UKPOL.CO.UK

Tag: Press Release

  • PRESS RELEASE : DWP leads way supporting people aged over 50 at work [February 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : DWP leads way supporting people aged over 50 at work [February 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 14 February 2023.

    The DWP has signed the Age-friendly Employer Pledge, a nationwide programme run by the Centre for Ageing Better to promote age inclusive working practices.

    The Department for Work and Pensions recognises the immense benefit that a multigenerational workforce brings and will encourage other government departments and employers to sign up.

    Permanent Secretary Peter Schofield CB said:

    “I am very proud that DWP is leading the way as a workplace where all our staff can thrive – whether at the start of their career or experienced members of the workforce.

    “Signing this pledge shows our continued determination to support our colleagues throughout their working life. From offering Mid-life MOTs, our menopause network and embedding flexible working, we are committed to making DWP an inclusive place to work for all ages.”

    DWP age champion and Finance Director General Catherine Vaughan said:

    “We know that older staff provide invaluable expertise, skills and experience to the important work the Department does.

    “I’m pleased that by signing the Age-friendly Employer Pledge we’re continuing to show how much DWP values an age-diverse workforce. This will provide a tangible boost to help all our staff feel valued and supported whatever their age.”

  • PRESS RELEASE : Joint statement on announcement of further settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories [February 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Joint statement on announcement of further settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories [February 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 14 February 2023.

    The UK, US, France, Germany and Italy (the Quint) have expressed dismay at the Israeli government’s decision to expand settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

    “We – the Foreign Ministers of France, Germany and Italy, the Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom, and the Secretary of State of the United States – are deeply troubled by the Israeli government’s announcement that it is advancing nearly 10,000 settlement units, and intends to begin a process to normalize nine outposts that were previously deemed illegal under Israeli law. We strongly oppose these unilateral actions which will only serve to exacerbate tensions between Israelis and Palestinians and undermine efforts to achieve a negotiated two-state solution.

    “We continue to support a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in the Middle East, which must be achieved through direct negotiations between the parties. Israelis and Palestinians both deserve to live in peace, with equal measures of freedom, security, and prosperity. We reaffirm our commitment to helping Israelis and Palestinians fulfill the vision of an Israel fully integrated into the Middle East living alongside a sovereign, viable Palestinian state. We continue to closely monitor developments on the ground which impact the viability of the two-state solution and stability in the region at large.”

  • PRESS RELEASE : National moment of silence to mark one year of Russian invasion of Ukraine [February 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : National moment of silence to mark one year of Russian invasion of Ukraine [February 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport on 14 February 2023.

    Government announces a national one-minute silence on Friday 24 February, marking a year since Russia’s barbaric full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

    • National moment will pay tribute to the bravery of Ukrainians and highlight the UK’s solidarity with the country, as they continue their courageous fight
    • Comes after the historic visit of President Zelenskyy to the UK last week

    A national minute’s silence will take place at 11am on Friday 24 February to mark the one-year anniversary of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine.

    Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is expected to lead the nation in silence from Downing Street.

    This national moment of reflection will offer the UK public the chance to pay tribute to the courage of the Ukrainian people and demonstrate the UK’s unwavering solidarity with the country.

    The government is encouraging individuals and organisations across the UK to participate.

    Since the war began, thousands of Ukrainians have been killed defending their freedom from Russia’s appalling onslaught. Millions more have been forced from their homes, with 114,400 Ukrainians finding refuge in the UK under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme.

    Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said:

    As we approach the anniversary of Russia’s barbaric and deplorable invasion of Ukraine, as a nation we pay tribute to the incredible bravery and resilience of the Ukrainian people.

    Russia’s unjustifiable attack brought war and destruction to our continent once again, and it has forced millions from their homes and devastated families across Ukraine and Russia.

    I am incredibly proud of the UK’s response, and throughout this past year, the UK public have shown their true generosity of spirit and their enduring belief in freedom.

    Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer said:

    One year on from Putin’s illegal invasion, we stand in solidarity with our friends in Ukraine and remember all those who have lost their lives in the pursuit of freedom.

    This moment of silence is a time to reflect on the human cost of this conflict and show we stand with Ukraine.

    The national minute’s silence comes following the historic visit of President Zelenksyy to the UK last week. During the visit, the Prime Minister underlined the UK’s steadfast commitment to supporting Ukraine for the long term, ensuring it can secure a lasting peace.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister welcomes Air India, Airbus and Rolls-Royce deal [February 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister welcomes Air India, Airbus and Rolls-Royce deal [February 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for International Trade on 14 February 2023.

    The Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch have welcomed a momentous deal for Airbus and Rolls-Royce to provide new aircraft for Air India, which is worth billions of pounds to the UK. The agreement announced by the companies this morning (Tuesday 14 February) will support and create new highly skilled jobs in Wales and Derbyshire, helping to boost exports, grow the economy and level up the UK.

    A significant portion of the manufacturing process for the new aircraft is expected to take place in the UK. The wings will be designed in Filton, and assembled in Broughton – which is expected to bring an additional 450 manufacturing jobs and more than £100m of investment to Wales. The large A350 aircraft are exclusively powered by Rolls-Royce XWB engines, which are assembled and tested in Derby.

    In 2021, the UK’s world-class aerospace sector added £10.6bn in value to the UK economy, exported c.70% of its domestic output and directly employed 111,000 high-skilled people, 89% of which are outside London and the Southeast. It is also a leading sector for high value apprenticeships, with 5,500 currently employed in sector.

    India is a major economic power, projected to be the world’s third largest economy with a quarter of a billion middle class consumers by 2050. We are currently negotiating a free trade agreement that would boost our £34 billion trading relationship.

    Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said:

    “This landmark deal between Air India, Airbus and Rolls-Royce demonstrates that the sky’s the limit for the UK’s thriving aerospace sector.

    “It will create better-paid jobs and new opportunities in manufacturing hubs from Derby to Wales, so we can grow the economy and support our agenda to level up – helping to deliver on my five priorities for the country.

    “The UK is already a top investment destination, and by building trade ties with growing economic powers like India we will ensure UK businesses remain at the forefront of global growth and innovation.”

    Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch MP said:

    “This is a significant win for the UK’s world-leading aerospace sector and one which will help to secure thousands of highly skilled jobs across the country and drive economic growth. It’s a shot in the arm for UK exports as we aim to sell £1 trillion of goods and services a year to the world by the end of the decade.

    “We’re currently negotiating a trade deal with India which could boost trade by up to £28 billion a year by 2035. Export wins like this are another big step to our nations forming a closer trading relationship.”

  • PRESS RELEASE : Confectionery Tariffs Cut [February 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Confectionery Tariffs Cut [February 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for International Trade on 14 February 2023.

    British confectionery companies are celebrating a potential export boost in time for Valentine’s Day 2024.

    • British confectionery companies to benefit from removal of tariffs in time for Valentine’s Day 2024 under the UK’s trade deals with Australia and New Zealand
    • Australian couples set to splash an estimated £280 million on Valentine’s Day this year, up 16.9% from 2022
    • New trade deals with Australia and New Zealand expected to boost UK economy by £2.3 billion and £800 million respectively

    British confectionery companies are celebrating a potential export boost in time for Valentine’s Day 2024, with tariffs on exports to Australia and New Zealand set be removed under the UK’s new Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).

    The UK-Australia and UK-New Zealand trade deals are the first the UK has negotiated from scratch since leaving the European Union. They are set to come into force this year and to boost the UK economy by £2.3 billion and £800 million respectively.

    Aussie and Kiwi lovers may be able to enjoy organic chocolate from London-based chocolatiers Seed & Bean who are keen to restart exports Down Under. They estimate the FTAs could unlock a £100,000 export opportunity should they find a distributor.

    With Valentine’s Day spending in Australia increasing year-on-year, British bakeries and chocolate manufacturers could see a Valentine’s sales boom after the deals come into force. Seed & Bean say they already experience a 25% online traffic boost in the build-up to Valentine’s Day as lovers look to gift sweet treats.

    Research conducted by market research firm Roy Morgan on behalf of the Australian Retailers Association showed that Australian couples are set to splash an estimated £280 million on Valentine’s Day this year, up 16.9% from 2022.

    According to the market research company Statista, the Australian confectionery and snacks market is worth £13.2 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow annually by 1.64% over the next four years, demonstrating the strong growth potential of this market.

    In New Zealand, this market is projected to reach £61 million in 2023 and is expected to show an annual growth rate of 16.97% over the next 4 years.

    UK food and drink exports to Australia and New Zealand have more than doubled in the last decade and, under the FTAs, UK businesses will benefit from the elimination of tariffs on all products. The agreement will also ensure food and drink products exit customs quickly, providing businesses with certainty when exporting products to Australia and New Zealand.

    Minister of State at the Department for Business and Trade Nigel Huddleston said

    Our new deals with Australia and New Zealand will allow our fantastic British confectionery businesses like Original Cake Company and Seed & Bean to become more competitive and export their top-notch products Down Under with ease.

    These landmark trade deals are expected to stimulate trade, drive economic growth and lead to better paying jobs, bolstering British businesses and empowering them to tap into significant markets in the flourishing Asia-Pacific region.

    Seed & Bean was founded in London 2005 with the idea to create an ethical range of confectionery. They previously exported to Australia and New Zealand, however this ceased due to COVID. They maintain an ambition to export to both nations again and the FTAs would help do that.

    The FTAs with Australia and New Zealand could boost the economy of London by around £395 million and £130 million respectively.

    Seed & Bean’s Chief Chocolatier Oliver Shorts said:

    The trade deals with Australia and New Zealand will help us reduce the landed cost of our organic chocolate bars into the two countries.

    One of the big barriers to entry are the costs involved in getting the goods in, and this will allow us to help any potential distributor margins and permit the product to be a more viable opportunity in the market.

    Background:

  • PRESS RELEASE : Scottish Secretary comments on February 2023 labour market stats [February 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Scottish Secretary comments on February 2023 labour market stats [February 2023]

    The press release issued by the Scottish Office on 14 February 2023.

    Scottish Secretary Alister Jack said:

    “Today’s figures show that – despite economic headwinds – Scotland’s labour market continues to be resilient. We have record numbers of people on the payroll and unemployment remains close to historic lows.

    “We cannot be complacent and the Prime Minister has been clear on the UK Government’s priorities to halve inflation, grow the economy and reduce debt. That will ease the cost of living, give people financial security, and achieve sustainable long term growth.

    “To deliver more high-quality jobs and level up across Scotland, the UK Government is investing almost £2.3bn in partnership with regional organisations, and has awarded Freeport status to the Inverness and Cromarty Firth and Firth of Forth, which will encourage regeneration to benefit the whole of Scotland.”

  • PRESS RELEASE : Levelling-up boost for UK space sector with new growth funding [February 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Levelling-up boost for UK space sector with new growth funding [February 2023]

    The press release issued by the UK Space Agency on 14 February 2023.

    Eighteen projects aimed at boosting the space sector across the UK are to receive funding from the UK Space Agency.

    The £6.5 million includes support for high impact, locally led schemes and space cluster development managers to help the space sector grow across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

    One project will explore the potential for a space observatory and planetarium to be established in Snowdonia, taking advantage of the area being part of the most extensive dark skies reserve in the UK.

    Another will look at how space technology could be used to tackle water leakage and monitor coastal erosion and stability in Cornwall.

    The projects will harness space-enabled technology to address local priorities, such as using Earth Observation data to improve local public services and help innovative engineering companies access the UK’s growing space markets.

    Secretary of State for the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, Michelle Donelan, said:

    These projects will tap into the wealth of talent found in places like Cornwall and the east Midlands, as well as across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, while using space and satellite technology to support local communities.

    This funding will help link local clusters to valuable networks of innovators and investors, showcasing the strengths of the UK space sector to international investors and levelling up the economy.

    The projects are focused on piloting local activity that could be scaled up and rolled out nationally and are being supported by the UK Space Agency’s delivery partner the Satellite Applications Catapult.

    The funding follows £600,000 given to 10 space clusters across the UK in February 2022, with some of those who received funding then getting further support this time round.

    The £6.5 million includes £485,000 for STFC RAL Space’s Chilbolton Advanced Satellite Tracking Radar, in Hampshire, is one of three national sensors that track space objects. The radar which can detect objects about the size of a toaster at an altitude of 1,000 km, provides crucial data for satellite tracking operations. The funding will provide upgrades to improve reliability and robustness of the sensor and maintain a key sovereign asset.

    Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency, said

    Establishing a network of space clusters and high impact projects will accelerate the development of the thriving space ecosystem the UK needs to realise the full economic potential of space across the UK.

    We’ve been working with the regions to understand their strengths and the needs of their local space economies so that we can back these clusters of excellence to collaborate, grow and thrive.

    Part of this funding will support local areas to appoint Space Cluster Managers: individuals who will work with local government, businesses, and academia to coordinate space activity and encourage collaboration and inward investment.

    These clusters will complement the world leading Harwell Space Cluster, in Oxfordshire, which is home to more than 100 space organisations, employing over 1,400 people.

    Stuart Martin, Chief Executive Officer at the Satellite Applications Catapult said:

    We have a long-standing commitment to driving the growth of the UK space sector at a regional level and are delighted to continue our support for the delivery of this investment, with our focus on building a coherent space community.

    This additional funding will help cement relationships across the UK’s space community while forging new collaborations with those not yet utilising and benefiting from space data and technology. We look forward to ensuring that the sector as a whole takes advantage of the opportunities presented through these locally led initiatives and supporting a connected and thriving ecosystem.

    The UK Space Agency funding also includes £1.5 million for an expert consortium of business support providers, led by Entrepreneurial Spark, to work with entrepreneurs from all over the UK and help them get involved in the space sector.

    A previous collaboration between the UK Space Agency and Entrepreneurial Spark, aimed at space start-ups, generated almost £9 million in investment and created 80 new jobs for those who took part in the business support programme.

    Locally led, high impact projects

    Space Technology and Exploitation Programme – ADS Northern Ireland

    Funding: £495,000

    ADS will oversee a pilot programme enabling space supply chain SMEs in Northern Ireland to engage with large companies and use innovative, new solutions to overcome their technology challenges – unlocking new potential markets and building UK space capabilities.

    GreenSpace – Space Hub Yorkshire

    Funding: £483,000

    Space Hub Yorkshire will establish a network of organisations from across the space, finance, and agriculture sectors to embed the use of Earth Observation and geospatial data into the UK’s Green Finance ambitions and commitment to Net Zero.

    Pivot into Space – Midlands Aerospace Alliance

    Funding: £500,000

    An R&D programme that will support small innovative engineering companies across the Midlands to pivot their technologies and capabilities into the UK’s growing space markets, focusing on the design and manufacture of spacecraft and the infrastructure required to launch them into space.

    SpaceCraft – Space South Central Cluster

    Funding: £406,000

    The Space South Central Cluster will open up engineering facilities and technical expertise to local companies to enable more high-quality space prototyping and manufacturing.

    Developing a Sustainable Scottish Space Sector – Space Scotland

    Funding: £373,000

    Space Scotland will strengthen the Scottish space ecosystem by enabling initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, addressing workforce skills challenges, and leveraging new market opportunities with neighbouring and novel sectors.

    Scoping Projects

    Dark Sky Observatory – Space Wales

    Funding: £36,000

    A project exploring the potential for a space observatory and planetarium to be established at Spaceport Snowdonia that takes advantage of the area being part of the most extensive dark skies reserve in the UK.

    Space for Good: Water Management with EO Data – Cornwall Space Cluster

    Funding: £20,000

    A project to explore how space technology could be deployed to tackle water leakage, seagrass habitat monitoring, and coastal erosion and stability in Cornwall.

    R2-D2: Resilience to Recovery – Data for Disasters – Newcastle University

    Funding: £20,000

    A scoping project to explore the potential for satellite data to improve emergency management in North East England.

    Monitoring of Natural Assets –Newcastle University

    Funding: £18,000

    A study to identify regional space capabilities, skills and challenges in natural capital and ecosystem services monitoring and management.

    Cluster Development Managers

    Northern Ireland Space Office – £223,000

    North East Centre Of Excellence – £296,000

    Space Hub Yorkshire – £348,000

    West of England Combined Authority and National Composites Centre – £136,000

    Cornwall Space Cluster – £272,000

    New Anglia LEP (covering Norfolk and Suffolk) – £163,000

    Aerospace Wales – £200,000

    University of Leicester – £284,000

    Space South Central (covering Hampshire, Surrey and the Isle of Wight) – £300,000

  • PRESS RELEASE : We must remain focused on delivering real change in people’s lives [February 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : We must remain focused on delivering real change in people’s lives [February 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 13 February 2023.

    Statement by Ambassador Richard Croker at the UN General Assembly thematic debate on Our Common Agenda.

    Thank you, Mr President, and also to the Secretary-General for his update on Our Common Agenda. Secretary General, this time last week, in this Hall, you described humanity as facing a ticking clock.

    It is clear that we need to take urgent action to address today’s more complex global challenges and prepare for those ahead with a revitalised, fit for purpose, multilateral system.

    As you said, this means reaffirming and adhering to the UN Charter and other foundational documents like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It also means delivering on the more recent commitments we’ve already made, such as on climate change and the Sustainable Development Goals, and addressing many of the issues in your ‘Our Common Agenda Report’ as the future challenges we will face.

    We need to deliver real-word impacts, showing people around the world that the UN can make a real difference in their lives.

    To achieve this, we need to make sure that the negotiations here on the follow up to your report are inclusive of the full membership, but also engage those who will be critical to success – including in the implementation of outcomes. Be that the private sector, civil society, or other parts of the multilateral system.

    We also need to make sure that the UN has the tools it needs, for example, to resolve conflicts. Which is why we look forward to continuing to engage in your proposals for a New Agenda For Peace.

    And we need a UN that’s fit for purpose. That’s why we strongly support your efforts to deliver a UN2.0, develop the UN’s capacity on data and strategic foresight.

    Finally, we look forward to the release of your policy briefs over the coming months. These will be an opportunity for us to dive into the detail of your proposals and, in some cases, putting the meat on the OCA bones ahead of our discussions.

    Thank you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Rishi Sunak call with the Prime Minister Hipkins of New Zealand [February 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Rishi Sunak call with the Prime Minister Hipkins of New Zealand [February 2023]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 13 February 2023.

    The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Chris Hipkins, this evening.

    The Prime Minister congratulated Prime Minister Hipkins on his new role as leader of New Zealand and said he looked forward to working closely with him.

    Discussing Cyclone Gabrielle, which has hit the country in recent hours, the Prime Minister said that the UK stood by to support in any way possible and his sympathies were with all those affected.

    Updating on his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenksyy last week, the Prime Minister paid tribute New Zealand’s support for Ukraine, including the important role the country was playing in training Ukrainian soldiers in the UK.

    Both leaders agreed that the continued international solidarity in support of Ukraine sent a strong message to aggressors across the world.

    The Prime Minister said he looked forward to the UK joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a free trade bloc with a combined GDP of £9 trillion, in the near future, and added that he saw it as a chance to bring likeminded countries together.

    The leaders hoped to meet in person soon.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK presents evidence of Iranian violations of UN resolutions [February 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK presents evidence of Iranian violations of UN resolutions [February 2023]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 13 February 2023.

    UK presents evidence of Iranian weapons proliferation violations.

    Weapons seized by Royal Navy ship HMS Montrose have been presented to the UN as evidence, linking an Iranian state organisation – the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) – to the smuggling of weapon systems in violation of a UN Security Council Resolution.

    On two occasions in early 2022, HMS Montrose seized Iranian weapons from speedboats operated by smugglers in international waters south of Iran. The items included surface-to-air-missiles and engines for land attack cruise missiles, in contravention of UN Security Council Resolutions 2231 and 2140 (2015).

    The weapons were presented to representatives of the United Nations who provide an assessment of the conflict in Yemen and Iranian nuclear activity. The interdictions were referred to in the Secretary General’s UNSCR 2231 report published in Dec 2022 and are expected to feature in the UNSCR 2140 annual report that will shortly be released.

    Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said:

    The UK is committed to upholding international law and will continue to counter Iranian activity that contravenes United Nation Security Council Resolutions and threatens peace across the world.

    That is why we have a permanent Royal Navy deployment in the Gulf region, conducting vital maritime security operations and working in support of an enduring peace in Yemen.

    Minister of State for the Middle East, Lord (Tariq) Ahmad of Wimbledon said:

    Once again the Iranian regime has been exposed for its reckless proliferation of weapons and destabilising activity in the region.

    Iran’s sustained military support to the Houthis and continued violation of the arms embargo has stoked further conflict and undermined UN-led peace efforts.

    The UK will continue to act to protect the security of our partners and hold Iran to account.

    A key piece of evidence presented by the UK was a commercial quadcopter drone designed for reconnaissance activities. By decrypting the internal memory of the uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) controllers, the UK Ministry of Defence discovered the records of 22 test flights conducted at the IRGC Aerospace Force Headquarters and test facility in western Tehran. The UAV was in the same shipment as a number of Surface to Air Missiles and components for the Iranian Project 351 land attack cruise missile.  This evidence indicated a direct link between the Iranian state and the smuggling of missile systems being used by the Houthis to attack the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

    The Royal Navy has a permanent deployment of a Type 23 Frigate, equipped with a Royal Marine boarding party and a Wildcat helicopter to support maritime security operations in the Gulf of Oman. After four years continuous service in the region, HMS Montrose was replaced by HMS Lancaster in 2022. The UK stands alongside its partners in the region and is committed to disrupting the illegal flow of these weapons systems as well as narcotics and human trafficking.

    The threat posed by long range weapons made in Iran is not limited to the Middle East. Since the invasion of Ukraine, Iran has supplied hundreds of Shahed one way attack drones to Russia; these transfers violate UNSCR 2231. These attacks have killed civilians and damaged critical national infrastructure (such as power sub stations) far from the front lines of the conflict.