The ETF are pleased to invite stakeholders from across government and relevant external agencies to provide feedback on potential updates to the Magenta Book.
The ETF are pleased to invite stakeholders from across government and relevant external agencies to provide feedback on potential updates to the Magenta Book.
The Magenta Book outlines central government guidance on evaluation, and is aligned with the HM Treasury Green Book, which sets out the economic principles that should be applied to both appraisal and evaluation.
The Evaluation Task Force is working with representatives from the Cross Government Evaluation Group, Government Social Research Heads of Profession, and Directors of Analysis to review and update the Magenta Book to reflect relevant advances in social research methods and practices since the last Magenta Book update in 2020.
Aims
The overall aim of the review is to enhance the Magenta Book by identifying and implementing potential improvements in evaluation methods, guidance, and practice. It is an opportunity to enhance the relevance and effectiveness of Government evaluation guidance for government social researchers, and organisations who undertake independent evaluations for government.
Scope
Initial engagement with key government stakeholders have identified four key areas where there is an appetite to add content to the Magenta Book:
Value for money evaluation;
‘Test and learn’ evaluation approaches and other associated terms such as prototyping;
Aligning evaluation and benefits realisation, including the distinctions between the two and how they complement and work together;
Research transparency, including analysis replicability, availability of data/code, and use of open repositories.
We would particularly welcome feedback on:
Whether you are supportive of additional content being added to the Magenta Book in the four areas listed above;
Whether there are other aspects of the Magenta Book that you believe could be improved or adapted to better serve the needs of Government evaluators;
Whether there are any errors, inaccuracies or other errata in the current version of the Magenta Book that should be corrected or edited for clarity.
The scope of the review is to enhance our evaluation guidance, and we are not looking to revise existing content where this is accurate and reliable.
Female genital mutilation (FGM) affects almost all dimensions of the health of women and girls, according to a new study published today from the World Health Organization (WHO) together with the United Nations’ Human Reproduction Programme (HRP). Health complications of the practice can be severe and life-long, causing both mental and physical health risks.
Published in BMC Public Health, the publication analyzes evidence from more than 75 studies in around 30 countries to paint a comprehensive picture of the ways that FGM impacts survivors’ health at different life stages.
It shows that women with FGM are significantly more likely to experience a wide range of complications during childbirth compared to those without, for instance. They have more than double the risk of enduring prolonged or obstructed labour or haemorrhage, while being significantly more likely to require emergency caesarean sections or forceps delivery.
In addition, women with FGM have an almost three-times greater risk of depression or anxiety, and a 4.4 times higher likelihood of experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder.
There is a critical need to ensure timely, high-quality health care for survivors, to engage communities for prevention and ensure families are aware of FGM’s harmful effects, alongside serious political commitment to stop the practice and educate and empower women and girls.
Dr Pascale Allotey / Director of SRHR at WHO and head of HRP
“This study paints a devastating picture of the manifold health implications of female genital mutilation, spanning mental and physical health and undermining emotional well-being,” said Dr Pascale Allotey, Director of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research at WHO and head of HRP. “There is a critical need to ensure timely, high-quality health care for survivors, to engage communities for prevention and ensure families are aware of FGM’s harmful effects, alongside serious political commitment to stop the practice and educate and empower women and girls.”
FGM is a harmful practice that involves the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, or other injury to the female genital organs such as cutting or burning. It is an extreme form of gender discrimination and a stark violation of women and girls’ human rights.
It is estimated that around 230 million women and girls alive today have undergone FGM. While evidence shows the overall proportion of those who experience FGM is declining, absolute numbers could increase given rising youth populations in countries where it is practiced. Abandonment of FGM is challenging, given that it is driven by deep-set cultural beliefs and norms.
Also of concern, evidence shows more cases of FGM are now performed by health workers – its so-called medicalization – due in part to misperceptions that their involvement makes it safer and reduces risks. In fact, some studies have shown that longer-term damage from “medicalized” FGM may be greater, since it can result in deeper, more severe cuts.
FGM’s immediate risks can be life-threatening and include severe infections, heavy blood loss, as well as extreme pain and emotional trauma. Longer-term consequences for survivors include, as well as those described above, menstrual difficulties; urological complications, including urinary tract infections and difficulty urinating; and painful sexual intercourse.
In addition to various obstetric risks for women, the paper highlights that FGM can also have impacts on babies during or following childbirth. Babies born to women who had FGM are more likely to experience birth complications like fetal distress or asphyxia, resulting in lower newborn survival rates.
Recognizing FGM’s devastating health impacts, WHO supports efforts to strengthen prevention efforts within the health sector, engaging health workers to educate communities and family members, while providing clinical guidance on effective care for survivors.
Understanding the range of complications FGM can cause – spanning acute risks as well as impacts on obstetric and neonatal, gynaecological, urological, sexual and mental health – is critical for ensuring survivors receive appropriate treatment and support. Drawing on this evidence, WHO will shortly release a new guideline covering both FGM prevention and clinical care for affected women and girls. FGM is currently common in around 30 countries across Africa and Asia.
The study was supported by the Governments of Norway and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland alongside HRP (the UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction). HRP is the main research institution within the United Nations system for sexual and reproductive health.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Surgery manager deducted money from staff wages but failed to pay it into NHS pension scheme
Sonia Simkins faces seven years of bankruptcy restrictions following an investigation by the Insolvency Service.
The Official Receiver’s investigation found Sonia Simkins failed to pay £75,000 into the NHS pension fund – despite deducting contributions from staff
Seven-year restrictions prevent Simkins from starting a new company or being a company director
Hawes Lane Surgery in Rowley Regis closed after a bankruptcy order was made against Simkins
A GP practice manager who failed to pay more than £75,000 into the pension funds of staff at her surgery now faces seven years of bankruptcy restrictions.
Sonia Simkins, 54, of Foxglove Way, Dudley, ran Hawes Lane Surgery in Rowley Regis as a sole trader. But in July 2024, the practice closed after a bankruptcy order was made against her.
Following the order, an investigation by the Official Receiver found Simkins had deducted pension contributions from staff wages, but failed to pay the money into the NHS Pension Scheme.
Investigations by the Official Receiver have been unable to confirm exactly what happened to the money.
On 3 April 2025, Simkins agreed a Bankruptcy Restrictions Undertaking (BRU), which prevents her from managing a limited company for the next seven years, taking out a loan of more than £500 without disclosing the restriction, or working in some senior health service roles.
David Chapman, Senior Official Receiver at the Insolvency Service, said:
Sonia Simkins deducted pension contributions from her staff’s wages, but failed to pay more than £75,000 into the NHS pension fund – while the closure of Hawes Lane Surgery had an immediate impact on staff and patients in Rowley Regis.
Following an Insolvency Service investigation by the Official Receiver, Simkins accepted her misconduct. The BRU will prevent her from acting as a company director or starting a new company until April 2032.
Hawes Lane Surgery closed on 25 July 2024 with almost 4,000 registered patients receiving no notice of the closure.
The Official Receiver worked closely with the Black Country Integrated Care Board (BCICB) to ensure patients arriving for appointments that day were provided with appropriate medical care at nearby surgeries. BCICB also ensured patients at the surgery had continuing access to a GP before being re-registered at a new practice.
At the time of the closure, the practice employed 10 members of staff including a GP, and employees in receptionist and administrative roles.
Between August 2019 and December 2020, and June 2023 and June 2024, Simkins should have paid £76,868 into the NHS pension fund for her staff, but only £1,722 was contributed.
During this period, she deducted more than £25,000 from her employees’ salaries as pension contributions and failed to pay more than £50,000 of employer contributions.
Further information
Sonia Simkins is of Foxglove Way, Dudley. Her date of birth is 24 November 1970.
Bankruptcy restrictions are wide ranging. A Bankruptcy Restrictions Undertaking (BRU) allows a bankrupt person suspected of misconduct to accept restrictions without needing to go to court. Accepting a BRU can also lead to a shorter time period of restrictions.
More information is available on bankruptcy restrictions, including the full list of rules around orders and undertakings.
Our Household Recycling Centres will continue their extended opening hours every day over the Easter holiday.
Slots can be booked online and details of opening hours for each centres can be found here.
Since Friday 4th April 2025, our clean-up crews across the city have collected 11,588 tonnes of waste, including the waste taken to HWRCs – the equivalent to 1,000 killer whales.
Our crews have been clearing approx. 1,500 tonnes of waste a day since our vehicles have been able to deploy on time, with around 100-120 refuse collection vehicles out every day. We have repurposed between 40 and 60 housing and street cleansing vehicles and deployed multiple ‘grab trucks’ to clear large rubbish piles each day, prioritising 15 of the most affected hotspot wards.
We are also supported by extra vehicles through mutual aid, with military support working alongside the managing director to support with planning and logistics – this is not about having personnel on the ground clearing rubbish.
Leader of the Council Cllr John Cotton said: “Our work to clear the backlog is gathering pace and we will continue collecting waste over the weekend.
“I fully appreciate that there is still more to do, and I share the frustration of people across the city, but now that we are getting our crews out on time every day, we are starting to see a difference and I want to thank our amazing crews for their hard work over the last week.
“I also want to thank every citizen, community group and organisation that is helping with the clear-up. People are helping in neighbourhoods right across the city and their support is helping to clear our streets.”
Talks to resolve the dispute will continue this week and Cllr Cotton added: “I will stress again that we have made a fair and reasonable offer that means that no-one has to lose any pay at all, with alternative roles offered within the service, or indeed a promotion to work as a driver. We’re determined to reach an agreement but in the meantime, the clear-up continues.”
Millions of UK households are facing what’s been dubbed “awful April” after rising council tax, water bills and broadband costs coincided with the new tax year. It could all start to hurt quite quickly. And it has led many people to ponder whether they’re genuinely worse off than previous generations – or simply experiencing a temporary pinch.
Council tax has risen by an average of 5% across England (some rises in Scotland and Wales are even greater). Water bills are up by £10 per month on average, while many broadband and mobile providers have imposed rises several percentage points above the rate of inflation.
This comes after years of economic volatility, from the 2008 financial crisis through Brexit, the COVID pandemic and the subsequent inflation surge.
But beyond the immediate pain of these April increases, there’s a deeper question. Has there been a fundamental shift in British prosperity over the past two decades?
Data from the UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS) reveals a complex picture around real household disposable income (RHDI). This is the amount of money from all income that households have available for spending or saving after taxes and benefits, adjusted for inflation. As such, it’s a reliable way to see how much money people have to spend right now, compared to previous years or decades.
Between 2000 and 2008, RHDI grew steadily at approximately 3% per year. The financial crisis brought this growth to an abrupt halt, with the period between 2008 and 2023 characterised by unprecedented stagnation.
While there have been periods of modest recovery in 2023 and 2024, the overall trajectory shows sustained minimal growth in disposable income ever since the 2008 financial crisis.
When broken down by income groups, the data tell a more nuanced story. The bottom 20% of households have experienced virtually no growth in real disposable income since 2008, while the top 20% recovered more quickly after initial setbacks. Income inequality, which narrowed slightly during the early 2010s, has widened again in recent years.
Underlying the income stagnation is Britain’s productivity problem. Labour productivity growth, which averaged around 2% annually in the five decades before 2008, has grown at less than 1% per year since. This has directly impacted wage growth.
Several factors contribute to this productivity puzzle – under-investment in infrastructure and skills, a shift toward service-sector jobs with traditionally lower productivity growth, and economic uncertainty discouraging business investment.
Housing – the great divider
Perhaps the most significant factor in understanding why people might feel poorer is housing costs. The ratio of average house prices to average earnings has nearly doubled over the past 20 years. In 2002, a typical house cost around five times the average salary. But by 2023, this had risen to approximately nine times.
For renters, the situation is also very challenging. Private rental costs increased faster than wages in the year to January 2025 in most regions, particularly in London. The proportion of income spent on rent increased from roughly 25% to more than 30%) for the average renter between 2022 and 2024.
This housing cost burden creates a stark divide between generations. Those who bought property before the mid-2000s housing boom have generally seen their housing costs decline as a proportion of income as their mortgages were paid down. Meanwhile, younger generations face significantly higher barriers to home-ownership and higher ongoing costs.
Housing costs are a big determiner of whether you feel wealthy in the UK. Alex Segre/Shutterstock
Another important part of the overall picture is the consumer experience – and how the quality and variety of goods and services have changed. Technology has made many products more affordable and accessible. Smartphones, computers and TVs were significantly more expensive (or didn’t even exist in current forms) 20 years ago.
But essential services such as childcare have seen costs rise faster than general inflation. The same is true for grocery costs, which have seen a substantial increase since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This has created a confusing dual experience where discretionary purchases may feel more affordable while essential costs consume a greater proportion of income.
So are Britons actually poorer? The facts suggest that while the average Briton isn’t necessarily worse off in absolute terms than 20 years ago, many are certainly no better off. This in itself is a stark contrast to the expectation of continual improvement that characterised previous generations.
When accounting for housing costs, younger generations are demonstrably worse off than their predecessors at the same life stage. For many, the combination of stagnant incomes and rising costs for essentials has created a genuine decline in living standards and financial security.
“Awful April” isn’t just a seasonal discomfort. It is a manifestation of long-term economic trends that have fundamentally altered Britain’s prosperity trajectory. The coming local and mayoral elections in England will no doubt see these issues take centre stage. There will likely be a thorny debate around the expectation that each generation should be better off than the last.
Marcel Lukas receives funding from The British Academy.
Reacting to news that parliament is to be recalled on Saturday 12th April to discuss the future of British Steel, Green MP Ellie Chowns said:
“The Green party will be backing nationalisation of British Steel – which is now clearly the only sure way to secure this strategically important sector so vital to national security and British jobs. Public ownership of key sectors such as water and transport has always been Green party policy, and where it is in the public interest to have public ownership of a key strategic industry, which appears to be the case with Scunthorpe Steelworks, Greens are in full support.
“Taking British Steel into public ownership provides the opportunity to help drive the green industrial revolution, supporting Scunthorpe Steelworks to make the transition from blast furnaces to electric arcs, which are cheaper and far better for the environment to run. Supporting decarbonisation of steel will further enable the UK to produce the green steel necessary to transition to a green economy, such as wind turbines and trains.
“We must not leave the future of steel communities to the whims of multinational companies or unhinged American presidents. These communities deserve better and green steel in public ownership is the way to ensure these communities not only survive but thrive into the future.”
Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland
Commenting after being told by the Assembly Commission that a “confidential settlement” had been reached between contractors and the Assembly Commission which means taxpayers won’t be told how much they are paying of the multimillion-pound bill Timothy Gaston said:
“This is a ridiculous situation. We are talking about public money here – potentially a huge sum – yet the public, whose money after all it is, is not permitted to know how much if any is involved in this settlement.
“The most basic duty of any public representative is the prudent use of public money. Yet here we have a situation where the Assembly Commission – on which Sinn Fein, the DUP, Alliance, UUP and SDLP all sit – has reached a backroom court settlement which the public are not permitted to know about.
“It is an outrageous and intolerable state of affairs which involves all the Executive parties and also those who laughably call themselves the “constructive” opposition.
“Stormont never had any shine since its restoration as far as unionists were concerned given that it only came back because of broken promises. However, I detect a growing sense across people from all political backgrounds and none that the Stormont establishment is a racket which while shouting about an alleged lack of funds from Westminster waste vast amounts of money within its power.
“Stormont has a moral duty to tell the people of Northern Ireland the detail about this case. The public deserves nothing less”.
Note to editors
Mr Gaston’s question and the answer received are as follows:
To ask the Assembly Commission, pursuant to AQW 25556/22-27, (i) whether the settlement covered the full costs of the roof repairs, including all expenses on experts; and (ii) whether the Assembly Commission’s outlays and legal costs were fully covered by the settlement.
The proceedings issued by the Assembly Commission in respect of defects in work carried out to the roof of Parliament Buildings were settled on confidential terms following a judge led mediation in January 2025. An agreement on costs formed part of the settlement agreement. The settlement agreement has been filed with the High Court. While the Assembly Commission is pleased to have concluded this matter the terms of the settlement do not allow any further detail to be provided.
Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland
Statement by TUV Leader Jim Allister:
“Rory McIlroy’s dramatic victory at the Masters is a remarkable sporting achievement. In securing the grand slam of golfing titles, Rory has written himself into the sporting history books. This is an achievement of which he, of course, will be personally, deeply proud and, because he has never forgotten his Holywood roots, it is something the people of Northern Ireland will feel they can celebrate along with him.
“Given that only a handful of golfers in the world have ever achieved this feat, attention will now turn to how the success will be marked. There is an onus on Stormont to ensure that there is a suitable homecoming celebration for Rory and that his sporting success is capitalised on in such a way so as to inspire local young people to emulate his success.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Insolvency Service disqualified more than 1,000 directors in 2024-25
The latest statistics for Insolvency Service enforcement outcomes also outline Covid loan abuse and bankruptcy restriction orders.
More than 1,000 directors disqualified following Insolvency Service investigations.
Of these, 736 were banned for Covid loan abuse.
The report also highlights the average length of a ban was eight years.
Latest figures from the Insolvency Service show the agency banned more than 1,000 directors in 2024-25, of which 736 were for Covid loan abuse.
The Insolvency Service enforcement outcomes report for 2024-25 was published on 14 April 2025.
The report shows that of the 1,036 directors who were disqualified, 736 were for Covid loan abuse and the average length of a ban was eight years.
The report also shows that there have been 131 bankruptcy restriction orders put in place, 87 of which were related to the abuse of Covid loans.
Dave Magrath, Director of Investigation and Enforcement Services at the Insolvency Service, said:
Disqualifications for more than one thousand directors demonstrates the impact our investigative work is having.
Whether it be Covid loan abuse or directors breaching disqualification restrictions, we are consistently tackling misconduct and bringing those responsible to account.
The end result is a reminder to all businesses to operate appropriately, within the law, and helping to protect the public from rogue business and their directors.
Directors can be banned from being the director of a company for actions including:
failing to maintain adequate accounting records.
not paying tax or VAT that is owed to HMRC
securing a Covid Bounce Back loan they were not entitled to
A director can be disqualified for up to 15 years. During this time, they cannot be a director of a company in the UK, or an overseas company which has connections with the UK and they cannot be involved in forming, promoting or running a company.
Breaking the terms of a disqualification can result in a fine or a prison sentence of up to two years.
Bounce Back loans were introduced in 2020 to help support businesses affected by Covid-19, on the condition that they were used for the economic benefit of the business and not for personal purposes.
A bankruptcy already places restrictions on what a person can do for a set period. If a person is dishonest or is to blame for their debts, the court can make a bankruptcy restrictions order (BRO) which extends this period of restrictions for between two and 15 years, and subject to further restrictions.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Sarah Newton Reappointed as Chair of the Health and Safety Executive.
The Department for Work and Pensions has reappointed Sarah Newton as Chair of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Board.
The Health and Safety Executive is Britain’s national regulator for workplace health and safety and advises the DWP.
Sarah Newton “delighted” to continue her work on delivering on its 10-year strategy.
The Department for Work and Pensions has reappointed Sarah Newton as Chair of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Board.
The reappointment will last for two years starting from 1 August 2025 to 31 July 2027.
Sarah Newton has led HSE since 2020, overseeing its important role in ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of workers across Great Britain.
During her tenure, she has driven strategic improvements, strengthened regulatory frameworks, and championed HSE’s mission to protect people and places.
Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms, said:
I congratulate Sarah on her reappointment as HSE chair, and I look forward to continuing to work with her over the next few years.
As we overhaul our employment support system and give workers the skills and support they need to succeed in their careers, the role of HSE will be vital to ensure workplaces are safe environments for them to flourish in.
Chair of the HSE Board, Sarah Newton, said:
I am delighted to be reappointed as the Chair of the HSE to deliver our ten-year strategy, Protecting People and Places, while supporting the Government’s aim to improve the productivity of and growth in the UK economy.
HSE does this by supporting business-led innovation and employers in their duty to prevent work related fatalities, ill health and injuries.
Over the past five years, HSE has significantly expanded the scope of our work, taking on the responsibility of regulating chemicals in Great Britain and setting up the Building Safety Regulator for England.
Throughout this journey, it has been a privilege to work with the non-executive and executive leadership team and many dedicated HSE employees. I look forward to tackling the challenges ahead.
The Health and Safety Executive is Britain’s national regulator for workplace health and safety. It is dedicated to protecting people and places and helping everyone lead safer and healthier lives.
The HSE Board oversees the activities of HSE, ensuring that high standards of corporate governance and ways of working are maintained.
The HSE 10-year strategy sets out clear objectives and core themes to ensure people are protected in the workplace. The strategy prioritises on delivering a reduction in occupational ill health, specifically focusing on work-related stress and mental health.
Additional Information
About Sarah Newton
Sarah has 30 years’ experience of strategic planning, leadership and change management, dealing with complex issues across the business, voluntary and governmental sectors. She has considerable experience of building partnerships between diverse people and organisations to deliver shared aims. She has served on a wide range of boards and is currently a Non-Executive Director of the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust.
Between 2010 and 2019 she was an MP and served for 3 years as a Member of the Science and Technology Select Committee before becoming a Minister in the Home Office and latterly at the Department of Work and Pensions, where she had the honour of working with the HSE and leading the Health and Work unit. Amongst other responsibilities while at the Home Office she led work on tackling modern slavery, human trafficking and human exploitation.
Before entering the House of Commons, she was Director of the International Longevity Centre – UK, Age Concern England and American Express Europe. She also served as a Councillor in the London Borough of Merton.
Sarah was educated at Falmouth Comprehensive School and Kings College London. Sarah won a Rotary International postgraduate scholarship in the USA.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
NDA commended for commitment to transparency
Nuclear Decommissioning Authority hosted Non-Governmental Organisation’s on sites for the first time.
NDA/NGO Forum visit to Sellafield site
Keeping open and transparent dialogue going with a wide range of external stakeholders is a key commitment of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority’s (NDA) strategy – and last week (April 7 & 8) those groups opposed to the industry got their chance to have their say.
The first ever NDA/Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) site visits took place in Cumbria, with the ambition of encouraging challenge, scrutiny and wider understanding of the NDA’s mission.
Members of the NGO Forum, including several organisations opposed to the nuclear industry, met with NDA, Sellafield Ltd and Nuclear Waste Services (NWS), and also visited both the Sellafield site and the Low Level Waste Repository, where they were able to see first-hand some of the decommissioning work taking place and better understand how nuclear waste is safely managed, stored and disposed of.
Senior managers from NDA, Sellafield Ltd and NWS were on hand to answer questions from the NGOs and provide an overview of the work taking place.
The NDA/NGO Forum includes representatives from Nuclear-Free Local Authorities, who represent local authorities in the UK and Ireland opposed to nuclear power, and regional NGOs around the NDA’s sites, including the Ayrshire Radiation Monitoring Group, Highlands Against Nuclear Power, and Nuclear Waste Advisory Associates.
Across two-days of warm sunshine in Cumbria, the Forum meeting and site visits enabled discussion on a wide range of NDA activities.
The NDA updated the Forum on preparations for the next iteration of its decommissioning strategy and the recent government policy announcement on plutonium disposition. The NGOs focused on community partnerships, waste hierarchy, site end states and ongoing development on-site at Sellafield.
Paul Vallance, NDA Group Chief Corporate Affairs Officer and co-chair of the NDA/NGO Forum, said:
As we celebrate the NDA’s 20th year, our commitment to openness and transparency is as important as ever.
Engaging with the communities and stakeholders around our sites on our mission, its complex challenges and how we’re addressing these underpins our licence to operate. We really value the scrutiny and collaborative atmosphere for discussion the forum brings. Hearing from stakeholders is hugely valuable, providing support and challenge in equal measure.
NDA/NGO Forum visit to low level waste repository
Rita Holmes, the co-chair of the Forum from the NGO side, said:
The NDA is to be commended for its genuine commitment to openness and transparency. It has made such a difference, enabling local people to directly raise concerns and ask questions of the management, the NDA and the regulators about plans and progress at their local site. This was something that did not happen before the NDA came into being.
We were often ignored, fed unsubstantiated assurances or even misinformed. This engendered a lack of trust. The current ethos set by the NDA over the past 20 years, has set the bar high for other organisations and businesses wishing to liaise with our communities. Not all display such social responsibility.
Congratulations on the 20th anniversary of the NDA and a thank you to Sellafield and LLWR staff who answered all our questions and gave exceptionally interesting and informative presentations.
This is the first visit to NDA sites by members of the forum since it was created three years ago as part of the NDA’s commitment to allow greater inclusivity of viewpoints, and challenge and encourage wider scrutiny of its activities.
The NDA is tasked by the government with safely, securely and sustainably decommissioning the UK’s earliest nuclear sites and the management of radioactive waste.
The NDA/NGO forum was established to share insights and expertise on topics relating to the NDA’s mission and meets three times per year to discuss topics related to nuclear decommissioning.
In addition, NGOs continue to engage with the NWS/NGO Exchange established by NWS on waste management and geological disposal.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
Dr Camilla Kingdon to chair review of children’s hearing services
Dr Camilla Kingdon has been appointed by the Secretary of State to chair an independent review of children’s hearing services.
Dr Camilla Kingdon has accepted a direct ministerial appointment by the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care
As a consultant neonatologist and former President of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH), Dr Kingdon brings extensive expertise to the review
the NHS England response to the service failures in paediatric audiology
how the relevant governance arrangements between NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) could be improved and identify lessons learned
how NHS England’s handling of any future service failures in similar services could be improved and identify lessons learned
Dr Kingdon brings extensive expertise to the review. She has been a consultant neonatologist at the Evelina London Children’s Hospital for over 20 years and until March last year she was President of RCPCH. She has an MA in Medical Careers Management and was Head of the London School of Paediatrics and Child Health for 5 years from 2014.
Dr Kingdon is also the independent chair of the NHS Children and Young People’s Gender Service National Provider Network for England, tasked with implementing the recommendations of the Cass Review (the independent review of gender identity services for children and young people) in England. She has been a non-executive director on the board at Great Ormond Street Hospital since January 2025, is chair of the UK Healthy Air Coalition, a coalition of charities and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) working to tackle air pollution, and is a member of the NHS Assembly.
Background to the review
In December 2021, a report was published into service issues in paediatric audiology in NHS Lothian, which focused on whether children’s hearing tests were being conducted properly and effectively followed up.
Further issues with the diagnosis of hearing issues in newborns and children were identified in other Scottish NHS trusts in 2023. Subsequent assessment of NHS audiology services in paediatric departments across England in 2023 and 2024 identified similar problems. NHS England established the Paediatric Hearing Services Improvement Programme in 2023 to address the issues and oversee remedial action.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
UK Government statement on denial of UK MP to enter Hong Kong
The UK Government has issued a response after a UK MP was refused entry to Hong Kong.
A Government spokesperson said:
During his visit to mainland China and Hong Kong Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security the Rt Hon Douglas Alexander relayed our immediate and deep concern regarding MP Wera Hobhouse denial of entry into Hong Kong. Minister Alexander raised our concerns and demanded an explanation with senior Chinese and Hong Kong interlocutors including Hong Kong’s Chief Secretary for Administration, to understand why the Hong Kong authorities refused access to a British MP.
It is deeply concerning that a UK MP was refused permission to enter Hong Kong last week. Unjustified restrictions on the freedom of movement for UK citizens into Hong Kong only serves to further undermine Hong Kong’s international reputation and the important people-people connections between the UK and Hong Kong.
As the Foreign Secretary has made clear, and Minister Alexander relayed in person, it would be unacceptable for any MP to be denied entry for simply expressing their views.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Scientists comment on the British Steel factory situation.
Dr Julian Steer, a Research Fellow from Cardiff University’s School of Engineering, said:
How hot do the blast furnaces get? How do the blast furnaces work? And why do we need these certain ores/materials to keep them running?
“The hottest part of the furnace can get to temperatures of up to 2200°C; the blast furnace converts Iron Oxide, supplied as Iron ore, to Iron by a counter current chemical reduction reaction where raw materials descend through the furnace as hot gases rise up through the furnace. The blast furnace is a very well optimized process that requires the reactions to occur at an even rate throughout the process. To do this, raw materials are selected based on the properties needed to produce iron continuously and efficiently.”
Why are the blast furnaces so difficult to switch back on if they turn off?
“The size, dimensions, and complex reactions in the blast furnace mean that heat distribution and heat transfer through the furnace are absolutely critical to stable iron production. Raw materials are continuously added to the top of the furnace as hot molten iron is continuously tapped from the bottom, the shear scale of this process means that the distribution of the heat through the furnace is critical at all times.”
Why is it crucial that they need to mobilise these supplies of fuel etc.?
“The production efficiency and stability of the whole process of iron production requires careful raw material selection to maintain consistent, and uniform reactions through the furnace and process.”
What can the government do if these blast furnace turn cold?
“If the furnace goes cold, the molten materials inside become solid, blocking the furnace and making any form of restart very difficult, costly and potentially terminally damaging to the furnace.”
Dr Abigail K Ackerman, Royal Academy of Engineering Research Fellow, Department of Materials, Imperial College London, said:
Blast Furnace Operation:
“A blast furnace is used to convert iron ore (hematite, Fe2O3) to pig iron (Fe) by mixing it with coke (carbon), limestone and hot air.
“Limestone is used to remove impurities, forming slag which is a waste material. The slag collects impurities, primarily silica, and is removed and used in construction materials like cement.
“The coke, which is a derivative of coal, reacts with the hot air, which is blown in at the bottom of the furnace at around 1000degC, and forms carbon monoxide (CO). The carbon monoxide reacts with the iron ore to produce molten iron and CO2, which is released as gas.
“The resultant molten liquid iron ore is tapped out at the bottom of the furnace, and is referred to as pig iron.”
Blast Furnace Temperatures:
“Blast furnaces have ‘heat zones’ in order to drive the different chemical reactions which occur within the furnaces. They are set up in a large chimney like structure and have 3 main zones:
“Top (throat) – 200degC to 600degC – Raw materials are poured in
“Middle (Stack) – 600degC to 1200degC – Iron ore starts to reduce forming gases (mainly CO) and the initial reduction of iron ore occurs. The initial reaction has the iron ore (Fe2O3) eventually reducing to FeO.
“Middle (Bosh) – 1200degC to 1600degC – The main chemical reaction occurs, where FeO reduced to Fe. The slag forms here, where limestone reacts with impurities.
“Bottom (Hearth) – up to 2000degC – Hot air (1000degC to 1200degC) is blown in at the bottom of the furnace, which causes the coke to combust and release heat and CO2.
“The molten iron and slag are collected. The slag is lighter that the molten iron so is floats on top of it and can be collected by tapping, or drilling a hole, above the molten iron and allowing the slag to flow out..
“The molten pig iron is removed by tapping, or drilling, a hole in the bottom of the furnace, and flows through guide channels to be collected and transferred to a basic oxygen furnace (BOF) to mix with carbon and make steel.
“Tap holes are made roughly every couple of hours, and then plugged back up with a clay mixture to contain the heat and molten materials in the furnace.
Essential Materials:
“Coking coal, iron ore and limestone are essential to keep the blast furnaces in Scunthorpe running, and these are the critical raw materials that are being sourced. Without these materials in the correct amounts, the chemical reaction will be disrupted and the furnace will cool as the chemical reaction absorbs heat, which is provided by the burning of coke.”
Why can’t you let it go cold?
“The high temperature of the blast furnace means the iron and slag are molten at the bottom, they are in liquid form at around 1500degC. If the furnace is allowed to cool, these materials solidify and can stick to the interior of the furnace. When the metal cools it contracts, which can cause the lining of the furnace to become damaged resulting in expensive repairs to the furnace interior before it can be heated up again.
“Additionally, blast furnaces have various inlets and outlets for pumping in hot air and extracting the molten material. When this solidifies, these can become blocked and are extremely difficult and costly to fix.
“The chemical reaction is disrupted when the furnace goes cold, and restarting this reaction can be complicated due to the heat required to melt the solicited materials, and the balance of gas and materials needed to obtain the correct chemical reaction.
“Finally, a large amount of fuel is required to restart a furnace, which is costly, and it can take anything from days to weeks to get the furnace back up to temperature and getting the correct chemical reaction to occur. It takes much more energy to melt the materials back down than to keep them at temperature. And, of course, there’s a loss of production which costs money.”
Why is it crucial to keep the Scunthorpe furnaces running?
“The Scunthorpe blast furnaces are the last remaining blast furnaces operating in the UK, and therefore the only method for the UK to produce ‘virgin’ steel, which is steel that has not been used in any other process. Other steel producers in the UK, such as TATA, have moved to using recycled steel and electric arc furnaces (EAF). Without the Scunthorpe plant, there will be an impact of the supply chain of steel to essential services such as construction, rail and defence. There will also be an impact on the Scunthorpe community, with a loss of work for the many steelworkers.”
What can the Government do if they turn cold?
“If the furnaces go cold, the options are to restart the furnaces, which will be more costly that obtaining the raw materials required to continue steel production due to the damage that will occur within the furnace from the solidification of the iron and slag, and the large amount of energy required to restart the furnaces.
“The government can choose to change the type of steel production to, for example, recycled steel using EAFs, like Port Talbot, however this will most likely result in job losses, economic impact on the people of Scunthorpe and the UK economy, and significant disruption to the UK supply chain. There is also not enough scrap steel to supply EAFs, so primary virgin steel will need to be sourced from elsewhere. The National Grid is also not set up to supply the energy required to fuel EAFs at this scale so it would be a timely and costly option.
“There is also the option to start producing green steel, which uses hydrogen as a reduction agent rather than coal based coke. However, this requires a large amount of hydrogen and the UK hydrogen economy is not set up for this scale of production currently. Nevertheless, this is the best option for long term CO2 goals.
“Finally, there is the option to close British Steel. This would again have a significant impact on the UK economy, supply chain and the local area. The loss of steel sovereignty could impact the supply chain in the long run as there would be an increased dependence on external steel suppliers, which is impacted by geopolitics.”
Prof Barbara Rossi, Associate Professor of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, said:
“Steel is the most commonly used metal in the world. Blast furnaces and electric arc furnaces are present everywhere, all over the world. There is worldwide 1.9 billion tonnes of crude steel produced per annum. UK in 2020 (then still a EU member state) was the 8th largest steel producer in the European union, which produced in total >150 million tonnes of steel in 2019, only 8% of the world total. Japan alone produced roughly 100 million tonnes, while the biggest steel producing country is currently China, which accounted for above 50% of world steel production in 2020. Globally, the steel industry emits 25% of all industrial greenhouse gases, which is more than any other industrial sector.
“The construction sector is the largest steel using sector and that is not likely to change. It accounts for more than 50% of the world steel demand, with the other major uses being the manufacture of vehicles, industrial equipment and final goods. The global population is forecast to increase to more than 9 billion people over the next 40 years. The population growth rate in Europe (and the UK) is only expected to start decreasing slightly by 2050. And, by then, about 75% will live in cities (~50% today). We still have to build the buildings and infrastructures for these cities and replace those that are damaged. When our country needs more and more new homes, new buildings, new infrastructure, we will have to go higher, more slender and leaner in dense populated areas and the need for ultra-strong and highly ductile materials like steel will become increasingly pressing.
“Steel is indefinitely recyclable, and, while it is recycled, it does not lose its performance which is an extraordinary ability inexplicably often ignored. It isn’t the case of most construction materials: other than steel, aluminium or stainless steel, you can only recycle glass indefinitely provided that you sort the type of glass appropriately. Steel is not just downcycled into a less noble material, just like an old jewel can be turned into a new one, steel can be melted over and over again.
“Recycled steel is one of the industry’s most important raw materials. We have accumulated almost 1 billion tonnes of steel only in the UK, all of which must be recycled, and, today, we generate about 10 million tonnes of scrap a year. Studies show that in the next 10-15 years, that availability of steel scrap will rise from 10 million to 20 million tonnes (global flow of steel scrap are likely to treble in the next 30 years) because all the steel made in the past will be recycled. In 2018, in Europe, this exceeded 110 million tonnes, showing that there is no scrap shortage. Despite its weak position in the scene of steel production, this is one of the advantages by which the UK could profit in the current global change of steel production.
“We have already produced the steel that we will need tomorrow. With increased availability of scrap and under our nation’s commitment to cut its domestic emissions by 2050, we can anticipate a global shift from blast furnace to electric arc furnace production. Roughly 2/3 of today’s liquid steel is made from iron ore, with the rest made from scrap, but at present >50% of the scrap originates from the manufacturing process, rather than from end-of-life recuperation. This is even though (1) on average, steel products have an approximate life horizon of 35-40 years, before being scrapped, and (2), apart from ~10% of steel that is buried (e.g., oil pipes or in building foundations), most end-of-life steel can be easily collected for recycling. Even if the total demand for steel production will increase, one can demonstrate that if most old steel is recycled, future requirements could be met entirely through increased production from scrap via electric arc furnaces. In America today, >50% of all domestic steel demand is already made by recycling domestic scrap. And since steel recycling causes significantly less greenhouse gas emissions than blast furnaces (topped by the fact that the UK already produces low emissions electricity grid, with high potential for further improvement, so recycling steel in the UK today leads to a reduction in emissions of > 2/3 compared to global average primary steel), UK need for steel recycling can be expected to grow significantly and rapidly. This will increase with more renewable generation capacity and will grow strategically important as global pressure to alleviate climate change increases.
“UK’s commitment to decarbonization need to address the emissions which are released from within UK borders. Although closing steel plants in the UK would lead to a reduction in the emissions, our future demand for steel may lead to higher global emissions if the emissions intensity in other countries is greater than that in the UK. Rather than providing extensive efforts in technologies allowing reduced emissions in primary production which require major capital investment, a more effective contribution to global mitigation would be to produce our domestic steel through electric arc furnaces combined with a massive decrease of their emissions which are directly linked to the emissions intensity of local electricity generation.
“There is nonetheless a technical limitation on the extent to which scrap can be substituted for iron ore: contaminants. Scrap composed of large pieces such as that from construction, have well controlled composition while scrap collecting from mixed waste streams have higher levels of contamination. The latter is usually sourced when scrap prices are high. As a consequence of contamination, the degree to which recycled steel can replace primary steel is capped by the inability of (a) imperfect control of metal composition in scrap steel collection and (b) today’s technologies to adjust the chemical composition of liquid steel produced with electric arc furnaces. Therefore, steel scrap supplies have to date been mostly absorbed by the lowest grade products (such as reinforcement bars).
“It is possible to vaporise unwanted metal contaminants from liquid steel by vacuum arc re-melting. This is already a commercial strength in the UK and used for making some of the highest quality steels for e.g., aerospace components. The innovation opportunity is to replicate this success at higher speed and lower cost. Other processes than vacuum arc re-melting have been tested in research laboratories but were abandoned due to lack of economic incentive. The UK, with its high volumes of scrap and its commitment to act on climate mitigation is well placed to lead the development of these technologies.
“We cannot replace steel, it’s ridiculously cheap, ultra-strong and highly ductile, and completely recyclable, fitting into any story about a circular economy. Not a single construction material taken alone can compete with steel today. But we can produce low carbon steel and build better structures, lasting longer, not harming our environment. If UK would recycle its own scrap to deliver high-quality steel satisfying its domestic demand in a closed loop it would lead to massive decrease of UK Iron and Steel emissions. This necessitates to (a) establish low-carbon steelmaking plants based on electric arc furnace, (b) develop technologies to make high quality steel from recycled scrap, i.e., examine and mitigate the causes of scrap contamination and develop the opportunities to control the chemical composition of liquid steel made via electric arc furnace, and (c) develop innovative business models to allow UK downstream steel supply-chains to prosper.”
Declared interests
Dr Julian Steer: in receipt of funding from British Steel to measure, and optimise, the performance and selection of their injection coals.
For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
CNC Annual Business Plan 2025/26 maps out drive to succeed
The CNC has launched an ambitious Annual Business Plan that builds on its core role protecting civil nuclear material.
CNC Annual Business Plan 2025/26.
Changes across the energy sector and new powers afforded through section 55A of the Energy Act 2004 see the Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC) launch an ambitious Annual Business Plan for the 2025/26 period.
In the same year the organisation celebrates 20 years safeguarding civil nuclear sites, CNC looks to a future where its position as a unique part of the wider police family, combined with sector expertise and armed policing capability, enable further development and expansion.
Chief Constable, Simon Chesterman, said: “The CNC has a winning strategy. Uniquely in policing we are expanding, this is enabling us to deliver enhanced national security and better protection for the public.
“Our ambition is to be recognised nationally and internationally as the leading organisation for armed protective security within the critical national infrastructure of the United Kingdom.
“This ambition builds on our core role protecting the nation’s civil nuclear material across Great Britain and in transit globally and includes a successful operation protecting passengers on cross-channel ferries. We have also taken responsibility for providing armed police protection at four non-nuclear sites.
“Our strategy of expansion provides better security for the public and better value for money for the organisations that fund us.
“Our Annual Business Plan underpins our strategy and demonstrates our desire to do more in support of national security requirements. Its goals and priorities focus the efforts of every police officer and staff member on maintaining the core mission, delivering armed protective security beyond nuclear and better value for money. It places equal importance on an inclusive culture and drives our commitment to the highest standards of integrity and standards of behaviour.”
The Civil Nuclear Constabulary Annual Business Plan is published today (14 April) and can be downloaded from the CNC website.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
CNC AFO runs half marathon for charity
PC Scott Taylor, based at Harwell, ran the Reading Half Marathon and raised an outstanding £1,970 for the charity Building for the Future.
PC Scott Taylor and his daughter, Rosie.
Scott ran the race in honour of his daughter, Rosie, who was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and global developmental delay at the age of three.
Speaking about the event and his motivations, Scott said: “We utilise a charity called Building for the Future Wokingham – Play, Support & Therapy which is a fantastic resource for children and parents of children with additional needs, offering a safe place for children to play at various playgroups and events across the year.
“Personally, going to these events as a single dad is quite daunting but the staff (all volunteers) went out of their way to make me feel welcome. So, I thought what better motivation than to raise money for something close to my heart that Rosie loves also.
“Unfortunately, I fell ill two days before the race, but after all the effort I had put into training and more importantly all the money I had raised, I didn’t want to let anyone down so I had to push on.
“I had my daughter Rosie cheering me on at about 12k which made all the effort worth it by itself. As parents of autistic children will know getting eye contact and engagement from them can be difficult, so the smile and look and acknowledgement I got from her meant a lot and pushed me on to the end.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Government steps in to back British business in changing world
The Chancellor announces a multi-billion-pound increase in government-backed financing.
British businesses across the country have today been given further stability and certainty with access to new support through a multi-billion-pound increase in government-backed financing as the world enters a new era of global trade.
The new package will give UK Export Finance (UKEF) the power to expand financing support for British businesses by £20 billion, with small businesses also able to access loans of up to £2 million through the British Business Bank’s Growth Guarantee Scheme.
Thousands of companies are expected to benefit from the move, including those directly affected by tariffs – with iconic British brands like Rolls Royce through to local businesses like Alicat Workboats previously benefitting from similar programmes.
Today’s boost reaffirms government’s commitment to free and open trade, and means an £80 billion boost for businesses, meaning they can access government-backed finance and support to grow their presence both domestically and overseas, create new jobs and drive economic growth as part of the Plan for Change.
New measures come as prime minister goes further and faster to boost growth, working in partnership with business to deliver it.
This week alone has seen swift and decisive action from the government to protect UK businesses and workers by:
Taking action to keep British Steel operating, saving thousands of jobs
Increasing flexibility on the zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate to help British carmakers
Cutting the red tape that slows down clinical trials in the life sciences sector
Investing up to £600 million in a new Health Data Research Service
Backing a £30 million package to support the reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport which is expected to support 5,000 jobs and boost the economy by £5 billion
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:
The world is changing, which is why it is more important than ever to back our world-leading businesses and support them to navigate the challenges ahead.
Today’s announcement will do that just, with thousands of businesses right across the country set to benefit.
We are going further and faster to boost growth, but we cannot do it alone. Only by working with businesses will we achieve our Plan for Change and put more money into people’s pockets.
Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds said:
Our message to British business is clear – we’ve got your back. This package, backed by the British Business Bank and UKEF, will be a crucial shot in the arm to exporters and small firms looking to trade around the world.
Within a changing world, we need to adapt, and as part of our Plan for Change, this Government is responding. These changes will help to boost growth support jobs and supercharge thousands of businesses across all four corners of the country.
UKEF will also offer businesses partial loan guarantees through more flexible uses of its Export Development Guarantee, helping to mitigate the impact of new tariffs and associated economic uncertainty. Of the £80 billion, up to £10 billion will be allocated to ensure that businesses significantly impacted in the short term by the current situation have access to the finance they need to grow.
The British Business Bank will also expand its Growth Guarantee Scheme by £500 million, which will provide vital finance for smaller businesses as they look to invest and grow. This scheme provides the lender with a 70% government-backed guarantee against loans or other types of finance, enabling lenders to support smaller businesses that would struggle to obtain financing through traditional means – and has so far enabled more than £2.1 billion of lending.
This comes on top of £1 billion of funding for British Business Bank programmes for this financial year, confirmed at Autumn Budget 2024. This includes additional support for smaller housebuilders through the ENABLE Build programme, funding for Start Up Loans and additional funding for three equity programmes supporting innovative high growth businesses
This week, the Chancellor and Business and Trade Secretary also took part in the 13th UK-India Economic and Financial Dialogue (EFD) in order to strengthen ties between the two countries. In addition to India, the UK is negotiating trade deals with partners including the Gulf Cooperation Council, South Korea and Switzerland, which will give businesses more opportunities than ever before to expand into new markets.
First Minister John Swinney has announced he will bring forward the Scottish Government’s legislative programme to ensure the country is as prepared as possible to secure its future in the face of the uncertainty facing the global economy.
Speaking during a press conference at Bute House, the First Minister announced the Programme for Government will be presented to the Scottish Parliament on Tuesday 6 May 2025.
It will set out the actions the Scottish Government will take to ensure resilience and deliver on the four core priorities to eradicate child poverty, grow the economy, tackle the climate emergency and ensure high quality and sustainable public services.
The First Minister also set out plans to immediately begin work with key partners in the business community and trade unions to map out the actions required in Scotland, and the UK as a whole, to respond to emerging economic challenges and ensure the needs of the devolved nations are at the heart of UK decision-making.
First Minister John Swinney said:
“I know that this is a time of great uncertainty for people, that many families and businesses are worried about what global events will mean for them.
“We face yet another storm, after almost two decades of knocks and challenges – the financial crisis, austerity, Brexit, Covid, the energy price spike following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the subsequent inflation spike. Each has weakened us in some way, but none has defeated us.
“The Programme for Government will be laser-focused on delivery. It will set out what I believe my government can and will deliver for the people of Scotland over the coming year.
“The economic headwinds are blowing strong across the Atlantic and they demand a response that is both immediate and measured. My Programme for Government will set out what practical steps we will take to strengthen our response to those headwinds and ensure Scottish business and our economy is positioned well to create jobs and grow the economy.
“I want to make sure the UK Government understands where we need them to do much more to protect Scotland’s economic interests. As a result, I will be bringing together our key partners in the business community and the trades union movement on Wednesday to map out the actions we can take, here in Scotland, and which can be complemented across the UK, to respond to the emerging economic realities. That work will influence my government’s approach, and I want it to shape the response at a UK level into the bargain.
“A Scotland that is wealthier, fairer, more resilient – that is my ambition. I want people feeling more confident about the future and more secure in the midst of the uncertainties, because they have a government that is fighting Scotland’s corner.
“A government that is bringing people together, so that our response to the challenges we face is rooted in a Scotland that is united, prepared and determined, a Scotland confident in its ability to, once again, weather the storm and come out of that storm a great deal stronger.”
Background
The first roundtable with the business community and trade unions to determine the actions required to ensure the resilience of Scotland’s economy will be held on Wednesday 16 April 2025.
Cyprus and the UK are set to collaborate more closely on space activities following a successful bilateral event held in Nicosia on 27-28 March.
The first Cyprus-UK Bilateral Cooperation Event brought together representatives from the space sectors and governments of both countries, with the support of the European Space Agency (ESA).
The Cypriot Government used the event to announce its intention to join ESA as an Associate Member, a move which could unlock further growth in its space sector and greater collaboration with other ESA member states such as the UK.
Professor Anu Ojha, International Director at the UK Space Agency, said:
There is great potential for collaboration on space activities to add a new dimension to the UK’s strong partnership with Cyprus. This has never been more important, with space firmly established as a vital tool for driving economic growth, environmental protection and national security.
That’s why Cyprus has been working with ESA and growing its space sector to great effect over recent years, and we are looking forward to working very closely with them in the future.
Mr. George Komodromos, Acting Permanent Secretary of the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, said:
The high-level dialogue and engagement among companies, as well as among delegations is encouraging and shows that we are moving in the right direction.
We are especially grateful for the UK’s continued support of our efforts to position ourselves within the global space ecosystem, a highly revolving and rapidly changing environment in a vastly changing world.
The event featured a number of working sessions on topics including regulation, the development of space strategies, commercial development and future missions and opportunities within ESA.
Cypriot universities and companies shared information on national space projects in areas such as Earth observation, satellite research and digital infrastructure. Ten UK space companies, alongside fourteen Cypriot entities, delivered presentations on their growing capabilities, while ESA representatives explained the potential funding programmes that could support future joint UK-Cyprus initiatives.
The UK is a founding member of ESA, which currently has 23 member states. In addition, Cyprus is one of four countries with a cooperation agreement with ESA, signed in 2016, aiming to achieve Associate Membership in ESA by 2026.
The UK Space Agency will host a reciprocal visit by the Cypriot government, academics and companies later this year, and both countries will work together to map existing capabilities and identify areas for future collaboration.
Consultation on recovering costs for water company enforcement
Environment Agency launches consultation on cost recovery for water company enforcement activities.
Following the introduction of the Water (Special Measures) Act 2025, the Environment Agency is now able to recover additional costs associated with regulating the water industry. This includes the cost of existing and new enforcement activities which were previously funded by government Grant in Aid.
The proposals – set out in a consultation seeking views from the industry, campaigners and members of the public – will see a levy on water companies.
Alan Lovell, Chair of the Environment Agency, said:
The Water (Special Measures) Act was a crucial step in making sure water companies take full responsibility for their impact on the environment.
The increased regulatory powers introduced by this legislation, including cost recovery for our enforcement work, will allow us to close the justice gap, deliver swifter enforcement action and ultimately deter illegal activity.
Alongside these reforms, we are undertaking the biggest ever transformation to the way we regulate the water industry. By investing in people, training and digital assets, we are ensuring water companies better meet the needs of both people and the environment, now and in the future.
The consultation proposes a new levy to raise on certain water discharge activities and is designed to recover costs associated with the Environment Agency’s enforcement work directly from water companies. These cost recovery powers are set out under the Water (Special Measures) Act and all activities will be in line with the Environment Agency’s enforcement and sanctions policy.
The consultation will run until 26 May, and the new charging scheme to be finalised and implemented this summer.
Water Minister Emma Hardy said:
We promised that polluters would pay for the damage they cause to our waterways.
That’s why we’re making sure water companies – not regulators – bear the cost of enforcement action taken in response to their failings.
Through the Water (Special Measures) Act water bosses could face imprisonment for lawbreaking and regulators now have new powers to ban undeserved bonuses and bring automatic and severe penalties against polluters.
Today’s consultation takes us closer to shaping a water sector that delivers real and lasting improvements for customers and the environment as part of our Plan for Change.
New Chair of the Audit and Risk Assurance Committee named, as three board members reappointed
A series of appointments and reappointments have been made to the Board of the Environment Agency.
Jon Watts has been appointed as a Non-Executive Board Member, as well as Chair of the Audit and Risk Assurance Committee. His appointment began on 1 April 2025 and will run for three years until 31 March 2028. The Committee provides essential scrutiny, challenge, and oversight of the Environment Agency’s risk controls and governance.
Furthermore, Stewart Davies, Lilli Matson, and Ines Faden da Silva have been reappointed as board members for second terms, all of which commenced on 1 February 2025 and will run for eighteen months until 1 July 2026. Ines Faden da Silva has also been appointed as the new Deputy Chair of the Board. All appointments have been made on merit and in accordance with the Ministerial Governance Code on Public Appointments.
The Environment Agency would like to thank Judith Batchelar, Robert Gould, and John Lelliott for their exemplary service and commitment as they step down from the Board.
Biographies
Jon Watts
Jon is a finance leader with a career spanning global businesses and the third sector. Jon is a trustee of the Eden Trust and chair of the Finance Audit and Risk Committee. He has held senior leadership roles, including regional Chief Financial Officer of Unilever Latin America, Director of Finance and Control at SABMiller, and as global Chief Financial Officer for Save the Children and for the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation. He currently advises foundations and NGOs on organisational capability and resilience.
Stewart Davies
Stewart is Chair of OPRL Ltd, which serves over 900 companies across the packaging cycle, collaborating to drive circularity and a transformation in packaging resource efficiency. He is founding Chair of the Bradford Sustainable Development Partnership. Stewart’s prior career was as an executive in regulated industries, including petrochemicals, steel, cement and waste management. He has served as Chair of the Environmental Services Association and as a Non-Executive Director on the board of Innovate UK.
Lilli Matson
Lilli has worked for Transport for London since 2006, currently as Chief Officer of Safety, Health & Environment, where she leads initiatives to enhance safety and environmental performance across London’s transport network. Previously, Lilli was a member of the UK Government’s Commission for Integrated Transport and ran her own transport consultancy, leading major projects on sustainable transport for a range of clients.
Ines Faden da Silva
Ines Faden da Silva is a part-time consultant at Tideway London, the company delivering London’s super sewer. She is a Committee Member of the Transition Pathway Initiative and Member of the Expert Panel for Accounting for Sustainability. Prior to Tideway, Ines worked for Citigroup where she advised and arranged financing for infrastructure and energy projects and later managed a portfolio of structured assets.
Notes for Editors
The Environment Agency works to create better places for people and wildlife, and supports sustainable development. It is an executive non-departmental public body, sponsored by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs.
The Environment Agency Board currently comprises a Chair and eight members.
Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to France: Sir Thomas Drew KCMG
Sir Thomas Drew KCMG has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the French Republic.
Sir Thomas Drew KCMG has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the French Republic in succession to Dame Menna Rawlings DCMG CVO. Sir Tom will take up his appointment in August 2025.
Curriculum vitae
Full name: Thomas Drew
Year
Role
2020 to 2024
FCDO, Director General, Defence and Intelligence
2020 to 2024
Trustee, British Council
2016 to 2019
Islamabad, British High Commissioner
2015
McKinsey and Company, Visiting Fellow (on secondment)
2012 to 2014
FCO, Principal Private Secretary to the Foreign Secretary
2010 to 2012
FCO, Director, National Security
2008 to 2010
Home Office, Director, Office for Security and Counter-Terrorism
2006 to 2008
Islamabad, Political Counsellor
2004 to 2006
FCO, Europe Directorate, Head of Enlargement and South-East Europe Group
2002 to 2004
FCO, Europe Directorate, Head of Intergovernmental Conference Unit
A document which outlines how planners engage with residents, businesses, groups and stakeholders is being updated to help streamline the planning process and enable decision to be made quicker.
Stoke-on-Trent City Council is currently in the process of updating its Statement of Community Involvement which formally sets out how it will engage with individuals and organisations when preparing local planning policy documents and in the planning application decision-making process.
The document – which was previously updated in 2021 – is being reviewed in line with legislation, national planning policy and best practice guidance.
As part of the review process, the council is now carrying out a public consultation and inviting people to have their say on the draft Stoke-on-Trent Statement of Community Involvement 2025.
Councillor Chris Robinson, cabinet member for housing and planning at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “The review of our Statement of Community Involvement is something we have to do legally – all local planning authorities are required to review the document at least once every five years.
“This consultation process is essential to help improve understanding and openness of the planning process, which impacts everybody who lives in, works in or visit our city and ensure that we are effectively engaging on planning matters which affect our local communities.
“I would encourage as many people as possible to provide us with feedback through this consultation and help us shape this service for the future.”
Alternatively, for more information, email the planning policy team at planning.policy@stoke.gov.uk or call 01782 233905.
Following the consultation process, the Stoke-on-Trent Statement of Community Involvement 2025 will be finalised and published on the council’s website.
Portsmouth City Council has announced that First Bus Solent will operate the PR3 weekend service for the 2025 summer season, running from 7 June to 31 August. First Bus was appointed last year to manage the regular PR1 service for the next five years. The site and PR1 buses have recently been rebranded with a vibrant new look, and customers benefit from new signage at the site, which is conveniently located just off the M275.
The earlier start date of the PR3 will allow visitors from the LGBTQ+ community, along with their friends and supporters, to attend free daytime activities and the community-led parade for National Pride on 7 June – the first major summer event on Southsea Common. This earlier start date also means that more people can enjoy weekend trips to Southsea from the beginning of the summer season.
Portsmouth Park and Ride offers a low-cost, stress-free alternative to city driving, allowing passengers to avoid traffic and enjoy a smoother, more relaxing ride into the heart of Portsmouth, Southsea and seafront. By reducing traffic congestion, the park and ride service plays a crucial role in enhancing air quality while providing an affordable and efficient way to commute and explore the city.
Customers can look forward to swift, convenient journeys to Clarence Pier on the PR3 in just 16 minutes, with buses running every 30 minutes at the weekend. The first bus departs at 9.35 am, and the last bus returns from Clarence Pier to the park and ride site at 7.24 pm. Additionally, a special service will operate every 10 minutes on the weekend of 26 and 27 July to accommodate the large number of visitors expected for the colourful Portsmouth International Kite Festival.
Portsmouth Park and Ride offers excellent value for money – just £4 for up to five people to travel all day on either the PR1 or PR3 services. Customers are encouraged to car share, supporting Portsmouth’s vision of becoming a greener, healthier city.
New ticketing options have also been introduced in partnership with First Bus, making it easier for visitors and commuters to purchase tickets. Flexible fares can now be bought via the First Bus app, and day tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver, using cash, contactless, or card payments.
Cllr Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “I’m delighted that we’re able to revive this popular weekend service to Southsea and seafront for 2025. Our refreshed PR1 service has already been a huge hit with visitors and commuters, so it gives us great pleasure to open up the park and ride experience to a wider range of visitors this summer.”
James Eustace, Commercial Director, First Bus South, said: “It’s fantastic to be providing the PR3 Park & Ride service again for the summer, making it easier than ever for visitors and locals to travel directly to Southsea. It’s a stress-free, convenient, and perfect way to explore – leave the car behind and enjoy the ride.”
This year, the route has been adjusted to avoid road closure along Clarence Esplanade due to ongoing Southsea Coastal Scheme improvements. After stopping at Clarence Pier, the service will head back towards Clarence Parade, along Avenue De Caen towards The D-Day Story, and return to Clarence Parade via Clarence Esplanade.
For more information about Portsmouth Park and Ride, visit https://parkandride.portsmouth.gov.uk
The council has been granted £545,502 through West Midlands Combined Authority’s Net Zero Neighbourhood Fund for Graiseley Low Carbon Energy Accelerator Pilot (LEAP).
This phase is for data gathering within a small cluster of streets in Graiseley, while some eligible properties will be offered energy advice, retrofit assessments and supported with low cost energy saving improvements.
Following this stage, and subject to additional funding, further measures will be explored for a potential roll out of upgrades to properties from 2026 onwards.
The pilot neighbourhood includes Lime Street, Fisher Street, Bristol Street, Manlove Street, Cardiff Street and Bingley Street, and sections of Lea Road, Owen Road, Burleigh Road, Norfolk Road, and Merridale Street West.
It will involve working with residents and businesses to investigate how measures such as home energy improvements, smart energy systems, active travel, community events and better green spaces can improve lives.
A series of public events will be held for people within the neighbourhood to get involved, which will be advertised in the coming weeks.
The findings of the pilot will lead to a model that can benefit the whole city – helping cut energy bills, make energy supplies more resilient and create green jobs.
Councillor Qaiser Azeem, Cabinet Member for Transport and Green City at City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “I am delighted we have secured this funding and am excited to see the opportunities and benefits it can bring, and the lessons we can learn as part of our collaborative, city-wide Our Net Zero City 2041 efforts with communities and technical advisors.
“We want residents and businesses to be well informed and empowered to take climate action that can make a positive difference to their lives, and they will be at the centre of making this project a success.”
City of Wolverhampton Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for City Housing, Councillor Steve Evans, said: “Helping create neighbourhoods with more energy efficient homes, reducing fuel poverty for vulnerable residents is very important to us.
“The data gathering phase of this trailblazing project will allow us to see how measures such as better insulation or rooftop solar panels and heat pumps could make a big difference to lives.”
Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing at City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “Looking at how we can make improvements to create better insulated, warmer properties that are cheaper to heat can have a positive effect on health reducing the risk of respiratory illnesses.
“Creating greener more welcoming spaces through more tree planting and pocket parks is also known to boost wellbeing and happiness.”
Anyone struggling in the cost of living crisis can find advice via Cost of Living Support.
Data analysed by The Sunday Times from Ofsted’s Parent View survey found that an incredible 99% of parents and carers reported that their child is happy at Highfields School in Penn, the joint highest score in England.
Meanwhile, 98% of Colton Hills Community School parents said their child is happy – putting both schools among the top 10 non-selective schools nationally.
Highfields headteacher Graham Tate said: “This outstanding achievement is a reflection of our hardworking staff, dedicated students, and the unwavering support of parents and carers.
“At Highfields, we are committed to not only delivering academic success but also fostering a school community where every student feels happy, healthy, and valued.
“Seeing these results is a testament to the positive and supportive environment the school strives to create every day and only strengthens our motivation to continue developing a thriving and happy Highfields community. Thank you to everyone who makes our school such a fantastic place to learn and grow!”
Colton Hills Headteacher Julie Hunter added: “We are over the moon with the findings from The Sunday Times and the positive parents’ feedback from our own survey, helping us to create a happy, healthy, high performing school.
“As a growing school that has been serving the community for the last 50 years, we are delighted with this affirmation as we continue to strive for the best outcomes for our students and ensure that there are no barriers to high achievement and success.”
Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “It’s really important that children are happy at school, as it positively impacts their learning, wellbeing, and social emotional development, ultimately leading to greater academic success and a more fulfilling life – and so it is fabulous to see that children at Highfields and Colton Hills enjoy their schools so much.”
The data draws on results from secondary schools with at least 500 pupils and 100 parent submissions and uses data from the year with the most responses between 2020 and 2025.
NHS Health Checks are available to eligible 40 to 74 year olds – those without pre-existing conditions – once every 5 years. They assess the individual’s health and identify relatively simple lifestyle changes they could make to lower their risk of developing serious but preventable conditions such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, type 2 diabetes, some cancers and dementia.
The Health Check also includes referral to relevant local lifestyle and behaviour changes services such as smoking cessation and weight management as required. For more information, please visit Health and wellbeing.
Figures show that 8,310 NHS Health Checks were delivered in Wolverhampton in 2024-25, an increase of 1,323 on the previous year.
Additionally, over the last 5 years, almost 90% of Wolverhampton’s eligible population have been invited for their NHS Health Check, putting Wolverhampton in the top 25% performing local authorities in England.
Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, said: “It’s great that so many more people in Wolverhampton are coming forward for their NHS Health Check when it is due, and I would like to thank the excellent work of our city’s GP practices in helping us achieve improved uptake.
“The Health Check is free and will help you to take steps to maintain or improve your health. It only takes about 30 minutes and you’ll be asked some simple questions, such as family history and choices which may put your health at risk. Your height, weight and blood pressure will be recorded and there will also be a simple blood test to check your cholesterol level.
“You will be provided with your results and given advice on any steps you might need to take to reduce the risk of developing heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease.”
She added: “Whilst there has been an increase in those taking up the offer of a health check, we continue to encourage more people to accept the offer of a health check if invited – and if you think your NHS Health Check is overdue, please speak to your GP practice.
“As always, if you are concerned about any aspect of your health, contact your GP practice to discuss these – don’t wait for an invitation for your NHS Health Check.”
At present, they can claim up to 15 hours per week at an approved provider, with September’s changes the latest planned step in the roll out of Government funded childcare. Eligible parents of children aged 3 and 4 can already claim 30 hours per week.
To qualify, each parent must earn at least the equivalent of 16 hours per week at national minimum or living wage, and have an income of less than £100,000 per year. Applications must be made by 31 August, 2025 to access funded childcare from September.
People in receipt of certain benefits are also eligible for 15 hours of funded childcare for 2 year olds, known as Terrific for Twos in Wolverhampton.
Meanwhile, eligible working parents and carers with children aged 11 or under can get up to £2,000 per child each year towards their childcare costs, or up to £4,000 for children with a disability aged 16 or under, though the tax free childcare scheme.
To find out more, including how to apply for support with childcare costs, please visit the Childcare Choices website.
Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “Every year hundreds of families in Wolverhampton benefit from funded childcare schemes at participating nurseries, schools and childminders around the city.
“Accessing early education gives your child the chance to learn, play and make new friends and the opportunity to develop and master new skills. It supports them as they prepare for school by helping them to communicate, explore new experiences, be active and healthy – and of course, it also helps working parents juggle careers and childcare.
“I would encourage working parents to find out more about the various offers of support for childcare, and to sign up if they are eligible.”
Stephanie Rock, ABC Age Friendly Officer and David Hammerton – Chair of ABC Seniors Network, launch the Spring edition of the ABC Seniors Newsletter.
With Spring well and truly underway, the latest edition of the ABC Seniors Newsletter has a host of advice and activities to help you make the most of the longer days.
The colourful publication also focuses on the recent ABC Seniors Network (ABCSN) consultation event at Craigavon Civic Centre to gather feedback on the draft Programme for Government 2025-2027, which provided an important opportunity for people aged 50+ to engage with and provide input on the government’s proposed plans for the coming years.
For those keen to exercise their grey matter, there are crosswords and riddles, and you can also test your culinary skills with new recipes in the regular feature ‘Margaret’s Cookery Corner’.
Details of activities, including story-telling, creative writing and IT classes, which are being hosted by local libraries across the ABC Borough in the coming weeks, are also in the Newsletter.
A calendar will help you participate in the ‘Walk This May’ campaign organised by the Southern Trust. A brisk 10-minute daily walk has lots of health benefits and counts towards your 150 minutes of weekly exercise, as recommended in the physical activity guidelines for adults aged 19 to 64. Residents can also find details of the weekly Chatty Walks which take place in the borough.
The Alzheimer’s Society has put together helpful guidance and support for those families impacted by dementia, in an extensive feature for the ABC Seniors Newsletter.
If you would like to receive a copy of the ABC Seniors Newsletter you can call Stephanie on 07825 010630 or send an email to
Council receives analysis of Constitutional Change Engagement
14 April 2025
Derry City and Strabane District Council has published a detailed independent analysis of the engagement that was carried out in 2023 relating to the issue of Constitutional Change and its implications for the Council area and the North West.
The engagement was carried out following a notice of motion agreed by Council and members of the public, and other stakeholders were invited to inform themselves on the issue of constitutional change and give their views, experiences and research relating to Constitutional Change and the implications for the Derry and Strabane Council area. The engagement process was carried out over a four-month period and the results of the findings have been collated and independently analysed by Professor Mark Slevin of Ulster University, and are now available for the public to read via the Council website at – Unity-Thematic_Analysis-(1-1-2025).pdfUnity-Thematic_Analysis-(1-1-2025).pdf
A total of 242 responses were received as part of the public consultation exercise that were subsequently screened and categorised into subthemes with commentary used as supporting evidence to capture the diverse perspectives and to provide a comprehensive understanding of the overall exercise. The outcome of the analysis highlighted that while there is a wide range of perspectives on constitutional change, the majority of views expressed in the survey were positive.
Professor Slevin in his report said: “While most participants supported reunification as a means to promote equality, economic growth, and governance reform, other expressed concerns about economic stability, identity preservation and political instability.”
Professor Slevin said the findings emphasised the need for careful planning, inclusive dialogue and a transparent process such as a Citizens Assembly, to accurately address the aspirations and fears of everyone. He said participants in the engagement exercise stressed the need for lessons to be learned from the Brexit process and for all voices and views to be heard. He said participants were of the view that “to create a fair and stable transition process, detailed planning, economic analysis and social inclusion needed to be prioritised.”
The five themes identified in the analysis was – Support for Irish Unity; Economic and Infrastructural Development; Governance and Political Reform; Social Justice and Historical Grievances and Concerns and Opposition to Change.
Under the first theme of Support for Irish Unity many participants expressed support for Irish unity referencing potential economic, social and cultural benefits with many viewing it as an opportunity to address inequalities that some have seen to be caused by partition. Some participants viewed it as an opportunity to restore Ireland’s position within the European union and to create new and effective governance structures, with some saying it was a pathway towards fairness, equality and sovereignty, whilst highlighting the need for inclusivity and democratic planning to ensure a successful transition process.
The second theme of Economic and Infrastructural Development emerged as a very central theme in the engagement process with many participants arguing that Irish unity would go some way towards addressing economic deficiencies created by partition and the duplication of services and would improve current infrastructure and transport, attract international investment and streamline governance.
Many of the participants in the engagement process expressed their dissatisfaction with the political structure under Stormont and Westminster and were of the view that a united Ireland would provide better governance, accountability and policy-making under the third theme of Governance and Political Reform while under the Social Justice and Historical Grievances theme, the need for social justice and for historical grievances to be acknowledged, was highlighted. Many respondents cited systematic inequalities in education, access to employment and healthcare, as well as a legacy of discrimination as issues that could be addressed as part of Constitutional Change.
Under the theme of Concerns and Opposition to Change a few respondents expressed concerns about the impact on economic stability, identity preservation and political instability. Unionist perspectives were a recurring theme with some participants opposing change outright while others highlighting the need for inclusive planning and dialogue to address fears and opposition to any constitutional change.
Professor Slevin in his conclusion of the analysis report cautioned on the limitations of the engagement exercise saying that the sampling of those taking part was opportunistic and self-selecting and for that reason the views expressed could not be generalised to the wider population. He said: “The nature of the issued being explored may have impacted on who chose to engage with the survey, and how they answered. The study was qualitative in nature, and this means that themes can be identified but their overall significance and importance cannot be assessed.”
It was agreed at the March meeting of Full Council that the results of the Engagement would be made public for the public to access via the website at – https://www.derrystrabane.com/Constitutional-Change
It was also agreed at the meeting that representative organisations would be invited to attend further meetings of the Unity Working Group, that was set up for elected members to discuss this issue, and that a third tranche of engagement with the community would be considered, subject to a further report with details and costings.
