WIREDGOV

22 new free schools approved to open, aiming to help raise standards and give parents more choice.

Young entrepreneurs are being challenged to develop the technology of the future - from measuring air pollution to helping everyone stay healthy as they get older.

On a joint action day, supported by Eurojust, the French & Romanian authorities arrested 11 members of an organised crime group (OCG) involved in the smuggling of 308 migrants to the UK.

On Thursday, techUK’s Director of Market Programmes, Matthew Evans delivered a thought-provoking talk at the IoT World Europe Summit, which explored how key decision-makers can deliver a national digital twin (DTw) and how companies are already benefiting from this technology.

The top 9 food retailers publish January – March 2019 campylobacter results for fresh shop-bought UK-produced chickens.

Councils are being reminded by the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman that vulnerable people can choose who supports them through care reviews, after Suffolk County Council halted assessments for a couple’s care and support plans because of a dispute.

Baroness Blackwood yesterday spoke at the Association of British HealthTech Industries (ABHI) UK Market Conference.

About 40 NHS maintenance and facilities staff at Birmingham & Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, who face being transferred to a wholly owned subsidiary (WOS) designed to avoid paying tax, will strike for three days later this month.

Plans to introduce a large licensing scheme in parts of Newcastle have been scaled back after the Council listened to the concerns raised by the RLA.

As Universal Credit rolls out across the country, we have been checking in regularly with a foodbank in an area which is transitioning to UC to see if there has been any noticeable impact on the number of families with children using their services.

An international team of scientists have studied the intricate characteristics of Saturn’s mysterious rings in never-before-seen detail, it has been revealed in a paper published yesterday.

Ahead of the European Council meeting on 20 and 21 June, the EC is calling on leaders to make a push in advancing the negotiations on the EU's next long-term budget 2021-2027 so that an agreement can be reached by autumn.

Significant milestone as keys are formally handed over to the Scottish Secretary.

Ofwat has launched a consultation to make it compulsory for all water companies to meet new objectives about board leadership, transparency and governance, including the need to establish a purpose, strategy and set of values.

Three new general licences for the killing or taking of wild birds in England were issued today.

Funding announced to support worldwide cultural partnerships.

MOJ are pleased to announce that Her Majesty The Queen, on the recommendation of the Prime Minister, has appointed 6 new Commissioners to CCRC.

Guest blog: MHCLG has partnered with agency, dxw digital, to find out what support councils need to collaborate to deliver improved public services.

Science Minister Chris Skidmore yesterday set out how the government is backing emerging technologies, including quantum tech, in its modern Industrial Strategy.

NICE has hosted a parliamentary reception and awards ceremony in celebration of its 20th anniversary.

FCO Minister for Asia and the Pacific Mark Field yesterday spoke at the City of London Singapore Bicentennial Business Summit at the Old Library, Guildhall.

Deputy Economy Minister, Lee Waters yesterday encouraged Wales’ Public Service Boards to increase local procurement as part of his drive to create stronger local supply chains and build wealth in communities across Wales.

DCMS announce a £40 million investment in 5G testbed and trial projects across UK as part of plans to improve mobile connectivity.

The UK Multi-Annual National Control Plan (MANCP) has been revised and extended to March 2023.

Six new Commissioners have been appointed to the Criminal Cases Review Commission.

Investment hits a £1 billion milestone, showing the government’s modern Industrial Strategy is helping the UK lead the world in new technologies.

The Council has adopted binding targets for zero- and low-emission vehicles in public procurement in each member state.

Birmingham’s Town Hall Symphony Hall (THSH) is on course to create more spaces for people to perform and experience great work with support from Arts Council’s Capital funding programme.

New strategy sets outcomes Ofgem expects industry to achieve, so vulnerable consumers are not left behind by the pace of change in the energy industry

Government Car Service is well on track to meet ultra-low emission car targets, with electric vehicles making up nearly 23% of the entire fleet.

Glasgow Prestwick Airport will be advertised for sale as the Scottish Government looks to return the facility to the private sector.

The Environment Agency is today introducing an emergency byelaw to protect salmon in the River Severn and its estuary, after a review of recent data showed a significant reduction in salmon stock levels in the Severn.

The Chair of the Food Standards Agency (FSA) Heather Hancock has announced the appointment of 35 independent members to the FSA’s Scientific Advisory Committees.

Trucks on Europe's roads will be cleaner from 2025.  The Council has adopted Europe's first-ever CO2 emission standards for trucks and other heavy-duty vehicles. Under the new rules,

£153 million Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund funding, alongside £205 million from industry, will support commercialisation of quantum technologies.

Blog posted by: The Tackling Loneliness Strategy Team, 13 June 2019 – Categories: Health & Wellbeing.

The Help to Buy Scheme has increased home ownership and housing supply. However, many of those using the scheme would have been able to buy a home anyway, according to yesterday’s report by the National Audit Office (NAO).

More than nine out of 10 parents got one of their top three choices of primary or secondary school for their children this year.

Protecting Vulnerable Groups scheme to be mandatory.

Two men who hosted an online conferencing room to play horrific child sexual abuse footage have been jailed after a National Crime Agency investigation.

In future, scientific information supporting risk assessment in the food chain, and communication on food safety will be more transparent and easier to access for the citizens.  Moreover the governance of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) will be strengthened, with greater involvement of member states in it.

The Energy Data Taskforce, commissioned by Government, Ofgem, and Innovate UK, has set out five key recommendations that will modernise the UK energy system and...

Northern Ireland’s distilleries are contributing to the global Irish Whiskey renaissance.

A new report calls for higher standards in data sharing across the UK’s energy networks to improve its resilience and deliver better results for consumers and the environment – in line with recommendations made in the National Infrastructure Commission’s Data for the Public Good report.

Immigration Minister Caroline Nokes sat down with technology companies and start-ups to discuss the future immigration system.

Welsh Government, Sport Wales and Public Health Wales have come together to deliver the first phase of the £5.4 million Healthy and Active Fund (HAF) - aiming to improve mental and physical health by enabling the adoption of healthy and active lifestyles across Wales.

The Council Has adopted a Directive on work-life balance for parents & carers which aims to increase the participation of women in the labour market & the take-up of family-related leave & flexible working arrangements.  The new act also provides opportunities for workers to be granted leave to care for relatives who need support.

£1.4 million of UK Government funding allocated to battery projects across Wales.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) yesterday published the final report on its investigation in to Royal Bank of Scotland’s (RBS) treatment of small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) customers transferred to its Global Restructuring Group (GRG). 

Blog posted by: Veronika Kiesswetter, 13 June 2019.

Seeking nominations for honorary Queen’s Counsel.

Plans to add folic acid to flour in the UK could prevent up to 200 birth defects a year, Public Health Minister, Seema Kennedy, yesterday announced.

More fruit and vegetables, less processed red meat and sugar on the menu.

International Development Minister comments on the cases of Ebola in Uganda, near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Using online platforms to contribute small sums to political parties and non-party campaigners is an important and valuable way for voters to participate in our democracy. However, online platforms can open parties and campaigners to additional risk in relation to compliance with UK political finance law.

Trustee failed to protect people who came into contact with the charity.

NHS Surplus Land 2018/19 includes information on land and buildings which have been sold by the NHS, and land which has been retained but developed for housing.

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has fined Smart Home Protection Ltd £90,000 for making nuisance calls to people registered with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS).

How can it be right for a big person to hit a little person? Deputy Minister for Health and Social Services Julie Morgan has said in her final evidence session at the Children, Young People and Education Committee.

Three government backed projects are set to benefit from a share of £76 million to work on ground-breaking research through the modern Industrial Strategy.

Minister for Older People has written to UK government urging them to fully fund free licences.

Alok Sharma addresses leading employers on the government’s initiatives to support disadvantaged groups into work and support greater diversity.

The UK and Nepal have reaffirmed their strong friendship following a visit by Nepali Prime Minister Oli to the UK, and set out areas to deepen the relationship.

Only 16% of outstanding primary and secondary schools inspected this academic year retained their top Ofsted rating, according to official statistics published today.

Biggest shake up of divorce laws in 50 years aimed at reducing conflict and supporting children and families.

The UK and Portuguese Governments have signed a treaty that secures the rights of British and Portuguese citizens to stand and vote in local elections in each other’s countries after the UK leaves the EU.

The CMA has today announced its provisional finding that 4 Berkshire estate agents have broken competition law.

PwC have today published a report into the practical steps that can be taken to ensure a symbiotic integration of AI in healthcare.

The UK's rail network is set to become more efficient, greener and cleaner thanks to new funding for innovative ideas.

Emma Howard Boyd, Chair of the Environment Agency Speech to Resourcing the Future Conference 2019, London

The European Union Committee has published its twelfth report on Brexit-related international agreements.

Free online hub launched to help smaller firms improve their people management knowledge, processes and practices

For over two years now Collaborate has been a partner in Lankelly Chase’s action inquiry into how places can be supported to build the nine system behaviours that they have identified as foundational to system change. As Lankelly set out in their approach to change document,

Secretary of State's 'minded to' intervene decision in the acquisition of 30% stake in Lebedev Holdings Limited (LHL).

Scotland’s Chief Statistician today released the latest Council Tax Collection Statistics which provide Council Tax collection figures for Scottish local authorities, up to and including the financial year 2018-19.

techUK yesterday welcomed the announcement from Oliver Dowden of specific government actions to 'enable the creation of a ubiquitous digital identity market'.

Statement given yesterday by Stephen Hickey, UK Political Coordinator at the UN, at the Security Council Briefing on Mali.

NHS Health Scotland welcomes new regulations on the Nutritional Requirements for Food and Drink in Schools, published today by the Scottish Government.

Leading firms and organisations back game-changing action following landmark symposium.

5 Welsh and Irish Sea ports are set to benefit from a new €2.6 million EU-funded project to help turn them from passage points to key tourist sites – improving tourism opportunities, tourist experiences, and the livelihoods of coastal communities on both sides of the Irish Sea.

Today National Archives have published guidance with Arts Council England on public libraries and archives advocating within local authority planning.

Minister for Women & Equalities, Penny Mordaunt, yesterday announced that seven organisations in England have been awarded funding to support innovative projects which aim to help women back into work.

A report published today by the NHS Confederation outlines the views of new NHS chief executives on the changes in leadership approach and culture that they believe will be required if the NHS is to meet the ambitions of the Long Term Plan.

techUK members invited to join new cross-programme group on climate change strategy and resilience.

Science leaders together for the first time at Ministerial summit.

Ahead of the Euro Summit on 21 June 2019, the EC has taken stock of the progress made to deepen Europe's Economic and Monetary Union since the Five Presidents' Report and calls on Member States to take further concrete steps.

Blog posted by: Oliver Dowden CBE MP, Parliamentary Secretary for the Cabinet Office, 13 June 2019 – Categories: A Brilliant Civil Service, Civil Service Leaders, Skilled people.

617,000 people working less than 16 hours want more hours.

Ministers have scrapped unfair ‘same roof’ rule which denied compensation for some victims of violent crime.

Items discussed at the 6 June 2019 meeting of EU Transport Council including the first and third tranche of the mobility package, aviation taxation, climate strategy and aviation capacity.

Work to begin immediately on independent review.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of two significant breakthroughs in children’s rights legislation: The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Children Act 1989.

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) ran the CyberFirst Girls Competition, a nationwide contest to inspire and encourage young girls across the UK to consider IT at GCSE and to ultimately pursue a career in cyber security.

Some positive progress but Auditor General unable to give a clean bill of health to four health board accounts for third year running

The CBI responded to the Prime Minister's announcement that the UK will be the first country in the world to legislate to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Scotland’s Chief Statistician today released the latest Council Tax Reduction statistics. In March 2019, Scotland’s Council Tax Reduction scheme supported 477,800 households and the total weekly income forgone by local authorities was £6.4 million.

techUK teamed up with DeepMind to host a panel discussion on the fusion of AI and healthcare in the UK.

The UK held more inwards Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) stock than Germany and France combined by the end of 2018, according to the latest United Nations data released today.

An extensive criminal organisation, which supplied class A drugs and laundered millions of pounds in illicit profits, has been dismantled following an investigation by the joint NCA and Metropolitan Police Organised Crime Partnership (OCP).

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) yesterday confirmed it will introduce new rules in the Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) market, saving consumers around £40-60 million a year. 

The House of Commons has an opportunity to seize control of the Brexit agenda - and it should not stop at preventing a no deal but take steps to force the Government to bring forward a referendum bill by the end of July, the First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford, has said.

A new facility to transform manufacturing processes and make them more environmentally friendly, has opened today.

Baroness Blackwood yesterday spoke at CogX, the festival of artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technology.

More older workers and women are entering the UK labour market

Plans are part of TfL's Safer Junctions programme, which is making life-saving changes to 73 junctions across the capital.

New questions can be asked – but answering will be voluntary.

Statement given yesterday by Ambassador Jonathan Allen, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the Security Council briefing on Conflict Prevention and Mediation.

The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman has found Bolton Metropolitan Borough Council significantly reduced a disabled woman’s care package without properly assessing her needs.

The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has issued a Final Decision Notice under the Audit Enforcement Procedure and imposed sanctions against PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (“PwC”), and two partners Jaskamal Sarai and Arif Ahmad, in relation to the statutory audits of the financial statements of Redcentric plc for the financial years ending 31 March 2015 (“FY2015”) and 31 March 2016 (“FY2016”).

UK workers have enjoyed an unbroken period of real-terms wage growth since February 2018, new figures yesterday show – real total pay growing by 1.2% in the last year.

A new service will be introduced to improve the detection of advanced prostate cancer in Scotland.

To celebrate the UK’s involvement with one of the most globally-anticipated space missions, the James Webb Space Telescope, STFC is launching a new project to encourage thousands of British students to realise their inner space scientist by offering them new teaching resources that include 15,000 free books.

The Financial Conduct Authority’s rules on Buy Now Pay Later borrowing won’t stop people being hit by unexpected costs, says Citizens Advice.

New trains will help to support new jobs and homes across east and south east London.

Communities Secretary writes to UK Immigration Minister.

Ahead of the June European Council (Article 50), the EC has taken stock – in its fifth Brexit Preparedness Communication – of the EU's Brexit preparedness & contingency measures, particularly in light of the decision taken on 11 April by the European Council (Article 50), at the request of and in agreement with the UK, to extend the Article 50 period to 31 October 2019. 

Blog posted by: Rupert McNeil, Government Chief People Officer, 12 June 2019 – Categories: Civil Service Leaders, Diversity and inclusion, Health & Wellbeing.

Ireland is Wales’ closest and most important European partner – and the Welsh Government is determined to build closer relations with its nearest European neighbour, whether or not Brexit happens, Minister for International Relations Eluned Morgan will say today.

Niece and great nephews of British soldiers attend their relative's funeral 100 years after they were killed in World War 1.

£40 million is to be invested in 5G testbed and trial projects across UK industry as part of Government plans to improve mobile connectivity.

Extra funding to make homes warmer and promote carbon reduction.

Blog posted by: Charlotte Pickles, Director at Reform, 12 June 2019.

Cllr Ian Hudspeth, Chairman of the Local Government Association’s Community Wellbeing Board, responded to a report by Cochrane about reducing sugary drinks consumption 

An outbreak of American Foulbrood (AFB) has been found in an apiary near Blairgowrie in Perthshire.

About 1,000 NHS staff at Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust could face being transferred to a wholly owned subsidiary (WOS) designed to avoid paying tax.

UK Spectrum Policy Forum (SPF) have commissioned LS Telcom and Real Wireless to conduct studies.

£4.7 million government fund launched to drive up the recycling of hard-to-recycle materials.

The NCSC has published guidance for small businesses looking to prepare their response to and plan their recovery from a cyber incident.

Business rates payers in England will have bills that more accurately reflect current property values under new legislation.

The Minister for Finance, Rebecca Evans yesterday met with the Head of the Welsh Retail Consortium, Sara Jones, to explore opportunities to work together to help revive struggling high streets and town centres in Wales.

Nick Ville, director of policy at the NHS Confederation, responded to the Public Accounts Committee report on NHS waiting times

Conservative MPs who want to become Prime Minister must think beyond the immediate leadership contest and face the practical challenges of being head of government. 

The Food Standards Agency Chief Executive Jason Feeney yesterday welcomed the National Audit Office report ‘Ensuring food safety and standards’.

Blog posted by: John Edmonds, AXELOS PPM Portfolio Development Manager, 11 June 2019.

DASA, Dstl, and the Royal Navy have launched a multi-million pound funding competition to search for the future Naval operating environment.

The Carers Innovation Fund will invest in new projects to improve carers’ wellbeing.

There were 12,642 births and 15,306 deaths registered in Scotland between 1 January and 31 March 2019, according to provisional figures released by National Records of Scotland. 

Cllr Ian Hudspeth, Chairman of the Local Government Association’s Community Wellbeing Board, responds to a joint report by the Health Foundation and The King’s Fund calling for public health funding cuts to be reversed.

The UK's position on post-Brexit sanctions is unclear, fragmented, incoherent and risks national security, says the Foreign Affairs Committee report into the future of UK sanctions policy.

The CMA has cleared PayPal’s completed takeover of rival mobile payments company iZettle after an in-depth, Phase 2, investigation.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) and other departments must work together to make food regulation financially sustainable and manage emerging risks such as climate change, population growth, crop disease, food fraud and potentially importing more food from non-EU countries, according to yesterday’s report by the National Audit Office (NAO).

Kent Police officers who arrested a man who later died after swallowing a bag of drugs did not breach standards of professional behaviour.

The Welsh Government is investing over £650,000 in a growing fintech company in order to create 80 well paid jobs at a new software development hub in Cardiff.

Aromatherapy is seeing a resurgence as UK industry exports of essential oils totalled £179.5 million in 2018.

Young carers aged 11-18 are to benefit from a new nationwide Young Scot package of discounts and opportunities.

Homelessness projects are today (WEDNESDAY 12 JUNE 2019) the focus of over £3 million in National Lottery funding, set to increase third sector led provision, helping prevent Scots losing their tenancies and becoming homeless.

Blog posted by: Kevin Cunnington – GDS Director General, 12 June 2019 – Categories: People and skills, Transformation.

The speech was delivered during London Tech Week.

Prime Minister Theresa May yesterday met with Nepalese Prime Minister KP Oli in Downing Street.

Only 38% of NHS trusts meeting 62-day waiting times standard for referral to treatment for cancer patients.

Emma Howard Boyd Chair of the Environment Agency has commented on the Prime Minister's announcement to set a target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

The Government’s Tree Champion Sir William Worsley has been reappointed to continue his drive to accelerate tree planting rates.

Blog posted by: Louise Miller – Senior content designer, GDS and Martin Jordan – Head of Service Design, GDS, 11 June 2019 – Categories:Service design, Transformation.

Lived experience shapes future plans for adult social care support.

Launching an interactive guide showing the pathways into the tech sector.

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt has called for calm and urged the Hong Kong government to listen to concerns about its proposed extradition laws.

Responding to today’s government commitment to ‘net zero’ greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, National Infrastructure Commission Chair Sir John Armitt today said the recognition of the threats from climate change was an important step, but must be followed up by tangible actions to prepare the UK economy for a low-emissions future.

Statement on the Independent Commission report on Sexual Misconduct, Accountability and Culture Change in Oxfam International.

The UK Home Secretary’s proscription announcement raised expectations, but those that cheered are likely to be disappointed.

Members of the public are being invited to take a detailed look at the preferred options to replace the A55’s only roundabouts.

RUSI today reacts to the latest Foreign Affairs Committee report on UK sanctions policy.

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published its Final Report on Frequent batch auctions (FBAs). ESMA identified 4main characteristics of FBA trading systems through its call for evidence and intends to issue supervisory guidance on pre-trade transparency and on the price determination process of FBAs.

Legislation laid today puts the UK on the path to become the first major economy to set net zero emissions target in law.

We are pleased to announce MI5 is a signatory of the Business in the Community (BITC) Race at Work Charter, reaffirming our commitment to creating a truly diverse and inclusive workplace that delivers operational success and where everyone can reach their full potential.

A new video goes behind the scenes of the training and work of some of the most important workers at the Dstl sites.

Group will focus on creating a new statutory framework

Scotland’s Chief Statistician today released Scottish Annual Business Statistics (SABS) 2017.

The Law Commission has begun reviewing the system of intermediated securities in order to identify potential issues for both investors and companies.

LOTI is an opportunity to examine how industry and local public services can work together to improve outcomes and drive innovation.

Jeremy Wright yesterday outlined the UK's commitment to developing AI that benefits the economy and society.

The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman yesterday called for a national review into years of potential failings to ensure patient safety at the North Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (NEP).

National Statement as Delivered by Baroness Buscombe, UK Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, yesterday at the UN Conference of State Parties to the CRPD.

Ahead of a statement on the National Assembly, Counsel General and Brexit Minister Jeremy Miles has reaffirmed his commitment to those EU citizens who have chosen to make Wales their home.

techUK comments on the news that BEIS is looking to ‘rewrite the regulation rulebook to ensure UK leads tech revolution and empowers consumers’.

Made By Sport gets the royal seal of approval as it sets out £40 million funding target.

The EC has prohibited the creation of a joint venture by Tata Steel and ThyssenKrupp under the EU Merger Regulation. The merger would have reduced competition and increased prices for different types of steel. The parties did not offer adequate remedies to address these concerns.

Legislation to support people who struggle to pay their fuel bills, targeting those who need help the most, was yesterday passed unanimously by the Scottish Parliament.

Consultation and new DCMS-Cabinet Office Digital Identity Unit to launch in the coming weeks.

The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) has responded to news that the UK Government will bring forward legislation to set a Net Zero target into law.

Prime Minister Theresa May’s speech given yesterday at the centenary conference of the International Labour Organisation in Geneva.

New measures will transform the UK’s regulatory system to support innovation while empowering consumers.

Assessments can help inform teachers’ professional judgements.

On Monday, the world’s most influential AI leaders and technologists descended on CogX Festival in London to discuss some of the most prominent opportunities and challenges facing industry, government and academia at the advent of the fourth industrial revolution.

Secretary of State Steve Barclay met with Secretary of State for European Affairs Amélie de Montchalin.

The House of Lords debates the Communications Committee's report "Regulating in a digital world" on Wednesday 12 June.

A West Midlands Police officer has been cleared of assault following an incident in which man who had been detained suffered a head injury.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) yesterday formally launched an investigation to find out whether people are being treated fairly when buying their home.

The story of a Cornish fishing town’s hunt for a new family doctor has a happy ending after health chiefs stepped in.

Statement given yesterday by Ambassador Jonathan Allen, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the Security Council briefing on Missing Persons in Armed Conflict.

A measure of the actual emissions or removals in Scotland. Includes international aviation and shipping. Used for UK and international comparisons.

Public sector earnings growth provides a temporary boost to whole-economy wages.

TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady yesterday commented on the government’s announcement of plans for a legal target of net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

More than 28,000 people started apprenticeships last year.

The aim of this competition is to make adult social care provision more effective and efficient.

Statements given yesterday from International Development Secretary Rory Stewart and government spokesperson.

In a unanimously-agreed report published yesterday, the Welsh Affairs Committee recommends that the UK Government should hand over control of Air Passenger Duty in Wales to the Welsh Government by 2021.

Legislation to introduce an opt-out system of organ and tissue donation for deceased donors has been passed by the Scottish Parliament.

The reply to requisition function is the quickest and simplest way to respond to a request for information (requisitions).

Minister for Finance and Trefnydd Rebecca Evans has issued a stark warning that Wales still doesn’t know what will happen to millions of pounds of regional investment due to a lack of clarity from the UK government.

The Minister of State for Asia and the Pacific yesterday spoke about how the UK is positioning itself to seize opportunities as we enter a new tech era.

Cllr Anntoinette Bramble, Chair of the LGA's Children and Young People Board, responds to a report from the Children’s Commissioner warning that too many vulnerable young children are missing out on the vital speech and language help they need to get ready for school.

The directive on special safeguards for children starts now applies. It is the last in a set of six EU directives guaranteeing procedural rights for people across the EU, completing the full set of rights.

Almost £88 million of National Lottery funding has been awarded to over 3,000 projects across England this quarter. 

UK Armed Forces personnel will take part in Exercise Swift Response, a major multi-national exercise taking place across Europe this month.

The money will be spent on widening bridges, building roads and connecting utilities so up to 8,500 properties can be built.

Push for more flexible working as legal practices celebrate century of diversity.

Additional resources needed to combat fraud and keep pace with the ever-changing methods of fraudsters

The Women and Equalities Committee publishes report on the use of non-disclosure agreements in discrimination cases

Regulator finds culture of "tolerating poor behaviour" at Oxfam GB and concludes charity “failed to meet promises made”

NHS England has outlined a series of practical plans and actions designed to help young carers who may be ‘hidden’, unpaid and under the age of sixteen.

A collaboration between hospitals and pharmacies in Cheshire and Merseyside has saved the NHS £9.5 million – and improved patient care.

Wales will accept the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) recommendation for a 95% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and go further with an ambition to reach net-zero, Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs, Lesley Griffiths yesterday confirmed.

Government announces £23 million of funding for businesses large and small to develop the latest technology for electric car batteries.

There were 20,255 new build homes completed across all sectors over the year ending December 2018, an increase of 15%, or 2,669 homes, on the previous year, and the highest number of annual completions since 2008.

Indian sports delegation presents exporting opportunities to British businesses to encourage overseas trade.

Protecting and improving the nation’s vital infrastructure – such as energy, transport and digital communications – is about to become easier, as the first successful results of a world-leading computing project are being showcased.

Chancellor announces date of the next UK-China EFD.

Anne Longfield, the Children’s Commissioner for England, is today (Tuesday) publishing a new report “We need to talk: Access to speech and language therapy“, which shines a light on spending on speech and language therapy services (SLT) for children across the country to help identify where children who need support are falling through the gaps.

Read techUK’s take on the Government’s new Technology Innovation Strategy.

The CMA yesterday issued its legally-binding Order to help pension trustees make better decisions for £1.6 trillion of retirement assets that they oversee.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is appealing for witnesses to a fatal road traffic collision in which a marked police car collided with a pedestrian in Mitcham on Wednesday, 5 June.

Blog posted by: Sir Mark Sedwill, 10 June 2019 – Categories: A Brilliant Civil Service, Civil Service Leaders.

Do you know how many sheep there are in Scotland? Or how much milk is produced? Or the size of the food & drink industry? These and many other key agricultural statistics can be found in the handy pocket-sized Facts and Figures card for the Agriculture Sector published by the Scottish Government today.

#healthtechUK event kicks off London Tech Week.

Statement given yesterday by Ambassador Stephen Hickey, UK Political Coordinator at the UN Security Council debate on the UN Mission in Kosovo

Four firearms, a quantity of ammunition, a CS gas canister as well as cannabis plants and hydroponics equipment were seized.

Latest ONS data shows rapidly growing demand from the USA helped UK exports climb to a record high of £645.8 billion in the 12 months to April 2019.

Health Minister, Vaughan Gething, has set-out how over £10m of support will transform eye care services in Wales as a new performance measure is published for the first time today.

Speech at City & Financial Global ‘Future of UK Competition Law’ summit

Over 11,000 complaints were made to Citizens Advice consumer service last year by people suspicious about possible offline scams.

Fishing licence income has funded £10,000 worth of equipment to help protect fisheries in East Anglia and save fish in distress due to the effects of hot and dry weather.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland has been assessed as good at keeping people safe and reducing crime, according to a report published yesterday by HMICFRS.

Minister for Implementation Oliver Dowden sets out plans for how new technologies like artificial intelligence can revolutionise public services.

Royal Air Force (RAF) Typhoon fighter jets based at Ämari Air Base in Estonia launched on Monday 10 June to intercept two Russian transport aircraft that were flying close to Estonian airspace.

A new export strategy will increase creative industry exports by 50 per cent and create global opportunities for innovative UK based companies, as the top 50 Createch companies are listed in a new ‘ones to watch’ report.

Large increase in the total number of affordable and social rented homes.

President of techUK welcomes Prime Minister Theresa May to LTW’s Opening Ceremony as government announces £1.2 billion investment in UK tech industry.

New Justice Minister Robert Buckland QC has set out his plan to ‘turn the tide on reoffending’ during his first keynote speech in the role.

Ben Willmott, head of public policy at the CIPD, commented on the Women and Equalities Committee’s report into non-disclosure agreements

Sir John Armitt yesterday gave the keynote speech to the DAFNI conference. DAFNI is the Data & Analytics Facility for National Infrastructure.

UK economy slows as stockpiling boost fades.

Latest pledge from industry to end potentially discriminatory practices which deny good quality accommodation to those on benefits.

To mark our commitment to wider public engagement, we have refreshed our brand to introduce a new visual identity created by multi-disciplinary designers HemingwayDesign.

The governments of the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Poland, and Sweden yesterday issued a joint statement on the situation in Moldova.

TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady commened on the Women and Equalities Committee report on non-disclosure agreements published today (Tuesday).

British Ambassador Andrew Noble held a speech at the Queen's Birthday Party 2019 in Bucharest.

Prime Minister Theresa May hosted the first meeting of the Tech, Media and Telecoms Business Council at Downing Street.

Cllr Mark Hawthorne, Chairman of the Local Government Association’s People and Places Board, responded to research by Totaljobs which found that 41 per cent of workers in their 50s feel there is a lack of opportunity to make a career jump 

An update from the Ministry of Defence on the future of industry access to the Defence Intranet (DEFNET).

Ian Trenholm and Dr Paul Lelliott will be appearing before the Joint Committee on Human Rights (JCHR) on Wednesday 12 June to answer questions about CQC’s regulation of Whorlton Hall.

Organisations can apply for a share of £1 million to develop AI and quantum technologies in international partnerships.

The Buddy First Aid Course will become the first aid course required to be completed by every soldier, from every country, contributing to UN Peacekeeping missions.

Chris Skidmore yesterday speaking about the launch of the Smart Export Guarantee.

The latest quarterly Scottish Government Workforce Information statistics have been published today by Scotland’s Chief Statistician.

In 2018, UNICEF responded to 285 humanitarian emergencies in 90 countries around the world, providing vital life-saving support to millions of children.

The House of Lords Liaison Committee yesterday published its report on Committee activity in 2018–19.

An independent report by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, (BCS) says in order to bridge the skills gap in Artificial Intelligence, (AI) more must be done to attract and retain under-represented groups in university computing departments, especially women.

Public Sector Employment Statistics for Scotland, released today by Scotland’s Chief Statistician, show that there were 555,800 people employed in the public sector in Scotland in March 2019.

Two men have been jailed following an investigation by the joint NCA and Met Police Organised Crime Partnership (OCP).

The UK has today signed a joint statement for trade continuity with Korea.

Encouraging people to get outdoors and appreciate the beautiful Welsh landscapes is part of the celebrations to mark 7 years of the iconic 870-mile Wales Coast Path.

Ambitious delivery plans published yesterday outline how UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), which includes STFC, will work with its partners to ensure that world-leading research and innovation continues to flourish in the UK. 

The CIPD has secured funding from the Government Equalities Office to run a new pilot scheme that will help parents get back into work in Yorkshire and the Humber.

techUK comments on the Prime Minister’s announcement kicking off London Tech Week, which includes over a billion pounds of investment and a new Competitiveness Study.

32 companies to collectively receive £33 million for 5 projects aiming at transforming the UK's low-carbon automotive future.

Blog posted by: Natasha Thomas, Director of Government Relations, Sage, 10 June 2019.

The Home Secretary has issued further personal apologies to members of the Windrush generation.

The Minister for Education, Kirsty Williams, is encouraging parents and carers to contact their local authority to see if they are eligible for the Pupil Development Grant (PDG) – Access.

Construction gets underway on flood defences in the North Street area to help protect York

Criminals posing as council staff are targeting people across the country in a new wave of council tax scams offering bogus refunds or threatening fines, town hall leaders have warned.

The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has appointed Steve Blair as the new Chief Executive of Ordnance Survey (OS).

Blog posted by: Kirsten Eriksen – senior consultant, Equinox IT (Speaker at Pink 19), 10 June 2019.

Joint Forces Command personnel have been honoured by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for their contribution to UK defence, as part of her annual Birthday Honours.

A refreshed Cycle to Work scheme could help many more commuters turn to greener journeys using e-bikes.

Securing, sustaining and progressing rural careers.

The Financial Conduct Authority’s decision to introduce reforms to the overdraft market should help thousands of people from getting trapped in a debt spiral, Citizens Advice says.

ESRC are pleased to announce the publication of our 2019 Delivery Plan. The ESRC Delivery Plan is part of a family of plans published yesterday by UKRI’s nine constituent councils. 

The CMA has found that Iconex’s purchase of two rival receipt paper suppliers Schades and R+S may lead to less choice and higher prices.

Blog posted by: Bill Hamilton, 7 June 2019 – Categories: Innovation/savings, Research and development, Safety and Wellbeing, Skills, Socio-economic, Waste management.

Projects that could bolster the UK aerospace industry through smart, more energy-efficient technologies are invited to participate in a regular call for ideas.

Cardiff University has secured £3.6 million in EU funds to create a new research facility that will help Welsh industry develop cleaner, greener and lower-cost products.

Multimillion government investment to fund new artificial intelligence conversion degrees and innovation in adult online learning.

Scottish Government funds innovative project on screen time.

Prime Minister Theresa May spoke at the launch of London Tech Week.

A former customer services officer at Stockport Homes Limited (SHL) has been found guilty of unlawfully accessing personal data without a legitimate reason to do so.

Amanda Spielman recently (08 June 2019) spoke about the response to the consultation on the education inspection framework and what the new framework means for governors.

A Cheshire man wanted in connection with the brutal murder of a dad-of-two at a remote farmhouse has been arrested in Malta.

Homes and green businesses generating renewable and low-carbon electricity to be guaranteed money for power supplied to the grid.

Solicitor General Lucy Frazer QC and Policing Minister Nick Hurd will today host senior police, prosecutors and representatives of the technology sector.

Blog posted by: Luke Heselwood, 7 June 2019.

Three Dstl staff members recognised in The Queen’s Birthday’s Honours.

Thermo Fisher has abandoned its anticipated purchase of Gatan after an in-depth CMA merger probe highlighted serious competition concerns.

The Home Secretary and the French Interior Minister have spoken about ongoing efforts to tackle illegal migration via small boats.

techUK congratulates tech leaders, partners and members recognised in this year's Honours List.

Europe needs to do more to save the Iranian nuclear deal.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is to host a series of events for British Steel Pension Scheme Members (BSPS). These are designed to provide information for members concerned about the advice they may have received when they transferred their pension out of the scheme.

Blog posted by: Mark Wareing – NDA Major Projects and Programmes Manager, 7 June 2019 – Categories: Innovation/savings, Waste management.

The Animal Welfare (Service Animals) Bill recently ​(8 June) came into force to protect service animals such as police dogs and horses.

More than £500,000 of funding for environmental and community projects through the Landfill Disposals Tax Community Scheme has been announced by the Welsh Government.

Global tech companies announce plans for £1.2 billion investment into the UK, highlighting the strength of the UK tech industry.

Sport England have worked with Mind, UK Coaching and 1st4Sport to develop an innovative eLearning programme.

Met Office Science Camps have returned for their seventh year, with two camps having taken place earlier this year and two more to go.

Blog posted by: Claire Corkhill, 7 June 2019 – Categories: International activities, Research and development, Supply Chain, Waste management.

Global tax rules do not reflect the digital age, Chancellor to warn world leaders.

An investigation is underway into cases of listeria linked to sandwiches.

Arts Council England is proud to be supporting Sadler’s Wells and Jonathan Church Productions in their upcoming touring productions through Arts Council National Lottery Project Grants.

Amid budget disputes between the European Commission and Italy, Open Europe's Anthony Egan explores the risk of an Italian debt crisis.

Innovate UK sets out plan to drive sustainable economic growth through business-led innovation.

Call for UK Government to accept responsibility after some EU citizens denied a vote.

The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) has responded to correspondence from Chris Skidmore MP, Interim Minister of State for Energy and Clean Growth, about the carry-forward of surplus emissions from the second carbon budget (2013-2017).

The government has commissioned a prototype noise camera to be tested at several locations over the next 7 months.

Today, we will host the first international conference on place and the Place Standard in partnership with the WHO Regional Office for Europe and support from the Architecture and Design Scotland and the Scottish Government, NHS Health Scotland.

British Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Mike Gifford yesterday gave a speech to celebrate Her Majesty The Queen’s 93rd birthday.

Health Minister, Vaughan Gething, has welcomed progress in delivering the £100 million fund to transform the way health and social care is delivered, as he announced the latest allocation ahead of the first anniversary of A Healthier Wales.

Review recommends that councils and the NHS work more closely to co-commission public health services, including sexual and reproductive health services.

The head of the hospital which treated victims of the Salisbury nerve agent attacks joins nurses, psychiatrists, cancer specialists and family doctors among more than 30 local and national NHS workers recognised in the 2019 Queen’s Birthday Honours.

Eight sites for supercomputing centres have been selected across the EU to host the first European supercomputers. They will support Europe's researchers, industry and businesses in developing new applications in a wide range of areas, from designing medicines and new materials to fighting climate change.

Following the victory of the Social Democrats in Denmark’s general election, Open Europe’s Marcus Cadier argues that the centre-left party will have to position themselves carefully in the coming years if they are to keep their voting coalition intact.

The Scottish Secretary congratulates Scotland‘s honours recipients.

Pupils from schools across Wales have joined the Education Minister and the First Minister to celebrate the success of the end of the first phase of the 21st Century Schools and Education Programme.

Defence personnel have been granted state honours by Her Majesty the Queen in the annual Birthday Honours List.

A review into new type of protection for sea life and marine habitats in England was recently (08 June 2019) launched on World Oceans Day.

Queen's Birthday Honours 2019.

A very unsettled spell of weather is expected to affect many parts of England and Wales this week. Rain and thunderstorms will be particularly intense across southern and eastern parts of England over the next few days.

Dave Dewhurst an AF Ambassador testing Trudie Lobban's (founder and trustee of Arrhythmia Alliance) pulse using the ECG device.

Blog posted by: Martin Vernon, 7 June 2019 – Categories: Diversity and inclusion.

Recipients of Fire, Police and Ambulance Service medals in Scotland.

The GeoPlace annual conference was held on 9 May 2019. With more than 550 delegates and a vast array of exhibitors, including Socitm, it is one of the biggest conferences of its type in the UK.

Almost 100 people from education and children's services sectors recognised in this year's Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

Housing and Local Government Minister Hannah Blythyn visited Colwyn Bay on Thursday to see how Welsh Government investment is helping to boost jobs, businesses and revitalise the town centre. 

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has paid tribute to more than 100 Scottish recipients in The Queen’s Birthday Honours list.

In a report published recently the Scottish Affairs Committee highlights the deteriorating levels of trust between the UK and Scottish Governments and calls for a review of the role of the Scotland Office.

The National Audit Office (NAO) recently published its investigation into the use of consultants by government departments to support preparations for EU Exit.

Blog posted by: Suzanne Best, 7 June 2019 – Categories: Recruitment, User research.

The value of goods exported from Wales in the year to March 2019 reached £17.7 billion, up £1.2 billion (7.5%) compared with the previous year, new statistics published recently show.

The Council has adopted amendments to the visa code regulation which will improve conditions for legitimate travellers, as well as increase the tools available to respond to the challenges posed by illegal migration.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) recently confirmed it is introducing reforms to fix a dysfunctional overdraft market. These changes will make overdrafts simpler, fairer, and easier to manage and will protect the millions of consumers that use overdrafts, particularly more vulnerable consumers. The changes represent the biggest overhaul to the overdraft market for a generation.

The second Coventry Biennial is set to unfold this October, with city-wide exhibitions, events and activities supported by the Arts Council.

The early May bank holiday in 2020 will move from Monday 4 May to Friday 8 May to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day.

The Cabinet Secretary has announced Chris Whitty as the new Chief Medical Officer for England and the UK government’s Chief Medical Adviser.

STFC is currently seeking new members to sit on its Council.

Dr Liam Fox welcomes a delegation of over 600 businesses and government representatives from over 20 countries to London Tech Week.

The Council has adopted simpler rules on seafarers' training & certification. A streamlined regulatory framework will contribute to maintaining a high level of safety at sea and preventing pollution.

NCSC and University of Surrey create fully-funded PhD on Machine Learning and Cyber Security.

A landmark has been reached at the UK's Low Level Waste Repository (LLWR) as the 11,000th container has been diverted from disposal at the site.

Learning recommendations focussed on how to handle situations where people are suspected to have swallowed items have been issued to the Metropolitan Police (MPS) and College of Policing (CoP) following the death of Edir Frederico Da Costa.

Public information exhibitions will be held to show how the Welsh Government is looking at options to improve the A483 between Junction 3 and 6 in Wrexham, Economy and Transport Minister Ken Skates has announced.

Appointment will see the Northern Powerhouse Minister’s oversight and coordination of local economic growth boosted to improve its impact for people and communities across the country. 

A world first for conservation of marine life.