From 1 June 2025, Council officers will be able to fine people found urinating in public, or not controlling or picking up after their dogs.
Discretionary powers to act against these offences committed anywhere in York have been awarded by the Council who, this week on Tuesday 22 April, agreed a new, city-wide Public Space Protection Order (PSPO).
This decision follows a public consultation from December to February. During it, over 90% of the 1,026 people who took part, agreed with the proposals.
Evidence from North Yorkshire Police, BID Street Rangers and members of the public can be used to support the issue of fines for people behaving anti-socially and creating health hazards.
Once the evidence has been provided, the fines will be mailed to offenders as fixed penalty notices. By introducing these PSPO fines, the number of slow, costly and work-intensive prosecutions will be reduced.
For a breach of the PSPO by urinating or defecating in public, for not controlling a dog or not picking up after it, fines of £100 will be issued. This level of fine reflects the health hazards and administrative costs these offences incur, and enables us to resolve offences more quickly. It also represents a £25 increase to fines for dog fouling, mirroring increases to fines for littering.
The fines will contribute to a safer, better-managed and vibrant night-time economy, and are expected to help tackle alcohol-related anti-social behaviour in the city centre, supporting the city’s Purple Flag status.
Exemptions to these fines will be made for people who are registered blind or partially-sighted, and for people in charge of a registered assistance dog.
Cllr Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Safer Communities at City of York Council, said:
We want these offences to stop. They create health hazards and an unwelcome environment for people simply going about their daily business. This decision means we have a stronger deterrent, and a more timely and proportionate enforcement approach.
“People should use toilets in the pubs and cafés they’ve visited, and control and pick up after their dogs. For those who we find not doing so, our officers will be able to take immediate action with fines which will reflect the associated risks and costs.
“We will continue to work with partners, including the police and York BID who, like us, can provide supporting evidence. Together, we will take an intelligence-led approach to enforcement, targeting known hot-spot areas at key times.”
Superintendent Ed Haywood-Noble, North Yorkshire Police’s senior operational commander for York and Selby, said:
The Public Spaces Protection Order in York enhances our collective power to take direct action against individuals and groups whose behaviour have a detrimental impact.
“We have a strong partnership with our City of York Council colleagues through the Community Safety Hub, which tackles crime and anti-social behaviour. We will continue to do all we can to improve the safety and quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors to our magnificent city.”
The full report was discussed at the Council’s Executive meeting on 22 April at 4:30pm.
Godiva Calling – Coventry’s much-loved music competition is back for 2025 and it’s set to be the biggest and best yet, thanks to a new partnership with Music Smart.
This year’s Godiva Calling competition will showcase more up-and-coming talent than ever before with nine winners, offering Coventry and Warwickshire’s emerging artists the chance to take centre stage at this year’s Godiva Festival.
With an incredible prize package on offer, this year’s winners will be given a major boost in their musical journey. Winners will receive a Main Stage slot at Godiva Festival, a full music package including production, studio recording, mixing and mastering, live stream session in the Music Smart Live Lounge, a professional photoshoot and CD printing and distribution by Music Smart.
Music Smart is part of The Pack Smart Group a fulfilment company based in Coventry. Music Smart has been working with artists, labels and management companies for over 16 years delivering music and merchandise direct to fans to bring music to their ears.
Heats will be taking place at venues across the city in May. The venues are Millsy’s Café Bar, The Tin Music and Arts, The Arches, Knights, The Box, HMV Empire, The Khushi Grill Spon End and The Castle Grounds.
This year the competition will see more winners than ever before as new categories have been introduced to increase inclusivity and encourage even greater participation. The four new categories are Contemporary, Desi, Groups and DJ/Dance. Two former categories have been changed – Rap, Reggae and Afrobeats which was previously known as Urban will be included this year as well as Acoustic which was previously known as Singer/Songwriter. The three popular categories set to return are Indie, Rock and Under 18s.
Bookings for the contests will be managed by the appropriate venues for each genre and the Under 18s category will be managed by Coventry Music Hub.
Cllr Abdul Salam Khan, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Events at Coventry City Council, said: “As a city, we are so lucky to host Godiva Calling as it’s a great opportunity for the many talented local artists we have in our city.
“We’re so proud to be giving artists the chance to share their talent on the Main Stage at Godiva Festival to a fantastic crowd.
“We also want to thank our sponsor, Music Smart for making the Godiva Calling competition more exciting than ever before. We’re incredibly grateful for their support.”
Seánna Holland, Business Development Director at Music Smart said: “As a local Coventry business we are thrilled to be supporting Godiva Calling. This year we wanted to focus on fulfilling dreams as well as orders by supporting our city and community and have been looking for opportunities that align with our strong values and resonate with our core brands.
“To be part of the journey with the acts participating in Godiva Calling is exciting – who knows what lies ahead for the bands and singers as they follow their dreams.”
Sam McNulty, long time organiser of Godiva Calling is looking forward to seeing this year’s entries. He said: “We had a fantastic response to Godiva Calling last year, so we’ve decided to showcase even more talent this year by expanding the number of categories for the competition. This means more winners will be performing on the Main Stage at Godiva Festival.
“Sponsorship from Music Smart allows us to offer a photoshoot and recording session as part of the prize package which will be a fantastic experience for the winners.
“I encourage as many musicians to enter as possible from across Coventry and Warwickshire to take part in this unique competition.”
Entries for the competition open at 12pm on Monday 28 April. All information such as dates for this year’s heats and finals, plus the rules and the entry form will be available on the Godiva Calling webpage when entries open.
Festivalgoers can look forward to seeing Ocean Colour Scene, Clean Bandit, Marc Almond and many more from Friday 4 – Sunday 6 July in the city’s War Memorial Park. Tickets are on sale now with day passes available from just £10. Ticket prices are set to increase from Tuesday 6 May so those looking to attend are encouraged to purchase tickets as soon as possible to secure them at a lower price.
Godiva Festival is brought to you by Coventry City Council. Music Smart is the sponsor of Godiva Calling and Coventry College is the sponsor of the Family Field.
Photo caption from left: Sam McNulty – Godiva Calling organiser, Sandra Godley OBE – Godiva Calling judge, George Ackers – guitarist from Loophole (Godiva Calling Under 18s winners 2024), Seanna Holland – Business Development Director at Music Smart, Cllr Abdul Salam Khan – Deputy Leader at Coventry City Council, Nick Walker – CEO and Founder at Music Smart and Simon Mitchell – Venue Manager at The Castle Grounds
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3
News story
International crackdown on cannabis smuggling
UK-Thai cooperation results in 90% reduction in cannabis arriving in the post.
Cannabis arrivals by post from Thailand plummeted by 90% in the first three months of this year, thanks to a new partnership between UK Border Force and Thai customs.
Since Thailand decriminalised cannabis in 2022, there has been a dramatic increase in the amount of cannabis being sent to the UK by post.
In the last quarter of 2024, Border Force, with the support of Royal Mail, detected over 15 tonnes of the drug, which threatened to overwhelm resources.
However, after intense diplomatic engagement, UK Border Force and Thai customs established a new agreement, requiring parcels from Thailand to be checked before they are shipped.
Border Force have detected 1.5 tonnes of cannabis coming through the post in the first quarter of 2025 – a 90% reduction, which is a result of the extra checks taking place in Thailand.
The action is key to this government’s work to boost international cooperation and tighten border security as we deliver safer streets for working people through our Plan for Change.
Minister for Citizenship and Migration, Seema Malhotra said:
Our partnership with Thai customs has slashed cannabis smuggling in the post by 90% in just three months. This collaboration is delivering real results and it’s a prime example of how international cooperation is crucial to our Plan for Change, safer streets mission.
By stopping these drugs at source, we’re disrupting organised crime, protecting communities, and freeing Border Force to focus on other priorities. Together with our partners in Thailand, this government will continue to take tough action against those attempting to smuggle illegal drugs across our borders.
The Home Office and Border Force have also worked closely with Thailand to prevent drugs being smuggled by air passengers. In February, Border Force and the National Crime Agency took part in Operation Chaophraya, a Home Office-led operation at Bangkok Airport.
This resulted in over 2 tonnes of cannabis being surrendered from transiting passengers, with an estimated value of £6 million.
Since Operation Chaophraya began under this government in July 2024, over 50 British nationals have been arrested in Thailand for attempted cannabis smuggling, underlining the importance of upstream deterrence work.
To mark the new partnership, the UK hosted Director General of Thai Customs, Mr Theeraj Athanavanich, and his delegation at Heathrow Airport and a Border Force postal depot earlier this week.
Mr Athanavanich met with the Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Seema Malhotra, and Director General for Border Force, Phil Douglas, where they discussed the success of the agreement and future collaboration.
Border Force Director General, Phil Douglas said:
Border Force works tirelessly to protect and strengthen our borders, by preventing the smuggling of cannabis and other illegal items into the UK. Our work doesn’t stop at the border – we work internationally with our partners to prevent illicit goods from even reaching the UK.
We are using advanced intelligence more than ever before and last year we made a record number of drug seizures, including the highest harm substances. Border Force remains fully committed to securing our borders and keeping our streets safe.
In parallel with its cooperation with the UK on cannabis, Thai customs have introduced stricter screening measures at the border. This has resulted in over 800 cannabis smugglers being intercepted between October 2024 and March 2025, with over 9 tonnes of cannabis seized.
Both the UK and Thailand are taking a zero-tolerance approach on criminal gangs who are exploiting vulnerable people to smuggle drugs across the UK border on their behalf. Individuals who are caught smuggling drugs will be arrested and face the full force of the law.
Alex Murray, NCA Director of threat leadership, said:
The NCA continues to work with partners at home and abroad to target high-risk routes, seize shipments of drugs and disrupt the OCGs involved, denying them profits.
We have been working well with the Thai authorities who are keen to intervene. Couriers should think very carefully about agreeing to smuggle cannabis. There are life-changing consequences. Crime groups can be very persuasive but the risk of getting caught is very high and simply not worth it.
Border Force is committed to delivering the government’s Plan for Change, Safer Streets mission by stopping illegal drugs from entering our country and destroying lives.
In the year ending March 2024, Border Force and the police seized over 119 tonnes of illegal drugs, with a street value of £3 billion, a 52% increase from the year prior, in the highest number of seizures on record.
Charlotte Prescott, Director of Customs and International Policy at Royal Mail said:
Collaboration between government agencies and postal bodies is essential. We have a very strong partnership with Border Force and are proud to work alongside our Border Force colleagues, assisting their work in identifying restricted and prohibited items, and helping to tackle this issue – this relationship has been recognised as one of the best internationally.
This Sunday night, Colas will begin a programme of essential night works to upgrade all traffic signals at the critical Paulsgrove Junction, located near the Marriott Hotel (also known as the J&J Junction).
Portsmouth City Council is urging road users to plan ahead and consider alternative routes during the night works. Signed diversion routes will be clearly displayed in advance, which may involve motorway routes. There will be no closures in place during the day.
The current traffic signals have reached the end of their 25-year life span and urgently need to be replaced to ensure the junction operates safely and for years to come.
The programme of night works will begin on Sunday, 27 April, at 9:00pm-5:00am, with a full closure of all four arms of the junction for four nights. This closure will allow Colas to safely set up temporary traffic lights that will be in place for the duration of the works, allowing the junction to remain in use.
Following this initial phase, there will be a period of monitoring the temporary traffic signals with no active work taking place until the night of Tuesday, 6 May. From that point, the night works will consist of localised lane closures around the junction until Sunday, 22 June, with advance warning signs in place.
Once all traffic signals have been replaced, there will be two further nights of full junction closures to remove the temporary traffic lights. After this, Colas will begin resurfacing the road to complete the upgrades to the area.
Cllr Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport at Portsmouth City Council, said: “This is one of Portsmouth’s busiest junctions, and updating and maintaining these signals is critical for the safety of road users. These works were originally scheduled for February but had to be postponed due to emergency gas works carried out by SGN on London Road affecting Portsbridge Roundabout. Now that those works have been successfully completed, we must resume our essential planned work, and this programme is designed to minimise the disruption to the road network.
“We are aware that these night works coincide with the May bank holidays, which is why we have carefully planned the programme with Colas to avoid full junction closures on these dates. Works will be completed in full ahead of the busy summer period.”
Services by First Bus X4 and X5 will be affected after 9pm and will divert after leaving Portsmouth International Port via: Stamshaw and Hilsea to Paulsgrove. Then via: Allaway Avenue. Jubilee Avenue, Portsview Avenue, and Station Road to Portchester Precinct. Further details can be found on the First Bus website.
Walking and cycling routes will be maintained throughout the duration of the works. Please follow signs for safest routes.
Colas has been working closely with emergency services and local businesses to ensure smooth coordination and to minimise disruption. As one of only three main routes on and off Portsea Island, the timings of the work have been carefully scheduled with National Highways and the major utility companies to avoid overlap with other major planned works to minimise disruption to the network.
The council is also taking this opportunity to coordinate with National Highways to carry out additional improvements under the closure, to replace street lights on the M275 southbound slip road.
For general enquiries about the works, please contact the Colas help desk on 02392 310 900, available between 8:00am and 4:00pm. To report urgent matters regarding these works outside of these hours, please contact the Colas 24-hour helpline on 02392 310 955.
Redesigning and rebuilding ‘Check if you can get legal aid’
Announcing the launch of the improved ‘Check if you can get legal aid’ website, redesigned and user-focused.
We recently launched an improved service that helps clients better understand whether they may qualify for legal aid.
The website supports our wider goal of making legal aid simpler and more accessible for everyone. The updated tool allows members of the public to check their eligibility with ease, using clear, everyday language that reflects how they understand and describe their legal issues.
Designed around real client needs
This work has been a truly collaborative effort. The Civil Legal Advice (CLA) digital team worked closely with stakeholders from across the LAA and beyond, including legal experts and charities, to understand what people need when they are seeking legal help.
We listened to clients, tested different approaches and studied how people talk about their problems. This allowed us to move away from complex legal jargon and design a tool that speaks in a language that feels accessible and human.
The result
A simpler, clearer and more intuitive experience – one that removes barriers and helps more people get the support they need.
A legal aid client said: “it’s nice, basic and simple to read, the descriptions really help
Covering over 15 areas of civil law
Civil legal aid spans a wide range of legal issues – from family law to housing, debt, education and more. Through extensive research into legislation and collaboration with experts, we built a deep understanding of each of these areas and ensured the tool reflects the full breadth of support available.
In a survey completed by legal aid providers reviewing one of our earlier prototypes, 88 per cent found the new legal categories on the website to be clear and intuitive.
Data-driven, evidence-based, and future-ready
From day one, the team used data to guide development, analysing how people use the service, what they search for, and where they run into issues. This evidence-based approach allowed the team to make informed improvements and prioritise what matters most.
We’ve moved away from legacy systems and adopted a modern frontend that’s faster, easier to maintain and built with the future in mind. This means we can continue improving the service as user needs evolve and policies change.
A meaningful step forward
The new ‘Check if you can get legal aid’ website is more than just a digital tool, it’s a step forward in making legal aid more accessible for the people who need it most.
This release is just one part of our ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and ensuring that the justice system works for everyone.
You can visit the new Check if you can get legal aid site at https://www.gov.uk/check-legal-aid and if you have any feedback or suggestions, please get in touch at sonya.hussain@justice.gov.uk
Campaigning in the Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election, the SNP’s candidate Katy Loudon has called out the “deafening silence” on Labour’s broken promises by both Anas Sarwar and Labour’s by-election candidate.
Only this week 14 Labour MSPs voted to support the latest round of Labour cuts which are expected to push 250,000 people into poverty. Not only did those Labour MSPs vote to support cuts but eight others failed to vote at all – including Anas Sarwar himself.
So far, the Labour candidate in the Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election has not spoken out against Labour cuts which will harm countless families in the constituency.
He’s also been silent on Labour’s record in government which includes:
Cutting £4.8 billion of disability payments to vulnerable households
Promising to cut energy bills by £300 but instead overseeing an increase of almost £300
Maintaining the two-child cap which is pushing 15,000 Scottish children into poverty
Scrapping the Winter Fuel Payment from 900,000 pensioners
Saving British Steel in Scunthorpe but treating Grangemouth as an afterthought
Katy Loudon said that Anas Sarwar’s silence over the Labour Party’s broken promises proves that neither he, nor his party, can be trusted to do right by the people of Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse.
She described how in government, Labour has maintained the awful two child cap, taken away vital payments from pensioners and overseen soaring household bills – and all within a matter of months.
“Astonishingly, Labour MSPs are in lockstep with their London bosses – with most of their MSPs backing the £5 billion of Labour cuts to disability support while others, like Sarwar, avoided voting altogether”, she went on to say.
She added: “The people of Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse deserve better than a Labour candidate who will look the other way, like Anas Sarwar.
“A fairer Scotland, free from Westminster cuts, is possible under the SNP, and I will be taking that message to doorsteps across Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse.”
The ActiveWestminster Strategy sets out our plan to help everyone in Westminster live more active, healthy and happy lives. Physical activity can improve your health, wellbeing and quality of life – we want to make it easier for everyone to get moving.
This strategy runs for the next 4 years in our aim to help residents become more physically active, and supports our Fairer Westminster goals of improving health, reducing inequalities and strengthening communities.
Our goals
We want to:
Help more people be active every day
Make it easier to get involved in sports and activities
Ensure all communities can access safe, welcoming places to be active
Work with partners to support healthy, active lifestyles across Westminster
Our focus areas
We’re working towards a more active city through three main areas:
Active Lives, supporting individuals to be active at home, school, work, and in daily life.
Active Neighbourhoods, creating local spaces that make it accessible, easy and enjoyable to be active.
Active City, providing good facilities, safe routes and activities for everyone.
Gladstone Pottery Museum is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its official opening.
The former Victorian pottery factory in Longton – which attracts thousands of visitors every year – was officially opened on 24 April 1975 by Prince Richard, The Duke of Gloucester.
And it will be a double celebration as the city celebrates its Centenary with a year-long programme of events. Visitors to the historic museum can now view the bird baths created by potters in episode seven of Channel 4’s The Great Pottery Throw Down. The six items on display reflect the area’s rich industrial heritage, vibrant green spaces and historic waterways.
Gladstone’s golden anniversary was marked by an event on Thursday, 24 April.
The Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, Councillor Lyn Sharpe, and Kelvin the Kiln, the city’s Centenary mascot, met the staff and volunteers who give a warm welcome to visitors.
A pottery factory first opened on the site in 1787, but the bottle kilns were fired for the last time in 1960 and the site put up for sale. The former factory was eventually opened as a museum, with the city council taking ownership in 1989.
Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, Councillor Lyn Sharpe, said: “We built this city on the hugely successful and traditional ceramics industry. It’s what gained us city status in the first place so I’m incredibly proud to be able to celebrate 50 years of honouring that heritage at Gladstone.
“The fabulous staff and volunteers really bring the story of the city I love to life. They’ve done an amazing job over the last 50 years of showcasing the skills and creativity that means our local industry is known throughout the world.
“This ‘living museum’ has something for everyone and that’s why it was declared VisitEngland’s Small Visitor Attraction of the Year 2020.”
One volunteer, Paul Niblett, has worked tirelessly at Gladstone since 1971 – even meeting his wife, Kathy, in a bottle kiln at the museum.
Paul said: “When we’re open, I like the opportunity of saying hello to our visitors, particularly to express thanks for coming. I recently chatted to folks from Crewe, Huddersfield and Preston. A couple of weeks ago, my chats included people from Australia and America.
“There is no doubt that the Museum is a magnet for people wanting to learn more about our internationally renowned ceramics industry, whether they be schoolchildren, college students, heritage enthusiasts or addicts of well-known TV programmes. Everyone is welcome.
“It’s 60 years ago that the germ of an idea of a working pottery museum was muted.
“Progressively, the idea took shape, steered by a small group of largely local visionaries, many from the pottery industry, such that Gladstone opened for a preview season in August 1974. This helped to assess visitors’ experiences and to gain all-important income prior to the official opening in 1975. Volunteers were working alongside consultants and contractors throughout these early years and have helped to shape the internationally-appreciated museum that we see today.
“Sadly, I’ve lost a number of stalwart comrades over the years, but I always remember them, especially when we’re greasing a throwing wheel, emptying a slip ark or splicing a drive rope. They have all contributed to the extraordinary success of Gladstone Pottery Museum.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
World news story
Gulf Strategy Fund, UAE: call for bids 2025 to 2026
The British Embassy in the United Arab Emirates is pleased to announce a call for bids for the Gulf Strategy Fund in the UAE for financial year 2025 to 2026.
The British Embassy in the UAE invites applications for projects to support UK leadership and/or strengthen UK-UAE links in the following areas:
nature and biodiversity
clean water and sanitation
clean hydrogen
carbon capture, utilisation or storage
artificial intelligence – with clean energy, climate or nature applications
Projects may be in the range of £80,000 to £150,000, should last for three to nine months and must be completed by March 2026. Applications for smaller projects will also be considered.
Eligible organisations should:
be structured as not for profit organisations
have strong existing links to the UAE, and ideally a physical footprint in the UAE
be able to demonstrate how the proposed project will benefit the UK, and/or strengthen links between the UK and the UAE
We encourage interested organisations to submit an initial concept note, in the format of your choice, to UAE.Programmes@fcdo.gov.uk by 8 May 2025. We will aim to provide feedback within five working days of concept note submission. You will then need to complete the full project proposal form (ODT, 61.1 KB) and Activity Based Budget template (ODS, 9.91 KB) and submit to UAE.Programmes@fcdo.gov.uk by 22 May. We strongly encourage submitting bids as soon as possible to allow time for feedback and guidance.
The Activity Based Budget must clearly indicate the planned expenditure, including itemised delivery, administrative and staffing costs.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Acoramidis approved to treat wild-type or variant transthyretin amyloidosis in adults with cardiomyopathy
As with all products, the MHRA will keep its safety under close review.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved the medicine acoramidis (Beyonttra) to treat adult patients with cardiomyopathy (damage to the heart muscle) caused by variant or wild-type transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR-CM).
Acoramidis has been approved via a fast-track approval process for medicines, known as the International Recognition Procedure (IRP), following approval by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) earlier this year.
In patients with cardiomyopathy resulting from transthyretin amyloidosis, a protein called transthyretin (TTR) does not work properly, causing it to break up and form fibrous clusters called amyloids. When amyloids form in the heart, the heart muscle stiffens, and the heart can no longer work normally.
The active substance in this newly approved medicine, acoramidis hydrochloride, works to slow down the progression of ATTR-CM by stabilising the TTR protein to help prevent it from breaking apart and forming amyloids.
In the UK, there are estimated to be around 600 people with wild-type ATTR-CM, which mainly affects older individuals and is more common in men, and 200 people with hereditary ATTR-CM.
Julian Beach, MHRA Interim Executive Director, Healthcare Quality and Access, said:
“Keeping patients safe and enabling their access to high quality, safe and effective medical products are key priorities for us.
“The approval of acoramidis reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring quicker access to medicines that can make a real difference to people suffering from serious diseases, and that have proven safety, quality and efficacy recognised by comparable international regulators.
“We’re assured that the appropriate regulatory standards for the approval of this medicine have been met.
“As with all products, we will keep the safety of acoramidis under close review.”
Acoramidis is administered orally as a tablet, twice daily. Treatment should be initiated by a doctor with experience in the management of patients with ATTR-CM.
This approval is supported by evidence from an international, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study involving 632 patients with either variant or wild-type ATTR-CM with symptoms of heart failure.
The medicine was shown in the study to be more effective than placebo at slowing down damage to the heart caused by the disease, with those participants given acoramidis having a 77% higher chance of experiencing a benefit than those given placebo.
Main measures of effectiveness included patients’ overall mortality rate, and frequency of hospitalisations due to cardiovascular issues over the 30-month study period. The study also recorded patients’ own measure of quality of life, changes in their serum TTR levels and NT-proBNP (a hormone released by the heart when it is stressed or under pressure), as well as changes to the distance patients were able to walk in 6 minutes.
The most common side effects of the medicine (which may affect more than 1 in 10 people) include diarrhoea, and painful inflammation in the joints (gout).
As with any medicine, the MHRA will keep the safety and effectiveness of acoramidis under close review.
Anyone who suspects they are having a side effect from this medicine are encouraged to talk to their doctor, pharmacist or nurse and report it directly to the Yellow Card scheme, either through the website (https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/) or by searching the Google Play or Apple App stores for MHRA Yellow Card.
Notes to editors
The new marketing authorisation was granted on 24 April 2025 to Bayer plc.
More information can be found in the Summary of Product Characteristics and Patient Information leaflets which will be published on the MHRA Products website within 7 days of approval.
Acoramidis (Beyonttra) was submitted and approved via the International Recognition Procedure (IRP) following approval by the European Medicines Agency (EMA). The IRP allows the MHRA to take into account the expertise and decision-making of trusted regulatory partners for the benefit of UK patients.
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.
The incredible contributions that Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) graduates have made to communities, culture and enterprise across the world were celebrated at the annual Vice Chancellor’s Outstanding Alumni Awards last night.
During a glittering ceremony at its Chelmsford campus, ARU welcomed back of its former students to celebrate their successes since crossing the stage and graduating from ARU.
A total of 34 finalists were shortlisted in seven categories which recognised contributions in areas such as voluntary service, contribution to culture, public service and sustainability.
Alumni Contribution to Culture Award: Winner: Thea Lu (MA Children’s Book Illustration 2021). Thea is a picture book author and illustrator whose published works include Dive into the Night Sea, Here & There, and Minuscules Mandibules, winning awards including the Bologna Illustrators Exhibition Winners, 2021 Sebastian Walker Award, and 2024 New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children’s Books.
Alumni Entrepreneur of the Year Award: Winner: Joe McGrath (Masters of Business Administration 2024). An entrepreneur and marketer, Joe is the founder of Rhotic Media, a financial marketing agency. Joe holds an MBA from ARU and a BA (Hons) in Corporate Communication. He is a Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute and a Member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing. Prior to launching Rhotic, Joe worked as a senior journalist for the Financial Times Group, Dow Jones, and Reach plc.
Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award: Winner: Mary Prior KC (LLB 1984) Mary is a barrister with 34 years’ experience of prosecuting and defending the most serious, complex criminal cases across England and Wales. A KC, she is Chair of the Criminal Bar Association, the Midland Criminal Law Association, and Midland Women in Criminal Law. She is also a Bencher and Vice Chair of Education (Outreach) for Gray’s Inn, Head of 36 Crime in London, Patron of the Non-Russell Group of Lawyers and Bringing (Dis)ability to the Bar. In 2020, Mary was named Woman of the Year at the Women in Law Awards.
Alumni Public Service Award: Winner: Dr Manshi S. Mankiwala (MSc Public Health 2011). Dr Mankiwala is a dedicated public health professional serving as a state consultant with the National Health Mission, Department of Health and Family Welfare, Gujarat. Her work focuses on strengthening health systems, policy advocacy, and maternal, child, and adolescent health.
Alumni Rising Star Award: Winner: Ariana Soares Dias Portela (MSc Applied Bio Science 2021). Ariana Soares Dias Portela is a dedicated scientist who spent two years in New York researching a compound that delays Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis symptoms in mice. She is now pursuing a PhD at the UK’s first Space Innovation Lab, collaborating with NASA to study how microgravity affects aging.
Alumni Sustainability Champion Award: Winner: Dr Norbert Edomah (Doctor of Philosophy Global Sustainability Institute 2018). Norbert Edomah is a Professor of Energy Systems and Policy at the School of Science and Technology, Pan Atlantic University, Lagos, Nigeria. With over two decades of experience in the energy sector, he has led several EU and UKRI-funded projects. Norbert focuses on understanding how people respond to changes in energy systems and how these interactions impact energy policy.
Alumni Voluntary Service Award: Winner: Oa Hackett (Certificate of Higher Education Charity and Social Enterprise Management (LDS) 2019). Oa founded Little Lifts in 2017 after her breast cancer treatment at the age of 28. The charity has raised over £2million and supported over 28,000 breast cancer patients through 10 NHS hospital partnerships and The Little Kindness Fund. Her contributions have been recognised with a Points of Light Award, a British Citizen Award, and the Chartered Institute Fundraising East of England Professional Fundraiser of the Year Award.
“The calibre of our nominees has been outstanding. It has been a great pleasure to learn more about their success, and we are proud to recognise their dedication, passion and commitment. They are inspirational role models to our students and our ARU community.”
Professor Roderick Watkins, Vice Chancellor of Anglia Ruskin University (ARU)
City of York Council has today unveiled a new video starring eight York residents, business owners and students and poses a question – wouldn’t it be nice to have less congestion in York?
The video opens with each person telling us about their experiences of transport in York, before going on to explain what the Council is doing about these issues.
The first of two films to communicate the new Local Transport Strategy (LTS), which was adopted in 2024, this video highlights findings from the public consultation on the LTS. It also shows how this year alone £10m of nationally allocated, ringfenced funding is being invested in resurfacing pavements, roads and pathways; lighting; real-time bus information; a barrier removal programme, and delivering on our adopted Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP).
The video will be followed in the coming weeks by a public consultation on improvements to the Park and Ride sites including accessible EV charging bays, new toilets (including Changing Spaces facilities), overnight parking facilities, plus better signage, lighting and integrated transport options.
Councillor Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport at City of York Council, said:
Not only does this video show the wonderful diversity of people and transport options we have across York, but the very real impacts that transport has on all our lives, and the reasons why we are working hard to improve options for how people move around.
“I hope all residents can see a little of themselves across the eight stories, and I’m looking forward to unveiling some of our new plans as well as updating everyone on all the great work our teams are doing to make York a healthier, more sustainable and better-connected city.
“I’d like to thank the eight residents and businesses, as well as the venues used for filming, plus the highways and transport teams who helped coordinate all the elements of filming.”
The eight residents represent the following issues, and how we are resolving them:
A woman bus driver who asks “Wouldn’t it be nice to have less traffic in York?” – our on-going work to make buses more accessible, promote bus use and lower the cost of bus travel for young people has already helped to reduce the number of cars on the road, freeing up road space for those whose journeys are essential.
A university student who uses a wheelchair and whose route is blocked by steel barriers – our barrier removal programme will begin in Spring and make dozens of pathways accessible again.
An older woman who isn’t online so can’t check bus times before she leaves the house – our bus team have improved over 200 elements at bus stops, including real time information screens, better shelters, lighting and seating.
A college student who doesn’t have buses running to their village – we work with each of the six bus operators in York to help subsidise existing services, and continue to work with the Mayor of York and North Yorkshire to ensure financial support for bus services offers better travel options for residents and businesses.
A woman runner who has to choose different routes depending on lighting and personal safety considerations – our lighting teams have been installing new LED lights across the city, and will deliver future improvements at the Jubilee Terrace to Scarborough Bridge Riverside Path (where the runner was filmed).
A woman who uses an adapted cycle and would like to explore more of York – our LCWIP will help us create a more joined up and accessible cycle network, as well as increasing the number of accessible cycle parking spaces in the city centre. To further improve access for disabled residents, we have been increasing the number of Blue Badge holder bays across York.
A business owner who explains the issues his delivery drivers face, with congestion causing problems for businesses. By encouraging more people to use public transport and travel by wheeling and walking, we aim to reduce the level of congestion in the city and miles travelled by vehicles by 20% by 2030.
And a young person who just loves riding their cycle but faces a lot of traffic. By encouraging more people to leave the car at home where they can, we are creating better environments for people of all ages.
The video is available on YouTube:
Notes to editors:
Filming took place in Fulford, Naburn and Acomb, as well as on Nunnery Lane, Walmgate Stray, Millennium Bridge, Blossom St, The Mount and Riverside Path and at York College and at Middleton’s Hotel.
In addition to the people featured in the film and the lining, lighting, road maintenance, communities teams within CYC, our thanks go to York College, Transdev, Get Cycling CIC, Middleton’s Hotel and to York based videographer, Paul Richardson.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments
Press release
Primacy of voluntary trusteeship stressed in new payment guidance
The Charity Commission today published redesigned guidance on paying trustees, with a continued emphasis on the principle of voluntary service.
After engaging with charities and sector bodies, the Commission has refined its guidance (known as ‘CC11’) to make it clearer, easier to use and to help trustees navigate the law.
Trustee payments
The underlying rules on trustee payments have not changed. The redesigned guidance continues to stress that it must be clearly in the charity’s best interests to pay a trustee (or person connected to them), with all other options having been carefully considered, and the resulting conflict of interest managed. Additionally, a charity must have legal authority to pay.
The guidance is now split into a range of trustee payment scenarios, including supplying goods or services to the charity, loss of earnings, and being employed, and has been redesigned to help trustees think through the issues and risks and determine if they have powers they can use or if they need authority from the Charity Commission.
Trustee expenses
The Commission is clear that expenses do not constitute trustee ‘payments’ and that trustees are entitled to have their reasonable expenses reimbursed by the charity. It has therefore separated out information on trustee expenses into a distinct guide published as part of today’s suite.
Whilst travel and accommodation costs are a common reason for claiming expenses, the guidance says they may also include costs for things like childcare or adjustments enabling those with disabilities to conduct their role.
Charity Commission Director of Communications & Policy, Paul Latham, said:
The charity sector is founded on public trust – and voluntary trusteeship is a key component of that. The vast majority of trustees are unpaid and give their time willingly and enthusiastically.
However, some charities will face circumstances where they consider whether to pay one or more trustee. It is vital that they get these decisions right and comply with the law on paying trustees or people or organisations connected to them.
With the launch of this redesigned guidance, we hope to make the legal position on paying trustees even clearer, whilst helping trustees understand what’s expected of them when reaching these decisions.
He added:
Expenses are not a form of trustee payment, those are a reimbursement of the reasonable costs incurred to perform that role.
Whilst trustees are not required to claim them, in making clear that trustees can do so, charities may avoid putting off good candidates from joining their board because of the financial impact.
The Charity Commission is the independent, non-ministerial government department that registers and regulates charities in England and Wales. Its ambition is to be an expert regulator that is fair, balanced, and independent so that charity can thrive. This ambition will help to create and sustain an environment where charities further build public trust and ultimately fulfil their essential role in enhancing lives and strengthening society. Find out more: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/charity-commission/about
In the highly anticipated judgment announced April 17, the court ruled that the definition of “sex”, “man” and “woman” in the Equality Act refers to “biological sex”. It found that this does not include those who hold a gender recognition certificate (trans people who have had their chosen gender legally recognised). In simple terms, “women” does not include transgender women.
It is important to note that the court’s remit was focused on interpretation of existing laws, not creating policy. The court affirmed that trans people should not be discriminated against, nor did they intend to provide a definition of sex or gender outside of the application of the Equality Act.
The prime minister has said he welcomes the “real clarity” brought by the ruling. But while it may bring some legal clarity, questions remain about the practical implementation. The judgment also raises new questions about the operation of the Gender Recognition Act, and what it now means to hold a gender recognition certificate.
What was the court case?
The gender-critical feminist group For Women Scotland challenged the Scottish government’s guidance on the operation of the Equality Act in relation to a Scottish law that sets targets for increasing the proportion of women on public boards.
The definition of a “woman” for the purposes of that law included trans women who had undergone, or were proposing to undergo, gender reassignment.
The issue that the court had to address was whether a person with a full gender recognition certificate (GRC) which recognises that their gender is female, is a “woman” for the purposes of the Equality Act 2010. The act gives protection to people who are at risk of unlawful discrimination.
The court’s decision was that the meaning of “sex” was biological and so references in the act to “women” and “men” did not, therefore, apply to trans women or trans men who hold GRCs.
What has changed with this ruling?
Prior to the ruling, there were contested views as to whether trans people could access certain single-sex spaces – some of the most contentious being prisons, bathrooms and domestic abuse shelters.
The ruling does not require services to exclude trans people from all single-sex spaces. It does, however, clarify that if a service operates a single-sex space, for example a gym changing room, then exclusion is based on biological sex and not legal sex. Neither the court nor the government has said how “biological sex” would be defined or proven.
A service provider may operate a single-sex space on the basis of privacy or safety of users. To base this on biological sex must be a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim – for example, the safety of women in a group for abuse survivors. This means that service providers may still operate trans-inclusive policies, but they may open themselves to legal challenge.
What does this mean for the Gender Recognition Act?
The Gender Recognition Act 2004 introduced gender recognition certificates (GRCs), which certify that a person’s legal gender is different from their assigned gender at birth. A trans person can apply for a GRC in order to change their gender on their birth certificate. For legal purposes, they are then recognised as their acquired gender.
The ruling does not strike down or affect the operation of the Gender Recognition Act. But it does give the impression that the GRA – and holding a GRC – is now less effective.
The ruling clarifies that a trans woman who has a GRC and is recognised legally in her acquired gender can be excluded from single-sex spaces on the ground of biological sex, as would a trans woman without a GRC. Before the ruling, a trans person with a GRC would have been able to access many single-sex spaces and services that match the gender on their GRC.
In order to be granted a GRC, a person must show that they have lived in their acquired gender for at least two years and that they intend to live in that gender until death. Their application must be approved by two doctors, but – in what was a world-first at the time it was introduced – does not require any medical transition.
The Supreme Court states that trans people (with or without a GRC) will still be protected from discrimination. Sex and gender reassignment are both protected characteristics under the Equality Act. This means that trans people may still rely on the law to protect them from direct or indirect discrimination levelled at them on the basis of being trans, or because of their perceived sex.
The court uses the example that a trans woman applying for a job being denied that job on the basis of being trans would still be entitled to sue for discrimination.
How will single-sex services operate?
The key question now, both for service providers and trans people, is what spaces trans people will be able to use. It is not the Supreme Court’s job to issue guidance on this – and the judgment is notably silent on the practical implementation of the ruling.
Service providers may choose to offer unisex spaces, for example gender neutral bathrooms. British Transport Police have already confirmed that strip searches of those arrested on the network would be conducted based on biological sex, and other services will likely follow.
It is up to service providers, employers and healthcare providers to interpret the ruling and decide how to apply it. The government has said that further guidance will be issued by the Equality and Human Rights Commission. But how the ruling is implemented in practice, and what it means for other laws like the Gender Recognition Act, will likely be debated for some time.
Alexander Maine 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.
Company Announcement Date: April 24, 2025 FDA Publish Date: April 24, 2025 Product Type: Food & BeveragesAllergens Reason for Announcement:
Recall Reason Description Undeclared almonds
Company Name: New England Village Foods Brand Name:
Brand Name(s) New England Village Snacks
Product Description:
Product Description 19th Hole Snack Mix
Company Announcement New England Village Foods of Milford NH is recalling all lots of 5 -ounce and 10 -ounce containers of New England Village Snacks “19th Hole Snack Mix” because they may contain undeclared almonds. People who have allergies to almonds run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products. The recalled “19th Hole Snack Mix” were distributed to small independent grocery markets and convenience stores throughout New England, New York and Pennsylvania. The product comes in 5- ounce and 10- ounce, clear cups and tubs with re-closable lids marked with UPC – 609465693477 (5 oz.) and UPC – 642147152459 (10 oz.) located on the lid of the product printed in black ink. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this issue. The recall was initiated after a customer discovered that the almond-containing product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of almonds. Subsequent investigation indicates the issue was caused by a temporary breakdown in the companies packaging process. Production of the product has been temporarily suspended. Consumers who have purchased the 5 -ounce or 10 -ounce packages of “19th Hole Snack Mix” are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with any questions or concerns may contact New England Village Foods at 1.603.554.1873 (M-F 7AM to 4PM Eastern).
Company Contact Information
Consumers: New England Village Foods 1.603.554.1873
Thousands of UK jobseekers helped into workplace training.
Tens of thousands of people have been helped into workplace training thanks to government support, new figures show today (25 April).
Tens of thousands helped into workplace training thanks to government support of more than 80,000 tailored workplace training places – in a key step to boosting the nation’s skills.
Scheme to be expanded to provide 100,000 places this financial year as the government continues its drive to Get Britain Working.
Placements offer people the opportunity to kickstart a new career by giving them the skills they need, helping to deliver on the government’s Plan for Change.
People claiming certain out-of-work benefits have the chance to benefit from Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs) – these offer training, workplace placements and a guaranteed interview with an employer in industries with the most vacancies, such as hospitality and construction.
In the last financial year, 86,640 places were provided, surpassing the Government’s target of 80,000 over the period, helping tens of thousands of people into work and putting more money in people’s pockets.
With 100,000 places due to be available over this financial year, helping even more people into work, these measures are a step towards achieving the 80% employment rate and supporting the government’s growth mission. This comes as part of wider efforts to put more money into people’s pockets and improve living standards, delivering on the Plan for Change.
Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall MP said:
SWAPs help people to stay in work for longer and boost their pay, while getting businesses loyal staff with the right skills.
That’s why we are boosting the scheme even further next year, giving even more people access to these life-changing opportunities.
This kind of support is crucial to get people back to work, as we continue to unlock growth, improve living standards and break down barriers to opportunity for people across the country with our Plan for Change.
All unemployed benefit claimants aged 16 or over who are on Universal Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance or Employment and Support Allowance who do not need extra support are eligible for help into work through the SWAPs programme.
The programme aims to address a lack of basic employability skills and is part of the government’s plan to Get Britain Working, as it overhauls jobcentres, tackles inactivity and improves outcomes for jobseekers.
DWP research published earlier this year shows that in the two years after finishing a SWAP, participants stay in their jobs on average up to three months longer, earn up to £1,400 more, and save the taxpayer over £350 per person compared with those who don’t take part in the programme.
With over 86,000 SWAPs over the last financial year, it means the total number of SWAPs places now stands at 370,560 since the scheme launched in April 2021.
As part of the wider expansion of SWAPs to 100,000 places this financial year, a new Hospitality SWAPs pilot will be available in 26 new areas with the greatest need for new jobs and opportunities, including 13 coastal towns such as Scarborough and Blackpool.
Through the SWAP programme, Sophie found a job as a domestic assistant for infrastructure support service provider, Amey.
Speaking about her experience on the programme, Sophie said:
I really enjoyed the experience. I’ve worked in cleaning positions in the past, but this programme was unique and allowed me to see what working for Amey would feel like. I’m really proud of my work.
Because of the great team here, I want to do a good job. When my sister told me she was looking for a job, I got her in touch with my Operations Manager and now she also works as a domestic assistant at another contract.
As part of the Plan for Change the government is also boosting the National Living Wage and creating more secure jobs through the Employment Rights Bill to make work pay and keep Britain working.
Additional Information:
The programme runs in England and Scotland. SWAPs are developed by Jobcentres in partnership with employers and training providers. These opportunities are offered in job sectors with high volumes of current local vacancies.
The SWAP impact assessment, conducted by DWP, focused on UC customers who started a SWAP between April 2021 and March 2022 and compared their employment outcomes to individuals who were eligible to start a SWAP but did not start a placement.
Mustafa provides an insight into his training within the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA)
My first seat as a legal trainee at the CMA was in the CMA’s cartels team, where the main case that I worked on was an investigation by the CMA under Chapter I of the Competition Act 1998 (‘CA98’) into anti-competitive conduct in relation to vehicle recycling and advertising of recycling-related features. I had a fantastic experience working on the case, as I was able to gain exposure to a wide array of advisory work pertaining to competition enforcement.
Once I had familiarised myself with the case’s subject matter, I was able to assist the team with contributions to sections of milestone documents and reviewing them ahead of issuance. Shortly afterwards we engaged in the settlement process with the case parties via written and oral representations submitted by the parties, including at settlement meetings. This was an insightful experience, as it allowed me to further my understanding of the legal principles and positions that the CMA applies as an enforcer, while also recognising the often-unique perspectives of case parties on the other side.
The process following the settlement meetings was equally engaging, as the case team had to make decisions on revising milestone documents, and using these to prepare the Statement of Objections for the case, which in turn would become the foundation for the infringement decision. This stage allowed me to further develop my understanding of competition law and the cartels case, as I was often responsible for researching and analysing challenging legal issues and advising on potential courses of action. Closer to the issuing of the infringement decision, I also had the opportunity to get involved with the drafting of the case’s press release and the CMA’s approach towards public announcement of the investigation.
My current seat is in the CMA’s litigation team, where I have been involved in cases across the range of the CMA’s tools, including a Chapter II CA98 case that is pending before the Court of Appeal and a consumer law matter in relation to misleading practices. As a litigation trainee, I have had the opportunity to draft correspondence to parties, filings, and letters to the court. I was also fortunate enough to attend a hearing at the Court of Appeal on a Chapter II CA98 case regarding excessive pricing of a pharmaceutical drug, where I observed experienced counsel conduct competition litigation. At the hearing, I saw firsthand the various ways in which the work done by the CMA’s litigation team facilitated the advocacy undertaken by our counsel team.
A highlight for me at the CMA has been my positive experience with colleagues, who have been superb. They have been supportive, friendly, and empathetic – people are keen to share their knowledge in formal and informal settings, and set aside time for junior colleagues, such as trainees, which demonstrates their interest in helping others grow. In my view, this fosters a growth-oriented and collaborative environment at work, where people are encouraged to maximise their potential.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Menopause Employment Ambassador partners with industry leaders to support women to stay in work.
Thousands of women are set to benefit from plans to boost workplace support as leaders from across industry, healthcare and the legal profession came together today to form the first-ever independent Menopause Advisory Group.
Menopause Employment Ambassador, Mariella Frostrup to work with industry leaders on how employers can support women with menopause in the workplace.
Independent “Menopause advisory group” launched to support employers on steps they can take to help women to stay in work.
Comes as part of wider government drive to break down barriers to work to unlock growth as part of the Plan for Change.
Thousands of women are set to benefit from plans to boost workplace support as leaders from across industry, healthcare and the legal profession came together today to form the first-ever independent Menopause Advisory Group.
Stark figures from the Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development show that over half of women experiencing menopause (53 per cent) have not been able to attend work due to their symptoms, with 10 per cent leaving work for good – costing businesses around £1.5 billion every year.
Convened by the government’s Menopause Employment Ambassador, Mariella Frostrup, the group discussed the impact menopause can have on workers, current efforts to support women in work and businesses can work in partnership with government to ensure women don’t fall out of the work force due to menopause.
It comes alongside the government’s wider efforts to break down barriers to work, keep people in work and create a thriving and inclusive labour market which is central to unlocking economic growth as part of the plan for change.
Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said:
“For too long working women have suffered in silence or stopped working when they experience the menopause – a completely natural and normal part of life.
“A taboo and lack of understanding is holding back our nation’s growth and it’s time to tackle it head on.
“The first ever independent Menopause Advisory Group will bring together huge knowledge and experience on this vital issue so we can give women the support they need to remain and thrive in work, putting money in people’s pockets and delivering growth for our economy as part of the Plan for Change.”
I’m delighted to have this incredible group of professionals helping me ensure that women in midlife, a time when we often have to balance so much responsibility, are properly supported at work.
Far too many experienced and capable women are forced out of employment through no fault of their own, hurting their earnings and our nation’s economy. Together we can create a more supportive and happier workplace where everyone can succeed.
Fiona Vines, Director of Inclusion and Wellbeing at BT said:
We are proud to host the launch of the Government’s Menopause Employment Ambassador’s Advisory Group. At BT Group we understand the importance of supporting women’s health in the workplace. This event is an important opportunity to bring business leaders together with key government ministers to promote awareness and implement strategies to improve workplace support for women affected by menopause.
Jon Paull, COO at Octopus Energy, said:
Menopause affects half the population, yet for too long women were expected to manage it in silence. We support our team members through this transition so they can continue to do their jobs with confidence while being the best versions of themselves at work. This isn’t just good for their wellbeing and the happiness of our teams but also incredibly good for business. A true win-win.
The launch of the group comes as the government steers its flagship Employment Rights Bill through Parliament. As well as boosting workers’ rights and protections, the Bill also includes landmark legislation that requires large employers with more than 250 employees to produce and publish Menopause Action Plans detailing how they will support employees through the menopause.
The government has also started work on its £240 million Get Britain Working plans, launching the first two trailblazers to tackle inactivity in South Yorkshire and Wales in recent weeks with the reforms set to transform Jobcentres to focus on people’s skills and careers, guarantee young people the chance to earn or learn and provide mental health support to help people to start and stay in work.
The group will provide Mariella Frostrup with expert knowledge from a wide range of sectors on how businesses can better support women and tackle this critical issue. The members are:
Tina Backhouse, General Manager of Theramex
Prof. Janice Rymer, Consultant Gynaecologist and Chair of the British Menopause Society
Kelly Gardner, Detective Superintendent for Bedfordshire Police
Laura Biggs, Founding Director of Menopause Mandate
Jon Paull, Chief Operating Officer of Octopus Energy
Juliet Balfour, NHS GP and Menopause Specialist
Nadira Awal, NHS GP and founder of Pause and Co
Nina Kuypers, Founder of Black Women in Menopause
Rachel Suff, Senior Policy & Practice Adviser for CIPD
Kristen Furber, People Director for Channel 4
Kudsia Batool, Director of Equalities for Trade Union Congress
Deborah Turner, National Lead for Women in Enterprise for Federation of Small Businesses
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
Planning Inspectorate Performance update – April 2025
Performance and other updates following the publication of our latest official statistics release.
Every three months, we publish the latest official statistics on appeals performance, which represent the greatest volume (in terms of number of cases) of the work of the Planning Inspectorate.
We also update the appeals handling times data to give customers the latest information on the average time it takes to receive a decision and provide an update on our other main casework areas.
The latest set of performance statistics shows quicker decision times in some areas of casework and demonstrates the positive impact of work to reduce the number of open cases we carry.
Appeals
In each month of the last quarter (Jan, Feb and March 2025) we have closed more cases than we have received. We now have 12,086 open cases down from 13,293 a year ago (March 2024).
We have made 18,346 appeal decisions in the last 12 months up to the end of March 2025. In March we made 1,736 decisions, more than 200 more than the 12-month average of 1,529.
Our appeal cases are dealt with in one of three ways: written representations, hearings, or inquiries. Ministerial performance measures include an expectation to reduce average decision times over time and make our decision speeds more consistent. All our decision times are measured from the day we receive a valid appeal through to the day we issue a decision. This is the same approach as Local Planning Authorities.
We continue to focus on reducing our overall open caseload of appeals and making our decision times more consistent, especially planning and enforcement appeals decided after an exchange of written evidence.
Median decision times
The median decision time for cases decided over the past 12 months was 27 weeks.
At the end of March decision times for planning cases decided by written representations and hearing were both below the 12-month average, as were enforcement cases decided by inquiry.
61 where we are providing advice before submission.
15 submitted and at acceptance, pre-examination, or examination.
8 where we are preparing our recommendation.
6 where the relevant Secretary of State is considering our recommendation.
Local Plans
There are currently 61 live Local Plan examinations in progress.
At the start of each month on LinkedIn we publish a list of the upcoming Local Plan hearings and a map of the NSIP applications currently in progress around the country.
Statistics Jersey have today published the March 2025 Retail Prices Index report.
The All Items Retail Prices Index (RPI) is the main measure of inflation in Jersey. It measures the change from quarter to quarter in the price of the goods and services purchased by an average household in Jersey.
The March report shows:
the All Items Retail Prices Index (RPI) for Jersey increased by 2.3% to stand at 237.1 (June 2000 = 100)
the increase in the RPI was less than that to December 2024 (2.5%); hence the annual rate of inflation decreased by 0.2 percentage points (pp) since last quarter
five groups contributed to the decrease in the annual rate of inflation, including the housing, tobacco and household services groups
prices in most groups increased and these increases were similar to or less than those over the 12 months to December 2024, which resulted in an overall downward contribution to the annual rate of inflation
leisure services which includes entertainment, sport and leisure fees and off-Island holidays, was the price group that made the largest contribution to the annual rate of inflation, contributing +0.6 pp to the rate
the increase in the RPI was 3.4 pp smaller than a year ago (5.7% in March 2024)
RPI(Y), which measures underlying inflation, increased by 3.4%, which was 0.4 pp higher than the December 2024 rate (up from 3.0%)
RPI(X) increased by 3.4%
RPI Pensioners increased by 3.3%
RPI Low Income increased by 3.4%
annual changes in RPI(X), RPI(Y) and RPI Pensioners were 0.2 to 0.4 pp higher than those in December 2024 and RPI Low Income was essentially unchanged from December 2024
the rate of inflation in Jersey as measured by the RPI, was 1.1 pp lower than the UK CPIH, which is the broadly comparable headline rate of inflation for the UK;
Guinness Jazz Trail launched making it easier for music lovers to see more at this year’s Jazz Festi
25 April 2025
Organisers of this year’s City of Derry Jazz & Big Band Festival are delighted to launch the Guinness Jazz Trail, making it easier for guests to plan and enjoy their weekend of music.
Let the Guinness Jazz Trail do all the work for you this year, showing you around the many exciting performances that are taking place in the city.
Kicking off next week, The City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival will fill venues across the walled city with world-class performances and thousands of music lovers attending from Thursday 1st until Monday 5th May.
The Guinness Jazz Trail is now live and will be your go-to guide to all that’s happening throughout the five-day music spectacular, which this year features an impressive 400 musical performers taking place across 65 venues.
The entire line up can be accessed online via the official website, while daily listings will be posted on social media, making it easy and accessible for everyone.
Jazz Festival Coordinator with Council, Aisling McCallion, said they were delighted to launch the Guinness Jazz Trail and hoped it helped everyone make the most of the weekend.
“This year’s festival line-up is jammed packed with incredible international artists, travelling in from across the globe to deliver what we believe will be the biggest festival yet. Festival goers will be spoilt for choice with our list of alfresco concerts, indoor gigs, dance workshops and jazz parades taking place over the entire city from Thursday until Monday.
“The Guinness Jazz Trail is the perfect guide to help our audiences navigate their way around the many gigs and ensure they make the most of their time visiting the festival, whether that’s by going to see their favourite artists or by checking out exciting new acts. There is a fabulous array of talent to take in, and we don’t want anyone to miss out.
Martin Venning from Diageo said it would be an unforgettable weekend. “Diageo is delighted to continue supporting this fantastic festival, which celebrates the vibrant cultural scene here in the North West.
“It’s the perfect platform for both established local performers and new up and coming talent, who join world class artists from across the world for a show-stopping weekend that brings so much value to the local.”
The City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival is delivered by Derry City and Strabane District Council with support from Diageo and EY.
Edinburgh residents are being urged to check their cost-of-living support to claim everything they are entitled to.
With 80,000 people living in poverty in Edinburgh – including close to a quarter of all children – tackling inequality and preventing poverty remains one of the biggest challenges facing the capital.
As it’s revealed that households could be owed up to £80 million in unclaimed benefits in Edinburgh, the council has rolled out two new self-help tools to make it easier for people to check what they’re owed.
A DIY benefits calculator, Entitled To, and a one-stop-shop for other forms of financial support, Lightning Reach, have been made available online.
A campaign has been launched to highlight these tools, urging residents not to leave their household budgets to chance.
Council Leader Jane Meagher said:
It’s a worrying time for lots of people who are struggling with rising costs and we want to make sure that every household is claiming all the benefits they are entitled to. If you go online, you’ll find our DIY benefits calculator which makes it straightforward to check what you might be owed, so that you can then apply for support.
Our efforts to tackle poverty in Edinburgh have put almost £24 million into the pockets of those who need it most, but around £80 million in benefits remains unclaimed. It’s my hope that this campaign will help to challenge the barriers – stigma, complexity and lack of awareness – that prevent people from accessing the support they should be getting. I urge everyone to check their cost-of-living support and to get in touch for more advice or support as needed.
Linda’s story
Linda, 59, has been a full-time-carer for her brother since their mother passed away almost 10 years ago.
She said:
I worked from the age of 17 and in my late 20’s I bought my own home and a car. But in 2015, my mother suddenly became unwell. She spent six months in intensive care on a ventilator and then passed away. I very suddenly became a full time carer for my brother, who has additional support needs. I had to stop working and sell my house to go live with him and my life changed completely.
I went from ‘having it all’ – a job, a house, holidays and savings – to having next to nothing. The stigma associated with having to ask for help and being judged for having to rely on benefits has probably been the hardest part.
I wish I had sought help earlier than I did. I wish I had set my pride and feelings of shame aside and realised that asking for help is not a bad thing. When life events happen that turn your world upside down, there is help available. The hardest part is knowing where to look to find that help – it can be very challenging – and accepting that there is no stigma in asking.
Progress to End Poverty in Edinburgh
This July will mark the mid-point between the publication of the Edinburgh Poverty Commission’s final report and the city’s target to end poverty by 2030.
Linda (as above) is a member of End Poverty Edinburgh. Speaking about this experience, she said:
By being part of End Poverty Edinburgh, I have had the opportunity to attend and speak at various meetings and events to raise awareness of the issues which those living in poverty have to face. We work closely with the council and others to improve customer experiences when seeking advice and help. We try to promote the help that is available which a lot of people aren’t aware of. Being part of this group has given me back a feeling of self worth.
So far, positive collaboration on a range of initiatives between the council and partners has led to:
• Increasing access to grants and welfare advice by 20% over the last year
• Helping residents to receive almost £24 million in previously unclaimed benefits
• Supporting 5,000 people into work or learning (a 19% increase on the previous year)
• Driving down bills for 900 homes thanks to new energy efficiency measures
• Securing savings worth £206k for tenants through Energy Advice Support (an average of £428 per household)
• Helping to prevent homelessness for 461 households
• Over 9,000 free school meal payments and nearly 8,400 clothing grant awards
• Supporting 95% of all pupils to reach positive destinations after school
• Encouraging payment of the living wage (up 80 in a year to 720 accredited employers)
• Agreeing Council contracts committed to paying the real Living Wage (96% of suppliers, up 14%)
• Introducing a new Regenerative Futures Fund, a third sector led programme bringing £15m of new investment.
LEICESTER’S exciting new Roman visitor attraction is to open its doors to the public on Saturday 26 July.
In just three months’ time, people will be able to see how the remains of the Roman bath house at Jewry Wall have been incorporated into a contemporary museum, with more than 100 Roman artefacts – all discovered in Leicester and Leicestershire – and the latest digital technology helping to bring Leicester’s Roman past to life.
The Grade II listed building that housed the old museum and the former Vaughan College has been sensitively refurbished, with huge glass walls connecting the ancient Jewry Wall and the outdoor space with the modern exhibition space inside, and with a new pedestrian bridge from St Nicholas Circle making the building fully accessible for the first time.
Inside the museum, an immersive film will welcome visitors with a journey through the excavated areas of Roman Leicester, while interactive displays, games and projections will allow visitors to explore the 2nd century site, transporting them back in time to experience everyday life in Leicester as it was around 2,000 years ago.
Characterisations of the buildings and the people of Roman Leicester, created by artist Scott Tetlow, will help to animate the story, giving visitors an insight into the public and private lives of the residents of Ratae Corieltauvorum – the Roman name for the city of Leicester.
Managed by the same team responsible for the award-winning King Richard III Visitor Centre, the museum will also boast an attractive café – overlooking the remains of the Roman bath house – which will be open to the public every day, without the need to buy an admission ticket.
“It’s fair to say that this project has faced more than its fair share of challenges, with a global pandemic and not one but two key contractors going out of business during the construction phase, so I’m delighted that we can now – finally – look forward to the opening of this brilliant new attraction for Leicester,” said City Mayor Peter Soulsby.
“Everything that will be on display in the new museum has been discovered right here in Leicester and Leicestershire, from the Blackfriars Mosaic that’s been described as one of the finest mosaics found in Roman Britain, to a beautifully crafted bronze key handle that depicts a man grappling with a lion, uncovered by archaeologists right next to Jewry Wall on Great Central Street in 2016.
“The opening of the new museum onSaturday 26 July means that Leicester can finally shout about its Roman roots, offering visitors another must-see attraction in our historic city and making local people even more proud of Leicester’s extraordinary 2,000-year history.”
Official carers and children under 5: free of charge
A joint ticket is also available for those who wish to visit both the Jewry Wall Museum and the King Richard III Visitor Centre, with adult tickets for both attractions costing £23 and a family ticket priced at £62.
All tickets provide visitors with aRoman Explorer Pass, which gives access to the museum for a whole year. Subject to conditions, people can book as many visits as they like in a 12-month period, enjoying special events and re-enactment activities without having to pay again.
More information about Jewry Wall: A Real Roman Experience is available atjewrywall.com
Anyone who is fascinated by Leicester’s Roman history doesn’t need to wait until July to find out more about the city’s past. Tomorrow (Saturday 26 April) and Sunday (27 April), Leicester’s historic centre will be transformed for the annualOld Town Festival, which this year has a Roman theme.
From 10am tomorrow (Saturday), visitors will be able to help recreate the entrance to Leicester’s long-gone Roman Forum in Jubilee Square, thanks to the genius of visual artist Olivier Grossetête, step back in time to a Roman living history camp, learn to march like a legionnaire, watch Roman soldiers parade through the streets of Ratae, and return on Sunday at 3pm to help demolish the spectacular cardboard Roman Forum.
More information about Leicester’s Old Town Festival is available atvisitleicester.info
Picture caption: City Mayor Peter Soulsby studies the extraordinary Stibbe Mosaic, discovered beneath the former Stibbe knitwear factory by archaeologists from the University of Leicester in 2016/17. The mosaic is one of more than 100 stunning Roman artefacts, all discovered in Leicester and Leicestershire, that visitors will be able to see at the new Jewry Wall Museum.
MEET a fire-breathing dragon, learn to march like a Centurion and help to recreate the entrance to a Roman Forum by taking part in Leicester’s newest free festival this weekend!
The Old Town Festival on 26 & 27 April will incorporate traditional festivities for St George’s Day and a celebration of the city’s fascinating Roman heritage.
Centring on Jubilee Square and the Old Town area of the city centre, the free festival will also feature an urban mosaic workshop at the Guildhall, a living history Roman camp, an artisan craft market and themed storytelling aboard the children’s bookbus.
Hands-on archaeology, Roman theatre, craft activities and Morris dancing will also be on offer, along with face-painting and a dress-up booth so that young festival-goers can become gallant knights, fearsome dragons or magical maidens!
A fire-breathing dragon will be on the loose in Cathedral Gardens, alongside stilt-walking jesters, magical wizards and a trio of clumsy knights taking on daring quests. Over at Jubilee Square, you can take part in Roman warrior training, where you can learn to march like a legionnaire, wield a sword like a true centurion, or raise a shield to victory.
Assistant city mayor for leisure and culture Cllr Vi Dempster said: “The Old Town Festival is a new event for 2025, bringing together our traditional St George’s Day celebrations and Leicester’s rich 2,000-year history and Roman heritage.
“There are lots of great free activities to take part in, and it’s all taking place in our historic Old Town.
“As well as activities for kids and families, there is also a fantastic programme of trails, talks and debates about the Roman world, meaning that this promises to be a really inclusive and exciting festival with something for everyone.”
People have been getting involved in the week running up to the festival, too. The Haymarket shopping centre hosted a day of free fun on Thursday 24 April, with a dragon on the loose, mosaic and toga making, and fun arts and craft activities.
And there will be something never before seen in Leicester! At Highcross from 21-25 April, renowned French artist Olivier Grossetête is recreating a huge life-size construction of a lost piece of the city’s history using just cardboard and tape.
St George and the dragon
Image: A. Lyleire
Image: Tynesight media
Graham Callister, head of festivals and events at Leicester City Council said: “With your help, we’ll rebuild the grand entrance to the Roman Forum as it may have looked in the 2nd and 3rd centuries. This monumental and unique project combines history, art, and community spirit.
“Over five days, there will be 10 hands-on workshops at the Highcross Shopping Centre. Then, from 10am on Saturday 26 April, participants and passers-by will come together to assemble the structure at Jubilee Square, the site of the original Roman Forum. At 3pm the following day, Sunday, 27 April, festival-goers will help bring the project to a dramatic close by dismantling it. We’re inviting everyone to participate in the workshops, build and demolition!”
Support for the Old Town festival has come from the council’s partners BID Leicester, Global Streets, Arts Council England, Highcross Leicester, Haymarket Shopping Centre and Hidden Histories.
Simon Jenner from BID Leicester said: “The Old Town Festival is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate Leicester’s rich history while bringing exciting, free experiences to the city centre. Events like this create a real buzz, attracting visitors and benefiting local businesses. The festival will shine a spotlight on the city’s Roman past, with an incredible recreation of Leicester’s historic Roman Forum by renowned artist Olivier Grossetête, built entirely from cardboard with the help of the public. We’re proud to support a festival that brings our heritage to life in such an engaging and interactive way.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
PM call with Prime Minister Modi of India: 25 April 2025
The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, this morning.
The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, this morning.
The Prime Minister began by saying he was horrified by the devastating terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday, which saw the tragic loss of 26 innocent lives.
He expressed his deep condolences on behalf of the British people to all those affected, their loved ones and the people of India.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
PM meeting with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen: 24 April 2025
The Prime Minister met the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen in Downing Street.
The Prime Minister met the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen in Downing Street today.
They had a long and productive discussion focused on a range of issues including Ukraine, energy security, the global economy, and defence.
Both condemned the deadly Russian strike on Kyiv overnight and reiterated that they will continue to stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.
Discussing the ongoing negotiations to strengthen the UK-EU partnership, they both agreed that good progress had been made. They asked their teams to continue their important work in the coming weeks, with the aim of delivering as ambitious a package as possible at the first UK-EU summit next month.
The Prime Minister was clear that he will seize any opportunity to improve the lives of working people in the United Kingdom, drive growth and keep people safe – and he believes a strengthened partnership between the UK and the EU will achieve this.
They agreed to keep in close contact in the coming weeks.
Government announces preferred candidate for Independent Football Regulator Chair
David Kogan OBE is the Government’s preferred candidate for Independent Football Regulator Chair, the Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy announced today.
David Kogan OBE has held senior positions in the television and sports industries during a 45 year career as a media executive, business leader and corporate advisor. He negotiated a succession of multi-billion pound TV rights deals on behalf of major sporting bodies, including the Premier League and the English Football League. He has also advised UEFA, The Scottish Premier League, Six Nations, Premier Rugby and the NFL. Most recently he sold the broadcast rights on behalf of the Woman’s Super League.
He is a former managing director of Reuters Television (the global television news agency), and an ex-CEO of the Magnum photo agency. He has co-founded both Reel Enterprises and the Women’s Sports Group. He is currently an advisor to the New York Times Group and CNN on their commercial, digital and AI strategies. Among his public boards David was a non-executive director at Channel 4, a member of the Foreign & Commonwealth Office’s Services board from 2007-14 and Chair of Westminster Kingsway Corporation. He is the author of three books.
David will now appear before MPs on the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee for pre-appointment scrutiny.
Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Lisa Nandy said:
David brings with him a wealth of expertise from the sport and media industries having worked across a number of high-profile governing bodies, competition organisers and major media corporations in a very impressive career. It makes him an outstanding candidate to be the chair of the independent football regulator.
This will be a vital, public role to ensure sensible, light-touch regulation helps to strengthen financial sustainability and put fans back at the heart of the game.
David Kogan OBE said:
Across the country millions of us share a passion for football, a game that is not only part of our national heritage but one of our most valuable cultural exports. That’s why as both a supporter and someone with many years spent working in football, I am honoured to have been asked to be the preferred candidate for chair of the newly created Independent Football Regulator.
Our professional clubs, whatever their size, are a source of local and national pride. They generate economic growth and investment, unite communities, and create shared experiences and memories that transcend generations.
The job of the regulator is to work with those clubs, their owners, and their supporters to create a dynamic framework that will ensure the game is on a sound financial footing so that it can continue to flourish and to grow. I cannot wait to get started.
The Football Governance Bill, which is currently going through Parliament, will establish the Independent Football Regulator and a new set of rules to protect clubs, empower fans and keep clubs at the heart of their communities.
The Regulator will tackle rogue owners and directors, implement a club licensing regime to help ensure a more consistent approach in how clubs are run, monitor club finances and improve fan engagement throughout the football pyramid – from the Premier League to the National League. It will also have a backstop measure to mediate a fair financial distribution between Leagues, should they be unable to come to an agreement
The Regulator will help to ensure English football remains one of the country’s greatest exports, and places fans back at the heart of the game, so that local clubs in towns and cities continue to thrive for generations.
Notes to editors
The appointment of a Chair of the Independent Football Regulator has been made as the result of a fair and open competition, run in accordance with the Governance Code on Public Appointments. The Chair of the IFR is appointed by the DCMS Secretary of State.
Substantive appointment to the Chair role is ultimately subject to the Football Governance Bill being granted Royal Assent that will be subject to Parliamentary process. Any appointments made ahead of this will be done on a designated basis.
Ministers were assisted in their decision-making by an Advisory Assessment Panel, which included a departmental official and a Senior Independent Panel Member approved by the Commissioner for Public Appointments.
The Chair of the Independent Football Regulator is remunerated at £130,000 per annum for an initial time commitment of 3 days per week.
A new sculpture has been installed at Nottingham Road Cemetery, offering a place to reflect on the COVID-19 pandemic.
Artist Richard Janes was commissioned to design the sculpture that will serve as a place for people to come and reflect on the impacts of the pandemic in their family and community.
Describing the sculpture, Richard said:
The sculpture is a reflective exploration of the shared experience of the Coronavirus Pandemic and lockdown, as well as a quiet space to remember loved ones. The wing design is a modern inspiration reflecting the more traditional Victorian angels found in the Cemetery and the gothic arched gravestones. The birds, bubbles, hands and butterflies were all strong repeating themes in the design sessions, as was the use of colour – as represented in the stained-glass sections.
It was important that the sculpture be a space for reflection and so part of the sculpture forms a seat. The designs of the seat are based on countries, as the pandemic was truly global, and people represented this in their ideas. The central section has a bronze disc which has many smaller relief sculptures which were created during the design sessions.
Young people from the Voices In Action Youth Council, Chaddesden Park Primary School, and St Andrew’s Academy, as well as Friends of Nottingham Road Cemetery, were involved in the design process.
At a workshop, members of the ViA Youth Council made clay models to represent the positives that they saw during the pandemic. These models have now been cast in bronze and included in the sculpture.
The new sculpture will sit alongside other improvements in the cemetery, including tree management and bulb planting. These improvements are funded by the Our City, Our River programme (OCOR), Derby’s flood resilience project, as part of its positive legacy for the city.
Councillor Carmel Swan, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainability, said:
People might think OCOR is just about flood defences, but it’s much more than that. We’re building a wider legacy for the scheme that delivers real community benefits around the city, not just along the river.
I want to thank everyone who has been involved in shaping the designs. During the pandemic we all pulled together, and the community effort behind this sculpture reflects that attitude.
Councillor Ndukwe Onuoha, Cabinet Member for Streetpride, Public Safety, and Leisure, said:
Our cemeteries are special places for the people of Derby. I’m incredibly proud of all the work that has gone into this new sculpture from council officers, the artist, and community groups. With the new sculpture in place, people will now have somewhere they can go to reflect on what was a very challenging time.
OCOR is Derby’s flood alleviation project led by Derby City Council in partnership with the Environment Agency. The project is delivering enhanced flood protection and unlocking the potential for regeneration around the city centre through new flood walls, flood gates and a state-of-the-art pumping station on the Mill Fleam. The next phase is due to begin this year at Derby Riverside.
Beyond infrastructure improvements, OCOR has also carried out an extensive programme of biodiversity enhancements including tree planting and installing bird and bat boxes.
New Chair of the Parole Board announced – Alexandra Marks CBE
Alexandra Marks CBE has been announced as the new Chair of the Parole Board by the Secretary of State for Justice.
The Secretary of State has announced today that Alexandra Marks CBE has been confirmed as the Chair of the Parole Board.
We are delighted that Alexandra will be commencing her role as Chair of the Parole Board from 18 July 2025.
We would like to take the opportunity to thank Caroline for her exemplary leadership over the last seven years.
Cecilia French, CEO of the Parole Board, said: “I am very much looking forward to working with Alexandra and would also like to extend my thanks to Caroline for her commitment, hard work and energy in her role as Chair of the Parole Board over the last 7 years. During this period, she has been instrumental in steering the Parole Board through a period of significant change and growth, resulting in a more transparent and improved parole system. We wish her the very best for the future.”
Notes to editors
Alexandra Marks CBE has been the Chair of RICS’ Regulatory Tribunal since 2023. A Recorder since 2002 and Deputy High Court Judge since 2010, she has also served as a First Tier Tribunal Judge of the General Regulatory Chamber since 2018.
Alexandra was previously a Commissioner at the Criminal Cases Review Commission (2013-2018) and a Judicial Appointments Commissioner (2012-2018). She was also previously Chair of Prisoners’ Education Trust (2012-2018).
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
NDA group deliver defueling milestone with EDF
The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) group played a pivotal role in defueling Hunterston B on time and on budget.
Inside Hunterston B nuclear power station
Yesterday (24 April) EDF announced Hunterston B nuclear power station has been successfully defueled on time and on budget, in less than three years, following rigorous checks by the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR).
The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) group played a pivotal role in achieving this milestone, collaborating with EDF to enable spent nuclear fuel to be safely and securely removed from the site.
Over the past three years more than 4,800 elements of spent fuel have been removed then processed and packaged into large, specially engineered, transportable fuel flasks. These were then moved by Nuclear Transport Solutions (NTS) to Sellafield for long term safe and secure storage.
This milestone has been achieved whilst also continuing to support the defueling of two other AGR stations which have ceased operations and receiving and storing spent fuel from four operational stations, in support of the continued generation of low carbon electricity for the UK.
David Peattie, NDA group CEO, said:
This is a significant achievement for all those involved from the NDA group and the EDF staff including those at Hunterston B who worked tirelessly in partnership to make this happen.
We are primarily associated with the decommissioning of the UK’s legacy nuclear sites but this milestone gives us an opportunity to recognise the critical work we also do supporting defueling and keeping the lights on across the UK.
It’s a significant task and one that wouldn’t be possible without our dedicated and expert workforce which will grow further when we welcome Hunterston B into our group next year.
In the last financial year, the group delivered the highest number of fuel flask movements in 30 years totalling over 270 tonnes. NTS transport spent fuel via the UK rail network to Sellafield, where it is received at the Fuel Handling Plant (FHP) to be dismantled and transferred to ponds for safe and secure storage pending disposal.
Sellafield is also responsible for maintaining and repairing the fleet of 36 transport flasks used to safely transport the spent fuel.
Ciara Middlehurst, NTS co-CEO, said:
We’re proud to have played a crucial role in safely transporting spent nuclear fuel from Hunterston B to Sellafield, in which we safely ran over 200 trains to support its defueling.
This achievement underscores our commitment to providing safe, secure, and reliable nuclear transport solutions that support the UK’s energy infrastructure and environmental restoration programme.
In addition, the NDA group have worked with EDF and the supply chain to design and install an innovative new space saving storage rack at Sellafield, enabling 50% more fuel to be stored in its ponds.
It allows Sellafield to safely store all the remaining fuel from the UK’s 7 AGR nuclear power stations. Without these new storage racks, a new storage pond would have to be built, potentially costing the UK many millions of pounds.
The NDA is responsible for decommissioning the UK’s 17 earliest nuclear sites, removing the risks and hazards, so that eventually the sites can be released for other uses.
Over the next two decades, the NDA’s mission will expand to include the decommissioning of the 7 AGR power stations that are currently operated by EDF. Once all the spent nuclear fuel has been safely removed they will transfer into NDA ownership, via Nuclear Restoration Services (NRS) to continue decommissioning.
Dr Andrew Munro, NRS Managing Director for AGR and paired sites, said:
NRS is proud to be trusted with the upcoming decommissioning of Hunterston B, alongside six other AGR stations, and we’re working closely with EDF and the site team to ensure a safe and successful transfer of this first site next year.
With the welcome news that defueling is now completed and licence and permit applications recently submitted to regulators, we remain on track and are excited to take forward the important work of decommissioning the site for all our futures.
Hunterston B will be the first AGR station to transfer to the NDA group in 2026 followed by Hinkley Point B later the same year. The other sites will be Dungeness B, Hartlepool, Heysham 1, Heysham 2 and Torness.