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  • PRESS RELEASE : New technologies on show at Quantum Showcase as Science Minister drives forward UK’s £2.5 billion Quantum Strategy [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : New technologies on show at Quantum Showcase as Science Minister drives forward UK’s £2.5 billion Quantum Strategy [November 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 2 November 2023.

    The Science Minister George Freeman outlines the recipients of over £14 million in funding, aimed at benefiting the UK’s thriving quantum sector.

    • Science Minister sets out how the government is continuing with its vision to become a quantum-enabled economy by 2023 with over £14 million in funding
    • the latest in ground-breaking applications of quantum technology will be showcased at one of the largest quantum events in the UK
    • UK has signed new science and innovation agreement with Australia and the Netherlands to deepen collaboration on quantum

    The Science Minister George Freeman will today (Thursday 2 November) outline the recipients of over £14 million in funding, aimed at benefiting the UK’s thriving quantum sector.

    At the UK National Quantum Technologies Showcase, taking place in London today, Minister Freeman will set out how the government is continuing with its vision to become a quantum-enabled economy by 2023.

    The showcase will present the latest in ground-breaking applications of the technology which will potentially revolutionise many aspects of life in the UK. Quantum technologies could bring enormous benefits to the economy, such as making it possible to solve complex problems impossible to solve with even the most powerful high-performance classical computers, and opening entirely new frontiers in sensing, timing, imaging, and communications.

    The event, which last year welcomed over 1,000 delegates, with 67 exhibitors from 34 different countries, is organised by National Quantum Technologies Programme, which was established in 2014 and backed by £1 billion of government funding.

    The National Quantum Strategy, published in March 2023, commits a further £2.5 billion to developing quantum technologies in the UK over the 10 years from 2024 which will aim to generate at least an additional £1 billion of private investment into the programme.

    The announcements made today will include:

    • the launch of a UK Quantum Standards Network Pilot that will help to ensure that the UK is at the forefront of establishing global standards for quantum
    • over £10 million in funding for 6 projects to accelerate the development of components and systems for quantum network technologies to transform the way in which we distribute, secure, and process our information to meet the challenges of our increasingly complex data economy
    • over £4 million to strengthen collaborative research and development through Canada-UK partnerships to develop real-world quantum technologies for commercial use
    • the National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) closing its £30 million competition to provide quantum computing testbeds, alongside a partnership with IBM to provide users cloud access to IBM’s full fleet quantum machines
    • two new science and innovation agreements with Australia and the Netherlands to deepen collaboration on quantum which will see closer cooperation covering research and development, commercialisation, investment, and skills

    George Freeman MP, Minister of State at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology said:

    We have identified Quantum as one of the 5 transformational technologies in which the UK is a global leader, which is why we have set out a £2.5 billion 10 year industrial strategy to support the quantum sector here in the UK. Quantum is set to transform computing, imaging and sensing, cyber security and position, navigation and timing with major industrial applications from drug discovery to defence, fintech, and much more. That is why I am here today at the Quantum Showcase to announce this package of UK funding and programmes.

    Our partnership between the National Quantum Computing Centre and IBM will provide cloud quantum computing access for companies, agencies, national labs and other organisations to help boost UK quantum computing infrastructure. Our £30 million quantum testbed programme will build the world’s first quantum computing testbed to assess and benchmark machines. Our funding for collaborative programmes with the Netherlands and Canada is a sign of our commitment to develop global quantum standards and networks.

    This is an exciting day for the UK quantum sector.

    Quantum technologies – one of the government’s 5 critical technologies – are devices and systems using quantum mechanics to provide capabilities that ‘classical’ machines like binary computers cannot.

    The technology already offers possible solutions to some of our greatest challenges in society and provide future capabilities that are yet to be explored. These technologies hold the potential to tackle intricate problems that currently surpass the capacities of even the most advanced classical computers and will allow us to reach new frontiers in sensing, timing, imaging, and communications. Over the next 10 years, quantum technologies are expected to revolutionise many aspects of life in the UK and bring enormous benefits such as helping to grow our economy and create well-paid jobs across the country – one of the Prime Minister’s 5 priorities.

    The National Quantum Strategy sets out a bold and ambitious approach to supporting quantum technologies in the UK across the broad spectrum of quantum computing, sensing, timing, imaging and communications. It shows how the UK will develop its strengths across different hardware platforms, software and components, and reinforce our capabilities throughout the supply chains.

    Just last month, Secretary of State Michelle Donelan opened PsiQuantum’s new state-of-the-art research and development (R&D) facility at Sci-Tech Daresbury, which is supported with £9 million from the government. In June, Minister Freeman announced £45 million in funding to support universities and businesses working in the UK’s quantum technologies sector.

    Details of the announcements

    Small Business Research Initiative competition – Quantum Networks, Enabling Components & Systems

    As part of the Innovate UK led Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) competition, 6 projects have been awarded £10.6 million to accelerate the development of components and systems for quantum network technologies.

    These technologies will transform the way in which we distribute, secure, and process our information to meet the challenges of a communication network that is growing in capacity and complexity as our economy becomes increasingly underpinned by data. The funding will assist in the delivery of deployable prototypes into the hands of customers, building the UK’s leadership in this emerging global market.

    The projects chosen to receive funding include delivering modular systems for connecting quantum processors into networks at scale and developing high-bandwidth quantum-secure communications between satellite and ground networks, they are set to conclude in 2025.

    Quantum Standards Network Pilot

    The National Physical Laboratory (NPL), in collaboration with government and industry partners, will launch a UK Quantum Standards Network Pilot. This pilot network builds on the commitments made in the National Quantum Strategy which recognises the importance of technical standards to support the global commercialisation of quantum technology. The pilot network will ensure the UK is at the forefront of establishing global standards for quantum. It will provide a focal point on standards for UK industry and develop initial plans for industry outreach, standard development road mapping and international engagement, helping overcome barriers to the realisation of the potential of quantum technologies.

    The aim of the pilot network is to evolve into a centre that coordinates the UK’s engagement with global standards, ensuring that the UK continues to be at the forefront of the quantum revolution. NPL will collaborate with the British Standards Institution (BSI), the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), UKQuantum, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) on the pilot network.

    New quantum agreements with Australia and the Netherlands to deepen collaboration on quantum

    The UK has signed two new quantum agreements with Australia and the Netherlands to help harness the constant creation of new knowledge, understanding and insights from our innovation ecosystems. International partnerships will play a crucial role in delivering the UK’s ambitions for quantum technologies as set out within the National Quantum Strategy. The UK has already signed agreements with the US and Canada which set out areas for closer cooperation covering research and development, commercialisation, investment and skills.

    Australia is a key partner and agreeing to closer working on quantum will also build on opportunities presented through the Free Trade Agreement and existing science and technology links, such as the Cyber and Critical Technology Partnership.

    The Netherlands have a strong history and culture of technology and the agreement will see a deepening of the collaboration on science and innovation between the 2 countries. It will also support efforts in both countries to develop ethical and governance principles for the responsible use of quantum technology, for the benefit of society as a whole.

    Canada – UK Commercialising Quantum Technology Programme

    Collaboration between key international partners will be essential to build mutual capabilities and to grow industrial opportunities within quantum technologies. Alongside the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP), Innovate UK is investing £4.2 million in 11 projects to strengthen collaborative research and development through Canada-UK partnerships.

    This funding will help to develop real-world quantum technologies for commercial use in networking, sensing, and scalable solutions to quantum computing, alongside developing the supply chain.

    The National Quantum Computing Centre signs up service provider to offer assured quantum computing access for UK users for research

    The NQCC will provide assured quantum computing access to UK-based organisations to drive the research and development work that may benefit from the technology. This reflects the NQCC’s vision to enable the UK to solve some of the most complex and challenging problems facing society by harnessing the potential of quantum computing. To deliver this, the NQCC will have multiple quantum service providers to enable the growth of the UK’s quantum computing user community, with access to a wide range of state-of-the-art quantum machines.

    The objective is to drive new research horizons and serve the UK research community to enable proof-of-concept projects, feasibility studies and discovery-led science. As a part of the initiative, the NQCC will engage with IBM Corporation to provide UK-based quantum computing users priority access to the full fleet of IBM’s quantum machines. Aligned with the recently published National Quantum Strategy, and the commitment of £2.5 billion of investment, the NQCC remains committed to working with organisations across government, industry and the research community, to support the delivery of assured quantum computing capabilities for the UK and build the user community for quantum computing.

    The centre seeks to enable the UK to become a quantum-ready nation and take full advantage of the benefits that quantum computing can offer, by supporting the UK-based organisations.

    The NQCC’s first facility, the NQCC Innovation Hub, is now ready to start hosting the development and operation of quantum computing testbeds.

    The NQCC is investing £30 million in projects that will deliver a series of quantum computing testbeds, based on different hardware architectures by March 2025. The prototypes that come from the competition, which is being delivered by Innovate UK, will accelerate the development of scalable quantum computers by enabling detailed characterisation and benchmarking of early-stage machines.

    In establishing these quantum testbeds, the NQCC is aiming to fill a gap between lab-based experimentation in academia and the growing number of commercial quantum computers that have been built around proprietary technologies. The availability of testbeds will provide an experimental framework for ongoing efforts to develop methodologies for testing, and validating, the performance of quantum computers, which so far have largely relied on theoretical approaches. The initial response to the expression-of-interest call has shown that developers can see the value in opening up their platforms within the protected environment offered by the NQCC. The competition results will be announced in early 2024.

    Notes to editors

    Small Business Research Initiative competition – Quantum Networks, Enabling Components & Systems list of projects:

    • Quantum Link Assurance System – Aegiq
    • NEXUS-QP – Duality Quantum Photonics
    • delivering a system hardened, scalable, and interoperable QKD solution – KETS Quantum Security
    • LYRA: A Modular path towards Industrialised and Scalable Quantum Networking – Nu Quantum
    • NextQPU – Oxford Ionics
    • Space-to-Ground Integrated Quantum Networks – Toshiba Europe

    Canada – UK Commercialising Quantum Technology Programme list of projects:

    • quantum technology enabled blood diagnostics for safer and more patient centric cancer care and treatment management – Beyond Blood Diagnostics
    • Broadband Quantum Synthesizer (BQS) – Covesion
    • H3Lo-QP: High-voltage High-IO High-transmission Low-temperature Quantum Photonics – Duality Quantum Photonics, Qontrol
    • Cryogenic High Reliability Platform for Quantum Computing – ICEoxford
    • Scalable Qubit Array Detection for Rydberg Quantum Computers – Infleqtion, Riverlane
    • QUARREFOUR – Benchmarking Multi-core Quantum Computing Systems – Nu Quantum
    • Generation of entAngLement for quAntum seCure mulTIparty Computation – Quantopticon, Galaxy Innovation, Bay Photonics
    • 3LX – Developing low-cost, low-energy, low-detection limit X-Ray image sensors for critical industries using quantum dot technology – Quantum Advanced Solutions
    • Hybrid compilation framework to accelerate quantum application development (CATALYST) Riverlane, Rolls-Royce
    • QUAMINEX – a drone deployed integrated gravity magnetics measurement system for mineral exploration – Silicon Microgravity
    • Distributed Symmetric Key Exchange (DSKE) Network – Toshiba Europe
  • PRESS RELEASE : The UK urges all parties to allow for humanitarian pauses in Gaza – UK statement at the UN [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : The UK urges all parties to allow for humanitarian pauses in Gaza – UK statement at the UN [November 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 3 November 2023.

    Statement by Ambassador Tom Woodroffe at the OCHA Briefing on the Humanitarian Situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

    Thank you very much Lisa [Doughten] and of course to you Under-Secretary-General Martin Griffiths. I want to start by expressing our deep appreciation to you Martin for your tireless efforts in recent weeks and, of course, to the work of the UN and all humanitarian partners for their lifesaving efforts in such incredibly challenging circumstances. Like others, I want to share the UK’s condolences to the families and friends of all UNWRA colleagues who have lost their lives, and to all Palestinians and Israelis who have lost loved ones.

    In response to this acute humanitarian crisis, the UK has significantly stepped up our humanitarian efforts. Our Prime Minister, Foreign Secretary and UN Minister Lord Ahmad, have all visited the region over the last two weeks focused on these efforts and on three key priorities.

    Firstly, we have been clear that all sides must comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law. That means that every possible precaution must be taken to protect civilians wherever they are. It also means that all hostages must be released immediately, safely and without conditions.

    Second, the UK continues to call for immediate, unimpeded, and safe humanitarian access to Gaza, so that lifesaving aid, including water, fuel, medicine, and food, can reach the civilians who desperately need it. Piped water supplies and allowing fuel to enter Gaza are essential to allow hospitals and other critical infrastructure to operate. And we urge all parties to allow for humanitarian pauses, which would ensure safe aid delivery and critical repairs to key infrastructure including water and electricity.

    Whilst we welcome the re-opening of Rafah crossing, we are aware that this is not sufficient to meet the soaring needs. We urge the opening of other border crossings, such as Kerem Shalom, as well as increased access through existing commercial routes such as Port Said, to enable more humanitarian aid to reach civilians in need.

    Finally, we have increased our funding to the humanitarian response to support our partners and the people of Gaza. We have committed a further $37 million in humanitarian assistance since October 16, doubling the UK’s commitment to the Occupied Palestinian Territories this year.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : New UK and Germany partnership to boost renewable energy and bolster energy security [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : New UK and Germany partnership to boost renewable energy and bolster energy security [November 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 3 November 2023.

    UK Energy Security Secretary and German Vice Chancellor boost cooperation between nations on path to net zero.

    • Agreement provides blueprint for cooperation on energy and climate, including clean technologies and security, between Europe’s 2 largest economies
    • partnership will bolster cooperation and remove regulatory barriers on renewables, especially offshore wind and North Sea electricity interconnection
    • UK and Germany will share knowledge on industrial and buildings decarbonisation

    A new partnership between the UK and German governments has been agreed today (Friday 3 November 2023) to help secure safe, affordable and clean energy for consumers in both nations for the long term and bolster energy security.

    Under the new partnership signed in London by Energy Security Secretary Claire Coutinho and Germany’s Vice Chancellor, Robert Habeck, the UK and Germany have reaffirmed their shared ambition and commitment to net zero and progressing the energy transition.

    Europe’s 2 largest economies have also doubled down on commitments made under the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees.

    The energy and climate partnership sees both countries commit to:

    • enhance cooperation in renewables, notably offshore wind and electricity interconnection, to remove regulatory barriers and accelerate deployment of offshore hybrid projects
    • share industry knowledge and expertise to improve the exploration of carbon capture, utilisation and storage, including the cross-border transport of CO2
    • strengthen and promote regional and global energy security, including discussions on winter preparedness, security of infrastructure and supply chains
    • share best practices and lessons learned on industrial, buildings and heat decarbonisation, energy efficiency and net zero policies and strategies

    Energy Security Secretary Claire Coutinho said:

    The UK and Germany agree on the importance of clean, affordable energy and we both recognise its crucial role in growing our economies and guaranteeing national and global energy security.

    We are already working together in the North Sea to deliver our world-leading offshore wind ambitions, as well as linking our countries with subsea electricity cables.

    Today’s agreement will see us extend and deepen our partnership to ensure we continue to lead Europe and the world in making the green transition.

    German Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action Robert Habeck said:

    Germany and the UK face similar challenges. We have made good progress regarding the transition towards climate neutrality, but there is still a long path ahead of us. Cooperation with reliable partners can help all partners to advance not only faster, but better.

    We can learn from each other’s experiences, share knowledge and work together to reach our common goals. The joint declaration signed today builds upon a long history of cooperation and provides a sound framework for successfully working together in future.

    The energy and climate partnership incorporates the UK-Germany hydrogen partnership signed by Lord Callanan in September. This aims to accelerate the role of low carbon hydrogen – in particular from renewable sources –  in both nations’ energy mix and commits to working together to develop the global hydrogen economy.

    Germany was the UK’s second largest trading partner in the 4 quarters to the end of Q1 2023, accounting for 8% of total UK trade. British and German companies are already collaborating on joint projects in the North Sea and both countries have committed to maximise its renewables potential, most recently at the Ostend North Sea Summit.

    In the field of offshore wind, around 75% of installed offshore wind capacity in the North Sea is in German and British waters. This is helping to drive the UK’s ambition for up to 50GW of offshore wind, including up to 5GW of floating offshore wind, by 2030. Germany is aiming at installing 30GW by 2030.

    The first phase of major construction of the £2.4 billion NeuConnect project, the first subsea electricity cable between the UK and Germany, was completed this week. The project, once operational in 2028, has the potential to power up to 1.5 million homes in the UK and Germany over its lifetime with reliable, affordable and clean energy. When completed, it will be the second longest UK electricity power line with approximately 725km of land and subsea cables, connecting Kent and Wilhelmshaven.

    Another interconnector project connecting the UK to Germany is currently in development and awaiting regulatory approval from Ofgem.

    Beverley Cornaby, Director, Policy and Systems Change Collaborations, Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL):

    Clean power generation is front-and-centre of the UK’s strategy to reach net zero by 2050. This partnership will support these aims by providing a blueprint on energy and climate between Europe’s 2 largest economies – helping the UK and Germany to bolster cooperation, remove regulatory barriers on renewables and share knowledge on industrial decarbonisation.

  • PRESS RELEASE : World-leading surgical mannequin used to train military surgeons on immersive exercise for first time [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : World-leading surgical mannequin used to train military surgeons on immersive exercise for first time [November 2023]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 3 November 2023.

    A cutting-edge trauma casualty simulation mannequin, invented and developed by a UK clinician and funded by the Ministry of Defence, has been used for the first time in a full-scale field hospital training exercise.

    Invented and developed by civilian orthopaedic major trauma surgeon Professor Ian Pallister, the Surgical Advanced Mannequin (SAM model) is a world-leading training simulation model which can be inserted with different injury patterns such as blast wounds and gunshots. It can also ‘breathe’ and be pumped with ‘blood’ to simulate bleeding.

    The innovative mannequin, refined over a ten-year development period, has enabled Armed Forces medical teams to participate in a highly realistic level of training on a clinical exercise run by the Army Medical Services Training Centre (AMSTC).

    Earlier versions of the SAM model have also been used to train Ukrainian military surgeons.

    Minister for Defence People, Veterans and Service Families, Dr Andrew Murrison, who is a doctor in the Reserves, said:

    These world-class training models are an excellent demonstration of the type of innovative equipment produced by UK defence and our industry partners. They play a vital part in delivering cutting-edge training to both our Ukrainian allies and our exemplary military medical and surgical teams in the UK, helping to ensure they continue to be the very best at what they do.

    Professor Pallister developed the SAM model using CT scans and 3D-printed masters of specific wounds such as a gunshot or pelvic injury. His latest version of the model can be intubated, have dead ‘tissue’ removed, and be used for exploratory surgery.

    Professor Ian Pallister said:

    SAM models, which have been taken on board Royal Navy ships and deployed in land environments, are the product of years of constant redesign and redevelopment and these evolving innovations would not have been possible without the close cooperation of Defence Medical Service colleagues and the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory.

    Clinical Adviser for Deployed Hospital Care, Army Medical Services Training, Colonel Jonny Round said:

    Traditionally at AMSTC, we’ve used a live casualty actor with some make-up to deliver a list of symptoms and injuries. Professor Pallister’s model simulates, very realistically, combat wounds requiring surgical intervention.

    The surgeons get to operate, and the entire team train, in a field hospital that replicates the one they will find themselves deployed to. We are immensely proud that through this training we can deliver world-class medical teams to operations.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is among the main drivers of current food insecurity – UK statement to the OSCE [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is among the main drivers of current food insecurity – UK statement to the OSCE [November 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 3 November 2023.

    Justin Addison (UK Delegation to the OSCE) tells the OSCE’s Economic and Environmental Committee that Russia’s decision to withdraw from the Black Sea Grain Initiative and systematic attacks on grain infrastructure has worsened food insecurity.

    Mr Chair,

    The effects on global food supply of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, along with climate change, conflict, and the long-term impacts of Covid-19, are the main drivers of current food insecurity.

    Russia’s decision to withdraw from the Black Sea Grain Initiative has reduced global grain supply at a critical time for vulnerable people around the world, and contributed to further market volatility. Russia has also systematically attacked Ukrainian civilian grain and port infrastructure, clearly intending to degrade Ukraine’s ability to export food to the world.

    Russia’s actions will take time to remedy, causing long-standing damage to the Ukrainian agricultural sector, which has played such a pivotal part in global food supply.

    To provide a reset moment on the global food security crisis, on the 20th of November the UK will host a global food security summit, gathering governments, international organisations, scientists, NGOs and the private sector.

    The summit will focus on new approaches to tackling preventable deaths of children; building a climate-resilient and sustainable food system; supporting early action to prevent and reduce the impact of humanitarian crises; and using science and technology to boost food security.

    Mr Chair,  while Russia seeks to destroy the trade links that provide the world with food, the development of the Middle Corridor offers a promising route for future trade and transport. The diversification and expansion of trade routes in Central Asian countries in particular not only brings economic growth to the wider OSCE region, but also has potential to improve global supply chains and energy security. Investment in infrastructure could promote the creation of industrial clusters and service centres, leading to new avenues for revenue and employment.

    The UK welcomes the strong political support from the Azerbaijani and Georgian governments, as well as coordination with Türkiye and countries in Central Asia and Eastern Europe. Further expansion and operation of the Corridor could create opportunities in the fields of port operations, logistics, rule standardisation and insurance. We also see how international cooperation on projects such as this can have a direct security benefit, and we join the calls of others to make the coordination groups as inclusive as possible.

    The UK stands by to offer political support, encourage investment, and explore ways for British exporters to use the Corridor, wherever we can. Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Thousands of homes to be kept warm by waste heat from computer data centres in UK first [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Thousands of homes to be kept warm by waste heat from computer data centres in UK first [November 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 3 November 2023.

    More homes and businesses to benefit from cleaner, low-cost heating – thanks to almost £65 million in government support for 5 green energy projects.

    • Five innovative projects receive share of nearly £65 million to deliver cleaner, low-cost heating to thousands of homes and businesses
    • low carbon housing estate of the future will use waste heat from data centres to provide heating and hot water to more than 10,000 homes
    • new heat networks will create thousands of skilled jobs across England

    Thousands of homes will be kept warm by waste heat from nearby data centres for the first time in the UK – thanks to a share of nearly £65 million of government funding for 5 green heating projects across the country.

    The Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation in the London boroughs of Hammersmith and Fulham, Brent and Ealing will be the first of its kind to recycle waste heat from large computer systems storing internet data to supply heating for the local community.

    The heat network, backed by £36 million in government support, will connect 10,000 new homes and 250,000m2 of commercial space to a low-carbon energy source that will help keep bills low and contribute to the UK’s drive to reach net zero by 2050.

    It is one of 5 innovative green heating projects in London, Watford, Suffolk and Lancaster allocated grants from the Green Heat Network Fund. Together they are expected to create thousands of skilled jobs, helping deliver the government’s promise to grow the economy.

    One of these successful projects will see Lancaster University fully decarbonise its campus, by receiving over £21 million in support for a new low-carbon heat network. The heat network will supply heat to the university campus using a large heat pump, powered by a new solar farm and existing wind turbine.

    Energy Security Secretary Claire Coutinho said:

    Innovative projects, like these announced today, are another example of why the UK is a world leader in cutting carbon emissions.

    We are investing in the technologies of the future so that families across the country will now be able to warm their homes with low-carbon, recycled heat – while creating thousands of new skilled jobs.

    Lord Callanan, Minister for Energy Efficiency and Green Finance, said:

    Keeping homes warm with waste heat from technology is a glimpse into the future – and demonstrates just how innovative this country can be when it comes to reducing our carbon emissions.

    The £65 million we’ve awarded today will help spread this success across the country, by rolling out innovative low-carbon heating to help to drive down energy bills and deliver our net zero goal.

    Heat networks supply heating and hot water to homes and businesses via heat pumps or sources from underground, manufacturing, and waste management. They help cut carbon emissions by supplying heat to multiple buildings from a central source, avoiding the need for households and workplaces to rely on individual, energy-intensive heating solutions, such as gas boilers.

    The transition to heat networks forms a major part of the UK’s carbon reduction commitment, with heating in buildings making up 30% of all UK emissions.

    Today’s round of funding comes on top of £122 million already awarded to support 11 new heat network projects across the country, under the government’s Green Heat Network Fund.

    The full list of projects to receive support today are:

    • Old Oak Park Royal Development Corporation will receive £36 million to construct a heat network using waste heat from data centres to provide heating to over 10,000 homes and 250,000m2 of commercial space
    • a new heat pump housing estate in Chilton Woods, Suffolk will see nearly 1,000 homes and a primary school provided with low carbon heating. The project, which has received £745,000, will also include a thermal store, meaning any excess energy generated from the system will be fed into the wider National Grid
    • the London Borough of Brent will receive nearly £5.2 million for the South Kilburn District Heat Network, supplying heat using air source heat pumps combined with back up gas boilers to 34 sites via a 2.79km pipe network, connecting 2,900 customers.
    • Watford Community Housing (WCH), a not-for-profit housing association with approximately 5,700 homes, will receive £1.8 million of funding to replace an old gas district heating system with ground source and air source heat pumps. This will provide heat to 252 apartments across 6 blocks
    • Lancaster University will receive more than £21 million to fully decarbonise its campus with a low carbon energy centre. The centre will use air source heat pumps, thermal storage and electrical infrastructure works

    Matthew Basnett, the Association for Decentralised Energy’s (ADE) Heat Network Policy Lead, said:

    Heat decarbonisation in buildings is a huge challenge, and one that is often fundamentally misunderstood – heat networks are the only internationally proven route for decarbonising heat at scale, yet most people don’t know what they are.

    We are excited to see that another round of the Green Heat Network Fund has been successful, and celebrate the news that a first-in-the-UK development will use waste heat from data centres to keep more than 10,000 homes warm, comfortable and affordable in the long term. We now look forward to seeing the government work with industry to raise the profile of heat networks as a versatile solution for heat decarbonisation.

    David Lunts, Chief Executive of the Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation (OPDC), said:

    Recycling the huge amounts of wasted heat from our local data centres into heat and energy for local residents, a major hospital and other users is an exciting and innovative example of OPDC’s support for the mayor’s net zero ambitions.

    We are excited to be leading the way in developing low carbon infrastructure, supporting current and future generations of Londoners in Old Oak and Park Royal to live more sustainably.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Walrus ivory carving of Deposition from the Cross at risk of leaving the UK [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Walrus ivory carving of Deposition from the Cross at risk of leaving the UK [November 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 3 November 2023.

    A temporary export bar has been placed on a walrus ivory carving of the Deposition from the Cross so a domestic buyer can be found.

    • A temporary export bar has been placed on a walrus ivory carving of the Deposition from the Cross
    • The Romanesque carving is valued at over £2 million
    • Export bar will allow time for a UK gallery or institution to acquire the carving for the nation

    A 12th-century English walrus ivory carving depicting the Deposition from the Cross is at risk of leaving the UK unless a domestic buyer can be found.

    The Romanesque carving, which is valued at £2,006,595 (plus VAT of £40,131.90), is made of walrus ivory and depicts the moment in the story of the Passion of Christ known as the Deposition from the Cross, in which Jesus’s body is lifted down from the cross by Joseph of Arimathea. It would once have been part of a larger scene and would have included a cross which is still partly visible and other figures.

    The work is particularly relevant for our understanding of early mediaeval ivories. It is already well-known to the national and international research communities into Romanesque sculpture, and into mediaeval art more widely.

    Arts and Heritage Minister Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay said:

    As well as being an object of great reverence and accomplishment, this exquisite 12th-century carving is significant to our understanding of ivories in the early mediaeval period.

    I hope that a UK buyer will come forward so that this work can be saved for the nation and studied and admired by generations to come.

    The Minister’s decision follows the advice of the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest.

    The Committee made its recommendation on the basis that the carving met the first, second and third Waverley criteria for its outstanding connection with our history and national life; its outstanding aesthetic importance; and its outstanding significance for the study of early mediaeval ivories. It was noted that the work was one of the most culturally and aesthetically significant objects they have considered, and that it could provide vital insight into several aspects of a time from which few objects have survived.

    Committee Member Tim Pestell said:

    This mediaeval ivory depiction of the Deposition of Christ is a truly remarkable object, both for its early date and its sublimely skilful carving. Delicately observed and showing dignified restraint in its depiction of the dead Christ, it represents one of the finest surviving examples of English Romanesque ivory carving. This rarity means we have much to learn from it, ranging from examining its artistic design and the workshop that produced it, to scientific investigation of the walrus ivory it is made of that might tell us about mediaeval exploitation of the environment, and trade and exchange networks.

    I earnestly hope that a UK museum can now be found to acquire this stunning and nationally-significant carving where it can be placed on public display, be suitably contextualised and made available for the detailed research it so richly deserves.

    The decision on the export licence application for the carving will be deferred for a period ending on 2 February 2024 (inclusive). At the end of the first deferral period owners will have a consideration period of 15 Business Days to consider any offer(s) to purchase the carving at the recommended price of £2,006,595 (plus VAT of £40,131.90 which can be reclaimed by an eligible institution).  The second deferral period will commence following the signing of an Option Agreement and will last for four months.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Special representatives and envoys for Afghanistan – joint statement [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Special representatives and envoys for Afghanistan – joint statement [November 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 3 November 2023.

    Statement from special representatives and envoys for Afghanistan from Canada, the EU, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, UK and USA after their 18 October 2023 meeting.

    The special representatives and envoys for Afghanistan agreed to continue their regular consultations to develop consistent joint policies on Afghanistan and promote coherent approaches to the outstanding challenges facing Afghanistan.

    Special observers at the meeting included representatives from Türkiye, the Asian Development Bank, the World Bank, the OIC, UNAMA and UNODC. In addition, Afghan civil society figures participated in a preparatory virtual session, held in advance of the proceedings. Participants issued the below joint statement:

    1. Acknowledged the dire humanitarian and economic situation that the Afghan population faces, with more than 29 million Afghans in need of urgent assistance; focused on the need to address Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis and reiterated their call on the Taliban to ensure unhindered access for all humanitarian aid workers, both men and women, to perform their jobs effectively in all areas of the country, with an emphasis on the need to serve vulnerable populations who cannot be reached without the employment of women.
    2. Highlighted the substantial humanitarian assistance provided for Afghanistan from their respective governments and organizations, which, according to UNOCHA, totals roughly US$6.3 billion since August 2021, representing about 74% of all humanitarian aid contributions made to Afghanistan since that time; noted, however, that humanitarian aid levels are dropping while needs are not; and emphasized the need for monitoring of aid for robust donor support to continue.
    3. Expressed their support to the population recently hit by devastating earthquakes in Western Afghanistan; and affirmed commitments by group members to provide assistance to the affected communities and coordinate their efforts for an effective response to the most urgent needs. An additional amount of US$33 million aid in support of earthquake-hit areas has already been decided by their respective governments and organisations, more assistance is in the planning stages.
    4. Acknowledged that support for humanitarian aid, while essential, does not address the underlying causes of Afghanistan’s deteriorating macro-economic situation; recalled the Taliban’s responsibility for the deterioration of the economic and humanitarian situation, as well as their responsibility for the recovery of the country and the improvement of the economic situation; called for expanding donors support to basic needs assistance, private sector growth initiatives, women’s empowerment efforts and livelihoods generation; and noted the importance of multilateral development banks playing a leading role in this effort, including through drawing on own-bank financing to complement continuing bilateral contributions. The amount of resources already provided by their respective governments and organisations since August 2021 in support of basic human needs and livelihood totals approximately US$2.1 billion.
    5. Expressed grave concern for the human rights situation in Afghanistan; and reiterated their firm belief that the Taliban’s policies excluding women and girls from social, economic, political and cultural life in Afghanistan, including restrictions on education and employment, violate the rights of Afghans and international obligations, deeply undermine the economy and affect the prospect of the country’s development and long-term stability. Welcomed the reports by UNAMA and by the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan and noted the willingness of the Taliban to allow access to the country to the Special Rapporteur and to engage with both.
    6. Called on the Taliban to reverse their restrictive educational policies immediately; and affirmed that education is a human right and that equal access to quality education, based on curricula that meet international standards and that cover various areas of knowledge should be ensured for all.
    7. Noted with regret that the Taliban has taken no serious steps to initiate an inclusive political process with fellow Afghans regarding the future order of the country; and affirmed that legitimacy is derived, first and foremost, from the Afghan people. Emphasized that a new constitution for the country should only be adopted following a transparent, inclusive, and meaningful national consultative dialogue and urged the Taliban and other Afghans to seek advice from the UN and OIC in this regard.
    8. Welcomed the implementation of the Taliban’s ban on opium cultivation in Afghanistan and the roughly 80% drop in the opium harvest across the country this year; called for this ban to continue and for additional steps to be taken to address synthetic drug production and drug trafficking; welcomed the establishment by UNAMA of a Technical Working Group on counternarcotics and other initiatives that could allow for engagement with the Taliban on these issues, including alternative livelihoods and the challenges of substance abuse in the country.
    9. Urged greater attention to Afghanistan’s vulnerability to climate change; and called for creative, sustainable solutions to the grave environmental challenges facing the country.
    10. Acknowledged Taliban actions to tackle terrorist threats from ISIS-K but expressed concern that some terrorist groups still reside safely inside Afghanistan and are able to plan and carry out cross-border terrorist strikes.
    11. Urged all states, including Afghanistan’s neighbours, to uphold their applicable obligations with respect to the protection of refugees and to promote the right to seek asylum, and to ensure individuals, particularly those from at risk groups, who would face persecution or torture if returned, are protected from being forcibly returned, and call on these states to put in place measures to develop a system of registration for undocumented Afghans, while ensuring protection for vulnerable Afghans in need of international protection.
    12. Stressed the importance of international unity on Afghanistan, including on not normalizing relations with the Taliban and on support for respecting the rights of every citizen of Afghanistan, particularly the right of women and girls to education, employment, and public participation; welcomed the important work of UNAMA under the leadership of SRSG Roza Otunbayeva; looked forward to the UN Special Coordinator’s report on 17 November; and welcomed the UN Secretary General’s offer to host a second meeting of special representatives and envoys soon.
    13. Expressed appreciation to Italy for hosting this meeting on Afghanistan.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Grant Shapps and Richard Marles visit key nuclear site [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Grant Shapps and Richard Marles visit key nuclear site [November 2023]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 3 November 2023.

    Australian defence industry specialists have been embedded in UK industry to collaborate on next-generation attack submarines – SSN-AUKUS.

    • Australian and UK representatives visit Rolls-Royce nuclear reactor manufacturing site.
    • Australian industry experts embedded with UK defence companies to progress attack submarine collaboration.
    • Significant step in the AUKUS programme that is key to upholding security in the Indo-Pacific.

    UK Defence Secretary, Grant Shapps, and Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, Richard Marles, visited Rolls-Royce’s nuclear reactor manufacturing site in Derby today to meet the first group of Australian nationals training within UK industry to understand how the next generation of conventionally-armed nuclear-powered submarines are being constructed. Rolls-Royce will be the supplier of all the nuclear propulsion plants for the UK and Australian submarines.

    The Ministers saw the first nuclear propulsion plant components being fabricated for the UK’s SSN-AUKUS programme, representing one of the first stages of building the submarines which will help protect our collective and economic security.

    This follows an injection of £4 billion of UK funding to British businesses, including Rolls-Royce, for the development of the UK’s SSN-AUKUS submarines announced earlier this year.

    The work will support Rolls-Royce in doubling the size of the Derby site and creating thousands of jobs in the UK in the coming years, backing the UK’s current and future submarine programmes.

    Defence Secretary, Grant Shapps said:

    A project like this can only succeed with the great work that’s being done across British Industry.

    The work at Rolls-Royce in Derby is a great example of what we can achieve when we collaborate and work alongside our allies. It is inspiring to see our personnel on the ground working side by side with the Australians to deliver the most advanced submarines for our navies.

    The partnership will not only help uphold stability in the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions, but also demonstrate the world-class trademark that embodies British Industry.

    As part of the collaboration programme, over the next seven weeks 13 Australian nationals will embark on training and familiarisation activity across the UK. The cohort will open the door for a generation of Australians to work alongside British industry, and help deliver the next generation of conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines.

    The Australian personnel will visit some of the UK’s most distinguished submarine building and sustainment experts from BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, and Babcock. They will have the opportunity to observe how the UK develops and maintains some of the most advanced submarine technology in the world to help build their expertise and accelerate the training required to operate a nuclear-powered submarine fleet.

    There will be significant new opportunities for small, medium and large enterprise across all AUKUS partners. The cooperation will result in benefits to industrial capability across all three nations with enhanced resilience of trilateral supply chains.

    Australian Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles said:

    Australia is working closely with the UK and the US to progressively develop the skills, knowledge and expertise to build, operate, and maintain conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines.

    These Australian industry placements provide us with an invaluable opportunity to learn from our experienced partners in the UK, and to better understand the functions and scope of the work.

    The AUKUS submarines will be the largest, most advanced and most powerful attack submarines ever operated by the Royal Navy and Royal Australian Navy and will help continue global stability for decades to come.

    AUKUS cooperation will result in benefits to industrial capability across all three nations with enhanced resilience of trilateral supply chains. It will foster a deeper integration of security and defence-related science.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Foreign Secretary’s call with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Foreign Secretary’s call with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian [November 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 3 November 2023.

    Foreign Secretary James Cleverly spoke to Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian.

    A Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office spokesperson said:

    The Foreign Secretary spoke to Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian today.

    The Foreign Secretary made clear that Iran must use its influence with groups in the region to prevent escalation. He said that Iran bore responsibility for the actions of groups they had supported over many years.

    The Foreign Secretary also reiterated that Iranian-backed threats against people in the UK were unacceptable and must stop.