Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
PM meeting with Secretary General of NATO Mark Rutte: 9 June 2025
The Prime Minister hosted NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at Downing Street this afternoon.
The Prime Minister hosted NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at Downing Street this afternoon.
The Prime Minister began by updating on the UK’s new NATO-first Strategic Defence Review, announced last week, which underscored the UK’s steadfast commitment to the Alliance.
NATO was vital to the security of working people in the UK and had been the cornerstone of Euro-Atlantic peace and security for more than eight decades, the Prime Minister added.
Turning to the upcoming summit in The Hague, the leaders agreed that NATO was more united than ever, but Allies still needed to go further and faster to ensure stability and security and reinforce defence industries for the future.
The NATO Secretary General said that approach had been brought to life for him during his visit to Sheffield Forgemasters earlier in the day, where he had heard from a man who had faced losing his job, but through a new government contract for the production of artillery barrels for the first time in almost two decades, was now training his team in a skillset that could have been lost.
That exemplified the importance of embracing rapid innovation, while fostering the skills and lessons learned across the past 80 years, the leaders agreed.
The leaders also discussed future funding proposals for NATO and underscored the importance of going further to step up on national resilience and protect critical national infrastructure. The Prime Minister welcomed the Secretary General’s focus on ensuring the Alliance was fit for the future.
The leaders looked forward to speaking again at the upcoming G7 summit.
Budding entrepreneurs from a Highland school are celebrating following triumphs at two top enterprise events.
In the last two weeks team Solasta, from Fortrose Academy, won the Scottish Company of the Year at the Young Enterprise Scotland Awards in Glasgow and went on to triumph in Manchester at the UK Company of the Year finals event last Wednesday (4 June).
At both events Solasta were recognised for their expertise in designing, producing and selling their intergenerational journals which encourage families to connect and record their memories.
The team will now go on to represent the UK at the Junior Achievement European awards in Athens, Greece on 1-3 July, known as the European “Oscars” of Youth Entrepreneurship.
Councillor John Finlayson, chair of Highland Council’s education committee, said: “I was delighted to hear about Solasta, the team from Fortrose Academy who won the UK Young Enterprise final in Manchester on the 4th of June.
“As someone who has always promoted the importance of including enterprise in the work of all our schools, I congratulate Fortrose staff and pupils on their success and I wish them well in the European final in Greece on 4th July.”
The Young Enterprise Scotland Company Programme for Highland and Moray runs in partnership with local schools to encourage young people to experience the challenges of running a business.
Over the course of a year teams from individual schools learn how to run a successful business by designing and making products, marketing them and managing the financial side.
The scheme is aimed at 15- to 19-year-olds and teams are supported by teachers, a volunteer business adviser from the local community, and a Young Enterprise Scotland area team.
The Solasta team involved S6 pupils Amy MacRae, Natasha Browne, Imogen Geddes, Imogen Maclarty, Roisin Beattie, Abbie Harper, Freya Campbell and Keira Chisholm.
Their idea for producing a journal was sparked through the school’s own well established inter-generational links with community charity Black Isle Cares and the Eilean Dubh Care Home.
Keira Lyall, Head of Business Studies at Fortrose Academy, added: “The team are still on a high after their great achievement and the tremendous experience of taking part in both finals.
“We’d like to thank everyone who generously stepped in quickly to provide sponsorship to help us travel to Manchester and represent the Highlands on a national stage.
“We are now making plans to get to Athens for the European finals in July and if any local business would like to get involved, please email us on keira.lyall@highland.gov.uk.”
Linda Thomas, Chair of Young Enterprise Highland and Moray, said: “We are absolutely delighted but not at all surprised at Solasta’s success.
“Their hard work, tenacity and creativity have been a joy to watch and they are a true credit to the Highlands.
“Their win at the national finals in Glasgow brings the tally of teams from the Highlands and Moray who have won the top Young Enterprise Scotland award to ten over the last 18 years – a clear demonstration that young people from this area absolutely have all it takes to succeed in the world of work.”
Fortrose has a long tradition of supporting young enterprise in the school, having been previous UK winners in 2008.
Press release issued by Young Enterprise Highland and Moray and The Highland Council
Caption: Solasta at the Young Enterprise UK final with Graham Farhall, Finance Director at sponsor Delta Airline and Sarah Poretta, CEO of YE UK
BROCKTON, Mass. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in partnership with the Federal Bureau of Investigation apprehended a 24-year-old, illegally present Salvadoran national and documented member of the notorious MS-13 criminal gang. Officers with ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston working with agents from ICE Homeland Security Investigations New England and FBI Boston arrested William Alberto Villalobos-Melendez May 14 in Brockton.
“William Alberto Villalobos-Melendez has been illegally residing in the United States for almost nine years,” said ICE ERO Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “He is a validated member of a violent transnational street gang and poses a threat to our Massachusetts residents. ICE Boston will not tolerate any threat that a member of a nefarious gang poses to our neighbors. We will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting criminal alien threats to our New England communities.”
U.S. Border Patrol arrested Villalobos Oct. 11, 2016, after he illegally entered the United States near Hidalgo, Texas. USBP determined that Villalobos had entered the U.S. without admission or inspection by an immigration official. USBP issued Villalobos a notice to appear before a Justice Department immigration judge.
On June 12, 2019, a DOJ immigration judge issued ordered Villalobos removed from the United States to El Salvador.
The State Police of Middleboro, Massachusetts, charged Villalobos with unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and using an electronic device while driving March 13, 2025.
Officers with ICE ERO Boston and agents with ICE HSI New England and FBI Boston arrested Villalobos May 14, 2025, and took him into ICE custody. Villalobos will remain in ICE custody pending his removal from the United States.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our New England communities on X at @EROBoston.
Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sophie Lund Rasmussen, Research fellow in Ecology and Conservation, University of Oxford
Jayne Morgan
Biodiversity, the rich variety of life found on Earth, is vanishing. I’m a conservation scientist keen to monitor this loss to better understand where efforts to reverse it will be most effective. And I might have hit on a novel solution.
I study European hedgehogs, the popular spiky mammals that inhabit our gardens. Hedgehog populations are declining massively, with an estimated loss of up to 75% in the rural areas of the UK during the past 25 years.
Thanks to insights gained in my research, I, Dr Hedgehog, believe that this species could be helpful for mapping wider biodiversity. More specifically, its poo.
One probable cause of the decline in hedgehogs is a decline in insects, which form a major part of their diet. During my many nights of radio-tracking hedgehogs, I came up with the idea of analysing environmental DNA (eDNA) contained in samples of hedgehog poo to discover what the hedgehogs are eating and through that, what’s living locally.
The eDNA method could reveal genetic traces of all organisms present in the samples in a single analysis. And, as we’ll see, these prickly mammals have a surprisingly liberal diet.
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Due to the loss of natural habitats, hedgehogs are increasingly living in gardens, and this is where the battle to save the hedgehog will take place. My research showed that European hedgehogs in residential areas normally visit ten to 14 gardens a night.
Here, they eat a wide selection of prey, primarily insects, snails, slugs and worms, but also birds’ eggs (from ground-nesting birds – they don’t climb trees). They are scavengers too, and will munch on all sorts of dead animals.
What most people don’t realise is that these adorable little creatures are also ferocious predators. If they can get their paws (or perhaps more correctly, their jaws) on live prey, they will eat chicks that have fallen out of nests or amphibians such as salamanders, newts and frogs. They are excellent swimmers and sometimes catch fish in garden ponds.
I have seen hedgehogs taking on adult pigeons or full-sized chickens, and winning. Hedgehogs also sometimes chew on the faeces of foxes and lick the saliva onto their spines, probably with the purpose of masking their scent against predators.
We are not sure whether hedgehogs eat fruit and plants intentionally, or if they are actually after the worms or insects living on them – hedgehogs are officially categorised as “insectivores” – but vegetation shows up in the stomachs of dead hedgehogs too. The DNA from plants ingested by the insects, worms and snails eaten by hedgehogs, will also show up in an analysis of hedgehog poo.
In terms of a guide to local biodiversity, hedgehogs are the full package.
Hedgehogs live and forage in a small area. They poop a lot, and their faeces are easy to recognise and collect. If we keep the hedgehog population going, we won’t run out of sample material any time soon.
Before DNA analysis was invented, it was very difficult to determine the diet of a hedgehog, because a slug is reduced to nothing after a trip through its digestive tract, and it’s hard to identify a species from a chewed-off beetle leg. In contrast, it only takes a tiny fragment of a species to show up in an eDNA analysis of hedgehog faeces, so imagine what we could discover.
In these times of drastic biodiversity loss, we need to establish good and reliable methods for monitoring biodiversity. An analysis of a hedgehog poo could even reveal elusive species which may have been categorised as extinct in the area.
My idea of biodiversity monitoring through hedgehog poo has spawned ridicule and numerous rejection letters for funding applications. I refused to let it stop me. So I have created a crowdfunding campaign where you can support the research by purchasing a hedgehog poo and getting a certificate. I have 800 hedgehog faecal samples collected from all over Denmark, England and Scotland, stored in a freezer ready to be analysed.
The work has begun, and my colleagues and I have found some very interesting results already. One is the remarkable scarcity of bird DNA in hedgehog faecal samples collected from islands, where hedgehogs are accused of posing a threat to ground-nesting birds by eating their eggs. We are confident that our method works as we tested it beforehand by feeding quail eggs to hedgehogs, and found lots of bird DNA in the samples.
When I have managed to raise the remaining funds, we will continue the investigation.
This is the story of how I discovered that hedgehog droppings are gold. If you would like to know more, watch my talk on the subject here.
Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?
Sophie Lund Rasmussen does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: The Conversation – UK – By Nicholas Burton, Professor, Department of Leadership and Human Resource Management, Northumbria University, Newcastle
For many, the Clarks brand is a byword for sturdy school shoes and functional footwear for those of more mature years. The manufacturing and retailing company was set up two centuries ago in Somerset, England, in the shadows of Glastonbury Tor, by brothers Cyrus and James Clark. In 2025, it is celebrating its 200th anniversary and remains a formidable force both on the high street and online.
Less well known is that the Clark brothers, like chocolatier families Cadbury and Rowntree, were Quakers. This small religious community has produced a remarkable and disproportionate number of scientists, thinkers and campaigners for justice, peace and human rights. In addition, its contribution of ethical businesses has dominated many industries in the UK.
The Lloyds and Barclays of the banking dynasties were Quakers. The Jacobs (of biscuits and crackers fame) were Quakers. So were the Rathbones (fund management), the Penroses (founders of Waterford Crystal) and the Waterhouse family (accountancy), to name just a few.
The Quakers – more formally known as the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) – have a history of nearly 400 years in Britain and the US. While Quakerism has Christian foundations, Quakers also emphasise moral commitments to peace, truth, integrity, simplicity and equality – the five testimonies in Quaker theology. These came to define how Quakers approach the world, and their businesses.
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As early Quakers were deemed radical and challenged the established church, they became persecuted by the state during the 17th century. They were excluded from political and public life, as well as from universities. Perhaps as a direct consequence, Quakers became highly active entrepreneurs and came to dominate many industries through a combination of their testimonies and outward entrepreneurial action.
This led to the reputation that Quaker firms had for trustworthiness and integrity. Their impact was perhaps so acute as to represent a distinctive form of ethical entrepreneurship.
While not all Quakers were engaged in commerce, and not all those who were succeeded, a disproportionate number did. Such commercial success is all the more intriguing, as the Quakers were a very small (and, from the mid-18th century, declining) minority of the UK population (about 20,000 in total today).
Zero-waste beginnings
Quaker values and the entrepreneurial spirit are woven through the history of Clarks. For example, the original business idea by James in 1825 to produce sheepskin slippers was born of a desire to eliminate waste, with slippers produced from off-cuts of sheepskin rugs.
Like many Quaker businesses, Clarks has always supported social and environmental causes. Family members took a central role in the anti-abolitionist movement and in women’s suffrage.
It also invested a proportion of its profits in local community amenities, such as building homes, constructing classrooms, funding a theatre, a library, an open-air swimming pool, a town hall and playing fields near the company’s base in Street, Somerset.
Today, Clarks continues to play an active community role. It champions corporate responsibility and high sustainability criteria in its business operations and supply chains. This focus draws interesting parallels with the modern social enterprise sector, and ethical, purpose-driven business accreditation schemes such as B Corporation status, which assesses profit-making firms on their environmental, social and governance credentials.
The moral commitments of the members of the Clarks family in these formative years of the firm have left their mark and shaped its later development. The 200-year history of the firm represents a close affinity between the values of the company and the values of Quakers.
However, all firms from time to time face challenges to the way they do business. The balance between economics and ethics can be a fine line to tread. It’s no different for Clarks. Struggling to survive the impact of the COVID pandemic in 2020, and with losses mounting, the Clark family sold its stake to a private equity firm.
Within 12 months, Clarks workers accused the new owners of betraying the company’s philanthropic roots by threatening them with dismissal if they did not accept significant pay cuts. Clarks said at the time that renegotiating workers’ terms would be a “very last resort” and that almost half of the workers in the distribution centre in question would receive a pay rise.
The dispute involved strike action and mediation, eventually leading to a resolution. Afterwards, Clarks said in a joint statement with the Community union that the resolution had protected workers’ livelihoods and recognised their loyalty to the firm.
This demonstrated how firms can face repeated cycles of crises, including competitive, financial and economic shocks that bring debates about ethics into focus. These crisis events are typically more acute when a founder, CEO or family departs, and especially when those involved with the company honour its tradition and legacy. Rathbones, the fund management company with Quaker origins, was faced with similar challenges when the family was no longer actively involved.
Yet despite the economic and financial pressures that Clarks faced in this exceptional period, the firm is also attempting to protect the core of its moral backbone. It echoes an affinity – albeit a more distant one – with the Quakerism of the founding family.
This stance can potentially be fragile, however. Businesses must remain viable as businesses – and only last year Clarks was facing up to a difficult trading environment by cutting 150 office staff. Indeed, the previous conversation within the firm and the community about betrayal clearly expresses a strong moral view, shaped by the links to Quaker values. It is also a conversation about the future strength of those ties, and one that places values at the heart of its future.
Nicholas Burton does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
The UK government’s proposed immigration reforms emphasise the need for migrants to learn English in order to integrate successfully.
Some of the new measures announced include raising the level of English language skills required from migrants that wish to work in the UK.
Those who wish to settle permanently will also need to demonstrate a stronger grasp of English. In the future they may also be asked to demonstrate how their command of the language has improved since they arrived.
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Yet in a press conference to launch the reforms, Keir Starmer adopted a different line. He argued that linguistic integration should be viewed as a matter of “fairness”.
“When people come to our country, they should also commit to integration, to learning our language, and our system should actively distinguish between those that do and those that don’t,” Starmer said. “I think that’s fair.”
In linking learning English with fairness, Starmer seems to be making a claim about the ethics of linguistic integration. However, his remarks frame this as a one-sided deal. Migrants must meet English language requirements to earn the right to stay in the UK.
No mention is made of the possibility that fairness in this context may also entail an obligation on government, or society more broadly, to take steps to ensure that learning English is a practical option for all migrants.
The government’s proposed reforms related to learning English adopt a similar approach. They include a series of steps that will be taken to increase the level of English competence expected from those settling in the UK.
But aside from a vague commitment to improve access to English language classes, the government has not proposed detailed measures to help migrants to meet these language demands.
This is despite the fact that researchers and practitioners working in the field of language education for migrants have long argued that access to learning English for speakers of other languages is highly uneven and chronically underfunded.
It is not unreasonable for a society to set out certain broad obligations for migrants as part of the integration process, such as learning a common public language. This is now relatively common across many European democracies.
What’s more, for those who settle in the UK from countries where English is not spoken, acquiring the language will support efforts to enter the labour market and simplify the challenge of navigating new health, social security, housing and education systems.
However, if Keir Starmer is concerned with fairness, then he should arguably consider how integration can be understood as a two-way process. This would mean acknowledging that there are roles and responsibilities for the government and citizens of the host society, as well as for migrants.
This is particularly relevant when considering the role of language in integration because applied linguistic research shows that second-language acquisition can be a difficult task. Success varies according to factors that are not necessarily within the control of individual learners, such as age, level of education and wealth.
Inclusive integration
More nuanced understandings of linguistic integration also stress that the process should not be viewed as one where the aim is for migrants simply to not stand out linguistically.
Rather, the aim should be to help migrants – many of whom may already be multilingual – to adjust their linguistic repertoires in a way that allows them to settle in their new communities.
Alongside opportunities to acquire languages deemed essential for employment and engagement with public bodies, this may also entail opportunities to access other languages that play a role in the social life of the host society.
For example, including the Welsh language as part of provision for speakers of other languages in Wales has been seen as a way to develop a distinct sense of belonging.
Furthermore, the process of linguistic integration should acknowledge the languages that migrants bring with them. As they build a new life, they should be afforded space to reflect on what role these languages will play in their social interactions.
This type of approach potentially offers a more inclusive route to linguistic integration. It affirms newcomers as valued members of society, not just as learners but also as contributors to the social and cultural life of their new communities.
Huw Lewis is currently contributing to a Leverhulme-funded research project entitled The Ethics of Linguistic Integration
Gwennan Higham is currently contributing to a Leverhulme-funded research project entitled The Ethics of Linguistic Integration
Leigh Oakes is currently the Principal Investigator on a Leverhulme-funded research project entitled the Ethics of Linguistic Integration
More than 17,000 council properties have been inspected over the last 12 months as part of an ongoing commitment to ensure housing estates are kept clean and tidy.
Stoke-on-Trent City Council has carried out street inspections at 17,285 homes all over the city since June 2024 – and identified 2,949 cases of untidy gardens, fly-tipping and graffiti.
In that time, estate officers have worked proactively with tenants to clean up and maintain their gardens – and 88 per cent of cases have already been resolved.
Now the council is reminding tenants that it is their responsibility to keep their gardens or yards tidy and free from rubbish.
Councillor Chris Robinson, cabinet member for housing and planning, said: “If you are a council tenant, it is your responsibility to ensure your gardens and yards are kept tidy and visually pleasing.
“Our officers have worked extremely hard over the last 12 months and have successfully visited every street in their individual patches. They have also worked closely with tenants to resolve some of the issues which were identified, and I’m pleased that over 2,600 cases have already been closed. I hope that residents have started to notice improvements in their neighbourhood.
“We have identified a number of hotspot areas where we will be stepping up our street inspections in the future and we will continue to work with our tenants to ensure all of our estates are kept clean and tidy.
“Everyone has a right to live in a cleaner, greener and safer city so we will not hesitate to take enforcement action where necessary.”
Council tenants struggling to maintain their gardens should contact their housing officer for support.
Stoke-on-Trent City Council offers a chargeable bulky waste collection service for large items that may require removal. To book a collection call 01782 234234 or visit: www.stoke.gov.uk/bulkywaste
The University of Aberdeen Careers and Employability Service has been recognised for projects which significantly enhance graduate and student employability through smart use of resources.
The team has been shortlisted for the highly competitive Employability Impact Award at the upcoming AGCAS (Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services) Awards for Excellence 2025.
This year’s shortlist for the Employability Impact Award includes just five ambitious initiatives from across the UK — among them the University of Aberdeen’s innovative ABDN Internship programme.
The ABDN Internship programme includes innovative part-time, term-time paid internships, funded by the University, which see students work for a total of 70 hours over the course of seven weeks on a project set by a local employer.
The programme also includes Interns with Impact (funded by The Wood Foundation) which are internships exclusively in the third sector as well as a Group Virtual internship which allows students to undertake an internship wherever they are based over the summer.
The Employability Impact Award aims to honour a single initiative that has meaningfully advanced student or graduate employability, placing emphasis on impact over scale or expenditure.
Tracey Innes, Head of Careers and Employability at Aberdeen, said: “Being shortlisted for the Employability Impact Award is testament to our team’s dedication to creating high quality and meaningful opportunities for our students. We’re extremely proud of the experiences created for our students.
“The ABDN Internship programme is a true partnership approach and we’d like to thank our wonderful host organisations as well as funders such as The Wood Foundation and Santander.
“This prestigious nomination highlights the University of Aberdeen’s ongoing commitment to equipping students and graduates for today’s dynamic job market, leveraging smart, inclusive and effective programmes to foster meaningful career outcomes.”
The winners will be unveiled at the AGCAS Awards for Excellence ceremony, held during the AGCAS Annual Conference on 17 June 2025 in Newcastle.
Any organisations interested in finding out more about the ABDN Internship programme or about hosting an internship please visit https://employers.careerhub.abdn.ac.uk/content/internships or contact employers@abdn.ac.uk.
Remnants of what is believed to be one of the largest medieval hospitals in the north of England have been found inside the void which recently opened on St Leonard’s Place in central York.
The void, which is in the middle of the road outside York Theatre Royal, was made safe before contractors and archaeology teams began investigation works. These also necessitated a lane closure to keep workers, traffic and the public safe.
Once the void had been accessed, archaeologists uncovered what is believed to be part of the 12th-13th century St Leonard’s Hospital which stretched from the modern day Museum Gardens to the Theatre Royal. This was an area that post Reformation was used as the Royal Mint, giving it its post medieval name of Mint Yard, which were demolished several hundred years ago and a road made on top of it. The archaeological find was discovered as work was taking place to repair the sinkhole on St Leonard’s Place.
The findings have been recorded in line with CIFA standards, images have been taken and recorded with further analysis to take place.
It is anticipated that the remains are likely the buildings of Mint Yard, which by the 1800’s were a warren of residencies, yards and stables and were demolished to make way from the new Georgian streetscape in 1836, as it became one of the most fashionable parts of the city at the time. The demolished parts of the city walls were then used to create a base for their new road, which we now know as St Leonard’s Place.
Following the archaeological recording, it has now been deemed that works can resume to repair the void. It is expected that work in the current area will take until Tuesday morning, before moving the site closer to the Theatre Royal, to ensure the road surface is fully repaired. During this period the traffic management arrangements will stay the same and it is hoped that the road will reopen to two-way traffic on Friday 13 June.
Councillor Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport said:
We thank people for their patience and we know these emergency works have caused disruption to residents, visitors and bus operators.
“We knew that there is a lot of complex archaeology in the area dating back to the Roman legionary fortress. Throughout the works we have been live to this while doing all we can to get off site as quickly as possible. However these finds, while fascinating, have set our timescales back a bit.
“We will continue to share updates as the work progresses. At peak times the inner ring road is very busy so we’re asking people to plan ahead, use the outer ring road to traverse the city where possible and consider other ways to travel to the city centre. That includes getting the bus, walking or cycling. While some buses are being diverted they will continue to serve communities across the city. Dedicated travel information is available at www.york.gov.uk/StLeonardsPlace.”
Appointment of Axel Heitmueller as the PM’s Expert Adviser on Health
Axel Heitmueller has been appointed as the Prime Minister’s Expert Adviser on Health.
Axel Heitmueller has been appointed as the Prime Minister’s Expert Adviser on Health. The Prime Minister’s Expert Adviser will advise ministers and drive forward the Government’s vision for health and social care.
Axel brings with him extensive experience working in the healthcare sector as CEO of Imperial College Health Partners and Executive Director of Strategy at the Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust Hospital.
UNOCA’s role in early warning, preventive diplomacy and regional coordination is more vital than ever: UK statement at the UN Security Council
Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on UNOCA.
First, the United Kingdom welcomes Gabon’s continued progress toward democratic governance and commends SRSG Abarry’s support for a credible, inclusive and transparent transition.
The peaceful conduct of the April 2025 presidential elections was a positive step and we are encouraged by Gabon’s readmission to the African Union. The legislative and senatorial elections in September will be an important milestone.
And we encourage the government of Gabon to remain committed to transparency and due process as they look to deliver for the Gabonese people.
Second, the United Kingdom remains concerned by ongoing violence in Cameroon’s North-West and South-West regions and its impact on civilians. We note that UNOCA is well-placed to support a Cameroonian-led dialogue and resolution to the conflict.
We also note that the long-standing crisis in the Lake Chad Basin is affecting Cameroon’s Far North region, with government forces fighting Boko Haram and Islamic State.
Given the cross-border nature of this threat, we urge greater regional cooperation through the Lake Chad Basin Commission and the Multinational Joint Task Force.
Third, we recognise the completion of Chad’s political transition. We welcome the increased representation of women and the increased diversity of the National Assembly.
But we note concern at reports of corruption, harassment and the intimidation of opposition parties during the electoral process. We urge Chad to increase political and media freedoms to ensure a more peaceful, pluralistic, and transparent democracy.
Finally, President, the United Kingdom maintains its steadfast support for the work of UNOCA and its good offices. UNOCA’s role in early warning, preventive diplomacy, and regional coordination is more vital than ever.
We encourage continued collaboration with ECCAS and other regional actors to address cross-border threats and promote sustainable peace for the region.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Fairer system for debt collection to boost protections for financially vulnerable
Government to consult on regulation of enforcement sector as well as increase protections for those facing debt enforcement action and raise fees recoverable by bailiff firms
Three-pronged package of measures to deliver a fairer system of debt enforcement
Plans to improve independent regulation of the enforcement industry to boost oversight
Number of doorstep visits by bailiffs to be reduced to limit unfair build-up of fees
New reforms to the enforcement sector will protect the financially vulnerable and give those facing debt greater opportunity to settle at the earliest and cheapest stage possible.
Setting out plans to overhaul to the way sector operates, the Government today (Monday 9 June) outlined it will:
Consult on plans for greater regulation of bailiff firms, including oversight from an independent body accountable to Parliament.
Encourage earlier and cheaper settlement of debt, reducing the number of “doorstep visits” and avoiding the accumulation of enforcement fees.
Increase fees bailiff firms can collect for the first time since 2014 to ensure a sustainable sector while better supporting people in debt. The threshold which bailiff firms can charge an additional fee will also be raised to reduce the number of people in debt paying this additional fee.
Minister of State for Courts and Legal Services Minister Sackman, said:
Debt recovery must be fair to everyone. If you’re an organisation or individual who is owed money you should be able to get it back. And if you fall into debt you should be treated fairly and supported to get back on your feet.
That is why we are reforming the enforcement sector – to safeguard debtors and creditors alike whilst building a more sustainable system.
The consultation launched today also seeks views on the role an independent statutory regulator should play in enforcement. This includes how the regulator could work with other regulatory bodies, and how it would be held to account by the Government.
While most bailiff firms have already signed up to the Enforcement Conduct Board’s voluntary accreditation scheme, the government proposals would see all bailiff firms regulated to the same standards and overseen by the same independent body, ensuring greater protections for vulnerable people.
To reduce the number of doorstep visits and help prevent people from falling into more debt through accrued enforcement fees, reforms will increase the minimum notice period which must be given before enforcement officers can visit those in debt to 14 days (from seven) – and to 28 days if requested by a debt advisor.
This will give people more time to access debt advice, and/or set up a payment agreement.
To support a fair, viable, and effective enforcement system, the fees bailiff firms can collect from those facing action will be uplifted by 5%. This is the first fee increase since 2014 and reflects the impact of rising costs on bailiff firms. To protect the interests of financially vulnerable individual, it will be made clear that creditors should not share the profits made from the use of bailiff firms and the charging of fees.
Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution, Jim McMahon OBE said:
These reforms will help make sure those facing the enforcement system are properly protected and supported in dealing with their debts – and we won’t just stop here.
We will shortly be consulting on improvements to council tax administration including the way council tax is collected and enforced, so people can have their say in delivering a fairer system to support both vulnerable households and local councils.
Background information
The Enforcement Conduct Board (ECB) was established in 2022, tasked with providing voluntary, independent oversight of the sector to ensure fair treatment for every party facing enforcement action
The Government is consulting on how to ensure that there is independent oversight of firms that employ enforcement agents and High Court Enforcement Officers to enforce debts using the Taking Control of Goods procedure in England and Wales. The consultation will run for six weeks. Responses will inform legislation to be brought forward as soon as parliamentary time allows
As set out in the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s Regulation Action Plan, when regulation is designed well it can be an essential tool to promote growth and investment and protect the public. We will introduce independent statutory regulation of the sector in line with the objectives in the Action Plan, and our work across Government to cut the administrative costs of regulation by 25% by the end of parliament
The threshold above which bailiff firms can charge an additional percentage fee will be raised by 24%. Currently, an additional one-off fee of 7.5% of any debt over a set threshold can be recovered by bailiff firms if the debt reaches the enforcement (visit) stage. The 24% rise to this threshold will rebalance these fees in line with inflation and reduce the number of people in debt paying the additional fee
The reforms to the regulations about when fees can be recovered and uplifts to the fees and thresholds will be implemented when parliamentary time allows
Proposals to build investor confidence in the housing market have been published by an independent group of experts.
The Housing Investment Taskforce report makes a number of recommendations to increase investment across the social, affordable and private housing sectors including:
Attracting other funds, in addition to public money, for affordable housing.
Creating conditions to support more shared home ownership
Supporting a more entrepreneurial approach from public bodies.
Welcoming the taskforce report Housing Minister Paul McLennan said:
“It is my ambition, shared by the members of the Housing Investment Taskforce, to make Scotland the best place for housing investment. The report has identified a range of actions to support more investment across all tenures of the housing system to meet Scotland’s growth potential.
“We’re taking forward these recommendations in the Programme for Government and will work in partnership with taskforce members and other organisations to grow investor confidence to support the delivery of more homes across Scotland.”
MODA Planning Director James Blakey said:
“Addressing the housing emergency needs bold, imaginative and concrete actions, and we are proud to have collaborated with the Housing Minister and the taskforce over the last year to shape these. Working in partnership to create market certainty and viability is key to attracting crucial investment into Scotland so we can build the new homes people want and need.”
Communications Director of Springfield Karen Campbell said:
“The taskforce’s report is clear on the value in building confidence, supporting new partnerships and creating the economic opportunity to unlock new and existing investment in Scotland. Working together we can now take those actions forward to deliver more homes across all tenures.”
Manchester Central Library, along with the Town Hall Extension, are closing temporarily in August for the replacement and upgrade of ICT networks and Wi-Fi systems.
They will be closed for three weeks from 2- 24 August with no access for staff or the public as there will be no ICT network access available while cabling and upgrade work is carried out, which means no connectivity for laptops, PCs, printers and other digital infrastructure.
The ICT project will update the Local Area Network (LAN) and the Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). It will ensure that the Central Library and the Town Hall Extension will have a flexible ICT network providing seamless connectivity for staff and the public using our buildings, as well as third parties including the NHS, GMP and other local authorities.
To date, more than 120 buildings have been completed with feedback from staff, library visitors and our partners highlighting its transformative impact.
Manchester’s 21 local libraries will be open as usual providing PCs, book lending and study space, all of which have already had successful LAN and Wi-Fi network updates.
Staff hours will be increased in nine key libraries in the city, and we will continue to operate a visitor information service and accept books that are being returned.
Staff will be on hand at Central Library entrances to advise customers and residents of the closure and signpost to alternative libraries, places to sightsee, meet or enjoy a coffee in the city.
The St Peter’s Square Generator enterprise hub will also be closed but all the services for businesses will be available at the Generator hub site at Royal Mills Ancoats which opened in 2024.
The Town Hall Extension will be fully closed and affected staff will work remotely, while alternative arrangements are being made for in-person pre-booked appointments carried out in the Town Hall Extension, including alternative locations for in-person homelessness appointments and for taxi drivers to attend in-person to present legal documentation.
Councillor Garry Bridges, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council, said:
“We need to carry out important work to upgrade the network systems which were implemented during the major refurbishment works in 2013.
“Currently there is patchy network coverage in critical areas across the buildings, and the upgrade will give us a flexible ICT network that is more fitting to modern ways of working and our digital strategy goals.
“We are sorry for the inconvenience that these temporary closures may cause but we are making alternative plans for the services during this time, and we hope that people will understand that the end point of this critical work will be beneficial to everyone who uses the buildings for years to come.”
Councillor John Hacking, Executive Member for Skills, Employment and Leisure said:
“Although there is never a good time to shut Manchester Central Library, we cannot move forward in updating the network without this necessary closure. I can assure people that we will be working at pace to bring a better and faster Wi-Fi provision for our customers when we reopen.
“Our library staff will be relocated to our branch libraries during the closure to ensure they can continue to provide the vital services our residents have come to expect while the work is undertaken – and of course a range of library services are also available online.”
The North East London NHS Foundation Trust has been found guilty of a health and safety offence, following an investigation by the Metropolitan Police into the death of 22-year old Alice Figueredo at Goodmayes Hospital in 2015.
The ward manager of the hospital, Benjamin Aninakwa, 53 (25.06.1971) of St Francis Way, Grays was also found guilty of a health and safety offence.
Alice was being treated on the Hepworth Ward at the hospital after being sectioned under the Mental Health Act in February 2015.
During a trial lasting seven months, the court heard that the Trust and Aninakwa failed in their duty of care to protect Alice from harm across the six months she was on the ward, before she took her own life on 7 July 2015.
Alice’s parents, Jane and Max Figueredo, said: “We would like to thank all those involved in the Metropolitan Police, the Crown Prosecution Service and their barristers for their diligent dedication to investigating and prosecuting Alice’s death.
“Thank you for believing that her life mattered and that the way she was so heartbreakingly, abysmally failed by the staff at this hospital, should not just be ignored and kicked into the long grass – which is what we believe NELFT set about doing after Alice died.
“We also want to thank the Judge and the jury in this case for their very evident hard work and conscientious commitment in what has been a much lengthier trial than any of us expected.”
Detective Inspector Jonathan Potter, who led the investigation, said: “My thoughts remain with Alice’s family. They have had to endure years of heartbreak before sitting through a long and difficult trial where they heard time and time again about the tragic series of inactions that led to their daughter’s death.
“This was a complex investigation led by the Metropolitan Police Service, into a unique case that has led to the conviction of the Trust and Benjamin Aninakwa for health and safety offences.
“There is nothing I can say that will bring back Alice, but I hope that today’s verdict offers some comfort to her family.
“While there are thousands of NHS workers that do a commendable job every day, today’s result must also ensure that lessons are learnt to stop the same mistakes happening again.”
Nine months after Alice’s death, following a report by her parents, the Met’s Specialist Crime Command launched an investigation into the Trust and Aninakwa.
To build evidence of the offences committed, officers developed a careful understanding of the ward itself, painstakingly combing through more than 2,600 medical documents, many of them hundreds of pages long, as well as dozens of witness statements from staff, family and friends of Alice. Officers also interviewed Aninakwa and took statements from various members of the trust.
Despite the rarity of a case like this and amid investigative difficulties presented by Covid, officers gathered a range of experts to consult about their experience of being on similar wards. This included nursing staff and psychiatric practitioners, as well as senior colleagues in other NHS trusts and groups including the Care Quality Commission and NHS England.
Their investigation revealed the extent of negligence by the Trust and Aninakwa, who as ward manager, had failed in his responsibility to make sure that Alice was safe.
Although Aninakwa knew that Alice had a history of self-harm – dating back to 2013 when she had previously been admitted, and again in 2015 – officers discovered that he repeatedly failed to report such instances and ensure other staff were aware. This was even though Alice had been, according to Aninakwa himself, his only patient who was actively trying to harm themselves.
In records seen by investigating officers, a mere 13 instances of self-harm were reported, out of a possible 81. Only three of these, out of a possible 19, related to specific items that Alice had used to self-harm on the ward. Even during a scoping exercise by the Trust about the use of possible items, Aninakwa failed to highlight Alice’s history of self-harming behaviour.
As part of a wide range of failings, officers also found that Aninakwa had failed to direct staff to remove specific items from the communal areas of Hepworth Ward. Nor did he ensure that patients were properly observed by staff and that sufficient steps were taken to lock communal areas that were of concern.
Consequently, Alice was able to access one of the communal areas on the ward where she took her own life on 7 July 2015.
Following a complex investigation in partnership with the CPS, the CPS authorised the Met to charge North East London NHS Foundation Trust and Benjamin Aninakwa with health and safety offences corporate manslaughter in September 2023. They were cleared of corporate manslaughter offences at the Old Bailey on Monday, 9 June.
Sentencing will take place at a court and on a date that is yet to be arranged.
Aninakwa was found guilty of an offence under section 7 of the Health and Safety at Work Act, having failed to take reasonable care for the health and safety of others.
The Trust was found guilty of an offence under section 3 of the Health and Safety at Work Act, by failing to ensure that others are not exposed to risks to their health or safety.
The free, family friendly event promises 2 days of fun for all, featuring stunt demonstrations by professional riders including BMX pros Gary Spencer and Callum Rafferty and pro scooter rider Tom Nieb, plus food stalls, funfair rides and inflatable games.
And visitors aged 9 and over will be able to get in on the action by taking part in sessions on the mobile ramps and track, including skateboarding, BMX-ing, scootering, drift trikes and KMX karts.
The Extreme Wheels Weekender takes place on Saturday and Sunday (14 and 15 June) from 10am to 4pm and will be hosted by Dicky Dodd.
Councillor Chris Burden, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “We’re excited to welcome the Extreme Wheels Weekender to Wolverhampton this weekend.
“It promises to be a great day out for all the family, giving people the chance to experience a sport that is on the rise, and watch exciting stunts and tricks in a safe environment.
“You will even be able to have a go yourselves by taking part on the mobile skate park, and racing around a track on drift trikes and KMX karts.”
Participants are welcome to bring their own BMX bikes, scooters, skateboards and helmets. To take part, simply register on arrival. Please note, helmets and appropriate footwear (no crocs or sandals) are mandatory for all activities and e-bikes or e-scooters are not permitted within the event site. Once capacity has been reached, there will be a time limit on activities.
Councillor Burden added: “It’s great that we are able to continue to put on free family friendly events like this in the city, and I strongly encourage everyone to come along and watch the action.”
The council is working in partnership with Extreme Wheels Roadshow to bring the Extreme Wheels Weekender to the city. The project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Visitors are advised that pro riders are subject to change and that, while entry to the event is free, there is an additional charge for fun fair rides and refreshments.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
Fisheries and Seafood Scheme reopens with around £6 million of investment
The latest round of the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme (FaSS) in now open, supporting projects that strengthen England’s seafood sector and support economic growth while enhancing nature recovery.
Administered by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) on behalf of Defra, around £6 million in funding is open to seafood and marine businesses, recreational sector, charities and other organisations.
The latest round of funding is available to support projects in the 2025/2026 financial year which focus on the following priorities:
Creating a sustainable and resilient seafood sector
Reduce emissions and waste from the seafood sector
Clean up rivers, lakes, seas and support nature recovery
Boost regional and economic growth within the seafood sector
Fisheries Minister Daniel Zeichner said:
I’m thrilled to further invest in our exceptional seafood industry, demonstrating our steadfast support for England’s coastal communities alongside our substantial £360 million Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund.
This is on top of our new agreement with the EU, which will boost exports by making it easier for producers to sell their high-quality products to our largest trading partner.
“This government is committed to creating a sustainable seafood sector that grows local economies while safeguarding our precious marine habitats, all central to our Plan for Change.
Paul Errington, Acting Director of Finance and Resources at MMO, said:
We’re proud to facilitate the delivery of continued financial support through FaSS, which has already had a real impact across England’s fishing communities and coast.
This new round of funding will deliver investment to safeguard the long-term sustainability, resilience and prosperity of England catching, aquaculture and processing sectors as well as continue efforts to protect our precious marine environment.
This round of FaSS builds on four successful years of the scheme, which has seen more than £35 million committed and over 1700 projects approved, ranging from marine litter removal and funding for vital processing equipment to promoting careers within the industry.
Fishing and coastal communities are also set to benefit from £360 million investment to drive growth and boost the sector for the future as the Government launches its Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund, a major investment to support the next generation of fishermen and breathe new life into our coastal communities as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.
A new agreement with the EU will also cut red tape for seafood exporters and reopen certain markets for British shellfish, making it easier to sell our fish to our biggest trading partner.
£1 million from the total fund has been set aside specifically to support the seafood processing sector and to help businesses get their products from the sea to the consumer.
Applications with a total project cost of £150,000 or more must be considered by the FaSS panel, which is responsible for reviewing and recommending projects in line with the overall objectives of the scheme. Projects over £150,000 must be submitted by 21 July 2025. The panel is expected to meet to consider these during the week commencing 8 September 2025.
MMO is also on hand to provide expert advice to those considering applying. Telephone 0208 026 5539 or email FaSS.queries@marinemanagement.org.uk
Fishing and coastal communities are also set to benefit from £360 million investment to drive growth and boost the sector for the future as the Government launches its Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
DTEP funding for SCI the CHERI on the cake
Cambridge-based SCI Semiconductors secure funding through the Defence Technology Exploitation Programme
Cambridge-based SCI Semiconductors are the latest SME to be awarded a DTEP grant
They are collaborating with an experienced higher-tier partner on a project to resolve a number of long standing cyber security challenges
The Defence Technology Exploitation Programme (DTEP) boosts security and defence innovation while supporting the technology supply chain
SCI Semiconductors, a leading cyber security company based in Cambridge, are the latest SME to be awarded DTEP funding for their innovative approach to tackling the escalating problem of compromised computer integrity within military systems.
SCI are collaborating with Ultra, a higher-tier supplier who specialise in mission focused technological innovations, who will provide mentoring for the duration of the project. SCI will receive a government grant worth 50% of the project value with the aim of developing innovative new solutions that meet UK defence and security challenges.
The DTEP programme, which seeks to improve the competitiveness of the UK defence supply chain, is sponsored by the MOD’s Directorate of Industrial Strategy and Exports (DISE) and delivered through a number of partners including the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) and Innovate UK.
Congratulations to SCI Semiconductors
The UK has invested heavily in Capability Hardware Enhanced RISC Instructions (CHERI) systems to manage cyber defences, however gaps still exist in getting this crucial technology into real world applications (e.g. autonomous drone platforms). Through their DTEP project, SCI are working to resolve these gaps by developing high integrity, isolated hardware and software structures for a broad array of applications. This means that vital military control systems can be much safer from the risk of cyber attack.
Haydn Povey, Chief Executive of SCI Semiconductors said:
The UK government are keen to act on Security by Design and this project will leverage CHERI technology, a key technology to delivering this capability. With over 70% of critical vulnerabilities and exploits (CVE’s) directly linked to software Memory Safety issues, which form the vast majority of cyber-attacks on critical systems, there is a clear need to address this systemic weakness. This project is directly focused on ensuring communication systems and active control systems are more robust, higher integrity, and are inherently secured again broad-based cyber-attacks.
DTEP’s funding for SCI Semiconductors highlights the MOD’s commitment to fostering innovation and strengthening the UK defence and security supply chain through strategic SME partnerships.
Learn more about DASA’s funding opportunities here.
Woman invented business to claim Covid loan then sent money to Poland
Jagoda Rubaszko guilty of fraud after inventing a business to apply for a £50,000 Covid Bounce Back Loan which she then sent to bank accounts in Poland
Rubaszko invented a business to get a £50,000 Covid Bounce Back Loan – which was paid out to five bank accounts in Poland
She told Insolvency Service investigators a man called Daniel told her how to apply for the loan – but provided no evidence he exists
Sentenced to six-month curfew and 18-month suspended sentence
A woman who pretended to run a business to secure a £50,000 Covid Bounce Back Loan has been sentenced for fraud following an investigation by the Insolvency Service.
Jagoda Rubaszko, 37, of Old Ruislip Road, Northolt, invented an administrative service business which she falsely claimed had a turnover of £210,000.
In reality, she had no business – and the £50,000 loan she received was sent to five separate bank accounts in Poland.
Rubaszko told investigators she had been contacted by a man called Daniel who told her how to apply for the loan, and to declare herself bankrupt to avoid having to repay it.
Rubaszko was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, suspended for 21 months, for fraud by misrepresentation at Isleworth Crown Court on 5 June 2025.
She will be tagged and under curfew between 7.30pm and 6am every day for six months, and must complete 175 hours of unpaid work.
The Insolvency Service is seeking to recover the fraudulently obtained funds under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.
Mark Stephens, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said:
Jagoda Rubaszko claimed to be a business director, but she had no business at all. She invented a turnover of £210,000 even though her bank accounts showed no business dealings.
She invented a man called Daniel, who she has blamed for her actions, claiming he had told her to apply for the loan, and she believed she’d get away with this by declaring herself bankrupt.
What is definitely real, is that she took money which was meant to help businesses during a difficult period, and sent that funding off to the bank accounts of five men in Poland.
As a result, reality has now caught up with her.
Rubaszko applied to a bank for a Covid Bounce Back Loan on 26 April 2021, which was approved on 28 April 2021 and paid into her bank account.
In the application, she claimed she had been operating a business since 1 March 2020 and had a turnover of £210,000. But investigations into Rubaszko’s finances showed her tax returns were no higher than £15,100 each year between 2019 and 2021.
In a prepared statement, Rubaszko claimed to have been contacted by a man called Daniel, who told her how to apply for the loan, and to declare herself bankrupt to avoid repaying it.
But Rubaszko admitted she had never met Daniel, even though she said she paid him a £17,500 commission for his ‘help’ after receiving the £50,000.
Her bank records showed no such payment was made – instead, 22 smaller payments up to £11,690 were made to five individual bank accounts in Poland over a two-month period.
After declaring herself bankrupt, Rubaszko was subject to a 10-year Bankruptcy Restrictions Undertaking (BRU) on 12 May 2023. The BRU prevents her from managing a limited company until 2033.
Further information
Jagoda Rubaszko is of Old Ruislip Road, Northolt. Her date of birth is 18 September 1987.
Individuals subject to a disqualification order or undertaking are bound by a range of restrictions
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Scientists comment on the £86bn R&D package unveiled by the Chancellor ahead of the Spending Review.
Sharon Todd Chief Executive at historic science charity SCI, said:
“We very much welcome the government’s commitment to putting science at the heart of the forthcoming industrial strategy. At £86bn, this is real money targeted at the right scientific and technological advances, such as new drug treatments and AI.
“However, what is critical is that a significant proportion of funds are dispensed to actively support the scale up of new technologies to full scale manufacture in the UK. Our research has shown significant ‘innovation leakage’ and the investment we make in science needs to feed back into the economy.”
Professor Dame Ottoline Leyser, UKRI Chief Executive, said:
“This multi-year settlement confirms the government’s continued commitment to the critical role of research and innovation in delivering a high-productivity, high-growth economy, improving public services and creating high-quality jobs across the UK.
“The new Local Innovation Partnerships Fund is a welcome boost for this endeavour, ensuring that local communities across the UK can contribute to and benefit from a thriving research and innovation ecosystem.”
John-Arne Røttingen, chief executive of Wellcome, the UK’s biggest non-governmental research funder, said:
‘The government rightly acknowledges that investing in science and technology is a key way to boost the economy.
‘But while it’s positive under the financial circumstances, a flat real-terms science budget, along with continuing barriers such as high visa costs for talented scientists and the university funding crisis, won’t be enough for the UK make the advances it needs to secure its reputation for science in an increasingly competitive world.
‘The UK should be aiming to lead the G7 in research intensity, to bring about economic growth and the advances in health, science and technology that benefit us all. We look forward to seeing the full details at the spending review.’
Dr Tim Bradshaw, Chief Executive of the Russell Group of research-intensive universities commented:
“Today’s announcement of £86 billion for research and innovation is a welcome vote of confidence in the UK’s R&D sector, and the role it plays in driving economic growth right across the country.
“We know government faces difficult decisions on spending with tight fiscal constraints. We’re therefore pleased to see investment in the critical contributions that science and innovation can make to the lives of people throughout the UK – from breakthrough medicines and next-generation batteries, to AI technologies and advanced manufacturing. We await the full details of the settlement, but it’s encouraging to see recognition of the existing R&D strengths in different parts of the UK, with plans to go further to transform regional prosperity.
“Our universities are already delivering in the high-growth sectors that will drive the Industrial Strategy, boost productivity and improve public services. We will continue using our research, innovation and skills as engines for growth, ensuring this new investment pays dividends for the national economy and for local communities for decades to come”.
Adrian Smith, President the Royal Society, said:
“We have to be cautious as there is very little detail in the announcement but it does look like the core science budget could increase by 10% over the next four years. In difficult financial circumstances, that would be a vote of confidence in research and innovation and in the people and ideas that will increase productivity, drive growth and improve lives across the UK.
“Such an uplift would protect science from real terms cuts in the coming years and hopefully lay the ground for real terms increases once the country’s finances improve.
“This looks to be a positive outcome, but we must await the full details in the Chancellor’s speech on Wednesday.”
Nicola Perrin, Chief Executive of the Association of Medical Research Charities, said:
“Given the tough financial climate and many competing priorities, it’s fantastic to see the Government backing research and innovation. This is a smart investment – it will not only drive economic growth and productivity, but will also benefit patients across the country and unlock new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat disease. We look forward to seeing more detail and, most importantly, how this funding will secure the fundamental building blocks that underpin UK R&D.”
Professor Andrew Morris, President of the Academy of Medical Sciences, said:
“This is exactly the kind of long-term thinking our healthcare sector and economy need. The investment signals the UK’s commitment to remaining a global leader in medical research and innovation. By backing science, the Government is investing in a healthier, more prosperous future that will bring economic growth and benefit generations to come.”
Tony McBride, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at the Institute of Physics, said:
“It’s good to see the government recognise the power of science and innovation to transform lives and grow prosperity in every part of the UK.
“But to fully harness the transformational potential of research and innovation – wherever it takes place – we need a decade-long strategic plan for science. This must include a plan for the skilled workforce we need to deliver this vision, starting with teachers and addressing every educational stage, to underpin the industrial strategy.
“We hope that the Chancellor’s statement on Wednesday will set out such a vision.”
Dr Alicia Greated, Executive Director, Campaign for Science and Engineering (CaSE), said:
“It is pleasing to see the Government continue to recognise UK R&D as a driving force behind economic growth. Based on OBR forecasts for inflation, the spending plans announced today would appear to be broadly flat in real terms. While not the ambitious settlement we called for, in these difficult fiscal circumstances it is positive that the R&D budget has been protected. However, the detail is important, and we will need to wait for the full spending review announcement on Wednesday before we can offer a considered analysis.”
Embargoed press release from DSIT entitled ‘Transformative £86bn boost to science and tech to turbocharge economy, with regions backed to take cutting-edge research into own hands’, was under embargo until 00:01 UK time on Sunday 8 June 2025
Declared interests
The nature of this story means everyone quoted above could be perceived to have a stake in it. As such, our policy is not to ask for interests to be declared – instead, they are implicit in each person’s affiliation.
Plymouth City Council and its partners are doubling down on their mission to end violence against women and girls (VAWG), as Cabinet Members today reflected on progress and reaffirm their commitment to lasting change.
Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, delivered a powerful update on the strides made since the launch of the Plymouth VAWG Commission in 2022. From strategic leadership to grassroots empowerment, the city is taking bold, coordinated action.
She said: “We’re not just talking about change—we’re making it happen. Ending violence against women and girls is not optional. It’s urgent, it’s necessary, and it’s everyone’s responsibility. I’m proud of how far we’ve come, but we’re not stopping here. Together, we’re calling time on VAWG in Plymouth.”
Key milestones include:
Strategic Leadership: A dedicated VAWG Strategic Lead was appointed in 2023, followed by the launch of the city’s first VAWG Strategy (2024–2026), setting a clear roadmap for action.
Training and Awareness: Citywide training programmes are equipping professionals with the tools to identify and respond to all forms of VAWG.
Safety Initiatives: From the Safe Bus at Derry’s Cross to the fifth consecutive Purple Flag accreditation, Plymouth is making its night-time economy safer. Initiatives like Ask for Angela and Best Bar None are empowering staff and patrons alike.
Male Allyship: The MAN Culture network is engaging men in meaningful conversations and cultural change through workshops with various organisations, conferences, podcasts, and monthly meetups.
Community Empowerment: The VAWG Community Fund, launched in partnership with Devon Community Foundation and the Sedel-Collings Foundation, is backing nine grassroots projects—from anti-spiking campaigns to confidence-building workshops for young girls.
Councillor Haydon added: “We’re building a city where women and girls feel safe, supported, and heard. This is about culture change, and we’re in it for the long haul.
“Every initiative, every training session, every conversation we have is a step towards a safer Plymouth. We know there’s no quick fix—but we also know that silence and inaction are not options.
“I’m incredibly proud of the progress we’ve made. From grassroots projects to citywide strategies, we’re seeing real momentum. But we’re not complacent.
“We owe it to every woman and girl in this city to keep going—to keep challenging harmful behaviours, to keep creating safe spaces, and to keep pushing for change.
“Together, we are calling time on violence against women and girls—and we won’t stop until it ends.”
Delays at Manadon. We all know about them, we’ve all felt it.
Some days it can be absolutely fine; others it’s bit of a gamble. It’s not reliable.
And that’s just now. In the next few years, as the city grows with ambitious new housing targets, the growth of the hospital and the expansion of the dockyard, it’s going to get worse.
That’s why we’re bringing forward potential changes to the roundabout, to improve things not just now but in the future.
The graphic below has been developed from queue length data and shows how traffic queues will look in years to come in scenarios where we continue with the scheme and if we do nothing.
“The data is clear,” explains Councillor John Stephens, Cabinet Member for Transport. “Doing nothing, sitting on our hands, is simply not a viable option. Manadon needs investment so that we can provide the infrastructure we need for the expected growth of this city.
“I’d ask everyone who travels through Manadon to get involved in this engagement exercise. Give us your feedback and let us know what you think of the proposals.”
Manadon is at the heart of Plymouth’s transport network and is a key part of the journey to and from some of the busiest places in the city.
You’ve got an appointment at Derriford at 10am, but you’re still stuck queuing on the A38 at 9.40am. You thought you’d left enough time. It was fine when you came through Manadon last week but it’s just not moving today. You hope you don’t miss it.
University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust (UHP), who runs Derriford Hospital, the largest specialist teaching hospital in the south west peninsula and the region’s major trauma centre, continues to redevelop their facilities.
Stuart Windsor, Future Hospital Director, said: “Our Future Hospital Programme is transforming how care is delivered to improve lives across Plymouth, Devon and Cornwall through investing in our healthcare estate.
“This includes a new purpose-built Emergency Care Building at our Derriford site, which will double the space to care for the increasing numbers of patients with urgent and emergency conditions.
“Works that improve accessibility to Derriford Hospital will be hugely beneficial for our patients and colleagues, and are an important part of enabling our organisation to delivering its long-term goals.”
Argyle have got a crunch late-season game to secure promotion and by some miracle, you’ve bagged yourself a ticket. You left the house in good time – enough time for a pasty before the game. But you didn’t account for Manadon. There’s been a shunt somewhere else in the city, and everyone is using Manadon instead. It’s 2.40pm. You’ve still got to find somewhere to park once you get to Home Park. It’s not the start to the afternoon you had planned.
Meanwhile, every other week for most of the year at least 16,000 people descend on Home Park to cheer on Plymouth Argyle. Many of that crowd make their way through Manadon.
Christian Kent, Head of Venue, Hospitality & Events at Plymouth Argyle, said: “Supporters will be aware that Plymouth Argyle have worked hard on making Home Park more accessible over the past two seasons with additional transport and parking.
“The Manadon project ethos and aims are a step in the right direction in ensuring attending matches and events at Home Park is as efficient as possible.
“We’d very much encourage our fans to engage with the scheme, so the needs of our fanbase are considered.”
Sunderland is proud to support Carers Week 2025 as part of its commitment to recognising, valuing and supporting unpaid carers across the city.
This annual national campaign, running until Sunday 15 June, shines a spotlight on the individuals who carers. Sunderland City Council is marking the week with action, awareness, and celebration.
This year’s Carers Week theme, “Caring About Equality,” calls for greater recognition of carers’ rights and equal access to the support they deserve.
As a visible sign of this commitment, some of Sunderland’s most iconic landmarks will be lit up blue on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 June. Penshaw Monument, Northern Spire Bridge, Hylton Castle, and Fulwell Mill will be lit up to honour the invaluable contribution of unpaid carers throughout the city.
Carers Week also marks one year since the launch of Sunderland’s Carers Strategy. A five-year plan developed with and for carers, in partnership with the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board, Sunderland Carers Centre, and Together for Children. Since its launch, the strategy has driven real improvements in how carers are identified, supported, and listened to.
Sunderland’s unpaid adult carers can now easily carry out a self-assessment to access valuable information and support tailored to their needs.
Any adult in Sunderland aged 18 or over who looks after someone with day-to-day tasks is entitled to a carer’s assessment. The new self-assessment tool is designed for adults who care for someone and have not yet had a formal carer’s assessment.
The tool simplifies the process for carers to share their situation and receive the help and support they need. It offers a clear and straightforward way to identify what assistance may be available, ensuring that carers have access to the resources they deserve.
Councillor Kelly Chequer, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Safer Communities at Sunderland City Council, said: “We would like to recognise the tremendous contributions unpaid carers make to Sunderland. We understand that alongside providing care, many carers face challenges of their own—whether it’s in terms of health, well-being, finances, or employment.
“This new self-assessment tool is one way we are addressing those concerns and ensuring that carers receive the support they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives. In line with this year’s theme of ‘Caring for Equality,’ we are committed to creating an equitable environment where all carers can thrive.”
The West Indian Foundation praised Dr. Cato T, Laurencin for his longstanding activities, “Your unwavering dedication and commitment have played a significant role in advancing our mission and strengthening our community. Your generosity and consistent support have been a cornerstone of our ability to serve the community. Whenever the West Indian Foundation has faced challenges, you have always stepped forward, ensuring that we can continue our important work. Your selflessness and commitment have made a profound impact, allowing us to grow and extend our reach.”
Samuel J. Laurencin, M.D., Ph.D., the nephew of Dr. Cato T. Laurencin, accepted the award on Dr. Laurencin’s behalf. Dr. Samuel Laurencin is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon who trained at UConn.
Dr. Cato T. Laurencin has a strong connection to the West Indian community as his father was born in St. Lucia. He was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award by the West Indian Foundation in 2015. In 2025, Sir Cato T. Laurencin received Knighthood under the auspices of King Charles III of England through the Governor-General of St. Lucia.
The mission of the West Indian Foundation Inc. is to foster and strengthen a sense of unity within the West Indian community through strategic partnerships in the areas of health, education, business, and culture. The Foundation is dedicated to preserving the identity, history, and unique cultural heritage of the West Indian community while continuing to educate the community at large in these traditions.
At UConn Laurencin is the University Professor and Albert and Wilda Van Dusen Distinguished Endowed Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at UConn School of Medicine, professor of Chemical Engineering, professor of Materials Science and Engineering, and professor of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Connecticut. He is chief executive officer of The Cato T. Laurencin Institute for Regenerative Engineering, a cross-university institute created and named in his honor at the University of Connecticut.
Laurencin is an expert in public health, especially as it pertains to racial and ethnic health and health disparities. Academically, he completed the Program in African American Studies at Princeton University. He is a core professor of Africana Studies at UConn and is the editor-in-chief of the Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities, published by Springer/Nature, the leading journal in the field. He has served as the chair of the National Academy of Sciences Roundtable on Black Men and Black Women in Science, Engineering, and Medicine. Laurencin co-founded the W. Montague Cobb/NMA Health Institute, dedicated to addressing racial health disparities, and served as its founding chair of the board. The W. Montague Cobb/NMA Institute and the National Medical Association created the Cato T. Laurencin Lifetime Research Achievement Award which is bestowed at the opening ceremonies of the National Medical Association’s annual meeting. Laurencin is the recipient of the Spingarn Medal, the highest honor of the NAACP. The medal is presented for the “highest or noblest achievement by a living African American during the preceding year or years in any honorable field.”
Laurencin received the 2014 Greater Hartford Torch of Liberty Award from the Anti-Defamation League in recognition of his commitment to social justice and public service. He received the Community Service Award from the Urban League of Greater Hartford. He has been honored by the Hartford Public School System and the Connecticut State Legislature for his work in the community and has been recognized as a Connecticut Health Care Hero by Connecticut Magazine.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3
Press release
First meeting of defence industry body to forge new partnership and industry mobilisation
Defence Secretary John Healey co-chairs the first Defence Industrial Joint Council meeting today, bringing together defence firms, trade unions and investors to forge a new partnership aimed at improving warfighting readiness, driving innovation and boosting British jobs.
Defence Secretary to co-chair inaugural Defence Industrial Joint Council meeting at Hadean’s London headquarters.
Council members include primes, tech companies, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), trade unions and investors, bringing diverse defence industry expertise from all across the UK to the heart of defence decision-making.
Focus on delivering the Government’s Plan for Change by driving jobs and prosperity through a new partnership with industry and driving procurement reforms, marking start of London Tech Week and following launch of the Strategic Defence Review.
The UK’s drive to improve warfighting readiness and turbocharge defence innovation will be the focus of the first ever meeting of the Government’s new Defence Industrial Joint Council (DIJC) today – bringing together Ministers and defence firms of all sizes with trade unions and investors.
Co-chaired by the Secretary of State for Defence, John Healey and Dr. Charles Woodburn, Chief Executive Officer at BAE Systems, the meeting comes at a significant moment for defence, following the publication of the Government’s Strategic Defence Review and in the lead-up to the Defence Industrial Strategy’s publication this summer.
Industry, innovators and investors will benefit from the new partnership with UK Defence, enabling better decision-making and communication between the MOD and its industry partners, boosting British jobs and national security, underpinning the Government’s Plan for Change.
This comes as the Prime Minister made the historic commitment to increase defence spending to 2.5% of UK GDP by April 2027, recognising the critical importance of military readiness in an era of heightened global uncertainty.
Closer collaboration with the defence industry was a key focus of the Strategic Defence Review, which saw the UK committing to:
Investing £6bn in munitions this parliament, including £1.5bn in an “always on” pipeline for munitions and building at least 6 new energetics and munitions factories in the UK, generating over 1,000 jobs and boosting export potential.
Establishing UK Defence Innovation with £400m to fund and grow UK based companies.
Creating a new Defence Exports Office in the Ministry of Defence to drive exports to our allies and growth at home.
Introducing radical new reforms to speed up defence procurement.
Defence Secretary John Healey MP said:
National security is at the heart of our Plan for Change and is essential for economic security. We are sending a signal to industry and to our adversaries: with a strong UK defence sector we will make Britain secure at home and strong abroad.
It is an honour to co-chair the inaugural meeting of the Defence Industrial Joint Council, through which we can forge a new and improved partnership between government and industry, while also bringing trade unions and investors closer to the heart of defence decision-making. I am proud that this council brings together, for the first time, the full range of voices across UK Defence.
UK Defence is open for business and driving defence as an engine for economic growth, boosting British jobs across the UK.
The DIJC replaces the former Defence Suppliers Forum and aims to harness a wider, and more diverse set of defence expertise to shape the future of Britain’s defence manufacturing, supply chain and innovation – including trade union representation alongside SMEs and investors for the first time.
The Council is underpinned by a commitment to continually refresh and widen its membership, to champion new entrants to the defence sector. The diversity of the DIJC’s members reflects the defence sector of the future, a joint endeavour characterised by innovation and efficiency.
The meeting coincides with the first day of London Tech Week, serving as a reminder of the cutting-edge innovation delivered through defence tech year-round and its contribution to keeping the UK safe at home and strong abroad. Innovation as a driver for growth has been recognised by government with a commitment to ringfencing 10% defence budget for investment in novel technologies.
Dr. Charles Woodburn, Chief Executive Officer at BAE Systems said:
Today’s meeting of the Defence Industrial Joint Council is an important moment, bringing together defence companies of all sizes, along with trade unions and investors, to support implementation of the Government’s forthcoming Defence Industrial Strategy.
Improved collaboration and communication will enable industry to continue investing in new technologies, facilities and our workforce to create a stronger UK defence industrial base ready to meet evolving military requirements in an increasingly uncertain world.
Innovation can be delivered most efficiently through partnerships between the public and private sectors, exemplified by the latest remotely operated underwater robot developed by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) with small and medium enterprises. By modifying a commercially available remotely operated vehicle, Dstl and its industry partners have created a prototype which might soon be able to save lives at sea for the Royal Navy and prevent adversaries from sabotaging undersea cables and pipelines.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
Chikungunya vaccine (IXCHIQ) temporarily paused in people aged 65 and over as precautionary measure
This is a precautionary measure while the MHRA conducts the safety review.
Following global reports of serious adverse events in older people, the government’s independent expert advisory body, the Commission on Human Medicines (CHM), has temporarily restricted use of a chikungunya vaccine called IXCHIQ in people aged 65 and over until a further safety review has been concluded.
This is a precautionary measure while the MHRA conducts the safety review.
The MHRA is working with the manufacturer of the IXCHIQ vaccine, Valneva. This vaccine was approved by the MHRA in February 2025. There will be no impact on operational issues as this vaccine is not yet available in the UK and therefore there is no immediate safety concern.
The decision to restrict the licence until further review is based on global data which has highlighted 23 cases of serious adverse reactions, including two cases reporting a fatal outcome, in people aged from 62 to 89 years of age who received the vaccine. There are no changes in the recommendations for vaccination with IXCHIQ for people of 18 to 64 years of age.
The vaccine is currently contraindicated in individuals with immunodeficiency or immunosuppression as a result of disease or medical therapy.
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is found in the subtropical regions of the Americas, Africa, Southeast Asia, India, and the Pacific Region, and is spread to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito (Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus). It cannot be passed from human to human. A recent outbreak in La Reunion, an overseas department and region of France, saw over 47,500 people contract the virus, with 12 fatalities.
The majority of people infected with chikungunya develop a sudden fever and severe pain in multiple joints (arthralgia). Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash. These symptoms typically resolve within 7 to 10 days, and most patients make a full recovery. However, in some cases joint pain and arthritis may persist for several months or even years. Occasional cases of eye, neurological and heart complications have been reported, as well as gastrointestinal complaints. A small number of people may develop severe acute disease, which can lead to multiorgan failure and death.
Notes to editors
The Commission on Human Medicines (CHM) advises ministers on the safety, efficacy and quality of medicinal products. The CHM is an advisory non-departmental public body, sponsored by the Department of Health and Social Care.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe. All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks.
The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.
For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.
Public health officials in Plymouth are warning people about blue tablets being sold illegally as Valium. These tablets may come in blister packs with Arabic writing.
This follows the news that three people died after taking what is believed to be these tablets.
Professor Steve Maddern, Director of Public Health for Plymouth City Council, said:
“Any loss of a life is a tragedy, and we want to prevent it happening to anyone else. We’re very concerned about these tablets. We cannot currently speculate about the content of these drugs whilst they are being tested, but we do want people to be aware. They might look like Valium, but they could be contaminated with another substance and therefore more toxic. If you or someone you know has these tablets, do not take them.”
What to do if someone becomes unwell
If someone has taken drugs and becomes unwell, call 999 straight away or take them to Derriford Hospital’s Emergency Department. Don’t wait—doctors and nurses are there to help, not to judge.
If the person is unconscious but breathing, put them in the recovery position. This helps keep their airway clear. You can find more advice on the FRANK website.
Reducing the risk
The safest option is not to take these pills at all. But if you do choose to use drugs:
Don’t use alone. Being with someone else could save your life.
Take a small amount first and wait to see how it affects you.
Don’t all take drugs at the same time—stagger your use so someone is always alert.
If you’re using alone, tell someone your plans or use the BuddyUp app by Cranstoun so someone can check on you.
Carry naloxone if you can. It’s a medicine that can reverse opioid overdoses, and it won’t harm someone even if they haven’t taken opioids. Having naloxone nearby could save a life. In some cases, more than one dose is needed, so carrying extra is a good idea. You can get naloxone for free in Plymouth from:
Harbour, Hyde Park House, Mutley
Hamoaze House, Mount Wise
North Road West Medical Centre
Adelaide Street GP Surgery
St Levan GP Surgery
Detective Inspector Michelle Dunn from Devon and Cornwall Police said: “We are currently investigating the unexplained deaths of three men in Plymouth which occurred over the weekend.
“At this time, the deaths are believed to be drug related and we are working closely with our partner agencies to establish the full circumstances.
“Anyone with information which may assist police is asked to call 101 or report via our website quoting reference 50250144278.”
If you’re looking for help with your own drug use, contact Harbour on 01752 434343 or visit harbour.org.uk.
Hamoaze House offers support for anyone affected by someone else’s drug or alcohol use. Their Affected Others group meets every Friday from 1–3pm. Call 01752 566100 to get in touch.
Anyone with information about these pills are asked to contact police through theirwebsite, or call 101.
Foster Portsmouth braved the thunderstorms alongside Fostering South East cluster partners Fostering Southampton and Hampshire County Council at UK Pride on Saturday 7 June.
Of the 260+ community-run Pride organisations across the UK, Portsmouth Pride won the bid to host UK Pride in 2025.
Taking ‘Pride’ of place at the event is part of a campaign being run throughout June by Foster Portsmouth, Portsmouth City Council‘s fostering service. Their team were also part of UK Pride and The Family Network’s LGBTQ+ Routes to Parenting event on 3 June, and they will be celebrating their foster carers from the LGBTQ+ community and taking action to bust myths around who can foster throughout Pride Month.
Foster Portsmouth, Fostering Southampton and Hampshire County Council’s fostering service joined forces at UK Pride with the aim to raise awareness of the national crisis in foster care and the need for more foster carers in the area.
They also engaged with event goers to tackle any perceptions that may prevent some from the LGBTQ+ community from exploring fostering to build a family life.
Anyone aged over 21 with a spare bedroom could foster – regardless of their age, gender, sexuality, faith, ethnicity, marital or work status, or whether they rent or own their own home.
Councillor Nick Dorrington, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Portsmouth City Council, said:
“Foster Portsmouth celebrates the diversity of our committed team of foster carers, and we are all proud to work with many individuals and couples from the LGBTQ+ community.”
Foster Portsmouth’s presentation at the Parenting Network and UK Pride’s ‘LGBTQ+ Routes to Parenthood’ event helped identify pathways to parenthood within the LGBTQ+ community. Attendees were also offered expert insights, lived experiences and an opportunity to connect with community members and support networks.
This Pride Month, Foster Portsmouth also aims to shine a light on the incredible efforts of our existing LGBTQ+ foster carers and thank them for their contribution to the care of vulnerable children and young people in the city and the immediate surrounding areas. Foster carers like sole carer Michael.
Michael, a full-time IT project manager, fosters teens with Foster Portsmouth. He shared:
“Because I was fostered myself, I chose to become a foster carer rather than adopt. I had the same wonderful long-term carers who gave me amazing opportunities. I want to give something back to children who need care and stability in their lives.”
Michael has fostered a number of teenagers, including providing respite care for a sibling pair and an emergency placement, and three longer-term arrangements for teenage boys, one of whom was a child seeking safety and asylum.
“There have been many touching moments which makes it all worthwhile and lets me know that I’ve been a positive chapter in their story.”
Foster Portsmouth are in need of additional foster carers with the skills and experience to help children develop a positive sense of their own identity, so they are asking individuals and couples in the LGBTQ+ community to consider the impact they could have on a child or young person’s life through fostering.
There are many types of fostering and everyone will be able to find one that will work for them and their family or commitments. This could be a short or long-term arrangement for a child or siblings until they’re ready to live independently or be reunited with family, support for children with a disability or children seeking safety and asylum, supported lodgings to develop their independent living skills, a parent and baby placement, or respite care.
Our Foster carers receive local round the clock support and ongoing quality training such as therapeutic care, including through our mentoring scheme and our innovative award-winning Mockingbird programme which provides a support network of other foster carers similar to that of an extended family. They also receive competitive fees, discounts, benefits and allowances, social activities, and free membership to The Fostering Network.
Our foster carers come from Portsmouth or the immediate surrounding areas, from Emsworth and Rowlands Castle to Gosport and Fareham, and the Isle of Wight and Hayling Island to Petersfield and Havant.
They would welcome the opportunity to explore if their close-knit fostering community at Foster Portsmouth would be the right fit for them.
Paddy Hill spent more than 16 years in prison for murders he did not commit. One of the so-called Birmingham Six who were wrongfully convicted for the Birmingham pub bombings in 1974, he was proof that exoneration and financial compensation do not fix a miscarriage of justice.
When I met him in July 2023, more than 30 years after his release from prison, his ordeal continued to haunt him. He was in his late 70s, looking frail and far from the “12 and a half stone” man he was in Parkhurst Prison. He had very little appetite and was in poor health. The little sleep he was able snatch was marred by screaming nightmares.
Neither of us knew it at the time, but this was to be his final interview. He died aged 80, on December 30 2024. I sat down to talk with Hill in his living room. Struggling to control his emotions, he told me: “Sometimes I sit in the bedroom … and I’m crying my eyes out like a child and I don’t know what the fuck happened … I’ve been so fucking screwed up.”
The ITV docudrama Mr Bates vs the Post Office thrust wrongful convictions into mainstream consciousness in January 2024 – a quarter of a century after the Post Office began prosecuting sub-postmasters and mistresses for fraud, theft, and false accounting and 15 years after Rebecca Thomson’s Computer Weekly article exposing the Horizon IT system as the potential culprit.
Now the public could finally see the human impact of miscarriages of justice on these upstanding – and, more importantly, innocent – members of their communities. Public outrage followed.
But despite the mass quashing of hundreds of convictions, and amid promises of speedy financial compensation, progress has been pitiful. While collecting a National Television Award in September 2024, former sub-postmistress Jo Hamilton confirmed that out of the “555 group”, those involved in the litigation which exposed the Horizon scandal, “more than 300 haven’t been paid yet, including Sir Alan Bates”.
Sadly, this timescale is far from unusual. In July 2023, Andrew Malkinson finally had his 2003 rape conviction overturned after several unsuccessful appeals, including unsuccessful applications in 2012 and 2020 to the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC), the independent body which investigates potential miscarriages of justice.
Crucially, the CCRC did not commission the DNA testing that finally exonerated him and did not review police files which would have shown that Greater Manchester Police had withheld crucial evidence at his trial.
Malkinson spent 17 years in prison maintaining his innocence. Perversely, he could have been released sooner had he falsely confessed. He was eventually exonerated thanks to the help of the charity Appeal, which commissioned those crucial DNA tests and unearthed the disclosure failures.
The CCRC has since acknowledged in an independent review that it “failed Mr Malkinson” with chairperson Helen Pitcher OBE (whose recent resignation was welcomed by the Ministry of Justice) eventually expressing “sincere regret and an unreserved apology on behalf of the commission”. All of this happened 12 months after Malkinson called on the CCRC to apologise to him. Malkinson said it was “shameful” that the CCRC has kept private the names of those responsible for his ordeal and delayed the publishing of the report highlighting its mishandling of his case.
The true number of miscarriages of justice is unknown. In the UK, the CCRC referral rate averages 2% including appeals of sentence. In the US, estimates of wrongful conviction and imprisonment range from 6% to 15.4%.
The Insights section is committed to high-quality longform journalism. Our editors work with academics from many different backgrounds who are tackling a wide range of societal and scientific challenges.
Inevitably, some innocent people will have their appeals denied and will remain convicted for the rest of their lives. The trauma of remaining legally guilty of a crime you did not commit cannot be overstated.
But persistent psychological ill-effects can be seen even in those who have been formally exonerated, including long-term effects on their employment and relationships.
I’ve been examining cases like this as part of a research project into the experiences of people who suffer grave miscarriages of justice. Working with Dr Mandy Winterton at Edinburgh Napier University, I interviewed several men who have been imprisoned for crimes they did not commit.
As academics with psychology and sociology backgrounds, we were predominantly interested in how victims were affected by such injustices. Previous research has documented the litany of mental health and social effects on those who have been wrongfully convicted and exonerated, and the flaws in the criminal justice system that are to blame. But little attention has been paid to individual experiences. While there were clear commonalities in the men’s stories, they all had unique perspectives.
Of the people we spoke to, Hill and a man called Jimmy Boyle spoke to us on the record and specifically requested that they be named. I have given the other men featured here pseudonyms to protect their anonymity.
Paddy Hill
Hill’s story is particularly harrowing. On November 21 1974, shortly after 8pm, bombs exploded in two pubs in Birmingham, England, killing 21 people and injuring around 200 others. They were attributed to the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA), which had detonated many bombs in the West Midlands in the previous year.
Hill and his friends were arrested at Heysham Docks as they were boarding the ferry to Belfast to attend the funeral of an old friend who had been a member of the IRA. Hill said that they were initially interviewed at Morecambe police station in Lancashire, and the West Midlands Police took over their questioning the next day.
Hill and his co-accused were, says Hill, tortured by the West Midlands serious crime squad. They were subjected to anti-Irish verbal abuse, hours-long beatings over several days, mock executions, were burned with cigarettes, and deprived of sleep, food and drink. Unable to withstand this, four of the six men eventually signed false confessions, condemning them all to life imprisonment in 1975 for the murders. The six men brought a civil action against the West Midlands Police which was thrown out in 1980 by Lord Denning.
These shocking revelations eventually reached the public consciousness thanks to investigative journalist and former Labour MP Chris Mullin, who uncovered evidence of police wrongdoing and corruption. His work informed the group’s court of appeal hearing in 1987. However, the convictions were upheld by Lord Chief Justice Lane. It was only at their second appeal in 1991, after Mullin had uncovered more evidence of their innocence, that they were finally exonerated.
Despite other lines of enquiry which could have led to the real bombers – including a confession and several named suspects – the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) decided in 2023 that there was insufficient evidence to prosecute, denying justice to the families of those killed and injured.
The impact on Hill’s family was enormous. With such public vitriol for the Birmingham Six, his wife and children had to move house regularly and change their names to avoid being recognised. He told me:
Everywhere they went, sooner or later somebody found out who they were and then they’d pick on them. And sometimes my kids were going to school and they couldn’t even remember what fucking name they were supposed to be using, they were that confused.
Hill’s marriage ended while he was in prison. “I told her to divorce me. I said: ‘Meet someone, you want to get married, don’t worry about me.’ And that was it.”
He later remarried, but his relationship with his children was irretrievably destroyed. “Along the way I lost my own kids, because I came out of jail and I didn’t feel nothing for my kids. I still don’t … I’ve spent more time here with you than I have done in the last 20 fucking years with my kids.”
Though he was referred to psychologists for support, he told me none were able to help him. Over and above the pains of imprisonment, the wrongfully convicted are betrayed by the very people that we are led to believe are there to protect us. The justice system has wrought on them the worst injustice, and many will suffer from enduring anger and mistrust of authorities.
When we met, Hill was still consumed by his anger and felt badly let down: “Over the years I realised I was never going to get any professional help from the government, even though we have it in writing that they have a duty of care towards us – but they’ve never done nothing to help us … If they did, they would acknowledge what they’ve done wrong.”
Up until his death, Hill had spent much of the past 30 years helping other survivors of miscarriages of justice. Initially intending to spend his first 12 months of freedom campaigning, he “got involved with the families, and it was then I realised how bad the families had it … That’s what kept me going, coming out and campaigning.”
He established the Miscarriages of Justice Organisation (Mojo), a Glasgow-based charity dedicated to supporting the wrongfully convicted. It provides advocacy for clients in prison, aftercare and reintegration services, and dedicated psychological support offered pro-bono by a clinical psychologist.
But the demand far exceeds Mojo’s ability to help, and it may take several months for a case to be assessed. Euan McIlvride, the organisation’s legal officer, told me it typically receives “250 applications a year, and we will probably support only ten of those because the rest of them don’t meet the requirements for our support … We have finite resources.”
For Hill, keeping busy provided some relief from thinking about his ordeal.
…When you aren’t doing something, all you’re going to do is sit there and think … about things you don’t fucking want to think about. I don’t know what happens to me when I go to sleep … [My wife] hears me screaming … kicking and punching everything … I’ll be watching television and all of a sudden … BANG! It’s like a non-stop video going through your head all the time.
Chained to a radiator
The Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (Pace), which came to effect in 1986, aimed to reduce miscarriages of justice by balancing the powers of the police and the public. Pace provides safeguards for suspects during questioning, puts a limit on how long suspects can be questioned for, and insists that interviews be recorded.
This makes it easier to detect when protocols have not been followed or there may have been mistreatment or intimidation.
It doesn’t prevent such wrongdoing, however.
I spoke with one man, who I am calling Mark, who was wrongfully convicted of murder in 1988. He told me there were over one hundred breaches of Pace in his case, including being handcuffed to a hot radiator, being denied food and water, and being denied a solicitor.
One of his co-accused, a vulnerable adult, had also falsely confessed to the crime. Mark lost his first appeal in 1990 but his case went to the CCRC when it was established in 1997. The CCRC brought in another police force to investigate. He said:
When I saw [their] report … I nearly fell off my chair and nearly choked on my coffee … Everything I had said all those years ago … the handcuffing to the radiators, they proved it. All the breaches of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act … that we were interviewed off the record … Making up notes and stuff like that. I couldn’t believe it. I knew we were going home.
He subsequently pursued a civil action against the police which was settled out of court, with the force insisting the settlement did not mean it was admitting liability.
Mark also suffered a marital breakdown, after he and his wife lost their baby daughter while he was on remand:
It ripped the guts out of my marriage, you know. My wife was only 17-18, same age as me … She had a husband inside and she lost a child. And you’ve got to look at the economical impact and the mental impact it had on her … She was just as much a victim as what I was.
He started taking drugs in prison: “I didn’t care if I lived or died because I had lost everything, as far as I was concerned.”
But Mark turned himself around, got off drugs and availed himself of all the education he had access to, including law and human rights, to build the strongest possible case for his appeal. With the aid of a human rights lawyer the CCRC referred his conviction in 1998, which was then quashed by the Court of Appeal in 1999. He had spent 11 years in prison as a convicted murderer.
‘The innocence test’
After his exoneration, Mark was successful in securing over £600,000 compensation for his ordeal, though he had over £37,000 deducted for “saved living expenses”. A House of Lords ruling in 2007 deemed that those receiving compensation for a miscarriage of justice can have the amount reduced to account for “savings” made while in prison – for costs such as food, housing and other bills that they would have had to pay had they not been wrongfully incarcerated.
Considering the difficulties people face accessing any financial compensation for their wrongful imprisonment, this adds further insult to injury. The rule has since been scrapped following the high-profile Malkinson case – but deductions made prior to this are not being reimbursed.
Mark was given no financial counselling or support, and he rapidly spent the money – more than he had ever had in his life – while trying to block out his pain:
By the time six months had gone, I’d spent the hundred grand [interim payment] on wine, women, drugs … ’cause I couldn’t cope with what was going on … That was my way of blotting out all the things I saw in prison.
The money also caused a rift in his family – something echoed by others I have spoken to. After the death of his mother, his family “went their own ways”.
Nowadays, only a small proportion of those exonerated will ever receive financial compensation due to the requirements of the so-called “innocence test”.
The Criminal Justice Act 1988 made it difficult for applicants to receive compensation because there had to be a newly discovered fact – not available at the time of their original trial – that they could use to make the case that they had suffered a miscarriage of justice.
The definition of what constitutes a miscarriage of justice has become more restrictive over time, meaning an applicant now must provide evidence, beyond reasonable doubt, of their innocence. In the absence of a key witness admitting to falsifying their statement or DNA evidence proving innocence, this is unlikely.
Like Hill, Mark struggled to adjust after his exoneration and release, and found support to be woefully lacking:
I had nobody to talk to, no money, no job, no house. I didn’t have any prospects. I phoned up my solicitor … I remember saying: ‘Why did you get me out?’ It was difficult to adjust … I slept with a hammer … under my pillow – I was very paranoid … All they did was give me tablets and told me to get on with my life. No counselling. Nothing. They didn’t know what to do with people like me.
Mark still suffers with post-traumatic stress disorder and depression, and has never been able to work a normal job. He continues to campaign for the wrongfully convicted and to increase awareness of miscarriages of justice. He credits this work with giving him a sense of purpose.
Jimmy Boyle – not innocent enough?
I also spoke to James Boyle, who was acquitted at retrial of historical sexual offences after he had spent five years in prison. Boyle, from Rutherglen, who likes to be known as Jimmy, has always maintained these offences never happened.
From the outset, Boyle found processes quite at odds from how we are told they are supposed to be. He said: “Things that you should have: for example, presumption of innocence – nonsense, it doesn’t exist. None of these rights exist in reality.” He claims that lines of evidence undermining the allegations against him were not investigated. Further, he encountered professionals in the criminal justice system who he says were incompetent and even “malicious” and “criminal”.
To add further insult, he was later told that he was not considered exonerated because he did not provide evidence proving his innocence (he failed the “innocence test”). As a result, the General Teaching Council for Scotland did not reinstate him and he was unable to return to his teaching career which he had found enormously fulfilling.
Like others I have spoken to, Boyle, now in his 60s, hasn’t been able to work since his release:
There was so much involved, and fighting with the Teaching Council – you know, it was full time. It really was full time when you’re dealing with these agencies … I do plenty [at Mojo] – I’ve spoken at a number of events … But I had to continue fighting my own fight.
Martin: total lack of victim support
Miscarriages of justice have a huge effect on a person’s mental health. But my research found the impact begins long before a conviction – with effects such as anxiety, trauma and depression resulting from the wrongful allegation.
Martin (not his real name) detailed the difficulties he experienced from his initial wrongful allegation of rape – including isolation, lack of advice, and a lack of appropriate mental health support. He said:
I kept [the rape allegations] to myself and it was horrific, because I didn’t know what was going to happen … Once I was charged … I went to my GP because I was severely depressed. I could barely function. [Counselling] was actually making things worse rather than better … I had looked online … There’s victim support and there’s witness support, but if you’ve been accused there is absolutely nothing.
It took over three years from the initial allegation to court proceedings, during which time two other allegations of rape and indecent assault were made and charges were brought. Martin kept the allegations from his employers and friends:
You don’t mention it because if you mention it, you’re opening the box and then that becomes a big thing – and God help how you’re going to feel at the end of that conversation.
Convicted of rape and indecent assault (the second and third charges), he was sentenced to four years in prison, but successfully appealed on the basis that the Moorov doctrine was misapplied.
Moorov is a principle of Scottish law which allows evidence of one crime to corroborate evidence of another. As the charges against him were considered to corroborate one another, having been acquitted of the key (first) charge he should have been acquitted of all. Instead, he spent about a year in prison – yet he considers himself fortunate.
The guy [Andrew Malkinson] that won his appeal the other day spent 17 years in prison. I only spent one. And although I shouldn’t have spent any, it could have been a hell of a lot worse. There are a lot of people that haven’t been able to clear their names, there are a lot of people that have spent a long time in prison. I spent one year and managed to clear my name, so I should be thankful for what little happiness I’ve managed to get out of it.
Martin was fortunate in that he’d had a good education and had taken detailed notes during his trial, which assisted his appeal. He also helped other prisoners who were struggling to complete required forms for themselves, and managed to get a job in the prison kitchen.
Since his release, he has pursued a law degree, eager to use his experience for positive change in the justice system. “I think it’s given me a new perspective really … You know what, life’s too short – let’s just get on with it.”
What needs to be done?
People wrongly accused of crimes are in dire need of support from the moment the initial allegation is made, to help them navigate the complex legal processes and challenging psychological effects of being wrongly accused.
Currently there is woefully inadequate mental health support at all stages, from initial allegation to post-release.
Of course, there are many guilty people in prison who protest their innocence – but support should not be denied to those who maintain their innocence.
Reforms are needed to make it easier for an innocent person to appeal their conviction. The CCRC has suffered a decline in funding, from £9.24 million in 2004 to £6 million in 2022. Over this period, the workload has more than doubled while the Ministry of Justice has reduced CCRC commissioners’ terms of employment from full-time salaried positions to one-day-a-week contracts, making the workload unsustainable.
People may also face significant barriers in accessing evidence that would exonerate them such as police files, without which they have little hope of a successful appeal. This was evident in the Malkinson case, where the charity Appeal accessed the police files the CCRC had refused to look at.
The lack of accountability and consequences for those who purposely harm innocent people causes further anger and distress to the wrongfully accused and convicted. Yet those affected rarely even receive an apology. This needs to change.
Finally, there needs to be greater public awareness of wrongful convictions and allegations, their causes and consequences, and an understanding of their devastating and long-term effects. As Hill told me the year before he died:
People think you come out and they give you a few quid … [then you] walk off into the sunset and live happily ever after. If only. I would love to go to bed at night like an ordinary fucking person … without waking up so angry and tense.
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This work was supported by the BA/Leverhulme Trust grant SRG1819190884. Many thanks to Dr Mandy Winterton, co-Investigator on this research, and to the Miscarriages of Justice Organisation (MOJO) for supporting us by facilitating access to clients.
Faye Skelton is affiliated with the Miscarriages of Justice Organisation having joined the Board of Directors in April 2025.
