, and North Yorkshire, and today, the government unveils five additional trial sites in Scotland, Northumberland, and Norfolk. These will transform connectivity for some of the country’s most important wildlife havens and areas of historical importance, as the government leans on the UK’s tech ingenuity to drive forward new ways to meet connectivity challenges.
March 5, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : UK supports full implementation of the peace agreement in Colombia and calls for security guarantees for former combatants – UK statement at the UN Security Council [February 2024]

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

Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Colombia.

Thank you, President, and let me echo your appreciation to the Government of Colombia, the UN Secretariat, the United Nations Verification Mission led by SRSG Ruiz Massieu and to all the interlocutors we engaged with in Columbia.

I’d also like to thank my co-leads Guyana Presidency and Switzerland for their close cooperation throughout the visit. And I’ll reflect upon the sessions led by the United Kingdom.

In Bogota, the Security Council heard firm commitment as you said President, to the 2016 Peace Agreement and the importance of security guarantees for former combatants from Government entities in charge of peace implementation.

The Council also met with the High Commissioner for Peace, Otty Patiño, to discuss the Government’s vision to broaden peace through dialogue. It was an opportune moment to discuss the ELN process given the recent ceasefire extension, which we mandated the Mission to monitor. The Council discussed the dialogue with the EMC which we’ve indicated a willingness to consider mandating the UN to support.

The High Commissioner shared his vision of territorial transformation, extending the state’s presence in rural areas which you referred to, and the importance of peace delivering benefits such as schools, healthcare, and infrastructure. The Council welcomed efforts to strengthen the humanitarian provisions of the ceasefires and encouraged further steps to alleviate the suffering of the civilian population.

In our meeting with the signatories to the Peace Agreement in Agua Bonita, we welcomed their unwavering commitment to peace and also we met them in Bogota. The signatories called on the Government to accelerate the implementation of the Agreement including by appointing an entity at the highest level to coordinate efforts.

The Council shared concern about former combatants’ insecurity and the 418 former combatants killed since the signing of the Agreement. We encouraged the Government to accelerate efforts to develop rapid protection plans.

As you mentioned President, we also went to Buenaventura, and just to add to what you said, I think it’s worth saying that five years ago, the Council was unable to meet a female community leader because of fears for her security, and this time that very same leader – who is now the Vice President – accompanied us to her region, which I think shows the extent of the transformation underway in Colombia.

This was an opportunity as you said President, for Council members to focus on the Ethnic Chapter and to hear first-hand from those whose daily work focuses on building peace at local levels. And the Council also heard from youth representatives to understand their daily reality and their calls for educational and economic opportunities.

As you said President, everywhere we saw the UN Verification Mission, UN agencies, Colombian Government, communities, and individuals working together to build sustainable peace. Peace is not an abstract concept – it’s a real social cause which is a whole of society effort.

Thank you.

March 5, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : New UK strategy to deliver drones to armed forces [February 2024]

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

UK Defence Drone Strategy launched to deliver unified approach to uncrewed systems across all three military services, supported by £4.5 billion of investment.

A new strategy backed by at least £4.5 billion of investment over the next decade will accelerate access to uncrewed systems for the UK Armed Forces, rapidly equipping them with innovative technology across air, sea, and land.

The UK Defence Drone Strategy, born from lessons learned in Ukraine, will harness innovative capabilities across UK defence. It will enable the rapid experimentation, testing and evaluation of uncrewed platforms, unifying the approach of the British Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, integrated by UK Strategic Command, while crucially working in lockstep with industry.

Drones are a game-changing technology that are constantly evolving, and it is crucial that the UK continues to invest in and maintain our position on the cutting edge of drone development to stay one step ahead of our adversaries.

The new approach will see uncrewed systems delivered at pace into the hands of the British Armed Forces, equipping personnel with critical intelligence, reconnaissance, surveillance, strike and logistical capabilities. This will leave behind long development timelines and lengthy requirement discussions. Once operational, the systems will be able to be developed and upgraded – or ‘spiralled’ – to keep pace with the rapid evolution of technology and changing threat picture.

Our initial priority remains the successful delivery of the Ukraine-UK uncrewed systems initiative, building on the UK’s donation of over 4,000 drones for Ukraine. The UK Defence Drone Strategy will help Armed Forces personnel meet the relentless cycle of battlefield adaptation, as has been repeatedly underpinned as Ukraine continues to successfully resist the Russian invasion.

Minister for Defence Procurement, James Cartlidge said:

The conflict in Ukraine has been an incubator for new ways of war and we need to learn and implement those hard-fought lessons.

Rapidly being able to develop and upgrade uncrewed systems will be key to gaining battlefield advantage and we must seize this opportunity to grow and sustain such skills and capabilities in the UK.

The strategy brings together a clear, unified focus – backed by billions in funding – while providing the flexibility to meet different requirements in the air, over land and at sea.

Ultimately, this is about learning the lessons from the Ukrainian frontline to procure drones at scale for the UK’s Armed Forces.

Of the £2.5 billion pounds to be spent on supporting Ukraine this coming financial year, more than £200 million will go towards supplying Ukraine with uncrewed systems. As the Defence Secretary announced last week, the UK will include work to scale up the Drone Capability Coalition’s provision of ‘first-person view’ (FPV) drones to Ukraine. This will help to scale the UK’s domestic drone industry across manufacturing and software development whilst giving Ukraine cutting-edge, battle-tested capabilities to defend their citizens and target the invading Russian forces.

Working with international partners and leading uncrewed systems designers, the UK’s ambition to be a world-leader in uncrewed systems will enable exports in a rapidly growing global market and create onshore investment opportunities, supporting UK jobs and backing the Prime Minister’s priority to grow the economy.

Commander of UK Strategic Command, General Jim Hockenhull said:

This strategy, backed by significant investment, offers the opportunity to transform our approach to the acquisition, integration, and exploitation of uncrewed systems.

The partnership with industry will be vital to ensure we harness innovation and generate world-leading capability.

Integrating advanced uncrewed systems into our suite of capabilities will protect the force, deter our adversaries and, when necessary, help us to fight and win.

Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), the procurement arm of the UK MOD, has played a key role in helping develop the new UK Defence Drone Strategy and will be pivotal in ensuring its successful ongoing delivery.

Chief Executive, Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), Andy Start said:

DE&S has supported the rapid procurement of large numbers of uncrewed aerial systems for Ukraine, and it is clearer than ever that unhindered access to battle-winning uncrewed systems is absolutely crucial in modern day combat.

We are delighted to be working with frontline commands and industry partners to identify, test and deliver platforms that will give the UK Armed Forces the competitive edge they require to protect the nation and support our allies.

A comprehensive partnership with industry is at the core of the Drone Strategy, and building on the UK’s extensive industrial, robotics and digital heritage. Through regular, clear industry engagements, we will incentivise industry to support the rapid manufacture and adaptation at a scale and capability able to deliver operational advantage for our Armed Forces.

As part of the Strategy, we will work across government to make the UK more competitive in the global export market for uncrewed systems and their development.

Today’s Strategy builds on the UK’s rich history of developing and operating uncrewed systems, including the use of Reaper MQ-9s by the Royal Air Force, and small to medium uncrewed aerial systems by the Army and particularly the Royal Navy who have developed a growing array of surface and sub-surface capabilities, including autonomous minehunters.

March 5, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : HMS Diamond crew celebrated as ship readies to return to operations [February 2024]
The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 21 February 2024.

The Armed Forces Minister has praised the bravery and tenacity of the crew of HMS Diamond, who have been working hard to patrol the Red Sea.
- Minister for the Armed Forces James Heappey visits HMS Diamond in Gibraltar.
- HMS Diamond docked in Gibraltar to restock and resupply.
- From November to the end of January, HMS Diamond patrolled the Red Sea ensuring freedom of navigation.
The Armed Forces Minister has praised the bravery and tenacity of the crew of HMS Diamond, who have been working hard to patrol the Red Sea, intercepting smuggled weapons, and protecting global shipping.

Visiting the vessel and her ship’s company over the past 24 hours, Minister for the Armed Forces James Heappey praised the efforts of Royal Navy personnel, who are currently docked in Gibraltar to restock and resupply after a demanding stint defending international shipping in the Red Sea.

As part of Operation Prosperity Guardian, an international task force initiated to protect merchant shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, HMS Diamond arrived in the Red Sea in December to protect and support key shipping lanes following the Houthis’ illegal attacks.

Since leaving Portsmouth at the end of November, HMS Diamond has sailed nearly 20,000 nautical miles on patrols, with her Wildcat helicopter having flown more than 53 hours of sorties over the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden making its crew the busiest in the Royal Navy.

Minister Heappey toured HMS Diamond, meeting members of the ship’s company and her Commanding Officer and discussing the ship’s recent and future activity.

Minister for the Armed Forces James Heappey said:

HMS Diamond has played a vital role defending freedom of navigation, saving innocent lives, and protecting merchant shipping from illegal Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. It was a pleasure to visit the ship and her crew while they were alongside in Gibraltar.

I am hugely thankful for British Forces Gibraltar’s support for HMS Diamond and, in turn, their contribution to Operation Prosperity Guardian.

While on Operation Prosperity Guardian, the Type 45 Destroyer faced three separate Houthi attacks, during which she successfully destroyed nine drones using her Sea Viper missile system and guns. The warship, one of the Royal Navy’s most advanced, docked in Gibraltar to be restocked and resupplied, with fresh ‘victory marks’ on her flanks, depicting the nine downed drones.

Since early February, Type 23 Frigate HMS Richmond has taken over HMS Diamond’s duties on Operation Prosperity Guardian while she restocks and resupplies in Gibraltar. Alongside the UK warship, the task force includes three US destroyers and a French warship, all working together to protect freedom of navigation, international trade, and human life by countering the Houthis in international waters.

HMS Diamond’s visit to Gibraltar demonstrates British Forces Gibraltar’s critical role in supporting Defence’s overall ability to combat current and future threats.

Defence is committed to investing in British Forces Gibraltar as one of Defence’s Global Hubs, key supporting operations, defence engagement and exercises.
March 5, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Limavady campus ‘a commitment to reconciliation and education excellence’ – NIO Minister [February 2024]

The press release issued by the Northern Ireland Office on 21 February 2024.

The Lord Caine has welcomed the opening of the Limavady Shared Education campus.

A UK Government Minister has welcomed the opening of a new Shared Education facility in Limavady.

The Lord Caine, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, was in attendance at the official opening ceremony today (Wednesday) of the Limavady Shared Education Campus, bringing together Limavady High School and St. Mary’s High School for certain classes.

The project was constructed with support from the UK Government’s Fresh Start funding for integrated and shared education.

Speaking at the event, Lord Caine commended both schools for their “commitment to reconciliation and educational excellence” providing “state of the art facilities to enable young people to work together to reach their potential”.

He said: “The Government believes that greater integration within education is an essential aspect of the reconciliation process in Northern Ireland. This was affirmed as a commitment in the Belfast Agreement.

“The Government also wants every child in the United Kingdom to have a high quality education, and for parents to have a genuine choice of high quality schools.

“It is for these reasons that the UK Government made available capital funding to build integrated and shared schools as part of the Fresh Start Agreement.”

Welcoming the presence of both the First Minister and Deputy First Minister, and the Education Minister, at the shared campus opening, Lord Caine encouraged the new Executive to “progress with the important work of transformation and improvement in public services, including education.”

He added: “The UK Government will continue to support and promote educational integration in Northern Ireland – for the future success of Northern Ireland rests on its young being able to grow up looking forward to a shared future, rather than back to a divided past.”

March 5, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Peacekeeping is a vital tool to reduce global conflict and create stability – UK statement at the UN Security Council [February 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 21 February 2024.

Statement by Ambassador Archie Young at the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations (C-34).

Thank you Chair.

As we have clearly heard today, peacekeeping remains a vital tool to reduce global conflict and create stability. But as peacekeeping faces new and systemic challenges, it must continue to adapt and evolve.

We have made great progress in implementing the Action for Peacekeeping initiative and Action for Peacekeeping Plus priorities, which remains the key overarching reform framework, but there is more to be done to ensure that peacekeeping is fit for the future. As we start this year’s session, I would like to stress three points.

First, we underline the importance of partnership and collaboration, as well as political support and consent, in the effective delivery of mandates and well-planned transitions.

Missions continue to suffer from restrictions on freedom of movement and of violations of Status of Forces Agreements, including in the Central African Republic, Lebanon and Western Sahara.

Sustainable transitions require UN structures and the host government’s peace and security architecture to work together. It is the people on the ground who suffer most when host governments fail to support a sustainable transition, and there are significant risks in how we safeguard the protection of civilians during withdrawals.

Second, we must ensure all peacekeepers have the necessary training and capabilities, including the right medical capabilities, to meet the challenges of today and deliver their mandates.

Among these challenges, misinformation and disinformation is growing and puts the safety and security of our peacekeepers at risk.

Effective strategic communications are essential enablers of mandate delivery and it is vital that we continue to use tools such as the Comprehensive Planning and Performance Assessment System, now rolled out in all missions, to their fullest extent and find ways to apply data in decision-making.

Third, we should recognise the progress made on Women, Peace and Security issues and commit to fully representative and safe operations. A growing number of Troop- and Police-Contributing Countries have shown significant increases in the number of their women personnel.

But there is much more to be done to ensure women’s participation is meaningful and that women, as part of missions or as civilians, are safe from harassment and abuse.

We urge the UN and Member States to hold themselves to the highest of standards on gender parity, civil society engagement, and countering sexual exploitation and abuse.

The United Kingdom values the work of this Committee in driving forward peacekeeping reform through practical consensus-based recommendations, and we will continue to contribute to improvements in peacekeeping through deployments, extrabudgetary funding and expertise, as set out by the range of our pledges in Ghana at last year’s Peacekeeping Ministerial.

Finally, I want to end by paying tribute to peacekeepers across the globe and to the memory of the brave peacekeepers who lost their lives. We commit to engage in collaborative and constructive discussions over the coming weeks to achieve a substantive report this year.

Thank you Chair.

March 5, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : UK Government publishes Terms of Reference for Omagh Bombing Inquiry [February 2024]

The press release issued by the Northern Ireland Office on 21 February 2024.

The UK Government has today (21 February) published the Terms of Reference for the Omagh Bombing Inquiry.

The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Chris Heaton-Harris MP, has today announced the Terms of Reference for the Omagh Bombing Inquiry, following agreement from the Chair of the Inquiry, Lord Turnbull.

Last year, the UK Government confirmed an independent statutory inquiry would be established into the preventability of the Omagh bombing in August 1998.

The atrocity, carried out by the Real IRA, killed 29 people and two unborn children, and injured 220 others.

The Terms of Reference are focused on the four grounds identified by the Northern Ireland High Court as giving rise to plausible arguments that the bombing could have been prevented.

The Inquiry will be established under the Inquiries Act 2005, with full powers, including the power to compel the production of documents and to summon witnesses to give evidence on oath.

Details of the Terms of Reference were outlined by the Secretary of State via a Written Ministerial Statement to Parliament today.

He said: “I want to first again express my deepest sympathy for all of those affected by the Omagh bombing in August 1998. It was a cruel atrocity carried out, not just on the people of Omagh, but on all those in Northern Ireland who supported the peace process.

“Following the announcement of the Inquiry in February 2023, and the appointment of Lord Turnbull as Chair in June 2023, I have now agreed with Lord Turnbull the Terms of Reference for the Inquiry. These are focused on the four grounds identified by the Northern Ireland High Court as giving rise to plausible arguments that the bombing could have been prevented.

“With the Terms of Reference now agreed, the Inquiry can press ahead with its work to comply with the judgement of the High Court, demonstrating the UK Government’s ongoing commitment to taking proper action on legacy related matters.

“The Inquiry Chair will now undertake a setting-up exercise to design the Inquiry as he sees fit, and he will announce further detail about the Inquiry in due course.”

Mr Heaton-Harris also called on the Irish Government to set out its own position with regard to the High Court ruling.

He said: “I urge the Irish Government to now explain what consideration it has given to the setting up of an investigation in Ireland to discharge its obligations under Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights, in line with the clear direction of the High Court.”

Note to Editors:

The Full Written Ministerial Statement regarding the Terms of Reference for the Omagh Bombing Inquiry can be found here.

More information regarding the Omagh Bombing Inquiry can be found here.

March 5, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Russia’s war has had devastating impacts on the environment: UK statement to the OSCE [February 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 21 February 2024.

Ambassador Neil Holland notes the environmental impacts of Russia’s invasion that have had far-reaching consequences in Ukraine and beyond its borders.

Thank you Chairs. To our keynote speakers, Minister Dalli, Minister Panayiotou and Secretary General, dear Helga, thank you for your remarks. Thank you also to our expert panel.

Before I speak to today’s important topic, it would be remiss of me to not acknowledge the tragic death of Alexi Navalny who dedicated his life to exposing the corruption of the Russian system. It is clear the Russian authorities saw Navalny as a threat, that is why they imprisoned him on fabricated charges, poisoned him with a banned nerve agent and sent him to an Arctic penal colony. No-one should doubt the brutal nature of the Russian system. Our thoughts are with his family, his supporters and the people of Russia. We will revert to this issue at the next Permanent Council.

In addition to acts of internal repression, Russia’s war of aggression has had devastating impacts on the environment, with far-reaching consequences in Ukraine and beyond its borders. At a time of global climate crisis, Russia’s actions demonstrate a blatant disregard for the environmental consequences of war.

We have witnessed the widespread destruction of Ukraine’s critical infrastructure, including industrial facilities and energy installations. This has led to severe pollution and environmental degradation which pose threats to both human health and ecosystems across large areas.

While thankfully the risk of radiological release remains low, Russia’s seizure and ongoing occupation of Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) remains cause for grave concern. Russia must immediately withdraw its forces from Ukraine and return full control of the nuclear facilities at ZNPP to their rightful owner to ensure safe and secure operation, and to minimise the risk of an incident with catastrophic environmental consequences.

The UK sees an undeniable link between climate, nature, and security. Environmental and climate factors can act as both catalysts and multipliers for conflict. And both the environment and our climate can be impacted by military activity.

The growing climate and nature crisis demands that we consider more carefully the environmental impact of military actions. Tackling climate change and biodiversity loss is one of the UK Government’s key international priorities. It is underpinned by a commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. The UK Defence establishment is fully committed to playing its part. Climate change is now seen as a whole-of-Defence issue in the UK.

The intersection of gender, conflict, and the environment is a complex and crucial area. Existing gender inequalities mean that the impact of climate change and disasters fall unequally on women and girls. Inequality means that their access to resources is limited and their exposure to disaster-induced risks and losses is increased. Recognising these impacts is essential for sustainable recovery and peace efforts. Women and girls are often excluded from formal systems to address the drivers of climate change yet are key to finding localised solutions.

We welcome this important discussion today. The OSCE’s comprehensive approach to security makes it the right place to discuss the intersection between security and climate. We are grateful to the Secretary General and Chair-in-Office for continuing to make climate security a key theme within the organisation.

March 5, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Funding for game-changing tech which could destroy cancers and predict disease [February 2024]
The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 21 February 2024.

Millions invested in eight innovative companies behind lifesaving new medical technology which could destroy liver cancer tumours, detect Alzheimer’s and quickly spot those at risk of stroke.

Countless lives could be saved thanks to a multi-million pound government investment in potential breakthrough medical devices.

As part of a £10 million funding package for boosting access to medical technology, eight innovative tech companies will be supported to bring their devices to market. It could help transform the way we treat some of the biggest causes of death and disability in the UK.

One device, by HistoSonics, aims to identify and destroy liver cancer tumours using focused ultrasound waves. These waves break down tumours without damaging healthy tissue, offering a safer alternative to radiotherapy and other high intensity treatments. It could improve quality of life for many patients going through treatment – reducing hospital visits, post procedure complications, and making pain management easier.

Today’s announcement is part of the government’s long-term plan to ensure the NHS and its patients can get quicker access to new groundbreaking technologies. It follows the unveiling of our groundbreaking blueprint for boosting NHS medtech and turning innovation into real benefits for society last year.

Health Minister Andrew Stephenson said:

NHS staff need access to the latest technology to deliver the highest quality care for patients and cut waiting lists – one of our top five priorities.

These cutting-edge technologies could help thousands of patients with a range of conditions, including cancer, stroke, and Alzheimer’s, while easing pressure on our hospitals and reducing healthcare inequalities.

Our investment in these pioneering companies is part of our long-term plan for a faster, simpler and fairer health care system, and demonstrates our clear commitment to ensuring the UK is the most innovative economy in the world.

One company is developing a blood test for Alzheimer’s Disease which means patients could be identified and treated earlier. Roche Diagnostics Ltd has developed the Amyloid Plasma Panel – a blood test which could help clinicians decide if patients with cognitive impairment should undergo tests or imaging to confirm Alzheimer’s Disease.

A portable blood test, from Upfront Diagnostics, could help paramedics identify stroke patients more quickly. Currently, ambulance workers can’t recognise a patient with a blood clot blocking the flow of blood and oxygen to their brain, who would require urgent treatment at stroke centres rather than local hospitals.

The blood test could help them recognise these cases on the spot – so patients could be taken to a comprehensive stroke centre for immediate, vital treatment. It could mean thousands are spared long-term disability and the associated care costs, while reducing pressure on A&E departments nationwide.

Dr Marc Bailey, Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency Chief Science and Innovation Officer, said:

We are very excited to announce the final eight selected technologies in the new IDAP pilot scheme. This is designed to explore how support from the regulator, UK health technology organisations and NHS bodies can accelerate the development of transformative medical devices from their initial proof of concept through to uptake in the NHS.

The pilot criteria prioritises patient need in all aspects of decision-making and, by supporting innovative medical technologies, will ease pressure on the healthcare system. Most important, it’s an initiative which could be life-changing for many patients.

We are committed to being a regulator that establishes the UK as a centre of medical innovation and look forward to working with the wider healthcare system to achieve this.

The funding is part of a radical new programme called The Innovative Devices Access Pathway (IDAP), which aims to bring state-of-the-art technologies and solutions to the forefront of the NHS. Currently in the pilot stage, the funding will be used to test the new technologies for use on a large scale as quickly as possible.

The government is investing £10 million in the pilot as part of a wider programme of work to accelerate access to medical technology. The programme is run by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), NHS England, Health Technology Wales, and Scottish Health Technology Group. They will be providing tailored, intensive advice on regulatory approval, health tech assessments and access to the NHS.

Jeanette Kusel, Director of NICE Advice (The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) said:

NICE’s ambition is to drive innovation into the hands of health and care professionals to enable best practice in health and care treatment.

Through IDAP and our support service NICE Advice, we aim to be a trusted adviser, providing tailored advice and supporting businesses along the whole product lifecycle helping them realise their ambition and helping bring the very best of innovation into the NHS and the hands of patients.

Lenus Health Ltd. is using artificial intelligence to predict patients at risk of hospitalisation for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, which causes the airways to become narrow and damaged, resulting in breathing difficulties.

The company collects data from wearable devices, sensors and apps and uses AI to predict which patients are at greater risk of hospital admissions. This allows them to be monitored and treated more effectively, while simultaneously reducing pressure on hospitals.

Another device aims to reduce inequalities in the field of lung health. Oximeters – devices clipped over the end of a fingertip – are used widely at hospitals and at home to assess how well the lungs and circulatory system are working. However, research suggests this technology may not accurately detect falling oxygen levels in people with darker skin tones.

EarSwitch has produced a device which detects oxygen levels from the inner ear-canal instead, which is not pigmented irrespective of the person’s skin colour. It could offer better quality readings and a more innovative approach to oxygen level monitoring.

Vin Diwakar, Interim National Director of Transformation, NHS England, said:

This is an important milestone in our work to ensure the NHS continues to get the best new technologies and treatments to patients faster, having already rolled out more than 100 new treatments through the cancer drug fund and setting up a dedicated programme to prepare for new Alzheimer’s treatments once they are approved.

We will be working closely with our partners to support those companies selected for the pilot so that more game-changing, life-saving technologies are introduced quickly and safely on the NHS.

Other technologies set to benefit from a share of the funding include:
- Multiple Sclerosis fatigue app: Avegen Ltd. has developed a new smartphone app that delivers exercises, cognitive behaviour therapy and targeted physical activity in a personally customisable format to help patients manage Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
- Self-test for neutropenia: 52 North Health. has developed a new device to allow chemotherapy patients to self-test at home – using a finger-prick blood test – for neutropenic sepsis. This is a life-threatening condition in patients whose immune system is suppressed.
- Algorithm infection predictor: Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) is a life-threatening medical condition caused by the body’s overwhelming response to infection or inflammation. Presymptom Health Ltd. has developed a new test and algorithm with the potential to predict infection status up to three days before conventional diagnosis is possible.
Dr Susan Myles, Director of Health Technology Wales, said:

Health Technology Wales is proud to have played a role in the selection of eight pilot IDAP technologies which have the potential to support clinicians and improve the lives of patients across the UK.

We look forward to continuing to support the adoption of innovative health technologies by the NHS.
March 5, 2024
PRESS RELEASE : Tougher laws to protect children from sexual abuse [February 2024]
The press release issued by the Home Office on 21 February 2024.

Children will be better protected from sexual predators under plans being brought forward by the Home Secretary today (Wednesday 21 February).

There will be a legal requirement for anyone in regulated activity relating to children in England, including teachers or healthcare professionals, to report it if they know a child is being sexually abused.

Those who fail to report child sexual abuse they are aware of, falling short of their legal duties, face being barred from working with young people.

Anyone who actively protects child sexual abusers – by intentionally blocking others from reporting or covering up the crime – could go to prison for 7 years.

By making mandatory reporting a legal requirement, the government is delivering on a key recommendation in the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) report to protect children from harm and make sure authorities never again turn a blind eye to this kind of devastating crime.

In a move to further protect people from sexual predators, the police are being given greater powers to stop registered sex offenders from changing their name if they think they still pose a risk to their communities.

This will mean those who commit these despicable crimes face the full force of the law and are managed under tough measures, preventing them from offending again.

Home Secretary James Cleverly said:

There is no excuse for turning a blind eye to a child’s pain.

Having listened to the voices of victims and survivors and reviewed the work of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, we are working at pace to get a mandatory reporting duty for child sexual abuse onto the statute book.

We’re also going further, equipping the police with more powers to prevent those who have committed abhorrent sexual crimes in the past from evading the police by changing their name.

We will continue use all levers at our disposal to tackle this horrific crime and keep women and children safe.

Minister for Victims and Safeguarding Laura Farris said:

This government has introduced robust legislation for protecting children. But we know children were failed in the past, and that’s why we commissioned the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse.

By bringing into force a mandatory duty to report child sexual abuse – the inquiry’s principal recommendation – we are sending a clear message that children will never be let down whether in schools, sports settings or any supervised environment.

As someone who worked on the Inquiry before coming into politics this is personal to me. We will continue to support the police in the toughest crack down on anyone who poses a risk to children.

Gabrielle Shaw, Chief Executive for The National Association for People Abused in Childhood said:

NAPAC welcomes this important measure by the government that will improve safeguarding of children and increase accountability amongst those who have a duty of care.

The introduction of mandatory reporting is a big step in the right direction, which must be implemented alongside an approach that prioritises the wellbeing of the child and ensures they have access to ongoing, specialist support. This will require investment in training requirements, wider supporting structures and effective tracking and review.

National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for the Management of Violent and Sexual Offenders, Assistant Chief Constable Jonny Blackwell, said:

Managing the potential risk posed by registered sexual offenders within the community is a complex area of work for police and we work closely with partners as part of a multi-agency approach to manage these offenders every day.

UK policing has some of the most advanced and stringent tools in the world to manage registered sex offenders, however we will always seek innovative ways to continue to keep up with the changing world we work in.

Any new restrictions which enable us to more effectively manage the risk posed by offenders to the public are welcome.

Chair of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, Professor Alexis Jay OBE said:

I welcome the Home Secretary’s statement that measures to introduce mandatory reporting will be included in the Criminal Justice Bill. I look forward to working with the Home Secretary on the detail of this as the bill progresses.

Under the proposed changes, police will be able to issue a notice to sex offenders who continue to spark concern blocking them from changing or attempting to change their name on official documents such as passports and driving licences without their approval.

Today’s announcement builds on the UK’s existing laws to manage sex offenders, which are among the toughest in the world.

The government is also investing in a range of work to strengthen law enforcement capacity and capability to tackle child sexual abuse and exploitation. This includes:
- £6.5 million this year for the Tackling Organised Exploitation programme (TOEX), which brings together local, regional and national data to ensure police can effectively uncover and prosecute exploitation
- £1.9 million in the new Child Sexual Exploitation Police Taskforce, which is providing practical, expert, on the ground support for forces with a particular focus on group-based child sexual exploitation, including grooming gangs
The new measures will be introduced as amendments at report stage of the Criminal Justice Bill in the House of Commons.
March 5, 2024