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Tag: Press Release

  • PRESS RELEASE : New £90 million battlefield radio programme to benefit over 200 jobs [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : New £90 million battlefield radio programme to benefit over 200 jobs [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 25 November 2022.

    A £90 million contract to upgrade land-based radio capabilities will improve battlefield effectiveness while supporting over 200 jobs in Hampshire.

    • £90 million contract boost local prosperity in Farnborough, Hampshire
    • Modern radios to increase interoperability with allies and partners
    • New technology to support ground-to-ground and ground-to-air communications

    The new deal for 1,300 new Multi-Mode Radios (MMR), which has been awarded to L3 Harris Communications Systems, will see the portable radios operated by foot soldiers or those mounted on vehicles.

    Technical advances and upgrades will allow the radios to work across a range of security classifications, with the first ones being delivered to the British Army before the end of the year, ahead of further deliveries in 2023.

    Supporting multiple jobs in the UK supply chain, the contract will see the creation of 10 new jobs and the sustaining of 200 more at the L3 Harris HQ in Farnborough, Hampshire.

    Defence Procurement Minister Alex Chalk said:

    It’s vital we equip our Armed Forces personnel with modern capabilities to maintain their operational effectiveness on an ever-changing battlefield.

    This contract boosts our interoperability with allies and is yet another example of British companies and employees supporting British defence.

    The modern radios will replace legacy systems and improve the delivery of ground-to-ground and ground-to-air communications. They will also provide our Armed Forces with increased abilities to operate with allies and partners, boosting the communications capabilities of our deployed forces.

    Colonel Elizabeth Mortimore said:

    The arrival of the next generation of the multi-mode radio capability will offer significant enhancement to our Armed Forces across all three Services by delivering world-leading command and communications capability to the front line.

    Vice President and Managing Director L3Harris CS UK Keith Norton said:

    As lead user for this capability for Defence, the British Army has worked with Defence Digital to procure new MMR radios to add capability to deployed forces. These will enable land forces to easily communicate and interoperate with NATO and US allies as well providing a solution that can be easily tailored for each deployment.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Operational Honours and Awards List recognises Armed Forces personnel for outstanding service [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Operational Honours and Awards List recognises Armed Forces personnel for outstanding service [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 25 November 2022.

    Military personnel from across the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force have been recognised for outstanding acts of bravery, commitment, and commendable service in the latest Armed Forces Operational Honours and Awards List, published today.

    Recipients have all shown courage and dedication while on operations, from Operation Kipion in the Middle East to United Nations peacekeeping missions in Africa.

    Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said:

    I am thrilled to see such an impressive range of awards in the list, demonstrating some truly remarkable acts of courage and dedication.

    The UK is involved in pivotal operations across the globe, and it is absolutely vital that we have the best talent available to ensure their continued success. Again, the list confirms that we do.

    Congratulations to the brilliant service men and women who have received an award.

    Minister of State Baroness Goldie said:

    It is a privilege to see at first hand the calibre of our people in Defence, and the exceptional work they do to keep this country safe. The Operational Honours and Awards List is a testament to their dedication, talent and bravery.

    I would like to congratulate these brilliant men and women, who time and time again demonstrate why we should be proud of our Armed Forces.

    From the Army, Sergeant Adam Humphreys of 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards has received a Mention in Dispatches (MiD) for demonstrating tremendous bravery while on United Nations peacekeeping operations in Mali, including for his actions on two different occasions that led to the detention of armed men and the seizure of weapons. On another occasion, his actions contributed to saving the lives of two soldiers when their patrol was engaged with machine gun fire. His courage demonstrated the resolve of the United Nation’s peacekeepers and strengthened the reputation of the British Army among international allies.

    Sergeant Adam Humphreys said:

    My troop was out on patrol when we came across two armed men near a river. When they saw us, they fled, so we searched the area to see if we could find them. I found one of them hidden in the water and detained him.

    I was really surprised, to be honest, and very proud. I was just doing my job and although I never expected this award, it is a great honour.

    Other awards for Army personnel include a Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service (QCVS) for Acting Corporal Stefan Cole, who saved the life of a civilian suffering from heat stress by winching them to safety in the Brunei rainforest under extremely difficult circumstances, while Lance Corporal Fraser Gee has been awarded a Queen’s Commendation for Bravery (QCB) for providing first-aid to casualties of a road traffic accident and rescuing an elderly civilian from one of the vehicles at risk of catching fire.

    From the Royal Navy, Rear Admiral Stephen Moorhouse OBE has been awarded a Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE). As commander of last year’s Carrier Strike Group during the UK’s inaugural operational deployment of HMS Queen Elizabeth, he was responsible for its leadership, planning and execution. Commodore Moorhouse led 3,500 personnel from across all three services, the Civil Service and international partners.

    Rear Admiral Stephen Moorhouse said:

    Receiving this national recognition is humbling and I feel incredibly privileged.

    However, none of the successes we saw during the Carrier Strike Group’s inaugural deployment would have been possible without the truly exceptional commitment from the nearly 3,500 men and women who deployed with the Strike Group at the height of Covid.

    Their professionalism, dedication, and resilience along with the unwavering support of our families underpinned all that we achieved.

    Commander Claire Thompson, Commanding Officer of HMS Montrose, has been awarded an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her role while deployed on Operation Kipion; the UK’s long-standing maritime presence in the Arabian Gulf and the Indian Ocean to promoting peace and stability in the region, as well as ensuring the safe passage of trade vessels. Commander Thompson delivered significant tactical, operational and strategic effect during her four-month deployment, including the Royal Navy’s first weapon interdiction operation in theatre, resulting in the successful seizure of illicit weapons.

    Commander Claire Thompson said:

    I feel hugely privileged and extremely humbled by the news that I have been awarded an OBE.

    It is an incredible honour, and for me this award represents each and every one of my ship’s company and their hard work, professionalism and dedication whilst deployed on operations over significant periods of the last year.

    The success of HMS Montrose over that period is well documented but the selfless commitment of the men and women who serve in her must be highlighted as without them none of that success is possible.

    From the Royal Air Force, Warrant Officer Kevin Jones has been awarded a QCVS for his leading role in the recovery of an F-35B Lightning, which had crashed into the Mediterranean Sea and settled 2000 metres below the surface. Warrant Officer Jones displayed exceptional leadership in what was a hugely complex operation, being responsible for the planning and execution of all activity once the wreckage had been recovered.

    Warrant Officer Kevin Jones said:

    I am extremely humbled to receive this award, both for myself and on behalf of the Joint Aircraft Recovery and Transportation Squadron team that deployed in support of Operation Prowling.

    I believe the recovery of the F35B from the Mediterranean Sea to be the most complex aircraft recovery of modern times, of which I am immensely proud to have been a part of.

    It amazes me what can be achieved and this operation has definitely been a highlight of my career.

    Three other Royal Air Force personnel were recognised with awards.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK Foreign Secretary announces critical practical support for Ukraine as winter sets in [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK Foreign Secretary announces critical practical support for Ukraine as winter sets in [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 25 November 2022.

    James Cleverly, the Foreign Secretary, has travelled to Ukraine as part of ongoing UK efforts to ensure the country has the crucial practical support it needs through the winter.

    • the Foreign Secretary has travelled to Ukraine to underline the UK’s unwavering support for the country following devastating Russian attacks on critical national infrastructure
    • during the visit he has announced a further £3 million of support to the Partnership Fund for a Resilient Ukraine to rebuild vital local infrastructure
    • comes as he and the Environment Secretary Thérèse Coffey announce that the UK is also committing £5 million for Ukraine-led initiative to ship grain to countries at risk of famine

    The Foreign Secretary has travelled to Ukraine as part of ongoing UK efforts to ensure the country has the crucial practical support it needs through the winter.

    The visit comes as Russia tries to exploit the harsh winter in Ukraine by continuing its brutal attacks on the country’s civilian and energy infrastructure to exacerbate the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

    During a visit to Kyiv on Saturday, the Prime Minister announced a £50 million package of defensive military support, and the Foreign Secretary will use this visit to ensure that the UK is following through on other key commitments, including further support to help Ukraine through the winter, and to rebuild and recover in the longer term.

    That includes providing an additional 35 emergency vehicles, including 24 ambulances and 6 armoured vehicles, which are to arrive in Ukraine from the UK, to support civilians caught in conflict. He will also announce that the UK will step up its support on demining, increasing its support from £2 million this year.

    While in Ukraine, the Foreign Secretary will meet President Zelenskyy, as well as Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, and other key members of the Ukrainian government, including ministers involved in reconstruction efforts. He is also meeting members of civil society who are fighting to protect human rights, and the UK’s embassy staff in Ukraine.

    Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said:

    As winter sets in, Russia is continuing to try and break Ukrainian resolve through its brutal attacks on civilians, hospitals and energy infrastructure. Russia will fail.

    The UK stands shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine. I have today announced a package of hands-on support for our Ukrainian friends in their fight, from ambulances to crucial support for survivors of the sexual violence carried out by the Russian military.

    I’ve seen here first-hand how the UK’s efforts are helping brave citizens to resist and rebuild. Our support will continue for as long as it takes for this remarkable country to recover.

    During the visit the Foreign Secretary has seen the scale of catastrophe wrought indiscriminately by Putin, and how the UK – with its international partners – is providing concrete support for recovery.

    Through this fund the UK is supporting the Government of Ukraine, local officials and Ukrainian communities to rebuild vital local infrastructure. This is enabling people to return to normal life by clearing debris from Russian attacks, making areas safe and secure, and rebuilding schools and shelters in towns and villages. This new funding will be targeted to areas recently liberated from Russian control in southern Ukraine, including Kherson Oblast.

    He is also visiting a school, which will re-open for 350 students in the next fortnight after being rebuilt by volunteers, including parents and teachers, with UK support.

    Ahead of the UK hosted PSVI (Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative) conference next week, the Foreign Secretary will announce a further £3.45 million for the UN Population Fund to boost survivor centred gender-based violence and sexual and reproductive health services, and ensure continued access to expert support for survivors of sexual assault.

    The consequences of Putin’s war in Ukraine are also being felt across the world, and impacting some of the world’s most vulnerable countries. Today the Foreign Secretary, alongside the Environment Secretary Thérèse Coffey also announced that the UK is committing £5 million to a Ukrainian led initiative, delivered through the UN World Food Programme, to supply grain to countries most at risk of famine, including Yemen and Sudan.

    Environment Secretary Thérèse Coffey said:

    I am pleased the UK government can support President Zelenskyy’s work to help Ukraine’s grain reach some of the poorest and most vulnerable nations in the world.

    Global food security is in all our interests – and helping Ukraine’s farmers and agricultural sector to continue producing and exporting food in these most difficult of circumstances is vital for that security.

    I want Ukraine’s farmers to know that all British farmers stand shoulder to shoulder with you.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Boost for UK fishing industry with new infrastructure projects [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Boost for UK fishing industry with new infrastructure projects [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 25 November 2022.

    £20 million awarded to modernise and improve infrastructure across the seafood sector with a further £30 million available from today.

    Funding to boost the UK fishing industry through projects to upgrade infrastructure and revive local docks has been announced today, as the latest round of investment opens for bids from the UK-wide £100 million Seafood Fund to modernise the sector.

    Winning projects set to receive a share of £20 million include the expansion of processing facilities for popular British fish like Scottish salmon and Cornish sardines, alongside money to bring an ageing dry dock back to life.

    The UK Seafood Fund is a landmark government investment supporting the long-term future and sustainability of the UK fishing and seafood industry, with the infrastructure strand of the Fund helping to pay for upgrades to ports, processing and aquaculture facilities so they can meet future demand whilst also boosting jobs and economic growth.

    As well as announcing the winners from the first round of this scheme, the government has today also confirmed a further £30 million will be made available for infrastructure projects as the latest round of funding opens for bidding.

    The infrastructure scheme also supports businesses to become more environmentally sustainable, with successful bidders in Round 1 investing in greener technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to more reusable materials.

    Fisheries Minister Mark Spencer said:

    Fishing communities are an important part of the UK’s heritage and they make a valuable contribution to our economy, so we are backing them with funds to boost growth and opportunities across the industry.

    This funding will ensure seafood businesses throughout the supply chain are well-equipped to keep pace with increasing demand at home and abroad, boosting production and sustainability and building a resilient sector for the future.

    Successful bidders from the first round of infrastructure funding will receive a share of £20 million from the government, matched with nearly £50 million of investment from private sources. They include:

    • HSH Coldstores who are investing in a cold storage and logistics facility to further expand seafood processing in Grimsby and generate new jobs in the area;
    • Scottish company Denholm Seafoods who will install equipment to increase production of mackerel and herring landed at Peterhead;
    • Cornish based Falfish who will invest in new technology to grade, freeze and pack pelagic fish in support of building two purpose-built Sardine fishing vessels;
    • Shoreham Port who are transforming a historic dry dock into a modern facility for local and visiting fleets.

    Tom Willis, Chief Executive at Shoreham Port, said:

    We are delighted our application to redevelop the Dry Dock at Shoreham Port has been successful. An essential facility for vessel owners, it is one of the few dry docks remaining in the south of England and is part of our proud history, serving users since the 1930s.

    When engaging with the fishing community, investment in improving Dry Dock capability is consistently highlighted as a priority. The redeveloped Dock will offer excellent dry maintenance facilities for vessels up to 50m in length, with workshop access and quayside space. Commencing shortly, the project will be completed by early next summer”.

    Allan Stephen, Director at Denholm Seafoods, said:

    We are delighted with the support we have received from DEFRA, which from the outset has been highly productive. Securing the DEFRA grant will enable Denholm Seafoods to invest in our new freezing and production facilities which will maintain our high quality product.

    The UK has a thriving seafood sector with exports of salmon – one of the UK’s most important exports – worth around £600m annually and other abundant fish stocks such as Cornish sardines in demand on the continent for their quality.

    For the second round of the UK Seafood Fund infrastructure scheme, which is worth £30 million and opens today, businesses will have until March 2025 to deliver their transformational projects meaning a wider range of organisations will be able to apply.

    Defra will also shortly announce successful applicants from the Fisheries Industry Science Partnerships (FISP) scheme, part of the UK Seafood Fund, which funds data collection and research to support sustainable fisheries management. The final FISP round will launch in December 2022.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Major boost for North East tourism as region is chosen for initiative to increase visitor numbers [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Major boost for North East tourism as region is chosen for initiative to increase visitor numbers [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport on 25 November 2022.

    North East England will pilot a new £2.25 million scheme to restructure tourism boards.

    • Aim is to create one-stop shop to show off the best of region, attract investment and boost local economy
    • Scheme will help attract more visitors through new initiatives and target major national and international events and markets

    The North East has been selected as the location for a major tourism project which aims to attract more investment, welcome more sporting, business and cultural events, support business growth, create new jobs, and boost domestic and international tourist numbers.

    Tourism boards, known as Destination Management Organisations (DMOs), help businesses and visitors find out about an area and often lead the development of the local tourism sector.

    But last year’s independent review into DMOs carried out by Nick de Bois, found the landscape is overcrowded and fragmented. For example, there are more than 150 DMOs of all shapes and sizes in England which makes it confusing for tourists planning breaks and businesses looking to invest.

    To fix this problem and make sure the country is providing tourists with the best service, the government is streamlining DMOs by accrediting the top performing organisations so they can grow the visitor economy and attract major business, cultural and sporting events. The plans were set out earlier this year.

    As part of plans to overhaul the current system, NewcastleGateshead Initiative in the North East has been selected to lead a pilot in partnership with Visit Northumberland and Visit County Durham working across seven local authority areas. The partnership will receive £2.25 million to help successfully develop and market the region as a must-visit destination while attracting further private investment and driving growth.

    The aim of the partnership model is to extend the tourism season and attract more visitors from across the UK and abroad through initiatives such as the creation of Tour de Yorkshire, following the Tour de France stage in Yorkshire back in 2015, or the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham this summer.

    By working in partnership, tourism boards will be able to attract new hotels, develop major attractions such as the Eden Project in Cornwall, build on local heritage and cultural assets through the likes of UNESCO World Heritage bids, grow the food and drink offer and maximise the potential of the region’s natural assets, including its dark skies, beaches and national parks.

    Working with the tourism industry and the growing digital cluster, partnerships will also make sure that the tourism offering is fully accessible to all visitors including families and visitors with access needs. For example, NewcastleGateshead Initiative recently worked with tech company Kerckhoffs to capture an immersive experience of Newcastle’s Quayside Market using Eyemmersive technology. The video means that visitors can explore the market virtually and prepare children with special educational needs and disabilities before they experience it in real life.

    Tourism Minister Stuart Andrew said:

    From Hadrian’s Wall to Durham Cathedral and the bright lights of Newcastle, the North East has much to offer tourists from around the world, but we want to go further and attract even more visitors.

    We are looking at what more we can do to streamline the way the region’s tourism bodies work together, improve the region’s offer and the way it markets itself.

    With £2.25 million in funding, we hope the North East can be a pioneer for other areas in unlocking its potential and putting its best foot forward.

    VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said:

    Congratulations to the North East on being announced as the pilot region for the Destination Development Partnership (DDP).

    The UK Government’s decision to proceed with a pilot approach is a valuable opportunity to prove the DDP concept, demonstrating the benefits that these reforms will have if rolled out nationwide. We will also be able to really measure an element of funding at a regional level to develop tourism and what impact that will have, strengthening the case for future funding.

    We look forward to working with NewcastleGateshead Initiative and Northumberland and Durham tourism boards to develop the DDP pilot, ensuring we have the right infrastructure in place to enable England to continue to be a compelling destination for domestic and international visitors.

    Sarah Green, CEO, NewcastleGateshead Initiative:

    This pilot is an incredible opportunity to unlock our growth potential in the North East, attracting more visitors, reaching new international markets, creating jobs, growing businesses, attracting investment, and reinforcing local pride in our place.

    As the first Destination Development Partnership, we will work with our partners in Visit County Durham and Visit Northumberland to ensure the tourism sector is supported and grows across all seven local authorities in the region. Our region will act as a blueprint for the rest of England, and we could not be prouder to help shape the future landscape of destination management organisations, working in partnership to deliver local economic growth through the visitor economy.

    From Auckland Castle to Alnwick Gardens, from dark skies to sparkly venues, from fish and chips to fine dining – the aim of this partnership is to provide an inclusive welcome for all, attracting more international and domestic visitors with a fantastic regional offer and visitor experience.

    Partnerships should support businesses to create sustainable tourism offers, reduce their carbon footprint and offer consumers opportunities to enjoy themselves whilst minimising their impact on the environment.

    Thanks to the new partnerships, tourists will know where to go to find quality, trusted information, tailored to their destination. Going forward, it will also mean that tourism boards can work more effectively with local authorities to explore new initiatives such as travel initiatives that make it seamless for tourists to get around the local area.

    Evidence will be collected throughout the pilot to understand how effective the proposed model is and to support any future funding considerations.

    If the pilot is successful, the government will look to roll the partnership model out to other regions across England.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Ministry of Defence Operational Honours and Awards List [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Ministry of Defence Operational Honours and Awards List [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 25 November 2022.

    The latest Operational Honours and Awards List recognises the bravery, commitment and commendable service of Armed Forces personnel.

    The recipients have all shown outstanding courage and dedication while on operations.

    The full list is below:

    Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)

    Commodore (now Rear Admiral) Stephen Mark Richard MOORHOUSE, OBE, Royal Navy

    Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)

    Commander Claire Fiona THOMPSON, Royal Navy

    Lieutenant Colonel William James MEDDINGS, The Royal Anglian Regiment

    Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)

    Chief Petty Officer Logistician (Supply Chain) Laura PERRY, Royal Navy

    Warrant Officer Class 1 Engineering Technician (Marine Engineering) Clint WHEELER, Royal Navy

    Major Benjamin Sean Costello ATTRELL, Corps of Royal Engineers

    Major Steven John HOWARD, Army Air Corps

    Squadron Leader Jonathan Jack EDDISON, Royal Air Force

    Flight Lieutenant Victoria Grace KELLAGHER, Royal Air Force

    Mention in Despatches (MID)

    Sergeant Adam James HUMPHREYS, 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards

    Queen’s Commendation for Bravery (QCB)

    Lance Corporal (now Retired) Fraser Alan Duncan GEE, Royal Tank Regiment

    Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service (QCVS)

    Petty Officer Warfare Specialist (Electronic Warfare) Timothy Stephen DODGE, Royal Navy

    Lieutenant Commander Alexandra Katherine HARRIS, Royal Navy

    Leading Warfare Specialist (Underwater Warfare) Jake Ryan HOBDAY, Royal Navy

    Warrant Officer Class 1 Engineering Technician (Communications and Information Systems) Christopher ROBBINS, Royal Navy

    Staff Sergeant (now Warrant Officer Class 2) Meghann Kylie BRADBURY, Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Corps

    Captain Andrew Robert MACBETH, Royal Tank Regiment

    Corporal (now Acting Sergeant) Toyah Louise PALMER, Intelligence Corps

    Captain Helena Katheryn RICHARDSON, Royal Regiment of Artillery

    Acting Warrant Officer Kevin Edward JONES, Royal Air Force

    Flight Lieutenant Graeme John RITCHIE, Royal Air Force

    Acting Corporal Stefan COLE, Royal Army Medical Corps

  • PRESS RELEASE : New laws to better protect victims from abuse of intimate images [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : New laws to better protect victims from abuse of intimate images [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 25 November 2022.

    Victims will be better protected from abusers who share intimate images without their consent, under a raft of changes to the law announced today.

    • new offences to be created in crackdown on abusers who share intimate images without consent
    • changes will strengthen law and deliver on Prime Minister’s pledge to outlaw ‘downblousing’
    • comprehensive package of measures to modernise legislation following Law Commission review

    Under a planned amendment to the Online Safety Bill, people who share so-called ‘deepfakes’ – explicit images or videos which have been manipulated to look like someone without their consent – will be among those to be specifically criminalised for the first time and face potential time behind bars.

    The government will also bring forward a package of additional laws to tackle a range of abusive behaviour including the installation of equipment, such as hidden cameras, to take or record images of someone without their consent.

    These will cover so-called ‘downblousing’ – where photos are taken down a woman’s top without consent – allowing police and prosecutors to pursue such cases more effectively.

    This will deliver on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s pledge to criminalise the practice, in line with previous measures this government has taken to outlaw ‘upskirting’.

    Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Justice, Dominic Raab, said:

    We must do more to protect women and girls, from people who take or manipulate intimate photos in order to hound or humiliate them.

    Our changes will give police and prosecutors the powers they need to bring these cowards to justice and safeguard women and girls from such vile abuse.

    Today’s announcement builds on the campaign of Dame Maria Miller MP, as well as recommendations from the Law Commission, to introduce reforms to the laws covering the abuse of images.

    The amendment to the Online Safety Bill will broaden the scope of current intimate image offences, so that more perpetrators will face prosecution and potentially time in jail.

    The Domestic Abuse Commissioner, Nicole Jacobs, said:

    I welcome these moves by the government which aim to make victims and survivors safer online, on the streets and in their own homes.

    I am pleased to see this commitment in the Online Safety Bill, and hope to see it continue its progression through Parliament at the earliest opportunity.

    Around 1 in 14 adults in England and Wales have experienced a threat to share intimate images, with more than 28,000 reports of disclosing private sexual images without consent recorded by police between April 2015 and December 2021.

    The package of reforms follows growing global concerns around the abuse of new technology, including the increased prevalence of deepfakes. These typically involve the use of editing software to make and share fake images or videos of a person without their consent, which are often pornographic in nature. A website that virtually strips women naked received 38 million hits in the first 8 months of 2021.

    The government will take forward several of the Law Commission’s recommendations to ensure legislation keeps pace with technology and can effectively tackle emerging forms of abuse. This includes:

    • Repealing and replacing current legislation with new offences to simplify the law and make it easier to prosecute cases. This includes a new base offence of sharing an intimate image without consent and 2 more serious offences based on intent to cause humiliation, alarm, or distress and for obtaining sexual gratification.
    • Creation of 2 specific offences for threatening to share and installing equipment to enable images to be taken.
    • Criminalising the non-consensual sharing of manufactured intimate images (more commonly known as deepfakes).

    The move builds on government action in recent years to better protect victims and bring more offenders to justice, including making ‘upskirting’ and ‘breastfeeding voyeurism’ specific criminal offences, extending ‘revenge porn’ laws to capture threats to share such images, and using the Online Safety Bill to create an offence specifically targeting ‘cyberflashing’.

    Ruth Davison, CEO of Refuge, said:

    Refuge welcomes these reforms and is pleased to see progress in tackling abuse perpetrated via technology. As the only frontline service with a specialist tech abuse team, Refuge is uniquely placed to support survivors who experience this form of abuse.

    We campaigned successfully for threatening to share intimate images with intent to cause distress to be made a crime, via the Domestic Abuse Act, and these reforms will further ensure police and law enforcement agencies rightly investigate and prosecute these serious offences.

    Tech abuse can take many forms, and Refuge hopes that these changes will signal the start of a much broader conversation on the need for strengthening the response to online abuse and harm.

    DCMS Secretary of State Michelle Donelan said:

    Through the Online Safety Bill, I am ensuring that tech firms will have to stop illegal content and protect children on their platforms, but we will also upgrade criminal law to prevent appalling offences like cyberflashing.

    With these latest additions to the Bill, our laws will go even further to shield women and children, who are disproportionately affected, from this horrendous abuse once and for all.

    The government will bring forward the wider package of changes as soon as parliamentary time allows and will announce further details in due course.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Eligible people urged to get vaccinated as flu season officially under way [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Eligible people urged to get vaccinated as flu season officially under way [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 24 November 2022.

    • All eligible people – including those in at-risk groups, pregnant women, and aged 50 or over – urged to get their free flu vaccine
    • Many schoolchildren and 2 and 3 year old preschoolers are eligible for nasal spray flu vaccines
    • UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) indicators have been met in England leading to the Chief Medical Officer and Chief Pharmaceutical Officer authorising antiviral medicines on prescription in primary care settings, in line with pre-pandemic seasons
    • Flu is now circulating at higher levels than recent seasons

    All those eligible for the flu vaccine have been urged to come forward as cases rise to levels not seen since before the pandemic.

    So far this year, flu vaccine uptake in eligible groups is similar to the last couple of years, although there is a particular need for pre-schoolers, pregnant women and those in the health and social care workforces to take up the offer.

    Latest UKHSA data shows there have been jumps in emergency department flu attendances and hospital admissions in the last week. The intensive care admission rate is now higher for flu than for COVID-19.

    In the week 14 to 20 November 2022:

    • the hospital admission rate for flu increased to 24 per million population, up from 15 per million the previous week. The highest rates were in the under 5s followed by the 75 years plus group. The COVID-19 rate was 44 per million population
    • the intensive care and high dependency care for influenza increased to 21 per 10 million population compared to 13 per 10 million population in the previous week. The highest rates were in the under 5s followed by the 65 years plus group. The COVID-19 rate was 17 per 10 million population

    Those aged 2 and 3 years old are eligible for nasal spray flu vaccines, with parents and guardians also urged to book appointments to ensure the younger age group is protected.

    With both flu and COVID-19 cases both circulating this winter, it is also vital all those eligible get both vaccines as soon as possible.

    Due to the increase in levels of flu circulating in the community, UKHSA has recommended that it is now appropriate for antiviral medicines to be prescribed in primary care settings.

    Those eligible for antivirals if they have flu include patients in clinical at-risk groups as well as any who are at risk of severe illness and complications from flu if not treated. This includes people in those groups who present with symptoms of flu and those who have been exposed to flu-like illnesses from someone they live with, including residents of care homes.

    As has happened in flu seasons before the pandemic, following an UKHSA recommendation, the Chief Medical Officer together with the Chief Pharmaceutical Officer have issued an alert to the NHS notifying the healthcare system that antiviral medicines can now be prescribed and supplied for cases of community acquired influenza.

    Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty, said:

    Flu and COVID-19 are both circulating. We are currently seeing higher rates of flu at this time of year than usual.

    It is important those eligible have their flu jab as soon as they can. Vaccines are the best defence against these viruses. The most effective approach is to get vaccinated before it is circulating at very high rates.

    As flu cases have risen and in order to protect the most vulnerable – in line with pre-COVID flu seasons antiviral medicines can now be prescribed in primary care settings such as GPs and pharmacies to those eligible who are most at risk to the complications of flu.

    Health and Social Care Secretary, Steve Barclay, said:

    Flu is a serious virus and, while we haven’t seen the number of cases we’re used to over the last couple of years, it is starting to circulate at high levels this season.

    Thankfully we have the tools to protect those most at risk to flu. Thanks to our fantastic vaccination campaign, more than 17 million flu jabs have been given in England this season already.

    For all those eligible who have not yet come forward for their free winter vaccines for flu and COVID-19, please do not delay in coming forward for your jab. It could not be easier.

    In England, the first weekly winter update shows there were an average of 344 patients a day with flu in hospital last week, more than 10 times the number seen at the beginning of December last year.

    In October, a new country-wide marketing campaign urging millions of eligible people to get their flu and COVID-19 booster vaccines to top up their immunity was launched.

    Building on the success of the 2021 to 2022 COVID-19 vaccination campaign, the campaign stressed that the protection provided by vaccines wanes over time, so everyone eligible should boost their immunity by getting both vaccines ahead of a difficult winter.

    Dr Mary Ramsay, Director for Immunisation and Programmes at UKHSA, said:

    Our surveillance shows recent increases in laboratory and clinical influenza indicators across England, particularly NHS emergency department attendances, hospitalisations and intensive care. Alongside older adults, flu rates are rapidly rising in younger children. Vaccination remains critical and I urge everyone eligible to take up the offer.

    Flu antivirals are effective in helping to keep people out of hospital and preventing the virus spreading to other more vulnerable household and family members. Now that we are seeing flu increasing it’s important that GPs consider the possibility of flu in respiratory patients and the use of antivirals in line with national guidance, particularly if they have ruled out COVID-19.

    Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS National Medical Director, said:

    The first weekly data this year shows that flu is already with us as we enter what could be the most challenging winter in NHS history, with hundreds of beds a day already occupied with patients with flu.

    Flu can be extremely serious for lots of people, so pharmacies and GPs will now be able to prescribe antivirals to those most at risk of its complications to help people avoid the need for hospital care.

    But the best way people who are eligible can protect themselves is by getting vaccinated without delay – there are thousands of sites across the country offering flu and COVID-19 jabs so please book in today if you haven’t already.

    The alert concerning flu antiviral medicine has been issued to primary care settings including GPs and community pharmacies in England.

    The Department of Health and Social Care continues to work closely with the manufacturers of antiviral medicines, used in the treatment of flu, to monitor stocks and ensure that there are adequate supplies of these medicines available to meet UK demand.

    The prescription and supply of antivirals in primary care settings is in line with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Update to Forestry Commission Non-Executive Commissioners [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Update to Forestry Commission Non-Executive Commissioners [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 24 November 2022.

    By Royal Warrant, four new appointments and reappointments have been made to Non-Executive Commissioner positions at the Forestry Commission. His Majesty King Charles III appointed Ross Murray as a Non-Executive Commissioner and the late Queen reappointed Julia Grant, Jennie Price, and Peter Latham as Non-Executive Commissioners.

    Ross Murray has been appointed for a three-year term which commenced on 1 October 2022. Julia Grant has been reappointed for a third term of two years from 1 November 2022 until 31 October 2024. Jennie Price and Peter Latham have been reappointed for a second term of three years from 1 April 2022 until 31 March 2025.

    These appointments have been made in accordance with the Ministerial Governance Code on Public Appointments. All appointments have been made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process. The time commitment is expected to be up to 30 days per year and the daily rate for each Commissioner is £409.

    There is a requirement for appointees’ political activity (if significant) to be declared. None of the appointees have declared taking part in any significant political activity in the past five years.

    The Non-Executive Commissioners play a pivotal role in establishing a strong, sustainable future for the organisation. The Forestry Commission (FC) is a non-Ministerial Government department that has a key role in helping the Government achieve its tree planting objectives. The Forestry Commission is responsible for protecting, expanding and promoting the sustainable management of woodlands to society and the environment.

    Biographical details

    Ross Murray

    • Ross is the current Non-Executive Chairman at Knight Frank Rural and Senior Trustee of Llanover Estate.
    • Previously he has been National President for The Country Land and Business Association.

    Julia Grant

    • Julia has held a range of leadership roles in global consulting firms, financial services and the not-for-profit sector over a 30-year career span.
    • She has extensive non-executive and board experience including previous Ministerial Appointments at the Arts and Humanities Research Council and the Surrey Learning and Skills Council.
    • She is a Non-Executive Forestry Commissioner, a Non- Executive Member of the Investment and Delivery Committee at the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office and a Member of the Audit Risk and Assurance Committee at the Rural Payments Agency.
    • Julia is also currently a Trustee at Education Development Trust and is a previous trustee at Shelter and the Community Foundation for Surrey.

    Jennie Price

    • Jennie has been the Chief Executive Officer of Sport England and Chief Executive Officer of WRAP, a DEFRA-supported environmental organisation specialising in recycling and resources management.
    • She has also been the Chair of the International Tennis Integrity Agency and Chair of Trustees of The Scouts in the UK. Jennie is also a Trustee of the Canal and River Trust.

    Peter Latham

    • Peter is a Director at Association Technique Internationale des Bois Tropicaux (ATIBT)
    • He is a Trustee of the William Robinson Gravetye Charity and of the Commonwealth Forestry Association.
    • He was previously Chief Executive Officer and Chair of the Timber Distributor James Latham Plc., and also previously Chair of the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification International (PEFC).
  • PRESS RELEASE : Rear Admiral Andy Kyte CB announced as the next Chief of Defence Logistics and Support [November 2022]

    PRESS RELEASE : Rear Admiral Andy Kyte CB announced as the next Chief of Defence Logistics and Support [November 2022]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 24 November 2022.

    His Majesty the King has approved the appointment of Rear Admiral (RAdm) Andy Kyte CB as the next Chief of Defence Logistics and Support (CDLS), in the rank of Vice Admiral, from September 2023.

    RAdm Kyte has had a notable career in logistics covering posts in the Royal Navy, the Defence Support organisation and wider Defence. He will step into the role of CDLS and lead the organisation forward as it seeks to modernise and integrate how Support is delivered.

    CDLS heads up the Defence Support organisation, under Strategic Command. As CDLS, RAdm Kyte will be responsible for overseeing the continued implementation of the Defence Support Strategy, the delivery of strategic military logistics and support advice, and as the Functional Owner developing, cohering and assuring support across Defence.

    General Sir James Hockenhull, Commander United Kingdom Strategic Command said:

    “I am pleased to announce RAdm Andrew Kyte’s appointment as the next Chief of Defence Support and Logistics, Defence Support organisation, in the rank of Vice Admiral. He will bring a unique insight as he steps into the role with a broad range of experience. Defence Support is a vital part of Strategic Command and wider Defence. I look forward to working with Andy going forward.”

    Current CDLS, Lt Gen Richard Wardlaw, said:

    “Having played a central role in the creation of the Defence Support organisation and been intimately involved in the development of the Defence Support Strategy, RAdm Kyte’s appointment as the next Chief of Defence Logistics and Support is to be celebrated. Andy will bring an innate appreciation of the challenges faced and as part of Strategic Command, the insights and experience required to drive forward the continued modernisation of Support”.

    On his appointment, RAdm Kyte CB said:

    “I am delighted and incredibly proud to have been selected as the next Chief of Defence Logistics and Support. It is a huge honour to be able to lead the organisation into the future and take forward Defence Support’s ambitious agenda as it seeks to modernise the delivery of Support”.