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The UK and Chile have issued a joint call for ambition on emissions reduction, adaptation and financing plans ahead of COP26.

Our new Artificial Intelligence (AI) Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) offers public sector customers a direct route to AI services in an emerging market.

The Chancellor's Winter Economy Plan creates a new Job Support Scheme as well as more flexible loan repayments for firms.

Blog posted by: Nike Folayan 25 September 2020.

National Inclusion Week 2020 starts on Monday September 28th with a focus on this year’s theme of ‘Each One Reach One’.

NHS Test and Trace has now reached almost half a million people, including those testing positive and their contacts, to slow the transmission of coronavirus in England.

The GMB WULF project started working with Panasonic in March 2018.

The Charity Commission is seeking to appoint new trustees to the Sikh Channel Community Broadcasting Company Limited.

Temporary Coronavirus Act provisions due to be debated in the House of Commons on Weds 30 September could substantially restrict or curtail important, hard-won rights that disabled people rely on for their quality of life, says a new report by the Women and Equalities Committee.

Blog posted by: Dr Bina Rawal, 24 September 2020.

Opening remarks from Minister for Digital Infrastructure (24 September 2020).

Statement given by Executive Vice-President Margrethe Vestager on the Commission's decision to appeal the General Court's judgment on the Apple tax State aid case in Ireland.

Rishi Sunak unveils government’s plan to protect jobs and support businesses over the coming months.

Blog posted by: User Centred Policy Design Team, 24 September 2020 – Categories: Our services, Prisons, video calls.

Founder and Managing Director of Equidiet UK Ltd, Sandra Murphy has been announced as a 2020 finalist for the Black British Business Awards.

Scotland assumes European role ahead of critical COP26 talks.

The service of new legal proceedings and pre-action letters on HMRC should be via email during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

A new UK Government funded walk-through coronavirus testing facility opened yesterday in the University of Aberdeen’s Roy Strathdee building.

A haulage firm owner who used the encrypted messaging platform EncroChat to lead a criminal network which moved drugs and dirty cash across Europe has been convicted.

Parliament is calling for new EU revenue sources to invest in Europe’s future and support the Covid-19 recovery without burdening taxpayers.

The agreement between Israel, the UAE and Bahrain has created some diplomatic respite which the Europeans may be able to use to revive discussions about the fate of a future Palestinian state.

On 2 July 2018, a £100 million satellite called CryoSat-2 was completing its daily rounds of monitoring ice caps back on Earth from an orbital vantage point 700 kilometres above us, when mission controllers spotted a chunk of space debris hurtling towards it at 17,000 miles per hour.

Hertfordshire County Council has been asked to review its social care practices to ensure it meets its Care Act duties to help people keep their home tidy.

FDA National Officer Allan Sampson yesterday responded to the announcement that the First and Deputy First Ministers of Northern Ireland had failed to appoint a new head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service.

Finance Minister Rebecca Evans yesterday welcomed the measures set out by the Chancellor for a new Job Support Scheme, but warns that the scheme falls short on much needed training investment and measures to help job creation.

Mark Lumley, Socitm’s newest vice-president, on his career so far and helping Hounslow staff work from home during the pandemic.

Blog posted by: Paul Carter, 24 September 2020 – Categories: A Brilliant Civil Service, Health & Wellbeing.

Essential maintenance work to strengthen the bridges on the A55 at junction 27 is now underway.

The arrest of Hong Kong pro-democracy activist Joshua Wong on 24 September is the latest in a troubling series of arrests of pro-democracy activists since the summer. 

Blog posted by: Allan Thomson – PPM Product Ambassador, AXELOS, 24 September 2020.

Secretary of State for Wales Simon Hart has visited Wrexham to see how local businesses are recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic and focussing on future growth.

People arriving in the UK from these destinations from 4am Saturday 26 September 2020 will need to self-isolate for 2 weeks.

Many organisations including Socitm are working to provide guidance on digital ethics, writes William Barker.

Businesses seeking to win government work must set out how they will also deliver social value priorities, following new measures launched yesterday.

Today, HMICFRS has published a report on the St Helena Police Service.

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s securities markets regulator, yesterday launched a Consultation Paper (CP) reviewing the reference data and transaction reporting obligations under the Market in Financial Instruments Regulation (MiFIR). 

A simple set of suggestions to counter terrorist and violent extremist groups’ recruitment efforts during the pandemic.

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has fined Digital Growth Experts Limited (DGEL) £60,000 for sending thousands of nuisance marketing texts at the height of the pandemic.

Lessons from the CMA’s investigation into Spire Healthcare's illegal agreement to fix the price of initial consultations for private self-pay patients.

TUC Regional Secretary Bill Adams yesterday responded to the chancellor’s statement announcing a winter protection plan for workers and the economy.

Sports Technology and Innovation Group, formed of sport, health and tech experts, to work with sport bodies to explore high-tech solutions to get fans back into venues.

Tens of thousands of jobs will be supported by the Scottish Government’s new £24 billion Draft Infrastructure Investment Plan (IIP).

Ten thousand UK volunteers will be invited to join a leading phase 3 COVID-19 vaccine trial.

The Chair of the Procedure Committee, Rt Hon Karen Bradley MP, yesterday announced a major Procedure Committee inquiry at an event at the Institute for Government.

The new Migration Pact is insufficient for the majority of EP groups. Some demand compulsory relocation of refugees; others want a firmer stance on irregular arrivals.

A collation of case studies from techUK’s Local Public Services Committee council & public sector partners on how they’ve innovatively responded to the crisis...

Environment Secretary George Eustice yesterday outlined the UK's vision for tackling biodiversity loss at home and abroad.

Around a tonne of cocaine, concealed within a load of fruit, has been seized at Dover, as part of a joint National Crime Agency and Police Scotland Organised Crime Partnership investigation. 

The Covert Human Intelligence Sources (CHIS) Bill will underpin the longstanding work of intelligence and law enforcement agencies.

Economy Minister Ken Skates is encouraging everyone in mid and south west Wales to have their say on how the economies of both regions should look in the future.

CBI's response to the Chancellor's Winter Economic Plan.

The FCA has begun criminal proceedings against three former employees of Redcentric Plc: Fraser Fisher, former Chief Executive; Timothy Coleman, former Chief Financial Officer; and Estelle Croft, a former finance director.

Blog posted by: Matthew Moran 24 September 2020.

The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) has completed the refurbishment of a hangar at RAF Waddington to convert it into a joint training facility.

The number of nurses in the NHS in England has increased by 14,199 compared with last year, and the number of doctors has risen by 9,283 .

Autumn Budget Revision outlines latest funding allocations.

Measures from the Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act extended to relieve pressure on businesses dealing with coronavirus.

On 17 June, the European Commission presented a European strategy to accelerate the development, manufacturing and deployment of vaccines against COVID-19. 

Two-thirds of water companies reported a fall in written complaints from their customers last year – but a rapid improvement is needed from two of England’s suppliers.

Coverage for all routine childhood vaccinations administered to children under five in England in 2019-20 were published yesterday.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has begun an investigation after two men died following a Greater Manchester Police (GMP) pursuit.

Passengers across Wales will benefit from an additional £84.6 million of Welsh Government funding for the bus industry, which will help companies meet the challenges of coronavirus and run more services.

A panel of leading economists and trade exports will help DIT develop cutting-edge trade models to reflect the modern economy and impact of Covid.

The Chief Statistician released figures that show that in 2019, Scottish registered fishing vessels landed 393 thousand tonnes of sea fish and shellfish with a gross value of £582 million. 

The Scottish Government has now committed more than £350 million to support communities during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

A trial is being carried out to make government services easier to use online.

Open letter from UK Information Commissioner Elizabeth Denham to UK organisations.

Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee Chair Comments on the new measures announced today by the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Today, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) published its updated risk assessment regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, alongside a set of guidelines for non-pharmaceutical interventions (such as hand hygiene, physical distancing, cleaning and ventilation).

Digital Secretary announces line-up of task force to advise on bold interventions to open up and grow the telecoms market following decision to ban Huawei.

Artificial intelligence (AI) affects our lives more and more. Learn about the opportunities and threats for security, democracy, businesses and jobs.

The public is being urged to download the app in order to help reduce the spread of the virus.

Blog posted by: Dr Liz Mear, 23 September 2020.

NICE to reinforce the importance of collaborative working with system partners to ensure a more integrated approach to safety recommendations made in NICE guidance.

Scientists from the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) have been working with soldiers, aircrew and industry partners on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire in a unique experiment to see how humans and a new generation of smart machines can partner to change the way that military operations are conducted.

People across Wales and England are being urged to download the NHS COVID-19 app to help stop the spread of coronavirus and protect themselves and their loved ones as case numbers rise.

Government will explore new options for a UK satellite navigation and timing capability programme to support the nation’s critical infrastructure.

Members of Parliament’s Tourism Task Force reiterate that the tourism sector needs EU-level coordination and substantial support to give SMEs a chance of survival.

Winter Economy Plan speech as delivered by Chancellor Rishi Sunak.

Figures reported by NHS organisations on staff sickness absence linked to coronavirus (COVID-19) have been published for the first time today.

DIT has removed 175 barriers to trade across 61 countries worldwide, opening new global markets for British exporters.

Framework to support the recovery and re-mobilisation of specialist pain management services.

The Adam Smith Institute has released the following statement in response to the Winter Economy Plan.

After an undiplomatic statement by the Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson about the Serbian President, Moscow apologised to Belgrade. Was this an isolated incident or a sign of a deeper rift between Russia and Serbia?

September 2020 editions of Energy Trends and Energy Prices published.

The First Minister launched an urgent investigation in April to understand the reasons for the higher risk of coronavirus among BAME communities.

The public support for the NHS during the first part of the COVID-19 crisis was “remarkable and humbling” and this support will be needed again as a second wave hits at a time when the health service’s workforce is overstretched, and faces chronic staff shortages, the NHS Confederation has said.

The DCMS Committee is urging the government to take immediate action to enable the cultural and sporting sectors to recover from the impact of Covid-19.

This event write up brings together the ideas generated at Reform and Imperial College London's policy hackathon 'Realising Smart Regulation in Healthcare'.

Funding available to develop capabilities to operate in hazardous environments without physically being present.

With new coronavirus-related restrictions for sport announced, we've compiled answers on what is and isn't allowed.

Citizens Advice has found that seven million people (14% of UK adults) have been unable to receive their post at some point over the last decade. 

On Wednesday, the EP’s Committee on Culture and Education called for swift and concrete measures to close the digital education gap in Europe.

The Environment Agency has launched the first in a series of new support leaflets to help North East communities be better prepared for flooding.

This blog was written by Becky Rice and originally published on the World Habitat website.

Amidst the unprecedented challenges facing the UK economy and wider society, experience is showing that where there is strong collaboration between the public and private sectors, the outcomes are better.

The Government has launched a call for evidence on the impact of loot boxes in video games, to examine concerns they may encourage or lead to problem gambling.

Scale and urgency of the situation demands joint working to find solutions.

The CIPD responds to the Prime Minister’s statement on new measures to help stop the spread of COVID-19

NHS carrying 40,000 nursing vacancies with tens of thousands leaving every year, and 36% of current workforce considering leaving in the next year.

One in eight employed before pandemic are now out of work, more than twice the UK average, according to new analysis by think tank 

The European Commission has approved the modification of nine more Cohesion policy operational programmes in Spain, worth a total of €1.2 billion from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) to alleviate the impact of the coronavirus outbreak.

Digital Secretary announces line-up of task force to advise on bold interventions to open up and grow the telecoms market in the UK.

PM Boris Johnson will address a UN Climate Action Roundtable hosted by the UN Secretary-General.

As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to cause disruption to people’s lives, Dr Wayne Harrison, MD and Founder of the peer-to-peer learning app, Peer Tutor, explores how the ever-present threat of another lockdown might further increase the attainment gap between learners from different economic backgrounds.

Statement given by the Information Commissioner Elizabeth Denham on the NHS COVID-19 app.

UK retail sales volumes grew at the fastest rate since April in the year to September, according to the CBI’s latest monthly Distributive Trades Survey. Grocers were the primary driver of the expansion, with the overwhelming majority reporting rising sales volumes.

Danny Mortimer, deputy chief executive of the NHS Confederation, responded to the Public Accounts Committee's 'NHS Nursing Workforce' report 

Press remarks given yesterday by Executive Vice-President Valdis Dombrovskis on the Capital Markets Union and Digital Finance.

English councils are facing a financial double whammy, with increases in costs and losses in income as a result of the COVID-19 crisis coming on top of underlying upwards pressures on spending, especially for adults’ and children’s social care services. 

The FCA yesterday launched a consultation on its approach to the authorisation and supervision of international firms operating in the UK.

Blog posted by: Edward Obeng 23 September 2020.

The Overseas Operations Bill for service personnel and veterans was yesterday laid before Parliament for its Second Reading.

NHS COVID-19 app launches to help control coronavirus (COVID-19) transmission.

The Department for Education has launched new online resources to inspire children to get active to mark National Fitness Day 2020.

Amendments to Bill proposed to safeguard freedom of speech.

Cllr Nesil Caliskan, Chair of the Local Government Association’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board, responded to new measures introduced by the Government to strengthen the Modern Slavery Act 

New minimum standards to improve working conditions and a review of 12-hour shifts are needed to address exhaustion and burnout among nurses and midwives, according to a new report from The King’s Fund, commissioned by the RCN Foundation.

The Council and the European Parliament reached a provisional agreement to support fishermen affected by difficult stocks situations in the Baltic Sea.

Provider collaboration in urgent and emergency care Our provider collaboration reviews (PCRs) explore how systems have worked to meet the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Residents of a care home can now video call their families for the first time thanks to a new ultrafast broadband connection co-ordinated by NHS Digital.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has issued national recommendations to improve public understanding of how National Police Air Service (NPAS) helicopters operate in emergencies following an investigation into a complaint about their use during the Grenfell Tower fire in June 2017.

A new charter that puts quality, sustainability and community at the heart of planning was yesterday launched by the Minister for Housing and Local Government, Julie James.

Former UK International Trade Secretary Dr Liam Fox pledges to get small businesses trading across the globe.

Scotland’s GDP increased by 6.8% in July, according to statistics announced yesterday by the Chief Statistician. 

The Conference of Presidents (EP President and leaders of political groups) on Tuesday adopted the calendar of hearings of Mairead McGuinness and Valdis Dombrovskis.

In the spotlight: the growing specialism of legal project management.

National Infrastructure Commissioner Bridget Rosewell yesterday (22 September 2020) addressed a virtual conference organised by the Westminster Business Forum to discuss developing the economy throughout the Cambridge-Milton Keynes-Oxford Arc. 

Speech given at the Creating Communities Conference 2020.

TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady yesterday responded to the Prime Minister’s announcement on the new coronavirus restrictions.

CBI Scotland yesterday responded to First Minister's announcement of new COVID-19 restrictions.

Statement made to the House of Commons by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Michael Gove.

Poor body image is a growing problem, and not just for teenage girls and young women – that’s the main message from the written evidence which the Women and Equalities Committee received for this new inquiry.

MEPs debated ways to secure a quick and safe supply of COVID-19 vaccines on Tuesday, with representatives of pharmaceutical companies, research , and civil society.

The fourth UK-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiating round took place from 8 September to 18 September 2020.

PM Boris Johnson spoke to Yoshihide Suga to congratulate him on his recent appointment as Prime Minister of Japan.

Today, the European Commission is proposing a new Pact on Migration and Asylum, covering all of the different elements needed for a comprehensive European approach to migration.

Digital Infrastructure Minister Matt Warman spoke about ongoing work by the government and telecoms industry to boost the UK's world class digital connectivity.

The government yesterday announced further national measures to address rising cases of coronavirus in England.

An agenda for engagement with Turkey, warts and all.

Government has launched a consultation to scale up green gas and reduce emissions from the gas grid.

The NHS yesterday announced that Dr Hilary Cass OBE, former President of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, will lead an independent review into gender identity services for children and young people.

Blog posted by: Richard Morton, Head of Accessibility at GDS and Nancy Hull, Communications and Campaigns Manager at GDS, 23 September 2020.

Hospitality businesses in Wales will have to close at 10pm, as new measures are introduced in Wales to prevent a fresh coronavirus crisis, First Minister Mark Drakeford yesterday announced.

In recognition of his outstanding contribution to the profession, Dstl’s Dr Bryn Hughes has been elected as a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering.

More women than ever are working in IT roles across the UK (326,000 in total) and now make up a record 20% share of the specialist IT workforce – according to new analysis from BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT.

TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady yesterday commented on the government’s announcement on its response to the Gender Recognition Act consultation.

For weeks, people in Belarus have taken to the streets to protest the fraudulent Presidential elections and the wave of repression that followed. 

Blog posted by: Allan Thomson – PPM Product Ambassador, AXELOS, 22 September 2020.

Rail Minister highlights how volunteers and enhanced cleaning will make journeys simpler and safer.

The aquaculture sector contributed approximately £885 million to the wider Scottish economy and supported 11,700 jobs in 2018, according to new research.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson addressed the nation on coronavirus.

The EU needs a “robust, comprehensive and positive agenda” to effectively protect and reinforce EU values, according to the Civil Liberties Committee.

Blog posted by: Jen Allum – Head of GOV.UK, 22 September 2020 – Categories: GOV.UK.

Access a wide range of services and simplify the management and maintenance of your estate.

CBI yesterday responded to the Labour Leader conference speech.

Nicholas Boys Smith appointed to establish a new design body, tasked with driving up design standards.

Financial accounts of political parties and accounting units in the United Kingdom, with income and expenditure of £250,000 or less, have been published today by the Electoral Commission.

The National Lottery Community Fund is today announcing £2.7 million of grants to over fifty projects that are helping tackle the big issues affecting communities, such as supporting victims of domestic violence, mental health support for families living with health conditions and reducing isolation.

Following the recent release of the FinCEN papers, Rt Hon. Mel Stride MP, Chair of the Treasury Committee has written to Government Ministers, HMRC and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to answer a series of questions.

The European Commission is proposing an upgrade of the Single European Sky regulatory framework which comes on the heels of the European Green Deal. 

techUK is delighted to announce that Lesley Kipling, Chief Security Advisor at Microsoft is this month's Cloud Security Champion.

Business Secretary Alok Sharma urges all FTSE 350 companies to meet the mark of 33% women on boards by the end of December 2020.

Thirteen schools certified under the CyberFirst Schools initiative which rewards excellence in cyber security education.

Government's response to the transparency in supply chains consultation sets out new measures to hold businesses and public bodies accountable for tackling modern slavery.

The CBI yesterday responded to the Prime Minister’s Commons statement where he has laid out new coronavirus measures in England.

Denmark, Greece, Hungary and Sweden yesterday joined Germany and Romania as host states of the rescEU medical equipment reserve. 

Manufacturer output volumes in the three months to September fell at a slower pace than in August, according to the latest CBI monthly Industrial Trends Survey.

The FCA yesterday published the final report of its market study into the pricing of home and motor insurance.

Blog posted by: Elizabeth Harrin, 22 September 2020.

New Public Health England research suggests that people infected with both viruses between January and April were more at risk of severe illness and death.

Address to the nation on 22 September 2020.

Blog posted by: Richard Groombridge, Product and Data Development Manager at GeoPlace, 22 September 2020.

On Monday, Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya urged MEPs to continue supporting the creation of a new Belarus “admired by the world”.

Digital technology can bring huge benefits to the health and wellbeing of people with dementia and their carers, a pathfinder project has found.

A Hertfordshire Constabulary officer who was convicted of misconduct in public office has been dismissed without notice following an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) and a subsequent police disciplinary panel hearing.

The Welsh Government is further extending measures to protect businesses affected by coronavirus from eviction until the end of 2020, Minister for Economy, Transport and North Wales Ken Skates has announced.

Everyone is encouraged to submit sounds for inclusion in inspiring musical soundscape to be heard by millions at UK Pavilion.

Household restrictions and 10pm closing time for hospitality settings.

Speech given yesterday by President Charles Michel to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the United Nations.

Statement given yesterday on the introduction of ERMAs to support the UK's recovery and fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

Blog posted by: Richard Etienne, Head of Leadership Communications, Black Asian Minority Ethnic (BAME) Network Co-Chair, Department for International Trade, 21 September 2020.

Leicester-based Metro Boulot Dodo (MBD) have released their latest VR project to mark the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower voyage.

The Government has launched a cross-sector Working Group with industry to assess and make recommendations, as an interim step, on ways to tackle deferred, small pension pots.

CBI Wales yesterday responded to latest news on local lockdowns.

Dame Gillian Guy, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice, responded to the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) announcement 

Now more than ever, your buying decisions have the power to really make a difference. That’s why your opinion matters to us, so that we can develop agreements that help you buy better.

COP26 President Alok Sharma at the New York Climate Week Event, “COP26 and the Zero Carbon Growth Agenda”, hosted by the UN Race to Zero campaign in partnership with the Climate Group (21 September 2020).

The Government has announced that rail franchising has been replaced with new Emergency Recovery Measures Agreements (ERMAs).

The Council yesterday decided to impose targeted restrictive measures on two persons responsible for human rights abuses in Libya and three entities involved in violating the UN arms embargo in place for Libya.

Residential property transactions rose 15.6% in August following introduction of stamp duty holiday.

As wildfires continue to rage in North and South America, Met Office Chief Scientist Professor Stephen Belcher examines what has led to the potentially record-breaking scale of fires and what science is needed to contain the risks. 

A joint statement from the UK CMOs recommending that the UK COVID-19 alert level move from level 3 to level 4.

Report summarising what has been achieved for Scottish Water customers in the fourth quarter of 2019 to 2020.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson made a statement on coronavirus to the House of Commons.

Niall Dickson, chief executive of the NHS Confederation, which represents organisations across the healthcare sector, responded to the briefing from England’s chief medical officer and the UK’s chief scientific adviser 

The three European Supervisory Authorities (EBA, EIOPA and ESMA – ESAs) have issued their first joint risk assessment Report of the financial sector since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Council yesterday adopted a set of conclusions on the role of a deepened and fully functioning Single Market for a strong economic recovery and a competitive and sustainable European Union.

Banks and financial infrastructure are emerging as an expanding front in geopolitics.

Delivered by Minister for Industry and Business Nadhim Zahawi by video, 21 September 2020.

Hospitals, mental health and community trusts in England are set to receive a multi million-pound boost to help recruit thousands more nurses.

Minister for Women and Equalities, Liz Truss, has today [Tuesday 22 September] set out the government’s response to the consultation on the Gender Recognition Act 2004.

Informal childcare and caring arrangements will be allowed to continue across the nation, the Health Secretary yesterday announced.

Message from the 4 UK chief medical officers on the UK alert level.

Cllr Ian Hudspeth, Chairman of the Local Government Association’s Community Wellbeing Board, responded to the publication of the Government’s adult social care winter plan and the Social Care COVID-19 Support Taskforce report

The European Supervisory Authorities (EBA, EIOPA and ESMA – ESAs) yesterday published a survey seeking public feedback on presentational aspects of product templates, pursuant to Article 8(3), Article 9(5) and Article 11(4) of the Regulation on sustainability‐related disclosures in the financial services (SFDR).

Sir Patrick Vallance and Professor Chris Whitty yesterday gave a data briefing on coronavirus.

National Parks dominate, but can towns and cities learn from Manchester?

New system will end franchising model and deliver a simpler, effective model through high performance targets and simplified journeys.

Five pioneering early stage businesses have located their businesses at Daresbury Laboratory where cutting edge research facilities, on-site expertise and business support will help them take their businesses to the next level.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF have signed a new collaborative framework which will accelerate joint public health efforts that put the most marginalized and vulnerable populations first.

PM Boris Johnson had calls with the First Ministers of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and the deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland (21 September 2020).

Christopher Snowdon responds to latest coronavirus measures

Equality and Human Rights Commission Chief Executive, Rebecca Hilsenrath has commented on the human rights implications of restrictions on people’s lives due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Association for Project Management (APM) board trustee Debbie Lewis has officially become the organisation’s new chair, following her election by the Board.

Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock yesterday spoke about the government response to the recent acceleration of coronavirus, including an isolation support payment and testing allocation.

CBI yesterday responded to Shadow Chancellor speech.

Nigel Huddleston yesterday addressed the Sport & Recreation Alliance's (SRA) annual conference.

The Council yesterday authorised the Commission to endorse, on behalf of the EU, the "Leaders' Pledge for Nature", in order to send a united signal to step up global ambition for biodiversity.

More than two million - almost one in 10 - homes in England do not have a working smoke alarm, while only a quarter of those with an alarm test it every month, analysis of new official figures show, prompting an urgent fire safety drive by councils and fire authorities.

Julian Jessop, IEA Economics Fellow, commented on the potential economic impact of a second national lockdown 

The European Commission yesterday adopted a time-limited decision to give financial market participants 18 months to reduce their exposure to UK central counterparties (CCPs).

techUK has joined a global industry coalition to raise concerns about the proposals in the Report by the Committee of Experts on Non-Personal Data Governance Framework.

Extension will allow more time for residents and businesses to apply for funding from eligible councils after coronavirus delays

This data provides information about the number and types of applications that HM Land Registry completed in August 2020.

The Welsh Government is spearheading a new drive to get people in Wales to recycle more in a bid to be the world leader in recycling.

Emergency measures introduced to help NHS cope with COVID-19 pandemic came at a huge cost to patients, Patients Association finds

The report, from the free market Adam Smith Institute, argues that student unions are perceived as ineffective by students, lack democratic legitimacy, and undermine freedom of association and expression. Extraordinarily, it finds that student unions that receive higher block grants from universities tend to be poorer performing in the National Student Survey. 

Twelve years on, we've just received the final recovery payment from the 2008 banking crisis through the administration of Heritable Bank.

Blog posted by: Emma De Vita 21 September 2020.

Over 200 British paratroopers made history this week when they jumped into southern Ukraine for the first time.

This year’s Stoptober campaign is calling on smokers to put their lungs first and breathe easier ahead of flu season.

People encouraged to continue recycling to help the environment.

Cllr James Jamieson, Chairman of the LGA, responds to the Government’s announcement of a new legal duty to self-isolate with councils responsible for distributing financial support to low-income households to help.

Schools serving more deprived pupils face major challenges over the next few years. Educational inequalities will have widened during lockdown. Planned increases in teacher starting salaries will also weigh more heavily on such schools, given they are more likely to employ new teachers.  

Blog posted by: Hollie Marshall, 21 September 2020 – Categories: A Brilliant Civil Service, Programme and project delivery.

Public Health Wales is urging all eligible people in Wales to have their free flu vaccine as NHS Wales begins its largest ever national flu vaccine programme.

Blog poste by: Debbie Parkinson, 21 September 2020.

Health Minister Vaughan Gething yesterday [Monday 21] announced a consultation on the draft Statutory Code of Practice on the Delivery of Autism Services, which had previously been delayed from April due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The COP26 Energy Transition Council was announced at 'Passing the Tipping Point: the next decade of clean energy cooperation'- a Clean Energy Ministerial side event, in a keynote speech given yesterday by Lord Callanan on behalf of COP President Designate Alok Sharma.

Women and children experiencing or at risk of violence and domestic abuse will have increased access to support, with £4.25 million of additional funding for charities and projects across Scotland.

Green waste from around the county tends to be fly-tipped near Plymouth at this time of year. Help stop it by checking the credentials of any waste removers.

COP26 President and Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Alok Sharma yesterday announced a series of new climate commitments at the launch of Climate Week NYC, which runs alongside the UN General Assembly.

Initial advice and recommendations to the Scottish Government on data and systemic issues from the Expert Reference Group on COVID-19 and Ethnicity.

Parliament calls for stronger measures to improve the integration of Roma people in the EU, who still face widespread discrimination and poverty.

Defra has published its Greening government: ICT and digital services strategy 2020-2025.

Blog posted by: Richard Young, 18 September 2020.

Officers have made two more arrests as part of an investigation into the abuse of nine girls in Rotherham, alleged to have taken place around 17 to 20 years ago.

The review will consider the barriers that impact on early years development, including social and emotional factors, and early childhood experiences.

CBI recently (18 September 2020) commented on latest Covid restrictions in North West, Midlands and Yorkshire.

National Apprenticeship Week 2021 aims to shine a light on the amazing work being done by employers and apprentices across the country.

The Welsh Government will ensure all pupils entitled to free school meals will continue to receive provisions if they are shielding or have to self-isolate thanks to £420,000 of funding confirmed by Education Minister Kirsty Williams.

Information Commissioner Elizabeth Denham talks about the regulatory work the ICO has been involved in regarding the England and Wales NHS COVID-19 app.

Department instead appearing to formulate policy on “anecdote, assumption and prejudice”; and shows far too little concern over damage caused by its failures on both the illegal and legitimate migrant populations.

During the fourth trilateral talks with Council and Commission, Parliament’s negotiators underline that a lot remains to be done before an acceptable agreement can be reached.

Blog posted by: Vanessa Schneider, 21 September 2020 – Categories: Accessibility, Content design, GDS team, People and skills.

Dozens more Afghan interpreters who supported British Armed Forces on the frontline in Helmand Province will be able to move to the UK as part of an expanded relocation scheme announced by Defence Secretary Ben Wallace and Home Secretary Priti Patel.

Make sure you check guidance before importing and exporting products which are covered by CITES.

A new report sets out how we must focus on reducing our dependence on single-use items and highlights the impact the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has had on people’s behaviour, with new single-use items becoming part of everyday life.

The EU must take measures towards more sensible use and disposal of pharmaceuticals to prevent risks to the environment and public health, says Parliament.

A hitherto little-noticed Russian political body may soon become more important and is worth following closely.

Companies House will be reformed to clamp down on fraud and money laundering, with directors unable to be appointed until their identity has been verified.

Emma Howard Boyd, Chair of the Environment Agency speaking at the Green Summit in Manchester.

Statement given recently (18 September 2020) by Dr Kelechi Nnoaham, Director of Public Health for Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board and Chair of the Incident Management Team (which includes Public Health Wales, Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Bridgend, Merthyr and Rhondda Cynon Taff local authorities and South Wales Police).

A new package has been announced to support and enforce self-isolation.

Economy Minister Ken Skates will today launch a national discussion on a new plan to help secure the future of manufacturing in Wales.

We give some clarity in the confusion about what sport and physical activity is and isn't allowed during local lockdowns.

New exhibition brings visitors face-to-face with the people behind the headlines, as IWM explores 100 years of refugee experiences.

TUC, ACTU and NZCTU publish joint statement on trade deal requirements to protect jobs and public services, and to raise global labour standards.

Coronavirus laws are being tightened in 4 more Welsh authorities – Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Merthyr Tydfil and Newport – following a sharp rise in cases, Health Minister Vaughan Gething today announced.

The European Commission recently (18 September 2020) confirmed its participation in the COVAX Facility for equitable access to affordable COVID-19 vaccines, following its expression of interest on 31 August and its announcement of a contribution of €400 million.

Blog posted by: Fatima Stuart – Project Management Consultant, Financial Services, 18 September 2020.

The Atlantic region is currently setting a record-breaking pace for the formation of tropical cyclones. 

Hundreds of organisations are stepping up to help Britain build back better by supporting smaller employers to give youth a chance and take advantage of the Government’s landmark Kickstart Scheme.

Scottish start-up Crover unveils world-first technology at the TechCrunch Start-up Battlefield 2020.

The EU is providing financial support to 18 Member States and the UK to transport essential medical items to Europe with funding totalling €150 million, through the Emergency Support Instrument (ESI). 

This POSTnote describes edge computing, the use of computing resources in close proximity to the place where data are processed within a network, and some of the opportunities and challenges associated with its use. It supplements POSTnote 629.

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has published data protection guidance for organisations mandated to collect customer and visitor information.

In our latest aggregation for IT hardware, we helped 8 customers save over £810,000 on equipment such as laptops, desktops and tablets, which was an average saving of 21%.

CBI recently (18 September 2020) commented on latest furlough scheme statistics.

The UK has secured £31 million in funding through the European Union’s mobility package to assist the UK’s coronavirus response.

Digital consultations helping people get the right care in the right place.

The funds will allow the EU to improve its chances of having an effective and safe vaccine available as soon as possible, and to step up COVID-19-related cohesion funding.

Government Digital Service (GDS) launch updated Digital Ethics Framework.

Restrictions on the use of metaldehyde.

The National Audit Office (NAO) recently (18 September 2020) reported that HM Treasury and the public bodies responsible for overseeing the cash system need to work together more effectively to achieve the government’s goal of safeguarding access to cash.

950,000 workers got back to work part-time in July according to new figures.

Shoppers in Wales must now wear face coverings and keep a two-metre social distance in shops and supermarkets in Wales in order to help prevent the further spread of Coronavirus, Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths has said.

A second contract with a pharmaceutical company recently (18 September 2020) came into force following the contract's formal signature between Sanofi-GSK and the Commission. 

The annual survey – in its twenty-third year and with 248 respondent firms – revealed a two-speed jobs market emerging with 51% of firms expecting to maintain or increase their permanent recruitment in the next 12 months and 46% planning to either reduce permanent recruitment or not recruit at all. 

Sophie works with organisations to support the selection, development and wellbeing of staff using the Judgement Index assessment. 

A new all ranks Common Room has officially opened at RAF Benson, enhancing the lived experience of RAF personnel and their families.

A new adult social care winter plan will aim to curb the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) infections in care settings throughout the winter months.

This report presents qualitative evidence on the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on people experiencing domestic abuse and other forms of violence against women/girls.

Structural anti-gypsyism must end, say MEPs, who demand measures to ensure Romani people have equal access to housing, education, healthcare and employment.

The government recently (18 September 2020) responded to the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse’s (IICSA) Westminster Investigation Report.

The latest national engagement survey conducted by Public Health Wales has revealed that 91 per cent of Welsh adults support local lockdowns in areas with increasing cases of Coronavirus.

IOPC are independently investigating the circumstances of a pursuit involving Nottinghamshire Police following which a motorcyclist was fatally injured in a collision in Mansfield.

The Help to Buy Wales scheme is to be extended for a third phase, the Minister for Housing and Local Government Julie James has announced.

Europe should support the cultural sector during the Covid-19 crisis, say MEPs in a resolution adopted on 17 September.

Former UK International Trade Secretary Dr Liam Fox says experienced leadership is needed as selection process continues.

High growth start-up companies and university spinout projects will receive grants to help them grow in the wake of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.