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tag:www.gov.uk,2005:/government/announcements Announcements on GOV.UK HM Government 2016-07-14T17:11:00+01:00 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/334186 2016-07-14T17:11:00+01:00 2016-07-14T17:11:00+01:00 Press release: Statement from Greg Clark, Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Statement from Greg Clark following his appointment as the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.

Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Greg Clark, said:

I am thrilled to have been appointed to lead this new department charged with delivering a comprehensive industrial strategy, leading government's relationship with business, furthering our world-class science base, delivering affordable, clean energy and tackling climate change.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/333891 2016-07-13T11:05:29+01:00 2016-07-13T11:05:29+01:00 Press release: £16 million for new technologies to improve global food production and security Twenty-four innovative agri-tech projects have been awarded a share of £16 million funding through the latest round of the Agri-Tech Catalyst.

twenty-four projects share £16 million to help solve the world's greatest agricultural challenges

weed-killing robots and ultra-sensitive storage technology for UK apples to help food security and sustainability

new report shows UK's agri-tech sector is worth more than £14 billion and employs over half a million people

round 6 of the Agri-Tech Catalyst opens today (13 July 2016) , focusing on international development projects

Twenty-four innovative agri-tech projects have today been awarded a share of £16 million funding through the latest round of the government's Agri-Tech Catalyst to solve some of the world's greatest agricultural challenges – from food security and sustainability to weed control and livestock disease.

The UK is a world leader in the fast growing agri-tech sector, as global challenges such as rising population, shortages of land, water and energy require better and more reliable production of food. This round of the government's Agri-Tech Catalyst – alongside industry co-investment – has provided awards between £200,000 and £1.5 million to the most pioneering science and technology projects within the UK's agricultural sector to help meet the global demand for food with the least environmental impact.

Infographic - Supporting British fruit production

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Successful projects in the fifth round of funding announcements include the development of a robot that accurately eliminates and controls weeds, which will significantly reduce the use of herbicides in food production. Another project will look at why potato greening occurs and how to prevent it – helping to reduce the 100,000 tonnes of potatoes thrown away annually. Support has also been given to develop technology that will help fruit farmers monitor and control the storage of British apples – improving their availability window across the year and reducing the need for imports.

Five projects will target challenges in developing countries, including improving methods to detect carcinogenic mould toxins in food crops.

Infographic - Delivering benefis for farmers in developing countries

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Life Sciences Minister George Freeman said:

Agri-tech is fast becoming big global business, creating major investment and export opportunities for the UK.

Whether extending the availability of UK apples to controlling the infection of cacao plants in Ghana, these innovative projects demonstrate the UK's leadership in developing technologies and companies that will improve food and farming productivity in this country and around the world.

Farming Minister George Eustice said:

Although there has been great pressure on farm incomes over the past 12 months, I believe the industry has a good future and technological advances will help. Farmers have an essential role in building a strong economy and feeding the nation.

Taking innovations from the laboratory to the farm is key to boosting productivity, and tackling pests and diseases. That is why the government supports projects through our Agri-Tech Strategy, like those who have won today.

Infographic - Reducing food waste

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Today's investment will help grow the UK's agri-tech sector – which new research published today reveals is worth around £14 billion to the UK economy and employs over half a million people. Research also shows the vital role of public and private partnerships in the recent success of agri-tech – with private investment in research and development reaching almost £500 million in 2012 to 2013.

Today the next round - Round 6 - of the Agri-Tech Catalyst opened which will focus solely on international development projects and will be managed by the Department for International Development.

International Development Minister Nick Hurd said:

This next round of the Agri-Tech Catalyst offers a fantastic opportunity to help farmers in the world's poorest countries access the latest technology and innovation, helping them to get the tools they need to lift themselves out of poverty. This has the potential to not only end dependency on aid, but also develop new markets for Britain to trade with.

That's why for this round I want to see new ideas that can make a real, lasting improvement to the lives of those who desperately need it.

Infographic - Key statistics

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Background

Agri-Tech Catalyst:

The Agri-Tech Catalyst was set up by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), Innovate UK, Department for International Development (DfID), Department for Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) with a £70 million investment to help make the UK a world leader in agricultural technology, innovation and sustainability.

The Agri-Tech Catalyst offers funding for collaborative projects, taking innovative ideas from any sector or discipline with the potential to provide an economic boost to the UK agri-tech industry, by tackling challenges in agriculture.

The scheme helps take innovations all the way from concept to commercialisation, awarding grants for early stage, pre-industrial research feasibility studies, industrial research, and late-stage pre-experimental and experimental feasibility studies.

Full summary of projects funded in Round 5:

Agri-Tech Catalyst Round 5 – Early Stage

Project 1: 3D Vision-based Crop-Weed Discrimination for Automated Weeding Operations

Partners: University of Lincoln and Garford Farm Machinery Ltd

Description: Current crop production systems have been reliant on the wide-scale application of herbicides to control weeds. However, this approach is not sustainable due to unprecedented regulatory and environmental pressures which place new emphasis on the development of novel techniques to kill weeds. This project will investigate the technical foundations for the next generation of robotic weeding machinery, enabling selective and accurate treatment of specific weeds. The proposed technology is a novel combination of low-cost 3D sensing and learning software together with a suitable weed destruction technique. The proposed developments will lead to more efficient cultural weeding equipment resulting in better management of weeds and reduced input use, bringing several benefits to food producers, sellers and society.

Project 2: GrassVision - Automated application of herbicides to broad-leaf weeds in grass crops

Partners: Soil Essentials Ltd; University of the West of England (UWE) and Aralia Systems Ltd.

Description: GrassVision will use imaging and precision agriculture techniques to develop a novel spray apparatus for precision application of herbicides to broad-leaf weeds in grass crops. The GrassVision consortium consists of imaging experts (Centre for Machine Vision, UWE), data analysis experts (Aralia Ltd.) and precision agriculture experts (Soil Essentials Ltd.).

Sustainable production requires weed control methods to reduce herbicide use to comply with current and future EU legislation. The primary focus will be to detect weeds using novel 3D machine vision techniques. Initially the project will use off-the-shelf machinery to spray a targeted area around each weed, with an estimated aimed decrease in herbicide use of around 75%. The project will then look to determine the limits of precision by refining the boom itself. Using this approach, they hope to achieve an ideal target of a 5x5cm spray area per-weed, providing potential reductions in herbicide use in excess of 90%.

Project 3: Low cost Hyperspectral Crop Camera (HCC) for agriculture optimisation

Partners: Wideblue Ltd; Galloway & Macleod Ltd; the James Hutton Institute; University of Strathclyde and University of West of Scotland.

Description: A consortium from a broad range of disciplines has come together to develop a revolutionary low cost crop camera that could potentially allow farmers to improve crop yield, use less fertiliser, use less pesticide and spot pests and diseases earlier.

The project will be led and coordinated by Wideblue Limited - a developer and manufacturer of specialist cameras. The project will also call on the skills of the James Hutton Institute's expertise in crop nutrition and monitoring, the University of Strathclyde's Hyperspectral Imaging Centre, the University of the West of Scotland's Institute of Thin Films, Sensors and Imaging, and Galloway & MacLeod's intelligent agriculture division.

Project 4: A novel Biopesticide formulation technology for major lepidopteran crop pests

Partners: Exosect Limited; Lancaster University and University of Greenwich

Description: Biopesticides are products based on the natural diseases of insects that can be used to protect crops against pests. They are environmentally friendly because they target only a limited group of insects and are safe to humans, livestock and beneficial insects such as pollinators.

However, biopesticides have a number of shortcomings which mean that they are not commonly used. This project aims to develop an innovative approach to improve the field persistence, efficacy, shelf life and cost-effectiveness of viral biopesticides against the moth caterpillars that eat crops. It will build on tried and tested Entostat technology to better protect the biopesticide while in storage or on the crop, while also improving its capacity to kill pest insects. The opportunity exists to replace current foliar chemical insecticides in this sector with a biopesticide of equal efficacy and substantially lower environmental impact and this project will take an important step in this direction.

Project 5: Strategies to reduce waste due to greening in potato tubers

Partners: James Hutton Institute; University of Southampton; James Hutton Limited; Amcor Flexibles UK Limited; Branston Limited; Tesco Plc and Waitrose Limited

Description: In the UK, tuber greening is directly linked to 116,000 tonnes of household potato waste each year with an associated estimated loss of £60 million per annum to UK retailers. In field losses due to tuber greening also cost the industry £37 million per annum. Greening is a significantly negative factor in consumer purchases where a 1% increase in sales is worth £3 million per annum to producers.

This project brings together partners that span the food chain from production, through packaging, to major supermarkets who will work with academic researchers to develop solutions to reduce tuber greening. Photobiological experiments will identify the conditions and target genes for light-induced tuber greening informing the design of prototype packaging film to reduce greening during storage and in store. Recently developed potato genetic approaches will be used to identify markers for genes associated with reduced greening providing the foundation of a longer term strategy to produce new non-greening potato varieties.

Project 6: Early detection of tail biting in pigs using 3D video to measure tail posture

Partners: SRUC; Innovent Technology Ltd; Agri EPI Ltd and J Sainsbury Ltd

Description: Tail biting in growing pigs starts without warning. Outbreaks of tail biting result in pain and sickness for bitten pigs and economic losses for farmers, particularly when infection through tail wounds results in abattoir condemnation of meat. Recent research shows that a pig's behaviour changes before a damaging tail biting outbreak starts. This project aims to develop a 'smart farming' product based on the latest video technology and machine-vision software to automatically detect these changes and warn farmers so they can intervene to stop tail biting. The project brings together SRUC's expertise in pig behaviour analysis, Innovent Technology Ltd's machine vision software development skills with Sainsbury's pig supply chain perspective to ensure that end user needs are met. Experience with on-farm 3D video, and access to a network of Agri-tech expertise will be facilitated by the Agri-EPI Centre.

Project 7: Humane electric stunning

Partners: Ace Aquatec Ltd; Bristol University

Description: A novel method of electrically stunning farmed fish.

Project 8: Aflascope: sample extraction procedures for improved aflatoxin management

Partners: Crop-Innovations; Gorta Self Help Africa; Bora Biotech Ltd; Agsenze Ltd; Secure Harvest Ltd and PepsCAgo Ltd.

Description: AflaScope is a cross-disciplinary collaboration to examine the feasibility of using an acoustic separation platform for purification of aflatoxins from crops. Aflatoxins (toxins from storage mould) are a significant threat to food security, particularly in developing nations. Testing and monitoring are vital but, due to complex sample prep, high cost, inaccessibility and lack of information, aflatoxin testing is not thoroughly implemented and billions of people are at risk.

This innovative project will develop a novel, rapid and chemical-free procedure for extracting and concentrating aflatoxins. When integrated with down-stream diagnostic advances, the extraction platform could enable a low-cost, sensitive, portable test system for on-site aflatoxin monitoring, increasing ease and frequency of testing, and potentially improve decontamination. If successful, the resultant increase in crop value and safety will bring about a step-change in on-farm management.

Project 9: Rapid and cost effective 'on-site' detection of Cacao swollen-shoot virus (CSSV)

Partners: Mars Chocolate UK; WCF Ghana-CocoaAction and the University of the West of England (UWE)

Description: Cocoa beans are the key raw material in chocolate manufacturing. In West Africa, where 70% of the cocoa imported and consumed in the UK is produced, the chocolate industry has identified Cacao Swollen Shoot Disease (CSSV) as the major constraint to productivity. A cacao farm with CSSV will suffer declining yields and hence declining farmer income from what is often the only cash crop being grown. To limit the spread of this disease it is essential to develop diagnostic test that can detect pre-symptomatic infection facilitating its prompt control.

In this proposal the project will develop a suitable methodology and associated instrumentation to detect CSSV in crude plant extracts. Our approach will employ paper based detection assays suitable for rapid application that can be used in formats that enable unskilled personnel to operate them, thereby enabling their widespread deployment in the field. This will have a significant impact on the economic prospects of cacao farmers in West Africa.

Project 10: DryGroAF (DAF)

Partners: CO2i Ltd; XL Horticulture; Rothamsted Research and World Vision Kenya

Description: The DryGro™ process enables the production of crops on arid land - it uses 99% less water than conventional agriculture and has the potential to transform large areas of land which are currently unproductive. The focus of the DAF project is to develop the process to grow biomass to produce animal feed.

Agri-Tech Catalyst Round 5 – Industrial Research

Project 1: Tools and technology for predicting tomato glasshouse production

Partners: Thanet Earth Marketing Limited; Rail Vision Europe Ltd and East Malling Research

Description: Year round UK glasshouse production of tomatoes for supermarkets is highly intensive. Although this production is highly controlled it is still difficult to accurately predict picking yields which has an impact on the food supply chain. This inaccuracy requires businesses to continually react to this inefficacy. Over-prediction results in costly imports, whilst under-prediction incurs financial losses from the disposal of surplus fruit. There is considerable potential to reduce these losses and increase the proportion of UK sales by improving the accuracy of yield forecasts. The project will develop an imaging system, TomVision, and mathematical models, PredictTomPro, to more accurately predict weekly yields and deliver significant savings in import costs and waste. Our aim is to predict weekly harvests to 10% of actual, which will generate £30,000/ha extra income per annum for producers and for the developers the anticipated sales of these tools of £1.3 million / £11.3 million / £26 million (UK/EU/Worldwide) after 5 years.

Project 2: Bacteriophage management of on-farm salmonella contamination of vine fruits

Partners: APS Biocontrol Limited; University of Leicester; Community Foods Limited and Tesco Plc.

Description: Salmonella is the most important foodborne pathogen and incidences caused by contaminated food of non-animal origin have been increasing, reflecting rising consumers' demands for fresh/minimally-processed fruit and vegetables. Crops with an outdoor post-harvest management period are particularly at risk.

This project focuses on Salmonella contamination of vine fruits (raisins, sultanas), which are dried outside post-harvest and exposed to animal fouling. Impacts throughout the supply chain are significant, from grower to retailer, with significant recall costs involved. This project will transfer technology from both industry and academia to develop an innovative technology to prevent on-farm Salmonella contamination; ie at source. The solution will be based on safe, naturally-occurring, highly-specific antimicrobial agents (bacteriophage). A business-led consortium will address questions of technology specificity and characterisation, together with deployment and integration into commercial practice.

Project 3: Use of stress pre-conditioning, novel sensors and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) to improve crop management, marketable yields, stress resilience and environmental sustainability of raspberry production

Partners: BerryGardens Growers Ltd; East Malling Research; Plantworks Ltd; Environmental Monitoring Solutions Ltd and Netafim UK Ltd.

Description: UK raspberry production was worth £109 million in 2014, but a further 11KT of berries, worth £59 million, are imported each year. A 20% increase in the 14KT of fruit produced per annum in the UK could be expected to reduce imports by 2.8KT, and raise the value of the UK industry by £15.7 million per annum.

However, improved on-farm management of water and fertiliser inputs is needed to optimise productivity; currently, excessive fertigation to substrate-grown raspberry results in vigorous cane growth which makes crop management difficult and harvesting costly. Nutrient leaching also poses a risk to groundwater quality. The project will use novel affinity sensors combined with fuzzy logic to automatically adjust nutrient inputs to match plant demand in real time, reduce fertiliser losses to the environment and improve berry quality. Stress pre-conditioning and AMF will be used to raise marketable yields, improve resource use and acquisition, and increase crop resilience to stresses.

Project 4: Integrated control of Leptosphaeria pathogens on UK winter oilseed rape

Partners: HL Hutchinson Ltd; DuPont UK Ltd; KWS UK Ltd; Weston Park Farms; SynTech Research UK; F G Taylor & Son (Grove Farm) and University of Hertfordshire

Description: Phoma stem canker is a damaging disease of oilseed rape in the UK, leading to yield losses > £100 million per annum despite the use of fungicides. This disease is caused by 2 related pathogens: Leptosphaeria maculans and L. biglobosa.

However, current control of the disease focuses only on L. maculans. Recent work showed that L. biglobosa can cause substantial yield losses and that it is less sensitive to triazole fungicides than L. maculans. L. biglobosa is a threat to oilseed rape production in the UK since no methods have been developed to control it.

This project will investigate stem canker epidemics caused by L. biglobosa, determine the proportions of L. biglobosa and L. maculans in pathogen populations, screen cultivar resistance against L. biglobosa, determine efficacy of different fungicides for control of L. biglobosa as well as L. maculans. The new knowledge about the pathogens, host resistance and efficacy of fungicides will be used to develop new control strategies that ensure both pathogens are targeted.

Project 5: Automato

Partners: Sharp Laboratories of Europe Ltd; The Shadow Robot Company Ltd; Stockbridge Technology Centre Research Foundation; Thanet Growers Eight Ltd (Thanet Earth) and Cornerways (as part of British Sugar PLC)

Description: The Automato Robot project aims to address the seasonal labour constraints in the UK/European tomato industry and their increasing cost through the development of a cost-effective robotic system that performs on-crop quality and ripeness inspection and then automated harvesting.

The project brings together state of the art knowledge of innovative robotic arms, 3D sensing, computer vision and object/pattern recognition as well as expert industry knowledge of commercial greenhouse operations and optimum growing/harvesting practices. This is an industry led project with clear goals for manufacturing and commercialisation post-project following proof of concept demonstration

Project 6: Supply chain development in Kenya - UK Agritech to improve rural livelihoods

Partners: James Finlay Ltd; Dudutech Limited; Forum for the Future; University of Reading and University of Lincoln

Description: The project plan undertakes to develop a new sustainable essential oil market supply chain for large numbers of smallholders in Kenya. The project aims to develop a range of crops to market which would enable the small holders' production portfolio to be more balanced and robust, and develop into long-term supply programs.

The Project is centred on the Fairtrade Fintea Co-operative Union Ltd (12,000 Members) in Kericho Western Kenya and the Dudutech Marigat Project in Baringo County (approx. 7,000 members). It will develop sustainable production systems for 5 oil crops, underpinned by research in sustainable crop production systems and the development of novel QA processes to monitor oil quality in Kenya.

Project 7: A whole supply chain approach to control Campylobacter

Partners: Moy Park Ltd; Devenish (NI) Ltd; Primer Design Ltd; University of Lincoln; University of Liverpool; Slate Hall Veterinary Practice and St David's Poultry Team

Description: Campylobacter is one of the most serious food borne pathogens, infecting over 280,000 people and costing the UK economy £580 million per annum. This study will conduct the largest known molecular study to track and trace Campylobacter through the supply chain. It will deploy whole genome sequencing on a massive scale to optimise a series of on farm and factory interventions that reduce the contamination of whole chickens with Campylobacter. These interventions include novel animal feeds and factory processes. It will also develop a new qPCR testing kit for Campylobacter. This will be deployed and validated on farm and in factories. The kit will be developed to segregate live from dead cells. It will provide the industry with a real time and accurate rapid enumeration technique.

Project 8: Next generation modified atmosphere materials to extend farm storage & reduce waste

Partners: Johnson Matthey Plc and Cranfield University

Description: The control of respiratory gases within a storage or packaging environment has long been recognised and used to extend the post-harvest quality of fresh fruit and vegetables, and thereby reduce food wastage. The manipulation of respiratory gases can either be controlled or passive, but is rarely responsive. Current modified atmosphere packaging is inflexible as it does not actively and sufficiently react and respond to the changing physiology of the product and the allied gaseous kinetics.

This project sets out to develop the next generation of modified atmosphere materials by creating innovative cost effective packaging formats which are able to actively manipulate the internal atmospheric composition within the packaging environment and thereby administer the ideal gaseous conditions at the optimum time during post-harvest life.

Project 9: Carcass trait phenotype feedback for genomic selection in sheep

Partners: Texel Sheep Society; Anglo Beef Processors (ABP) and Scotland's Rural College (SRUC)

Description: Only around half of UK-produced lambs meet target conformation and fat quality specifications resulting in waste at the farm and processor levels. This livestock genomics project addresses key issues in primary livestock production by collecting, analysing, and exploiting state-of-the art genomic and new phenotypic data from meat sheep on hard to measure (HTM) traits, combining carcass and disease for sustainable sheep improvement. New visual image assessments (VIA) of post-mortem lamb carcass quality, and novel, in-line meat hygiene records on individuals will be linked to genome-screening technology to identify superior bloodlines and genomic regions that are more productive and also more resistant to economically-important disease traits. This allows greater productivity to be achieved without compromising health and welfare, and explores the best method to deliver genomic solutions for increases in productivity and efficiency in tandem with improvements in animal health.

Project 10: Improving consistency of yields and quality of large-scale and small-holder bean production in Kenya by precision management of soil, water and pathogens

Partners: Provenance Partners Ltd; Vegpro (Kenya) Ltd; East Malling Research; WeatherQuest Ltd and DuduTech Kenya Ltd

Description: Delivering consistent supplies of high quality fresh produce is a significant challenge for Kenya's fresh vegertable growers. A yield of beans range from 5 to 50T/ha and up to 40% of produce is of poor quality due to ineffective irrigation and soil-borne diseases. A 12% increase in average yield and a 20% reduction in waste would raise Class 1 yields by 978T/year; this would generate an extra £3.2 million per year, increase food security and improve soil management practices.

The project will:

develop irrigation scheduling tools to improve consistency of cropping

identify effects of biocontrol agents on soil pathogens and soil microbiome

determine effects of soil water availability on incidence and severity soil pathogens and efficacy of biocontrol agents

develop integrated control measures to improve Class 1 yields, quality and shelf-life

promote benefits of precision irrigation and biocontrol at workshops/on-farm demos

assess social and economic impacts of outputs and implement sustainability improvement plans

Project 11: Extending the availability and flavour-life of UK apples using innovative photonics

Partners: Avalon Produce Ltd; Richard Hochfeld Ltd; Empire World Trade; Chelsea Technologies Group Ltd; Tesco Stores Ltd and Cranfield University

Description: The British apple industry is continuously asked by UK retailers to extend availability; this being achieved by implementing ever more sophisticated storage technologies. Whilst this demand is driven by a brand loyalty to domestic production, the industry is increasingly challenged by imports. In order that primary production of UK apples can be fully utilised and be made more competitive, a paradigm shift is needed to improve how apples are stored such that the focus is moved towards 'flavour-life' rather than being just driven by firmness and sugar content. The proposed work will develop novel sensor and allied storage interventions which will control ripening whilst maintaining 'flavour-life'. This offers a route to incremental storage extension to help reduce the reliance on imports and extend the window in which high quality British fruit can be offered.

Project 12: Integrating control strategies against soil-borne Rhizoctonia solani in oilseed rape (ICAROS)

Partners: Syngenta and University of Nottingham

Description: Rhizoctonia solani is an aggressive soil-borne pathogen of oilseed rape (OSR) and canola worldwide. It is implicated in the yield decline of the crop when grown with increased frequency in field rotations. Presently there are no disease resistant varieties hence the control of the disease relies on the use of chemical seed treatment. The key objectives of this project are to identify novel resistance traits and loci to R. solani which can be utilised in crop breeding and effective seed treatments that can be registered against the pathogen in OSR and made commercially available to UK growers. The ultimate output of this multidisciplinary project will be the first integrated guidelines for the control R. solani incorporating targeted seed treatments and varietal resistance for improved disease management and protection of OSR yield.

Agri-Tech Catalyst Round 5 – Late stage

Project 1: Vydrofarm – promoting sustainable food production via automated commercial indoor farms

Participant: Hydrogarden Wholesale Supplies Ltd

Description: VydroFarm is a fully automated commercial vertical hydroponics indoor system adapted for both cold and hot/humid climates. It incorporates a set of proprietary technologies and knowledge – including special LED lights, specific nutrient regime, and biodegradable growing media – to deliver 30% more crop yield, compared to existing growing technologies, and reducing by half the normal growing period. Vydrofarm delivers significant impact on crop production, making it feasible to grow nutritionally rich microgreens and medicinal herbs in urban and peri-areas, particularly rehabilitating redundant buildings, brownfields sites and high-polluted land. It also improves food security and increases the supply of nutritious and better quality produce to a larger amount of population.

Project 2: Rubber track undercarriage systems for controlled traffic farming

Participant: Sly Agri Ltd

Description: Rubber track undercarriage systems for controlled traffic farming.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/333853 2016-07-12T15:41:57+01:00 2016-07-12T15:41:57+01:00 Press release: New aerospace technologies to get £365 million funding Business Secretary announces government and industry commitment to provide almost £365 million of funding for new aerospace technologies.

government and industry providing hundreds of millions of pounds for aerospace research and development (R&D) projects

£1.2 billion has already been invested in projects

 Aerospace Growth Partnership to launch an updated strategy

Business Secretary Sajid Javid has today (12 July 2016) announced that government and industry have committed to providing almost £365 million of funding for new aerospace technologies, further enhancing the UK's reputation as a world leading aircraft design and manufacturing hub.

The news, timed to coincide with this week's Farnborough Air Show, builds on the £1.2 billion of funding government has already jointly invested through the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI), which has contributed to 149 new projects, involving 188 different companies and organisations, including over 100 small and medium sized businesses.

The research projects will target different aspects of aircraft manufacturing and performance, driving up competitiveness, lowering costs, and helping to deliver environmentally-friendly aircraft with lower emissions and reduced noise.

Business Secretary Sajid Javid said:

Aerospace is a vitally important industry for the UK and it is one of our great manufacturing success stories, supporting over 230,000 jobs and generating over £30 billion a year for the economy. We are number one in Europe and world leaders in innovation, design and manufacturing parts for planes.

With government and industry investing nearly £4 billion by 2026, we are showing our continued commitment to this vital sector and our intention to keep the UK's world-beating status. I am proud of our record supporting our great aero industry and we will continue to do all we can to help this high flying sector soar to even greater heights.

Also at Farnborough, the Aerospace Growth Partnership (AGP) updated the sector on the industrial strategy for UK aerospace. The AGP has transformed the way in which industry and government work together to secure the long-term future of one of the UK's most important sectors.

A key feature of the strategy is industry's Supply Chain Competitiveness Charter signed by the sector's leading civil aerospace manufacturers. This will strengthen relationships between the large companies and their suppliers, working together to raise productivity and competitiveness.

Welcoming the new AGP strategy, Sajid Javid said:

Means of Ascent, the updated strategy for the UK aerospace industry, is a great piece of work and will really help with the partnership between government and industry. I am also extremely pleased to see that the industry has also developed a Supply Chain Competitiveness Charter which will help our smaller companies become even more productive and export more.

ATI Chief Executive Gary Elliott said:

This is the largest batch of ATI projects to be launched since operations started 3 years ago. It moves UK aerospace towards delivering the next generation of quiet and low emission aircraft, whilst also tackling immediate manufacturing challenges. The participants are a who's who of global aerospace, as well as the UK supply chain and research base – a powerful demonstration of the strength of UK innovation.

Innovate UK Chief Executive Ruth McKernan said:

From the inception of Innovate UK 9 years ago, we have been working with companies large and small to make the UK a global centre of excellence for aerospace innovation. We look forward to continuing the highly successful partnership with industry, the Aerospace Technology Institute and government to deliver this goal.

ADS CEO Paul Everitt said:

This investment reinforces the value of modern industrial strategies and will help keep the UK at the forefront of global aerospace technology. The Aerospace Growth Partnership's focus on the value of the UK supply chain and the steps required to sustain global competitiveness will help ensure the sector continues to make a growing contribution to our national prosperity.

Notes to editors:

These projects have received funding from the aerospace research and development (R&D) programme, a £3.9 billion joint funding commitment from industry and government to support projects which build on the UK's strengths and develop the products and manufacturing technologies that will best position the UK to sustain its global competitiveness. The programme is delivered in partnership between the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, Innovate UK and the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI). The commitment was made in 2013 and the 2015 Spending Review announced that the funding would be extended by 6 years to 2025 to 2026, worth an additional £900 million from government.

The ATI was created by government and industry to guide investment into research and technology projects that will sustain and enhance the UK's competitive advantage. Its technology strategy defines the best combination of capabilities, technologies and products to advance next-generation civil aircraft; enabling industry to exploit anticipated global growth, and deliver value to the UK economy through the sector's high productivity and skills. The ATI has now published a Technology Strategy and Portfolio Update 2016.

Innovate UK is the UK's innovation agency. It works with people, companies and partner organisations to find and drive the science and technology innovations that will grow the UK economy - delivering productivity, new jobs and exports and keeping the UK globally competitive in the race for future prosperity.

Means of ascent: strategy for UK aerospace 2016

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/333748 2016-07-11T16:57:00+01:00 2016-07-11T16:57:00+01:00 Speech: Life sciences: a new relationship with the European Union Statement from Life Science Minister George Freeman on a new relationship with the European Union and the UK's commitment to the life science sector.

Following the EU referendum result, the government has committed to negotiating a new relationship with the European Union and single market, which protects the interests of the UK, the economy and British people.

Our world-leading life science sector – which generates over £60 billion and over 220,000 jobs for the UK economy each year, and provides products which the NHS and UK patients rely on every day - is of critical importance to the country. I want to be clear in the immediate aftermath of the referendum that neither the UK's commitment to the life science sector nor our legal relationship with Europe have in any way changed, and that it is likely that some time will elapse before any changes to the latter are agreed.

The Prime Minister and I launched the UK's 10-year Life Science Strategy in 2011 and as the world's first and only Minister for Life Science, I and the current government remain committed to making sure this process is handled to the maximum benefit of the UK sector.

As the industry and government spoke with one voice before the referendum, so we must now work together again in the best interests of the UK life science sector, patients, taxpayers and the economy, to manage the new situation and negotiate a new relationship with Europe.

This will require us to mitigate every risk, rise to every challenge and seize every opportunity. To do this, we need leadership, clarity and collaboration. In the last week, I have already initiated a work programme with colleagues in BIS, the Department for Health and No.10 to reassure stakeholders that we are actively managing how to preserve and enhance the strength of UK life science.

Our work will involve 3 priorities:

providing immediate reassurance that – as the Prime Minister has stated – there are no immediate changes to our membership of the European Union and we remain a full member of the EU with full voting rights

exploring the priorities of the UK life science sector ahead of the UK's negotiation of a new relationship with the European Union

beginning the process of exploring how the UK can create a compellingly ambitious domestic landscape in which the United Kingdom is the country of choice to design, develop and introduce innovative health products to market and one in which the lives of NHS patients are transformed by innovative drugs and health technology

I have already spoken to many leaders from industry and the wider sector to reassure them of the government's commitment.

Last week I announced the formation of the UK EU Steering Group to oversee and manage this transition. The group, which will report to the Ministerial Industry Strategy Group already in place, will provide recommendations and considerations for how the UK can seize the opportunity to define a new relationship with the EU. Over the coming days, weeks and months I will continue to speak with as many people in the sector as possible to assure them of our ambition and commitment to make this work for the UK.

By working together, with pace, vision and shared commitment I believe we can ensure the UK seizes this opportunity to ensure that the process of defining our new relationship with the EU does not undermine confidence in our growing life science sector.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/333639 2016-07-11T09:06:15+01:00 2016-07-11T09:06:15+01:00 Press release: PM: UK remains at forefront of world aerospace as new investment and jobs are announced £365m funding announced for new UK aerospace research and development projects and major partnership with Boeing to create 2,000 jobs in the UK.

£365m funding for new UK aerospace R&D projects

Major partnership with Boeing to bring 2,000 jobs to the UK and increase global supply chain opportunities for UK aerospace companies

Contract signed for 9 new P8 Maritime Patrol Aircraft

The Prime Minister has announced a new strategic partnership between Boeing and the UK, as well as nearly £400m for new aerospace R&D projects, ensuring we remain a global aerospace industry leader.

Ahead of the Prime Minister opening this year's Farnborough air show, Boeing has confirmed that the company will create 2,000 new jobs in the UK and increase their R&D spending.

Boeing and the government intend to work together to build a new £100m P-8A operational support and training base at RAF Lossiemouth in Scotland, creating more than 100 new jobs.

To ensure the UK's continued position at the forefront of global aerospace, a further £365m worth of aerospace R&D projects have been approved. These are jointly funded by industry and government. These are part of the work of the Aerospace Growth Partnership which will publish a new strategy at Farnborough setting out plans to maintain the UK aerospace sector's leading position. This includes a new supply chain competitiveness charter signed by 11 major companies across the aerospace sector.

Following last week's NATO summit, the Prime Minister will also confirm the UK has signed a contract to purchase 9 new Boeing P8 Maritime Patrol Aircraft to protect the UK's new aircraft carriers. This underlines the UK's determination to deliver on its Strategic Defence and Security Review commitments and providing a clear sign of the UK delivering on its pledge to maintain defence spending at 2% of GDP.

The Prime Minister said:

Whatever uncertainties our country faces, I want the message to go out loud and clear: the UK will continue to lead the world in both civil and defence aerospace. We aren't just open for investment: we are a place the global aerospace industry wants to do business – as Boeing's long-term partnership with the UK proves.

It's also important to put government investment where it counts. That's why we are jointly funding the new R&D fund with the aerospace industry and why I'm pleased we have today signed the contract for 9 new P8 Maritime Patrol Aircraft for the Royal Air Force, underlining the UK's commitment to spending on vital defence.

Notes to editors

Boeing/UK joint initiative

Boeing will increase overall bid opportunities offered to UK suppliers and work with the UK government to enhance UK suppliers' competitiveness. The aim of the initiative is to create the opportunity for UK companies to double their supply work with Boeing and to win higher proportions of content on future Boeing aircraft.

Boeing has signed the Aerospace Growth Partnership Supply Chain Competitiveness charter.

Boeing will make the UK its European base for training, maintenance, repair and overhaul across its defence fixed-wing and rotary platforms.

Additionally, Boeing and the government intend to work together to build a new £100m P-8A operational support and training base at RAF Lossiemouth in Scotland, creating more than 100 new jobs.

Boeing will continue to grow its commercial aviation services business in the UK.

Boeing will make the UK a base for defence exports to Europe and the Middle East, increasing UK employment, investment and tax revenue.

Aerospace Growth Partnership

The Aerospace Growth Partnership, started in 2010, will publish a refreshed industrial strategy 'Means of Ascent' at Farnborough - demonstrating government and industry's continued commitment to investment in UK aerospace.

A further £365m of new aerospace R&D projects have been approved to commence, jointly funded by HM Government and industry. This is part of a total £4billion joint R&D commitment over 13 years to 2026.

New supply chain competitiveness charter signed by 11 global aerospace players with a presence in the UK.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/333450 2016-07-11T09:00:00+01:00 2016-07-11T09:00:00+01:00 News story: New measures to help Britain lead the way in developing driverless technology Have your say on the use of advanced driver assistance systems and 'self-driving' technologies in cars on British roads.

programme of reform to make the roads ready for advanced driver assistance and driverless technology is launched

consultation 'chance for everyone to have their say about new vehicle technologies'

A major consultation to help pave the way for automated cars to be used on British roads is being launched, with all drivers invited to have their say.

Under the proposed measures, rules will be changed so automated vehicles can be insured for use on the roads.

In addition, the Highway code and regulations are to be altered so advanced driver assistance systems that change lanes on the motorway and park the vehicle by remote control can be used safely.

Separately, the government will next month launch a competition for a further £30 million from the Intelligent Mobility Fund, for research and development of innovative connected and autonomous vehicle technologies.

This builds on the first £20 million awarded to a number of projects in February, and ensures the UK is able to take advantage of the latest technological developments in driverless cars research. An additional £19 million fund is also paving the way for driverless car projects in Greenwich, Bristol, and a joint project in Milton Keynes and Coventry.

The government is determined that Britain leads the way globally in embracing the safe development of driverless technology.

Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said:

Driverless car technology will revolutionise the way we travel and deliver better journeys.

Britain is leading the way but I want everyone to have the chance to have a say on how we embrace and use these technologies.

Our roads are already some of the safest in the world and increasing advanced driver assist and driverless technologies have the potential to help cut the number of accidents further.

Business Secretary Sajid Javid said:

Britain's auto industry has always been at the forefront of innovation and research. This additional £30 million of funding for reseach and development (R&D) is a further sign of our commitment to making sure we're creating opportunities for UK businesses to thrive and attract global investment in world-class technology.

Cars with advanced driver assistance features, like remote control parking and motorway assist, are expected to be on sale in Britain in the next 2 to 4 years with automated and driverless vehicles expected on the roads any time from the mid-2020s onwards.

Advanced driver assistance systems and 'self-driving' technologies will transform travel helping deliver safer, smoother and smarter road journeys.

The consultation on the 2 changes is due to get underway today (11 July 2016) and will last for 9 weeks. It is the start of a rolling programme of reform on the roadmap to fully automated vehicles.

Under the proposals:

the 'Highway code' and regulations will be changed to support the safe use of remote control parking and motorway assist features

insurance law will be changed so that, in the future, motorists who have handed control to their 'self-driving' cars can be insured properly

The proposed changes to insurance will be brought forward in the Modern Transport Bill. Motor insurance will remain compulsory but will be extended to cover product liability for automated vehicles.

When a motorist has handed control to their vehicle, they can be reassured that their insurance will be there if anything goes wrong.

James Dalton, Director of General Insurance Policy at the Association of British Insurers (ABI), said:

The ABI's Automated Driving Insurer Group has been engaged in constructive and productive discussions with the DfT for many months now so it is good to see the importance of insurance to the vehicles of the future recognised within this consultation. The development of automated driving will revolutionise motoring, potentially as important a road safety innovation as the seatbelt. Insurers strongly support the Government's ambition of making the UK a world leader in this technology and believe the insurance industry has a key role in helping give consumers confidence in using these vehicles when they become more widely available.

The driver's insurer will still pay out in the normal way so road accident victims are promptly reimbursed – but the insurer will then be able to claim the money back from the car company if the vehicle is deemed to be at fault.

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 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/333565 2016-07-11T00:15:00+01:00 2016-07-11T00:15:00+01:00 News story: Armed forces personnel and families to be given extra support to learn overseas Universities Minister announces changes to student funding to benefit armed forces members and their families.

Plans will make it far easier for personnel and their families to take up distance learning courses run by UK universities while posted overseas.

Part of government commitment to support our armed forces and their families and ensure they are not disadvantaged.

Universities Minister Jo Johnson has today (11 July 2016) announced plans to change student funding rules to benefit more armed forces personnel and their families who want to take up distance learning courses while posted abroad.

The move will put an end to rules that prevent armed forces personnel and their family members getting access to student funding for distance learning courses because they have been posted abroad.

Under current rules, a prospective student must be resident in the UK on the first day of the first academic year of their course if they are to be eligible for a student loan.

This means that serving members of the armed forces posted overseas, and family members living with them, are unable to access loans for undergraduate or postgraduate distance learning courses if they are serving overseas on the first day of their course. They can also see their support cease if they are undertaking a distance learning course in England but are posted overseas during the academic year.

To stop personnel being placed at a disadvantage, the government is today announcing a new exemption that will allow them to gain student funding for a UK based distance learning course, even if they are posted overseas at the start or during the course itself.

There are thousands of different distance learning courses available from UK universities, with over 250,000 undergraduate students getting their first degree this way. Covering topics including accountancy, psychology and teaching, their flexible nature gives students, such as spouses of armed forces personnel, the opportunity to train and change career or find new employment in their temporary place of residence.

Universities Minister Jo Johnson said:

It is absolutely right that the government does all it can to support members of the armed forces and their families, recognising the service they provide to us all.

By creating this exemption, we will allow members of the armed forces and their families to gain new qualifications and ensure they are not disadvantaged simply because they are posted overseas.

Defence Minister Mark Lancaster said:

It wasn't fair on the armed forces community that, when posted abroad to serve our nation, they were not able to access the same funding for distance learning as people who live in the UK. That is why I am delighted that this government is removing that disadvantage, enabling these people to fulfil their ambitions. This is another example of our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant which is a promise from the nation to ensure our service personnel and their families are treated fairly.

The government will update the Student Finance Regulations for undergraduate student support and postgraduate master's loans. This will allow members of the armed forces and their families posted overseas to access student support for distance learning courses offered by UK institutions, even if they were not resident in England on the first day of the first academic year of their course.

Students will qualify for undergraduate tuition fee loans, postgraduate master's degree loans and Disabled Students Allowances, if relevant.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/333644 2016-07-08T12:00:00+01:00 2016-07-08T12:00:00+01:00 Government response: Statement on Tata Steel's strategy for its European businesses Business Secretary responds to Tata announcing developments regarding the strategy for its European businesses.

Statement on Tata Steel's strategy for its European businesses

Business Secretary Sajid Javid said:

The past few months have been a very uncertain time for Tata UK steel workers, particularly at Port Talbot. So Tata's news today (8 July 2016) that they intend to explore strategic alternatives including a possible joint-venture with thyssenkrupp AG is encouraging, as is the fact that they have decided to separately sell their specialty steel and pipe businesses in Rotherham, Stocksbridge and Hartlepool. It is imperative that momentum is maintained to provide much needed security for workers and the wider supply chain.

I met with Tata's Global Chairman Cyrus Mistry today and underlined that the government remains committed to doing all it can and that our package of commercial support still stands. We will continue to work closely with Tata to find a long-term solution for sustainable blast furnace steel manufacturing in Port Talbot.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/333461 2016-07-08T11:25:00+01:00 2016-07-08T11:25:00+01:00 Press release: Technical education overhaul unveiled by Skills Minister Transformation of post-16 education with thousands of courses to be replaced with 15 straightforward routes into skilled employment.

Thousands of ineffective courses that short-change employers and young people will be replaced with 15 straightforward routes into technical employment creating a more skilled workforce fit for modern Britain.

Currently young people considering a technical education must choose between more than 20,000 courses provided by 160 different organisations with no clear indicator of which course will give them the best chance of landing a job.

A report into technical education by an independent panel, chaired by Lord Sainsbury, has recommended simplifying the current system so technical education is provided through 15 high-quality routes, with standards being set by employers.

In response, Skills Minister Nick Boles has today (8 July 2016) published the 'Post-16 skills plan', accepting every one of Lord Sainsbury's recommendations, while setting out the government's innovative vision for the future of technical education.

Mr Boles called on employers and training providers to embrace the exciting plans and help turn the country's highly able young people into the most skilled workforce in the world.

Skills Minister Nick Boles said:

Britain has all the ingredients needed to compete with other skilled nations, but we must create a technical education system that can harness that talent.

This cannot be the government's job alone; we must work with employers and post-16 providers to unlock the potential in this country.

The skills plan is the next step towards that goal, building on the progress we have already made by investing in apprenticeships, and creating a skilled workforce that is the envy of every other nation. This won't just help our young people get the best jobs but it will also boost our economy, benefiting us all.

The skills plan sets out to create a highly skilled nation where no child, regardless of their background or circumstances, will be let down by the education or training they receive.

Following its inquiry, Lord Sainsbury's panel found the current technical education system to be confusing and unclear, leaving students with a dizzying choice of qualifications. For example a budding engineer must choose from a possible 501 courses.

Andreas Schleicher, Director for Education and Skills, and Special Adviser on Education Policy to the Secretary-General at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, said:

Modernising apprenticeships has been on the policy agenda for some time already, but now the UK has a promising plan to advance technical education from a last resort to a first choice. Bringing training in line with the needs of the economy will be key to drive up productivity and prosperity.

The skills plan proposes a new system where students who have finished their GCSEs will be able to choose from up to 15 routes providing a clear path to skilled employment. Crucially the content for those routes and the accompanying standards will be set by an employer-led body.

Each route, such as health and science, construction, social care or engineering and manufacturing, will take place either at a college and include a work placement or through apprenticeships. The first routes will be made available from 2019.

All technical routes will build in English, maths and digital skills, according to employers' needs, and will set standards of excellence that are every bit as demanding as A levels.

Mike Putnam, President and CEO of employer Skanska UK, said:

If we are to deliver the many exciting building and infrastructure projects that lie ahead, it is essential that we create the best possible platform to enable young people to enter the industry through clear and varied educational routes.

We are keen to support efforts which increase the accessibility of opportunities to people from all backgrounds - helping to develop a more diverse and inclusive industry.

The skills plan provides an excellent opportunity to position academic and technical qualifications on an equal footing, which can only help to encourage new people into construction.

Under the reforms students will be able to move easily between technical and academic options. Those who are not ready to start an academic or technical option at the age of 16 will be able to opt for a specifically tailored, fully funded 'transition year' to equip themselves with the right knowledge and skills needed to move forward in their education. These routes will also be made available to adults wanting to get back into education.

The new system will put employers in the driving seat, enabling them to set out the skills they value and need the most. This will be facilitated by employer panel discussions, which will shape programmes of study and set out universally agreed standards for each technical route, administered by the new independent Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.

Martin Doel, Chief Executive of the Association of Colleges (AoC), said:

Technical education has for too long been regarded as a poor cousin of academic study. The government's post-16 skills plan provides a welcome roadmap to redressing this long-standing anomaly. The plan rightly sees colleges being at the heart of the reforms with the new qualifications providing them with a cornerstone to build distinctive courses that meet the needs of employers, students and the economy.

There is still much detail to be worked through, however, and we look forward to working with the government and the new Institute of Apprenticeships and Technical Education to develop the new system most effectively.

A skilled workforce engendered by engaged employers and supported by colleges will be the backbone of this country's future economic success.

Notes to editors

The reforms apply to technical education in England and devolved administrations have been made aware of the plan.

Further comments

Lisa O'Loughlin, Principal at Manchester College, said:

Here at Manchester College we work to give all our learners the best pathway for their career ambitions and that's why the skills plan fits in with our ethos.

National standards for technical education will bring greater clarity across the system for learners, employers, and for career guidance which will benefit young people across the country. It's great to see an emphasis on high-quality work placements while students are still studying.

Sir Frank McCloughlin, Principal of City and Islington College and Chair of the Commission on Adult and Vocational Teaching and Learning (CAVTL), said:

The work we did through CAVTL helped to raise the profile and importance of technical education. Real progress has been made in recent years but there is still work to do.

This post-16 skills plan will be a driving force in defining routes to higher-level technical education and training and building ever stronger partnerships between providers and employers.

Simon Blagden, Chairman at employer Fujitsu UK, said:

Placing employers at the heart of developing standards will be key to successfully aligning college and work-based training. When it is bedded in, this approach will have considerable potential to benefit both colleges and employers.

Professor Sir John Holman, President of the Royal Society of Chemistry, said:

I welcome this report, which will bring a clear and systematic approach to the complex field of technical education.

It will make the available routes much easier for both students and employers to understand, and will make technical education more responsive to the skills need of employers.

I look forward to discussing how professional bodies like the Royal Society of Chemistry can support well-defined routes to skilled scientific occupations.

Karen Spencer, Principal at Harlow College, said:

As colleges we are not just about courses, we are about careers - we therefore believe that any reform that brings us closer to employers mean our students gain higher skills and better jobs. The reforms will take some time to bed in, but we see tremendous opportunity and are ready for the challenge.

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 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/333408 2016-07-08T00:15:00+01:00 2016-07-08T00:15:00+01:00 Press release: Business Secretary to launch preliminary trade talks with India Business Secretary Sajid Javid to start preliminary trade talks with India during a series of discussions in Delhi.

Business Secretary Sajid Javid will be in Delhi today (8 July 2016) where he will launch initial discussions on the UK's future trade relationship with India

first in a series of visits to key trade partners the Business Secretary is expected to undertake across the globe

Business Secretary also confirms government will rapidly build its expertise on trade, with up to 300 specialist staff to be in place by year end

Business Secretary Sajid Javid will kick-off preliminary trade talks with India later today (8 July 2016) when he meets the Indian Finance and Commerce Ministers during a series of discussions in Delhi.

The Business Secretary will use meetings with Indian Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to outline his vision for what a future trade relationship between the UK and India might look like outside the EU.

It is the first in a series of trade meetings the Business Secretary will conduct over the coming months, which also is expected to include trips to the USA, China, Japan and South Korea.

The Business Secretary has also confirmed that to aid in discussions, the government plans to rapidly build its trade capability – up to 300 specialist staff, including new trade negotiators – by the end of the year.

Business Secretary Sajid Javid said:

Following the referendum result, my absolute priority is making sure the UK has the tools it needs to continue to compete on the global stage.

That is why I am in India today to launch these initial trade discussions. There is a strong bilateral trade relationship between our 2 countries and I am determined that we build on this.

Over the coming months, I will be conducting similar meetings with other key trade partners, outlining the government's vision for what the UK's future trade relationship might look like.

As part of the discussions, the Business Secretary is expected to make clear that he would like the UK and India to have a trade agreement in place as soon as possible after the UK leaves the EU.

The Business Secretary has also been speaking to British diplomats this week, urging them to utilise their expertise and meet with their governments and local investors to make clear the UK remains an open and viable trade partner.

Speaking at the FCO Leadership Conference on Tuesday (5 July 2016), the Business Secretary urged diplomats to make it known to their countries' governments that the UK was looking to expand its options for trade deals.

Trade and Investment Minister Lord Price has been in Hong Kong and China this week, attending the G20 trade ministers meeting in Shanghai and meeting key government and business representatives. This is part of the government's engagement with key trade partners, reinforcing the UK's ongoing commitment to maintaining and strengthening the economic relationship between the countries.

Alongside visiting Delhi, the Business Secretary will also be in Mumbai where he will meet senior Tata Group board members to discuss the ongoing sale of their UK steelmaking assets.

Notes to editors:

India and the UK have always had traditionally close trade ties: the UK is the largest G20 investor in India, while India invests more in the UK than the rest of the European Union combined. India has also emerged as the third largest source of FDI for the UK.

Last year, bilateral trade in goods and services between the 2 countries was £16.55 billion (in goods was £11.43 billion while trade in services was £5.11 billion)

According to the government of India data, the UK is the third largest investor in India for the period April 2000 to September 2015, with cumulative inflows of $22.5 billion.

In 2014 to 2015, the UK won a record number of investment projects and is India's top investment destination in Europe. India is also Britain's third biggest job creator in 2014, with a 65% increase in FDI.

A new industry report by CII and Grant Thornton tracking Indian companies based in the UK has revealed that many of them are boosting growth rates in the country, registering a combined increase in revenue of £4 billion: from £22 billion in 2014 to £26 billion in 2015.

According to London and Partners in 2015 Indians also become the second biggest job creators in London. Indian companies created 504 new jobs this year in London alone - second only to the Americans who created 1983 jobs.

In 2014 to 2015 Indian investments in 122 FDI projects created 7,730 new jobs and safeguarded 1,620 jobs in UK.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/333366 2016-07-07T14:20:00+01:00 2016-07-07T15:36:57+01:00 Press release: Government gives UK businesses £57m boost to bring ideas to market A new funding boost of £57.5 million has been announced for the UK's energy and infrastructure, biomedical and quantum technology sectors.
Updated: Tagged Innovate UK. Added links to announced competitions.

Business Secretary chaired the first fortnightly inter-ministerial meeting on business engagement

new fund will help the development of innovative UK business ideas looking at tackling climate change and cancer

A new funding boost of £57.5 million was announced for the UK's energy and infrastructure, biomedical and quantum technology sectors by Business Secretary Sajid Javid at the first inter-ministerial group on business engagement.

Chaired by the Business Secretary, the meeting brought together ministers from across government to discuss issues and challenges facing businesses in all sectors, and how government could support them following the outcome of the EU referendum, including creating opportunities for investment and trade. It was agreed at the meeting that government needed to "speak with one voice" to engage and deal with "immediate investment risks and domestic policy issues". Meeting every 2 weeks, ministers recognised they all need to work together to support businesses and "turbo-charge our export efforts" – with next week's Farnborough Air Show presenting a real opportunity.

At the meeting Sajid Javid also announced the immediate creation of a new £57.5 million fund to help boost innovative businesses across a range of sectors. The best ideas will compete for funding to develop new sustainable energy and transport solutions, bring new healthcare advancements to market and drive forward commercial advances in quantum technology (used in electronic devices such as clocks and computers).

Business Secretary Sajid Javid said:

Creating opportunities for businesses to thrive in the UK is essential for increasing productivity, creating jobs, and boosting our economy. That's why government is working with businesses across all sectors to ensure they have the support they need to grow now and in the future.

Part of our success will be to help propel innovative UK business even further – not only do our world-leading innovators and research base attract foreign investment, their ideas go on to improve the lives of millions of people. Whether tackling climate change or cancer, this new funding will help get the best ideas onto the market quicker and shows our commitment to make the UK the best place in Europe to innovate, set up and grow a business.

The series of competitions will open over the next 2 weeks and be run by Innovate UK and its partner organisations. The competitions will include:

2 competitions totalling £28 million to develop new solutions to provide affordable, sustainable and secure energy delivery, integration of different modes of transport or tackle the challenges of modern urban living that will help businesses secure future investment for ideas. These include Innovation in infrastructure systems and First of a kind deployment of innovation

the joint £10 million Biomedical Catalyst 2016 competition between Innovate UK, the Medical Research Council and Scottish Enterprise to develop innovative healthcare technologies that will help offer potential cures, prevent disease, manage chronic conditions or lead to earlier detection and diagnosis

a £19.5 million joint competition with the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council to develop commercial applications for quantum technologies. This competition builds on the UK's roadmap for quantum technologies and is particularly looking to support companies developing devices such as clocks, sensors, imaging, communications or computing.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/333268 2016-07-07T00:15:00+01:00 2016-07-07T00:15:00+01:00 Press release: Rallying call for female boost in business and the boardroom New review on women in senior leadership and new leader of the Women's Business Council unveiled by government today.

Top leaders from some of Britain's most influential and successful companies are being rallied to help deliver the new progress for greater female representation in business, backed by government support.

The event, hosted at KPMG's offices in London, will see Sir Philip Hampton, Chair of GlaxoSmithKline, and Dame Helen Alexander, Chair of UBM, lead a team of influential leaders from a diverse range of industries from banking to engineering. They will undertake a new review on improving female representation in leadership positions of British business, broadening the ambition to the entire FTSE 350 and raising the target to 33% of women on boards by 2020.

The review will focus on ensuring the very best of female talent make their way up the pipeline by removing barriers to their success, and continue to drive forward the momentum from Lord Davies's work - which pushed the numbers of females on FTSE 100 boards up from 12.5% to 26%.

The focus for the work on the pipeline will be on representation on executive committees and direct reports to the executive committee in FTSE 350 companies.

Sir Philip Hampton said:

It is clear that gender balance on FTSE boards has undergone a dramatic shift in recent years and this progress continues. However, we must significantly increase the number of women in senior leadership roles if we are to harness the skills of women for the benefit of business and the UK economy.

Minister for Women and Equalities Nicky Morgan said:

This government has prioritised equality for women, pushing for greater representation in business and providing young women with the role models that inspire them and their career choices. We have already made huge progress - having increased the percentage of women on FTSE 100 boards from 12% to 26%.

But now is not the time to pat ourselves on the back and say 'job well done' - we must be even more ambitious. That's why I am delighted that Sir Philip and Dame Helen will be heading up such a prestigious team of Britain's best and brightest leaders to drive this ambition forward.

The expertise and passion of all the people involved leave me with no doubt that we will continue to see a genuine culture change at the heart of British business. This isn't just important for women - it's critical for our economy - that's why I want to see greater representation from the classroom to the boardroom.

Sir Philip and Dame Helen have already begun taking action by engaging with executive search firms, business leaders, academics and other key parties on how best to improve the female pipeline within the FTSE 350.

A key element of the review will also consider current research on how to drive improvements and the obstacles preventing women's progression. It is expected that findings will be presented to government by the end of 2016.

Corporate Governance Minister Baroness Neville-Rolfe said:

We have seen an increase of 137% in the number of women on boards. Yet 15 boards in the FTSE 350 are still all male and women only count for 7% of executive directors.

Philip Hampton and Helen Alexander will examine how to improve the representation of women in the executive layer and champion continued increases in the representation of women on boards across the FTSE 350.

This will help to ensure a sustainable talent pool of women for board positions for both executive and non-executive positions in the future.

The announcement comes as the new 2016 Female FTSE Board Report is released by Cranfield University, City University London and Queen Mary University London, which shows that the overall percentage of women on FTSE boards has increased compared to March 2015.

In order to meet the 33% target for FTSE 350 boards by 2020, a constant turnover is required and an appointment rate of 1 in 3 board positions going to women. Recently turnover rates have decreased, with fewer people leaving and joining companies, and the percentage of new appointments going to women over the past 6 months dropping below the 1 in 3 required to meet the 33% target.

Many boards have already met or exceeded the target which is excellent news. However, there are signals of the need for a renewed push and increase in the pace of change.

Progress in the executive ranks and in the executive pipeline remains very slow. Only 9.7% of executive directors in the FTSE 100 are women, dropping to only 5.6% in the FTSE 250.

These figures indicate that the pipeline of female talent in business needs to be addressed with urgency and will be the focus of the new Hampton-Alexander review.

Susan Vinnicombe CBE, Professor of Women and Leadership at Cranfield University and co-author of the Female FTSE Board Report 2016, said:

The focus on boards must be preserved as the pace of change has not kept up after the Davies Closing Report. In order to hit the 33% board target by 2020, chairmen and search consultants must ensure the board appointment process remains robust, transparent and gender-inclusive.

Dr Ruth Sealy, Senior Lecturer in Organisational Psychology at City University London and co-author of the Female FTSE Board Report 2016, said:

For change to be sustainable, we must focus on the pipeline and ensure that women can progress through senior management ranks. Only 19.4% of FTSE 100 executive committee members are women, and women hold only 10% of the most important senior executive and operational roles on these committees.

Dr Elena Doldor, Lecturer in Organisational Behaviour at Queen Mary University London and co-author of the Female FTSE Board Report 2016, said:

Companies must do more to support women's careers below board level. Our research shows that rigorous gender metrics and voluntary targets are effective tools that companies can use to redress their gender balance and achieve cultural change.

The announcement comes as Cilla Snowball CBE is appointed as the new Chair of the Women's Business Council (WBC). Group Chairman and Group CEO at AMV BBDO, she has set out the priorities for the council with an increased focus on maximising opportunities for women - from the classroom to the boardroom.

The new look Women's Business Council also brings 7 new members from a range of industries - from manufacturing to defence - and from across the UK. The new members also raised the male headcount on the group, encouraging other senior men to act as visible agents for change to help women to build and sustain rewarding careers.

Harnessing their shared expertise they will be working across sectors, building partnerships with schools and colleges and developing industry solutions by business for business - championing an industry-led approach to increasing women's contribution to economic growth.

Cilla Snowball said:

I am delighted to be appointed new Chair of the Women's Business Council and I'm looking forward to joining forces with the Hampton-Alexander review to increase the number of women leading our businesses.

The refreshed council will now extend its reach across more sectors than ever before; providing valuable insight into how to tackle the barriers to women's progression and shining a light on the benefits to business of harnessing the skills, experience and talents of women throughout industry.

Note to editors

For more information or information about the launch event please contact the Government Equalities Office Press Office on 020 7340 8465.

For copies of the report or further information on the findings please contact the Queen Mary University of London on 020 7882 5378.

The Hampton-Alexander review steering group members have been chosen for their experience in driving change in women's representation and business. Alongside the steering group, an advisory panel has also been formed, which will be consulted on an ad hoc basis to provide additional advice to the chair and deputy chair.

The Hampton-Alexander review steering and advisory groups consist of:

Sir Philip Hampton, Chair of Review, Chair of GSK (FTSE 100)

Dame Helen Alexander, Deputy-Chair of the Review, Chair of UBM (FTSE 250)

Andy Duff, Chair Severn Trent (FTSE 100)

Alison Platt, CEO Countrywide (FTSE 250)

Charles Berry, Chair Weir and Senior (both FTSE 250)

Denise Wilson OBE, former member of Lord Davies's steering group Women on Boards

Fiona Cannon OBE, Group Director Inclusion and Diversity Lloyds Banking Group (FTSE 100)

Simon Collins, Senior Partner and Chairman of KPMG

Advisory group:

CBI, Carolyn Fairbairn

IoD, Lady Barbara Judge

30 per cent Club, Brenda Trenowden

Investment Association, Andrew Ninian

Cranfield University, Susan Vinnicombe CBE

Women's Business Council, Cilla Snowball CBE

New members of the WBC - July 2016:

Deirdre Michie, CEO Oil and Gas UK

Roger Whiteside, CEO Greggs

Clive Hickman, CEO Manufacturing Technology Centre

Rick Lee, HR Director, Willmott Dixon Construction

Chris Stylianou, MD Sky plc

John Whelan, UK HR Director BAE Systems

Dr Fiona Withey, MD UK Clinical Services PCI (Biotech Services)

The Hampton-Alexander Review: FTSE Women Leaders terms of reference:

to consider options, make recommendations and work with the business community and others to improve the representation of women below the board in the senior layers of FTSE 350 companies

to champion work to continue improving the representation of women on FTSE 350 boards

in doing so, consider the obstacles women might face in reaching the boardroom during the course of their careers. This will include:

consideration of existing research on what is preventing women's progression

consultation/seeking feedback with a cross section of interested parties, including chairs, CEOs, senior women, executive search firms and other organisations, as appropriate

presentation of these findings, views of stakeholders and supporting rationale for change, including proposed actions to improve opportunities for women

work will take place during 2016, with a view to present recommendations to government before the end of 2016

Additional quotes:

Melanie Richards, Vice Chair at KPMG, which is the business supporter of the report, said:

Businesses are facing significant challenges following the EU referendum, but we cannot allow gender diversity to slip down the agenda. The conversations I have had with chief executives reveal the intention to tackle diversity is there, but this intent must continue to be matched by action if we are to make greater progress on this issue.

I believe the barrier to female progression exists not in the boardroom, but deeper within the business. We need to redouble our efforts and look beyond the board to the executive layer, and rethink how we recruit, retain and promote our people. Only through this systemic change will we level the playing field for women working in business.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/333178 2016-07-06T12:56:31+01:00 2016-07-06T12:56:31+01:00 Press release: Opportunities identified for oil and gas sector workforce A new online tool will help skilled workers in the oil and gas sectors find job opportunities in the wider engineering sector.

pipeline of energy sector projects likely to create demand for highly-skilled engineers

UK government publishes new blueprint to manage oil and gas sector skills

longer-term modelling could enable industry to deal more effectively with the cyclical nature of the market

A new online tool will help skilled workers in the oil and gas sectors find job opportunities in the wider engineering sector, supported by the pipeline of large energy and infrastructure projects.

The existing Talent Retention Solution scheme, which is currently used by over 1,000 companies in the engineering and manufacturing sectors, will now be supplemented by an additional website specifically for those working in the oil and gas industry. EngineeringUK estimates that the economy will need over 180,000 people with engineering skills per year to 2022.

The measures are outlined in the Oil and Gas Workforce Plan published by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) to ensure the industry can better plan for future workforce requirements over longer-term timescales, given the highly cyclical nature of the sector.

Business Minister Anna Soubry said:

The future success of our economy depends on having the people with the right skills in the right jobs, and that's why it's vital we retain the talents of our highly-skilled workers currently in the oil and gas industry.

There is already considerable demand for these skills whether it's for nuclear new build, the fast-growing renewable energy sector or the nascent decommissioning industry.

UK government Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, Amber Rudd said:

The UK government stands 100% behind our oil and gas industry, the workers and families it supports, and the people who have worked tirelessly to steer it through these challenging times.

Our workforce in the UK is one of the mostly highly skilled in the world, and their valuable skills are transferable right across the engineering sector. The action we are taking today will ensure that we hold on to that talent and provide more opportunities for those most directly affected by the low oil price.

David Mundell Scottish Secretary said:

Engineers and skilled workers in Scotland's oil and gas sector are world class, and many industries could benefit from their expertise and experience, from major infrastructure projects to new and innovative energy solutions.

While the sector has been tested over recent years, time and time again it has shown a capacity to rise to the challenges confronting it, and that is due to the resilience and skill of the people working within it. This tool will allow other industries to reap the rewards of the talent pool of the UK's oil and gas workers.

In addition to the new online portal, the government expects workers in the oil and gas industry to benefit from the extension to Advanced Learner Loans. This means it is now possible to apply for loans for qualifications at Levels 3 to 6, which will be important for enabling workers in the oil and gas industry to study at higher levels and gain the skills to transition into infrastructure or other engineering sectors.

The pipeline for planned public and private infrastructure to 2021 and beyond is £425 billion. According to data published by the UK Commission for Employment and Skills last year (2015), the energy sector is already facing a substantial skills shortage, particularly for highly-skilled engineers and technicians.

Notes to editors:

 Oil and Gas Workforce Plan.

The current Talent Retention Solutions online portal.

The latest National Infrastructure Pipeline.

Existing measures to support the oil and gas sectors include: * a new Inter-Ministerial Group comprising Amber Rudd (Energy Secretary), Anna Soubry (Business Minister), David Mundell (Scottish Secretary), Andrea Leadsom (Energy Minister), Oliver Letwin (Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster), Lord Price (Trade Minister), David Hinds (Exchequer Secretary) and Andy Samuel (Oil and Gas Authority) * a £1 billion fiscal package to reduce the additional taxes historically imposed on the North Sea, as well as to introduce targeted measures to encourage investment in exploration, infrastructure and late-life assets * a £20 million package of new investment in exploration, innovation and skills * funding for the £250 million Aberdeen city region deal

Level 5 courses include Higher National Diplomas; National Vocation Qualifications at Level 4; BTEC Professional awards; certificate and diploma Level 5; and Diploma of further/higher education.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/333051 2016-07-05T12:30:00+01:00 2016-07-05T12:30:00+01:00 News story: Dr Hermann Hauser awarded honorary KBE Business Secretary Sajid Javid, has bestowed an honorary KBE on Dr Hermann Hauser.

Business Secretary Sajid Javid, has bestowed an honorary KBE (Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) on Dr Hermann Hauser in recognition of his valuable services to engineering and industry.

Hermann Hauser, who was born in Vienna, Austria, received the honour for his extraordinary contribution to entrepreneurship in the UK as a serial innovator and technology investor for over 30 years - playing a vital role in the growth of Cambridge's cluster of high-tech companies.

Hermann Hauser has been a founding director of many companies, including Acorn Computers and ARM Holdings – which remains one of the UK's leading listed technology companies – and has supported countless others too. In 1997 he launched Amadeus Capital Partners, one of the UK's first major venture capital funds, which over the past 19 years has funded and supported more than 100 young companies.

With this success, Dr Hauser has become highly influential in the development of innovation policy, contributing in many ways to government science and innovation policy. He was a highly valued member of the Prime Minister's Council for Science and Technology from 2004 until recently, and a member of the Advisory Board on the Higher Education Innovation Fund. His 2010 report led directly to the establishment of the Catapult Technology and Innovation Centres which are helping deliver a step change in the UK's ability to commercialise research.

Dr Hauser - a Fellow of the Royal Society, Royal Academy of Engineering, the Institute of Physics, and the Royal Society of Chemistry – has also made charitable donations in excess of £10 million through his personal foundation to advance education and health.

Speaking at the event, Business Secretary Sajid Javid said:

Since Hermann was awarded an Honorary CBE in 2001, his contribution to the UK has continued to grow and he has been increasingly influential in national policy and in supporting technology entrepreneurship.

He has dedicated his career to engineering and furthering technological advances across industries and it gives me great pleasure to recognise his unprecedented achievements.

The awards ceremony was conducted on 29 June 2016 at the Royal Society.

Notes to editors:

Non-British citizens are not entitled to receive their honour from the Queen at Buckingham Palace and are instead presented with their awards by the relevant Secretary of State.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/332872 2016-07-03T00:01:00+01:00 2016-07-03T00:01:00+01:00 Press release: Business Secretary calls on industry to help shape UK's future trade map Business Secretary's call for industry and business to help shape future trade and investment policy.

A letter outlining action already taken by government to engage businesses and planned next steps, following last week's referendum outcome, has been sent today (3 July 2016) to over 100 of the largest businesses and trade organisations in the UK.

Penned by Business Secretary Sajid Javid and Trade and Investment Minister Lord Price, the letter follows a series of meetings that have taken place over the past week to engage businesses in an "ongoing dialogue" with government to hear their "priorities, issues and ensure we are clear on what you want to see in terms of the end result". It provides an update on future engagement activity and asks businesses to contribute to "informing our approach and priorities for engagement with all of our international partners to set out the options for UK trade policy going forward".

The Business Secretary and Trade and Investment Minister also confirmed that the Chief Executive of the Intellectual Property Office John Alty, has been asked to lead a team tasked specifically with engaging with businesses of all sizes on trade policy issues.

Business Secretary Sajid Javid said:

Now more than ever, businesses need certainty to ensure the best outcome for the UK economy in the coming months so it's vital that the government maintains an open and continuous dialogue. This is all part of BIS' Business Strategy to work collaboratively with businesses and we must keep on working together to make sure the world knows that the UK is open for business and remains an attractive place with which to trade and invest.

The letter has been sent to businesses including those who attended the Business Secretary's business roundtable on Tuesday 28 June 2016, those who Lord Price has spoken to and met with over the past week and those who attended the Prime Minister's business advisory group meeting on Thursday (30 July 2016).

It also asks what further work UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) could be engaged in to help them as a business find and capitalise on new export opportunities and attract inward investment.

Trade and Investment Minister Lord Price said:

As part of BIS' wide-ranging business engagement activity, I have written to a number of companies and inward investors to reiterate that part of my role, as with my predecessors, is ensuring that government's trade and investment policy is guided by their needs.

The first meeting of the new inter-ministerial group on business engagement, chaired by Mr Javid, will be held next week.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/332729 2016-07-01T13:09:00+01:00 2016-07-01T13:09:00+01:00 News story: Membership of Recall Review Steering Group Business Minister Anna Soubry has established a new industry-led group to work with government to improve product safety recalls in the UK.

The Recall Review Steering Group was set up following the publication of the independent review of the UK's product recall system by leading consumer campaigner Lynn Faulds Wood. The group, made up of those who contributed to the review, brings together a cross-section of stakeholders and includes representatives of manufacturers and retailers, as well as legal, technical and market surveillance experts.

The members are:

David Bolton, British Retail Consortium

John Leadley, Baker & McKenzie

Roland Earl, British Toy & Hobby Association

Phil Buckle, Electrical Safety First

Charlie Pugsley, Chief Fire Officers' Association

Leon Livermore, Chartered Trading Standards Institute

Douglas Herbison, Association of Manufacturers of Domestic Appliances

Mike Hawes, Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders

Professor Geoff Rodgers, Brunel University

The first meeting of the group took place at BIS on Wednesday 4 May 2016. The group will appoint a rolling chair and publish its terms of reference in due course.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/332709 2016-06-30T16:55:47+01:00 2016-06-30T16:55:47+01:00 News story: 'People with Significant Control' Companies House register goes live From today (30 June 2016) companies will have to declare who owns or controls them to Companies House.

The People with Significant Control (PSC) register includes information about the individuals who own or control companies including their name, month and year of birth, nationality, and details of their interest in the company.

From 30 June 2016, UK companies (except listed companies) and limited liability partnerships (LLPs) need to declare this information when issuing their annual confirmation statement to Companies House.

A person of significant control is someone that holds more than 25% of shares or voting rights in a company, has the right to appoint or remove the majority of the board of directors or otherwise exercises significant influence or control. This information will form a central public register of people with significant control, which is free to access.

The Prime Minister first put corporate transparency on the international agenda when he chaired the G8 summit in Lough Erne and secured commitment to action, the commitment to enhance corporate transparency in the UK was reaffirmed at London's International Anti-Corruption Summit in May 2016. Since then the EU and G20 countries have also agreed to act. The UK is the first country in the G20 to create a public register of this kind.

The UK has high standards of business behaviour and corporate governance. The overwhelming majority of UK companies contribute productively to the UK economy, abide by the law and make a valuable contribution to society. But there are exceptions.

Some of the features of the company structure which make it good for business also make it attractive to criminals. Companies can be misused to facilitate a range of criminal activities - from money laundering to tax evasion, corruption to terrorist financing. Sometimes those individuals running companies will not conduct themselves in accordance with the high standards we expect in the UK, posing a risk to other companies and consumers alike.

Information about the ownership and control of UK corporate entities will bring benefits for law enforcement, business, civil society and citizens. By making this information publicly available, free of charge, the government is setting a standard that we are persuading other countries to follow.

Read the guidance on the register of people with significant control (PSC).

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/332681 2016-06-30T14:57:50+01:00 2016-06-30T14:57:50+01:00 Press release: Business Secretary to chair government group focused on business engagement following referendum A new business engagement inter-ministerial group bringing together ministers from across government has been established.

A new business engagement inter-ministerial group, chaired by the Business Secretary Sajid Javid and bringing together ministers from across government to coordinate engagement with the business community, has been established today (30 June 2016).

The new group, which will meet next week, will provide an opportunity for ministers to discuss the views, thoughts and concerns from businesses of all types and in all sectors across the UK and ensure their concerns are represented. It will feed into the new EU Referendum Unit established within the Cabinet Office.

Secretary of State for Business, Sajid Javid, said:

Now more than ever, businesses need certainty so it's vital that the government maintains an open and continuous dialogue. We must work together to make sure the world knows that the UK is still open for business and remains an attractive place with which to trade and invest.

Working with ministers across government, I will make sure businesses have the information they need and work with them to identify opportunities as they open up.

Given the challenges ahead, the inter-ministerial group will provide an opportunity for ministers to come together and make sure they are providing businesses with the information they need and how they can limit the uncertainty in the transition period of the UK's exit from the EU.

They will also look at where businesses are seeking clarity and certainty and make sure the government is sending a clear message that it remains committed to making the UK the best place in the world to start and grow a business.

Chaired by the Business Secretary, membership includes the Energy Secretary, Environment Secretary, Culture Secretary, Defence Secretary, Foreign Secretary, Chief Secretary to the Treasury and the Trade and Investment Minister.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/332662 2016-06-30T13:17:56+01:00 2016-06-30T13:17:56+01:00 Speech: Leading the world in the new age of global science Speech by Jo Johnson MP, Minister for Universities and Science, at the Wellcome Trust.

It is a pleasure to be here at the Wellcome Trust. This living monument to medical research sits at the heart of one of the world's greatest knowledge quarters.

It is a cluster that includes University College and its associated hospitals, the University of the Arts, the British Library, the Francis Crick and the Alan Turing Institutes and companies including Google and Facebook.

This 'knowledge quarter', like many others around the country, embodies so much that is special about the UK as a research and innovation powerhouse as we face new challenges and ever stronger global competition.

As the Prime Minister set out last Friday, the government will continue to take forward the important legislation that we set before Parliament in the Queen's Speech.

So my focus today, as we look ahead to the passage of the Higher Education and Research Bill, is to reflect on what underpins our strengths as a knowledge economy – and the steps we are now taking, and must take, to preserve them into the future.

But first, a reflection on what the referendum result means for research and innovation in the UK.

I am only too aware of the many questions that will be in your minds following the vote last Thursday. The academic and business communities were strong voices for Remain during the referendum campaign – and I want to thank you all for the role that you played.

While it was not the outcome for which I and many of you campaigned, I accept this momentous decision by the British people and am committed to making it work.

Now is the time to focus on the future, and with an optimistic mindset. We must look for the positives, while we deal with the challenges.

Today is first an opportunity to remind ourselves that our economy is fundamentally strong and that UK research and innovation are world leading. And for me to give you my commitment to continue working with you to make the strongest possible case for higher education, research and innovation in the coming negotiation.

In legal terms, nothing changed overnight last Thursday. We remain an EU member during the 2-year renegotiation period, with all the rights and obligations that derive from this. EU students studying here, or looking to start in the autumn, remain eligible for student finance for the full duration of their courses. We remain fully open to scientists and researchers from across the EU. We hugely value the contribution of EU and international staff. And there are no immediate changes to their rights to live and work in the UK.

It is business as usual for Horizon 2020. I would be concerned about any discrimination against UK participants and am in close touch with Commissioner Moedas on these issues.

The UK also continues to lead in major non-EU research collaborations – from CERN in Switzerland to the European Space Agency. Just this month we confirmed the UK's application to become a full member of a major new particle accelerator, the European Spallation Source in Sweden.

But the prospect of Brexit inevitably poses new challenges, at a time when research itself is becoming more collaborative, and more global.

Our task now is to chart a course that protects the UK's status as a full-spectrum scientific power.

We have fundamental strengths on which we must now build.

First and foremost we have a long established system that supports, and therefore attracts, the brightest minds, at all stages of their careers. We fund excellent science wherever it is found, and ensure there is the freedom to tackle important scientific questions.

We recognise the talent pipeline is critical. So we are doing all we can to develop the next generation of researchers. This week we opened applications to our new Master's loan. We are also developing for the first time a new Doctoral loan to complement existing Research Council funding. In this Parliament we will have utterly transformed the funding landscape for post-graduate study.

As a government we recognise the contribution that our world-class research base makes to our economy and wellbeing, which is why at the Spending Review we committed to protect the science budget in real terms, and protect the funding that flows through Innovate UK in cash terms. These commitments remain.

Second, we have excellent scientific infrastructure here in the UK – in universities, in existing research institutes, such as the MRC Laboratory for Molecular Biology and the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, and in new institutes like 'The Crick' and 'Royce'. This is backed by a manifesto commitment of £6.9 billion capital funding up to 2021 – that's record levels of investment in new equipment, new laboratories and new research institutes.

Third, we have access to major research infrastructures across the world, such as the Large Hadron Collider, in which the UK plays a leading role. We are a major partner in building new infrastructure such as the Square Kilometre Array whose global headquarters will be based at Jodrell Bank; and in the LIGO Scientific Collaboration, which made the dramatic gravitational waves discovery. It was UK researchers, working with their counterparts, who made this discovery possible.

And we are hugely successful at innovation – second in the latest Global Innovation Index and one of the most attractive countries in the OECD for international business R&D investment. Only last week the prestigious MacRobert Award of the Royal Academy of Engineering was awarded to Blatchford, a global leader in the development of prosthetic limbs. They have integrated robotics into a prosthetic limb for above-knee amputations – it's a masterpiece of engineering that combines advanced materials with cutting edge deployment of ICT. Advances such as this are now being celebrated in the first ever UK Robotics Week.

But, while we can be confident that our fundamentals are strong, we need to evaluate the consequences to UK science and innovation of leaving the EU. And ask why, following the decision to leave, it is even more necessary for us to implement the proposals in the White Paper and Bill, and deliver on our manifesto commitment to implement the Nurse review.

So let me deal with each of these in turn.

Europe and the world

There is no doubt that UK researchers and businesses do extremely well in EU research funding programmes. And we helped to shape the European Research Council in our own image, with its emphasis on peer review and funding excellence.

It is too early to say what a new settlement will look like and exactly what our relationship to successor framework programmes will be – but I am confident that we can continue to thrive.

The UK has been a centre of scholarship for more than eight centuries. Our universities were knowledge hubs long before the EU ever came into existence. We are already extremely connected with the rest of the world – in 2012 nearly half of articles by UK researchers were co-authored by at least one non-UK researcher, second only to France amongst other leading research nations. These connections will continue. Our position as a science superpower, held since the dawn of the Enlightenment, can be maintained.

But this will require a concerted effort from government, the research community and, importantly, from the new leadership of UK Research and Innovation, under John Kingman.

The role of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)

I have no doubt that the formation of UKRI will provide indispensable support to our research and innovation leadership during this period of change in our relationship with the European Union. Now, more than ever, as these communities face new challenges, we need a strong and unified voice to represent your interests across government, across Europe and around the world.

We are outstanding at discovery science – and are getting much better at turning those discoveries into economic benefit - but we must do even better.

The government is already taking steps to strengthen the research and innovation landscape. We will shortly publish a new national innovation plan. We have already protected research funding. We have maintained innovation funding through Innovate UK, and the R&D Tax Credit is benefitting record numbers of businesses. We are also continuing to grow our Catapult network, where the very best of the UK's businesses, scientists, clinicians and engineers work side-by-side. We are now developing a wider range of financial instruments to support innovative firms and better target public support.

But for every one of our successes, there are examples where UK scientific discovery has been developed off-shore, lost to a competitor, exploited elsewhere. We know the stories - from the early days of computing to pioneering imaging techniques such as medical ultrasound and CT scanning.

That's why we need UKRI to strengthen our ability to spot technology trends and develop a much more strategic approach to research investment.

Increasingly, innovation is occurring at the intersection between scientific disciplines and technologies – such as between biology, materials and computer sciences in the development of medical prosthetics. This means that many of the major problems that we face require inter- and multi- disciplinary solutions. We see this in the impact case studies collected for the REF, the Research Excellence Framework. And we know that many of the world's emerging scientific powers are not just growing their scientific capabilities, but they are increasingly investing in collaborative research that crosses traditional discipline boundaries and national borders.

Which brings us to the reasons that the government asked Sir Paul Nurse to conduct his review of the Research Councils. The Nurse Review powerfully made the case that while we are excellent at science, the collective research endeavour could be so much greater than the sum of its parts. It spelled out the gaps we need to fill:

a lack of strategic join-up between the disciplines and between the research base and policy-makers;

a fragmented approach to investment, that lacks the capability to address multi- and inter-disciplinary research as effectively as we might; and

historic weakness at commercialisation, with a need for a smoother pathway for innovation.

We have also listened carefully to the NAO report which saw the need for a more joined-up and strategic approach to our science capital investments. We are investing in our research infrastructure on a record scale, but the NAO said that we should develop a more strategic process for identifying priorities and proposing projects, potentially through the integrated organisation recommended by Sir Paul Nurse.

That is why we are legislating to establish UKRI, which will include the Research Councils, Innovate UK and a new Council – Research England.

So what will UKRI accomplish?

First and foremost, it will serve as a single, overarching and protective funding body that operates at arm's length from government and provides a strong voice for the research and innovation community. Now, more than ever, as these communities face a unique set of global challenges, we need a powerful voice to represent UK research and innovation on the world stage and ensure we maximise opportunities from all our global research collaborations.

Through UKRI, we have the promise of the best of both worlds – combining what works so well now, while ensuring we meet the challenges ahead.

But as well as a strong, strategic voice in UKRI, the Higher Education and Research Bill clearly sets out how Council leaders will retain their autonomy to fund the very best research and innovation activity, employ the best staff, and serve their individual discipline communities. They will continue to manage their specialist centres and institutes, as the Research Councils do now.

Whilst all staff will be employees of UKRI, recruitment and terms and conditions of staff in Councils and any associated institutes will be set by the Councils, in line with any flexibility granted by the government. And each UKRI Council will in the future enjoy greater freedom to develop their own delivery plans, working with their peers on the UKRI Board, at arm's length from officials and at a further remove from ministers in Whitehall. This means a net gain in academic autonomy.

Second, UKRI will ensure we have more consistent mechanisms to shape a national research and innovation strategy, with members of the research and innovation community in the driving seat. In the last Parliament, we made an important move in this direction – with David Willett's 'Eight Great Technologies' and the further development of cross-Research Council programmes. But the arrangements so far have been ad hoc and reliant on top down ministerial intervention, rather than bottom-up and organic direction-setting by the science community itself. We could clone David, so all future science ministers can be as wise and far-sighted as him. Or we could develop a capability - within UKRI - for the systematic development of the kind of research and innovation strategy that will help us to compete in the world for decades to come.

Through UKRI, we will have a national research and innovation strategy developed organically by the research and innovation community itself, helping to guide more than £6 billion in annual government investment and delivering greater coordination across the delivery plans of each of UKRI's 9 autonomous Councils.

Each part of UKRI will be able to work seamlessly with the others, supported by strong central infrastructure and analytical capability.

The ability to work swiftly and strategically across disciplines will be critical to the new Global Challenges Research Fund. At present, it is not within the legal remit of any of the Research Councils to hold, manage or distribute the necessary multi- and inter-disciplinary grants from the Fund. Moving forward, we will be able to fund challenges directly through 'common research funds' in addition to government allocating budgets across different disciplines.

Our reforms will ensure that the £1.5 billion Global Challenges Research Fund delivers the biggest bang for buck – strengthening the global impact of UK research.

Now, more than ever, it is time to show that Britain is outward-looking and engaged with these global challenges. And that's why I am pleased today to be able to make a further announcement about how we are investing to support this work. We are creating a new £1 million Newton Prize, starting next year. This will not be just a one off, but an annual prize – awarded for the best science or innovation projects that promote the economic development and social welfare of Newton partner countries or address the problems of poor people around the world. It will be awarded by an independent Newton Prize Committee. And I am very pleased to announce that Sir Venki Ramakrishnan, President of the Royal Society, has agreed to chair the Newton Prize Committee. Sir Venki brings a wealth of scientific and international experience and I am immensely grateful that he has agreed to do this.

Third, UKRI will have a remit that spans discovery through to commercialisation. Innovate UK will continue to focus on business-led innovation. It will continue to have a separate budget and serve the business community. But it will also have a clearer remit to help drive innovation from within the research base, aligning its innovation strategy with the Research Councils.

All of this will be underpinned by continued support for a sustainable, world class Higher Education sector. Research England will retain HEFCE's research and knowledge exchange functions, including Higher Education Innovation Funding.

HEIF is an essential mechanism to support universities in effectively contributing to UK growth. Research England and the new Office for Students will act together to deliver HEIF, as an example of the joint working between the two bodies and their shared remit to support business-university collaboration.

And as I set out in a speech earlier this month, we are taking other steps to bring teaching and research closer together. Our proposals include provisions for joint working, cooperation and information sharing between the OfS and UKRI. An emphasis on working together will run through the leadership and management of both bodies, supported by a legal framework that will be sufficiently flexible to deal effectively with areas of shared interest.

I also want the REF and the TEF to be mutually reinforcing. We will ask institutions to consider how they promote research-led teaching in their TEF submissions; and I have asked Lord Stern, as part of his review of the REF, to consider the impact of excellent research on teaching. We look forward to hearing the results of his review shortly.

It will continue to be a matter for each of the devolved administrations to consider how to turn REF results into 'dual support' funding. We are working with them, and I was in Scotland earlier this week, to discuss the steps we can take to ensure UKRI works to fund excellent science across the UK, just as Research Councils do now. UKRI is just that: an integrated organisation with a remit to think and act strategically across the whole of the country.

The balance of funding between the Councils will ultimately be decided by ministers, as it always has been. But, with the formation of UKRI, we will have a new mechanism for the whole research and innovation community to determine its own priorities, and to advise ministers as to their view on the optimal budget allocations.

Conclusion: 5 tests

By preserving the strengths of our research base, and building capability for the future, we have a real opportunity to ensure we are truly leading the world in this new era of global science and innovation.

And with both the funding and the strategy in place, we have every reason to be optimistic.

But we in government will need to continue to work closely with the research and innovation communities as we adjust to the realities of a new relationship with the rest of Europe.

The country that inspired the steam engine, the double helix and the World Wide Web has no guaranteed pass to the scientific premier league in the next century, nor can protected funding alone guarantee success.

The nature of the next scientific breakthroughs is changing, and we must adapt with it.

Now, more than ever, and as the Parliamentary process moves forward in the months ahead, we must galvanise our national research and innovation effort, and make sure it is fit for the future.

I have 5 tests for the success of these reforms:

Are we training and attracting world-class scientists and engineers, who are in turn able to help shape a more cohesive national research and innovation strategy?

Do we have a strong national champion for research and innovation, able to make a case in government, with the public and around the world in support of UK science and in pursuit of international collaboration?

Are we fully exploiting economic opportunities from our research base, especially in new and emerging technologies, maintaining our reputation as a global innovation leader?

Are we effectively targeting our efforts at society's biggest challenges, with the ability to support more multi- and inter-disciplinary research, and success at winning global recognition for UK-led breakthroughs?

And have we preserved for future generations the vital components of academic autonomy, made possible through the Haldane Principle and Dual Support, that underpin so much of what is great about UK academia?

We can pass these tests, and seize the opportunity – not just to preserve what already works well, but also to turn the challenges we now face to our advantage.

We must now work together to get this right. We have the chance both to maintain everything that is exceptional about UK research and innovation, and cement our unparalleled leadership in this new age of global science.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/332550 2016-06-30T10:30:08+01:00 2016-06-30T10:30:08+01:00 News story: Two years since flexible working extended to all employees It's been 2 years since the government extended the right to apply for flexible working to all employees.

Around 20 million people in Great Britain can now request flexible working, thanks to the government's extension of the right to all employees which came into force 2 years ago today (30 June 2016).

Flexible working gives employees and employers a chance to try new ways of working, which will improve productivity and help more people to remain in work.

Two years ago, the government extended the right to apply for flexible working to all employees, as long as they have at least 26 weeks' service with their current employer.

Before 30 June 2014, the right only applied to parents of children under the age of 17 years (or 18 years if the child was disabled) and certain carers.

There are many types of flexible working, such as job sharing, working from home, working full-time but over fewer days, flexitime and part-time working.

Requests must be considered and decided upon by your employer within 3 months of the receipt of the request.

Employers must have a sound business reason for rejecting any request.

Find out more about flexible ways of working and how to make an application

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/332531 2016-06-29T16:06:20+01:00 2016-06-29T16:06:20+01:00 Speech: Sajid Javid's speech to the SMMT International Automotive Summit 2016 Speech by Business Secretary Sajid Javid to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders International Automotive Summit.

As the apocryphal Chinese curse says, "May you live in interesting times".

Well, it has certainly been an interesting seven days in Westminster.

If nothing else, our nation's political journalists are enjoying themselves tremendously!

The past week has produced millions of words of comment, analysis and discussion.

There's been endless Parliamentary parlour games and Westminster whispers.

But none of that should distract us from the very real, very serious issues at hand.

Since Friday morning we've seen instability in the stock market.

We've seen the pound drop to a 31-year low.

We've heard talk of major employers making plans to move jobs out of the UK.

There's no question about it, this is a challenging time for British business.

The nation and the economy are facing a situation is that completely without precedent.

Literally nobody has been here before.

There is no instruction manual.

And I know it's a situation the SMMT had hoped to avoid.

Like me, three-quarters of your members wanted Britain to remain a member of the European Union.

Just last week Mike called it "critical" for the future of British car-making.

From multinationals to small specialist suppliers, the industry was unambiguous in its support for Remain.

Now I'm not going to pretend the past couple of months never happened.

I'm not about to start backtracking on some of the warnings that were made.

I don't doubt that there will be difficult times ahead for Britain, particularly for British employers.

We're entering a period of uncertainty and – let's be completely honest – we don't have a good idea how long it will last. But you can only play with the cards you've been dealt.

The people of the United Kingdom have issued their orders.

And as a Cabinet Minister it's my job to put those orders into action.

So I won't be sitting around complaining, pointing fingers, or reflecting on what might have been.

The UK will be leaving the European Union.

I have to make sure that happens in a way that works for British business.

A way that works for you.

The easiest thing in the world would be to stand on the sidelines throwing rocks.

But I'm not that kind of politician.

And if there's one thing I've learned in my time as Business Secretary, it's that you're not that kind of industry.

You're forward-thinking.

You're innovative.

You don't shirk from challenges, you rise to them.

Those qualities helped you become one of Britain's most successful manufacturing sectors.

And those are the qualities that will help all of us to make it through the days to come.

So where do we go from here?

What happens next for Britain, for manufacturing, for the automotive industry?

Well, this decision may make conditions more challenging.

But it won't make things impossible.

It creates a number of large, complex issues to overcome.

But we can overcome them.

And yes, we are sailing into unchartered waters.

But we are far from rudderless.

Contrary to some of the more alarmist headlines, the business of government continues.

Since Friday I've been in regular touch with heads of some of our biggest companies to reassure them and talk about next steps.

Cabinet met on Monday and we agreed to set up a cross-government Europe taskforce.

Yesterday I met with Britain's business leaders, including Mike, to hear their views and set out our plans.

Through all that, my message for British business has been clear and simple.

Britain remains open for business.

This is not time for hasty decisions or rushed judgements.

The markets are volatile right now.

But this volatility has not come as a surprise.

All the experts predicted it.

And the government, the Bank of England and the Financial Conduct Authority have spent the past few months putting in place robust plans to deal with it.

The Treasury has been working with the major financial institutions to make sure they are able to deal with just this situation.

Swap lines had been arranged in advance, so the Bank of England can lend in foreign currency if needed.

The Bank of England stands ready to provide up to £250 billion to support banks and the smooth functioning of markets.

And the Chancellor has been in contact with G7 and European finance ministers, with the IMF, and with central bank governors around the world.

Most important of all, Britain's economy is fundamentally strong.

And for that, much of the credit must go to our Prime Minister.

When David Cameron arrived in Downing Street in 2010 he inherited an economy that was on the brink.

The deepest recession in living memory, spiralling debt, a deficit that was out of control.

It speaks volumes about the Prime Minister that, just six years later, the economy is almost unrecognisable.

We've gone from a record-breaking recession to record employment.

During the last Parliament more jobs were created in Birmingham than in the whole of France.

The country is home to more private sector businesses than at any point in history.

The deficit is down from 11 per cent of national income to just three per cent.

Even after this week's shock, the UK is still one of the biggest economies in the world.

And in a sky full of stars, your sector shines brighter than most.

The past few years have been incredible for the UK's automotive industry.

A vehicle rolls off our production lines every 16 seconds, most destined for export.

Last year we built more cars than at any point in the past decade.

From the consumer forecourt to Formula One gird, the UK's automotive expertise is clear to all.

And from apprenticeships to the Automotive Council to the Advanced Propulsion Centre, automotive has been a model of co-operation between government and industry.

The politicians and the engineers coming together to do what's right for business.

What's right for jobs.

What's right for the people of Britain.

That is how we achieved the level of success the sector is experiencing today – and that is going to continue no matter what.

So although I'm here today to talk, I'm also keen to listen.

What can we do for you right now and in the future?

What do you need from the negotiations to come?

What does Britain's motor industry want our new relationship with Europe to look like?

The decision the British people made last week will undoubtedly create many challenges.

But it also gives us a unique opportunity.

An opportunity to build from the ground up in a way that really works for Britain's employers and employees.

And I want you to be a part of that.

I want to hear from you in the weeks and months ahead.

You know your sector, your suppliers, your investors better than anyone.

And remember this.

We are still a member of the European Union.

We are still inside the single market.

None of that is going to change overnight.

There's a lot of negotiation to come, a lot of difficult decisions to make.

But let me reassure each and every one of you that I will be fighting each and every day to secure a settlement that works for British business.

We've all worked too hard to get our economy growing again.

Top of my list will be securing the tariff-free access to markets that are so important to Britain's automotive industry.

I also want to make sure Britain continues to attract the best design and manufacturing talent from across Europe and around the world.

And I want the UK to remain a leading destination for international investment in manufacturing.

Because we cannot afford to turn our backs on the world.

Last Thursday we saw a vote to have more control over immigration.

Not a vote to put up the "closed" sign.

It's almost 175 years since a young German named William Siemens arrived in Britain to set up what would become one of the world's biggest engineering firms.

In a letter to his brother he wrote that "England is the place if anything is to be done."

Long before the EU, long before the Common Market, the world knew that Britain was the place to do business.

That is not going to change.

Britain is open for business, and Britain will remain open for business.

Thank you.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/332332 2016-06-28T17:15:00+01:00 2016-06-28T17:15:00+01:00 Speech: EU referendum result: update on support for business Statement made by Business Secretary Sajid Javid following a roundtable with Britain's business leaders.

Good afternoon everyone, and thank you all for coming.

Following last week's historic decision by the British people, I've just chaired a meeting of the chairs of UK's largest business organisations, and CEOs and senior representatives from many of our biggest employers.

My message for them was very clear. Britain is open for business.

Yes, the financial markets are still reacting to the result.

But the fundamental facts remain unchanged.

The UK is still a member of the European Union, and still a member of the single market.

Employment is still at a record high.

And this government is still 100% committed to making the UK the best place in Europe to start and grow a business.

None of this has changed on Friday morning.

None of this will change overnight.

This is not the time for hasty decisions that will be regretted later.

Rather, it is the time for government to work with businesses large and small up and down the country so they don't just deal with the challenges that the result brings, but are also able to embrace the opportunities that it creates.

The biggest issue raised was the need to secure continued access to the single market.

While I'm not in a position to make promises, I assured everyone that my number one priority will be just that in the negotiations to come.

I also set out the wide-ranging, globe-spanning process of engagement that has been underway at my department since the result became known.

I've personally been in regular contact with many CEOs and business leaders, a process that will continue in the days and weeks that lie ahead.

Trade Minister Lord Price is in contact with many of Britain's biggest inward investors.

Over the next few months he will be visiting key overseas markets including China, Hong Kong and Brazil and reminding firms there that the UK is still very much open for business, just as before.

My department already has a single, named contact minister for more than 80 of Britain's top inward investors and exporters.

I'm ensuring that they will make contact with all of their companies over the next few weeks.

Similarly, the Prime Minister's business ambassadors and trade envoys, drawn from across the business world and political spectrum, are out there representing the UK in the key markets and sectors around the world.

UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) our international trade promotion body, has a presence in more than 100 markets around the world.

I've instructed all the heads of UKTI to engage with the key investors locally to reassure them that the UK remains open for business and an attractive inward investment destination.

Between now and the end of the year I will be leading a series of trade missions in order to communicate that message myself.

Our unrivalled network of ambassadors and high commissioners have been reaching out to their local governments.

In the past 48 hours we've heard senior politicians in Australia and South Korea calling for immediate talks on trade deals with the UK.

Of course, the impact of last week's vote will not just be felt among exporters and foreign investors.

Across the country there are millions of businesses, large and small, that are not directly trading into EU, but who also have questions.

In the weeks to come my ministerial team and I will be visiting businesses right across the country.

This is not just about big business and not just about London.

And I'm delighted that at today's meeting the heads of the largest business organisations - the CBI, IoD, FSB, BCC and EEF - they all agreed to work together with the government to provide consistent support and advice for their members.

As I've said before, we have to collaborate to ensure the best outcomes.

Unions also have an important role to play.

And I will be speaking to the TUC's Frances O'Grady this afternoon to discuss the best way to engage and work with them.

Over the past few days the main aim has been to reassure business.

But we've also received plenty of reassurance from business.

Investors have reaffirmed their commitment to the UK.

For example, Huawei has today confirmed to government that its planned £1.3 billion investment in the UK will go ahead.

The referendum will make no difference to that commitment.

Numerous other companies have offered us staff to help with negotiations.

We've had offers of support with surveys and intelligence gathering.

Again and again we have heard business leaders mirroring the government's position – that they are determined to make this work.

Although many were shocked by the result, they are all doing what British businesses have always done.

They are adapting, they are innovating, they are rising to the challenge.

Finally, let me remind all of Britain's businesses that, even in the face of market volatility, our economy remains fundamentally strong.

The deficit is down, employment is up, Britain is home to more private businesses than at any point in its history.

There will be challenging times ahead, of course, but we are more than well-placed to get through them.

There is much more to be done in the weeks and months that lie ahead.

And I look forward to working with businesses of all sizes.

Thank you.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/332244 2016-06-28T09:38:00+01:00 2016-06-28T09:38:00+01:00 News story: Statement on higher education and research following the EU referendum Statement from Jo Johnson, Minister of State for Universities and Science, on higher education and research following the EU referendum.

The UK has some of the best universities and researchers in the world, and international students, academics and researchers play a significant part in that success.

As the Prime Minister set out last week, the government will continue taking forward the important legislation that was set before Parliament in the Queen's Speech, including the Higher Education and Research Bill.

We understand that there will be questions about how the referendum result affects higher education and research. Many of these questions will need to be considered as part of wider discussion about the UK's future relationship with the EU, but where we can provide further information, we will do so. The UK remains a member of the EU, and we continue to meet our obligations and receive relevant funding.

Universities and Science Minister Jo Johnson:

EU and international students make an important contribution to our world-class universities, and our European neighbours are among some of our closest research partners.

There are obviously big discussions to be had with our European partners, and I look forward to working with the sector to ensure its voice is fully represented and that it continues to go from strength to strength.

 EU Nationals and student finance in England

EU students who are eligible under current rules to receive loans and grants from the Student Loans Company will continue to do so for courses they are currently enrolled on or about to start this coming year. The Master's Loans launched today are also still available to eligible EU students. EU students will continue to receive funding for the duration of their courses. Information on the eligibility criteria, including residency rules, is available. The SLC have provided more information at 'EU Nationals and Student Finance in England'

Further future funding arrangements with the EU will be determined as part of the UK's discussions on its membership and we will provide what updates and clarity we can.

 EU student/staff status

As the Prime Minister has stated, there will be no immediate changes following the EU Referendum, including in the circumstances of British citizens living in the EU, and European citizens living here. This includes those studying or working at UK universities.

For students, visitors, businesses and entrepreneurs who are already in the UK or who wish to come here, there will be no immediate change to our visa policies.

Erasmus+

The referendum result does not affect students studying in the EU, beneficiaries of Erasmus+ or those considering applying in 2017. The UK's future access to the Erasmus+ programme will be determined as a part of wider discussions with the EU.

More broadly, existing UK students studying in the EU, and those looking to start in the next academic year, will continue to be subject to current arrangements.

Horizon 2020 research funding

The referendum result has no immediate effect on those applying to or participating in Horizon 2020. UK researchers and businesses can continue to apply to the programme in the usual way. The future of UK access to European research and innovation funding will be a matter for future discussions. Government is determined to ensure that the UK continues to play a leading role in European and international research and innovation.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/332236 2016-06-28T08:56:00+01:00 2016-06-28T08:56:00+01:00 Press release: Business Secretary to chair Business Roundtable Business Secretary Sajid Javid will today chair the first meeting of Britain's business leaders since the EU Referendum.

The event will be a forum for representatives from the leading business trade associations, including the CBI, IoD, EFF, BRC, BBA, FSB and the BCC, to discuss the challenges faced by businesses and ensure that the negotiation of the UK's future relationship with the EU is carried out in the interest of UK companies, investors, potential investors and workers.

CEOs and senior business representatives from some of the UK's largest sectors, including aerospace, defence, automotive, oil and gas, steel, rail, tourism and food and drink are also expected to attend to talk about the issues their industries will face.

The Business Secretary is expected to acknowledge that while the economic risks of Brexit can't be ignored there will be opportunities for businesses. He will also provide assurances that his department will do all it can to minimise risk and support businesses to continue to grow and thrive.

Speaking ahead of the roundtable, the Business Secretary Sajid Javid said:

I along with most business leaders wanted the UK to remain in the European Union. But a clear majority of the country has voted to leave - the people have given the government their instructions and it is our duty to carry them out.

My objective now is to ensure that the negotiation of our future relationship with the EU is carried out in the interest of UK companies, investors, potential investors and workers. I want to do that hand in glove with businesses and that's why I'll be sitting down with leaders of Britain's biggest business organisations, CEOs and other senior industry representatives to hear their views.

There are significant challenges ahead, but the economic success of the past few years means we're better able to withstand the current market turbulence and work towards a better future. The UK remains open for business.

The Business Secretary will also use the roundtable to urge business leaders to feedback information they are hearing from their investors, exporters and employers regarding any concerns they have.

It is expected this will be the first in a series of meetings.

 Business roundtable attendee list (PDF, 80.4KB, 1 page)

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/332125 2016-06-26T07:37:00+01:00 2016-06-26T07:37:00+01:00 Speech: Today's challenges are tomorrow's opportunities An article by Secretary of State Sajid Javid on the result of the EU referendum. Originally published in The Sunday Times.

Together, we will make Brexit work for British business.

I know many people will think that's a controversial statement. Like me, most business leaders wanted the UK to remain in the European Union. And with the pound on a rollercoaster ride and UK stocks taking a hit, you could be forgiven for thinking that the result of this week's referendum was a disaster for employers and employees alike.

But a clear majority of the country wanted us to leave. The people have given us their instructions. My job now is to put their wishes into action in a way that ensures the UK remains open for business, continues to grow and continues to thrive. And despite the current turmoil and uncertainty, I genuinely believe there are grounds for optimism.

For one thing, our economy has deep, strong foundations. Over the past 6 years, we've worked hard to make Britain one of the best places in the world to start and grow a business. More British people are in work than ever before – during the last Parliament more jobs were created in Birmingham than in the whole of France. The country is home to more private sector businesses than at any point in history. The deficit as a percentage of GDP has halved since 2010. And the UK is still one of the biggest economies in the world.

The success of the past few years means we're better able to withstand the current market turbulence – and it also provides a solid base that allows us to take advantage of those opportunities that Brexit brings.

For all the downsides of leaving, those opportunities really do exist. Freed from Brussels' more bureaucratic tendencies we will be able to tackle the excessive red tape that can choke small businesses. We will also be able to make our tax system even more competitive, helping local businesses to grow and attracting investment from overseas.

That international element is particularly important. A fresh start also gives a unique opportunity to shape a bright future for the UK as a global trading nation and open economy. But that chance will be squandered if we react to the referendum result by pulling down the shutters and turning our backs on the world.

Throughout the campaign I heard plenty of valid complaints and concerns about unrestricted immigration from the EU. I am sympathetic with many of them, and it's vital they are addressed if we're going to tackle the rising tide of anti-politics, anti-business sentiment.

But tightening our borders cannot mean barring the door. For centuries, foreign businesses, foreign investors and skilled foreign workers have come to the UK and helped build the world-beating economy we have today. That outward-looking attitude must continue.

Nor should we ignore the fact that more than 16 million people voted for our country to remain a member. Not just in London, Scotland and Northern Ireland, but in every community across the UK there are hardworking, decent people who just happened to disagree with the majority view – and it's vital that they are also listened to as we develop our new business relationship with our European friends and the world.

Whether you voted in or out, whether you run a kitchen-table start-up or a Canary Wharf multinational, if you're involved in British business you should be involved in shaping its future. And the government is determined to help you succeed.

That was the message I had for Britain's business leaders when I reached out to them over the past 2 days. And that's the message I'll have for 2 dozen senior figures from across our economy when I convene a special roundtable early next week. I'll be sitting down with heads of industry and the leaders of Britain's biggest business organisations to help plan out our next steps.

British businesses have a long and proud history of innovation and flexibility, of making the most of difficult situations and finding new ways of tackling complex problems. They have weathered storms before and emerged stronger than ever.

That's why I'm confident that, together, we can turn today's challenges into tomorrow's opportunities. Together, we can make this work.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/331849 2016-06-23T10:10:23+01:00 2016-06-23T10:10:23+01:00 News story: UKAEA apprentices win 2016 Brathay Apprentice Challenge Nine UKAEA Apprentices have been named England's apprentice team of the year after winning the 2016 Brathay Apprentice Challenge.

The team came out top in a nationwide competition involving 80 of the country's leading apprentice employers, supported by the National Apprenticeship Service.

This week the UKAEA Board met with the team and heard about their hard work to spread the word about apprenticeships. This included promoting the benefits to 180 employers, visiting schools and speaking with 1,500 students and reaching thousands through a Twitter campaign.

After winning the regional heat for London and the South East, the UKAEA team journeyed to the Brathay Trust headquarters in Cumbria for a series of challenges with the other seven finalists. The apprentices took on tasks to prove their strategic planning, team-building and communications skills – including raft-building, sending semaphore signals from hills in the Lake District, high-wire and product assembly contests, and rowing races.

David Godden, Team leader and third year apprentice, said:

We are ecstatic to have won the title of 'apprentice team of the year'. The whole team has worked really hard, not only in the last few days but throughout the whole Challenge. We hope that winning the title will support our efforts to promote apprenticeships. We also hope that young people can use our journey as an inspiration for themselves. Hard work, determination and self-confidence are key in success.

Nick Boles MP, Skills Minister, offered his congratulations:

What an achievement to be crowned apprentice team of the year. The UKAEA apprentices have shown how getting stuck in and learning on the job gives you the skills to achieve great things. I hope their hard work in going out into the community and showcasing the opportunities an apprenticeship offers has inspired more young people to see it as their fast-track to a top career.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/331694 2016-06-20T16:34:00+01:00 2016-06-20T16:34:00+01:00 Speech: From the Northern Powerhouse to global trade Business Secretary Sajid Javid explains how exporting can help small businesses build the Northern Powerhouse.

It's great to be back in Liverpool and at the International Festival of Business (IFB) for the second time in a week.

I was going to start today with a little joke about tonight's football.

But following the tragic murder of Jo Cox last week, politics doesn't really feel like the place for humour right now.

Jo's murder was a heinous attack on a talented, committed young woman.

It was an attack on a wife, a mother, a daughter.

And it was also an attack on the principles on which this country is built, on the idea that we choose democracy over violence.

Hatred doesn't begin with violence and murder.

That's where, left unchecked, it reaches its natural conclusion

But when we know where hatred leads we can stop it in its tracks.

And all of us who believe in democracy have a duty to do just that.

Exactly 197 years ago, on the 20 June 1819, cheering crowds greeted the SS Savannah as she docked here in Liverpool.

Her arrival marked the end of the first-ever steam-powered journey across the Atlantic, and the beginning of a new era for international trade.

It was a time when the north of England was at the heart of the global economy.

Factories produced goods on an industrial scale.

And ports like Liverpool, Tyne, and Hull shipped them to markets around the world.

A century and a half later, and with considerably less fanfare, a guy named Abdul Ghani-Javid arrived at the other end of the ship canal, in Manchester.

He was my dad, fresh from Pakistan.

And, like many of his fellow immigrants, he was drawn to the north of England because it was still the powerhouse of British industry.

Still making what the world wanted, and still doing it better than anyone else.

That was back in 1961.

Business was booming, everything looked rosy.

But it wasn't to last.

By the end of the decade exports were falling, imports were rising and the mills and factories were beginning to close.

Liverpool's once bustling docks fell into disuse and disrepair.

Since then, of course, the individual cities of the north have bounced back.

You just need to look at this brand-new, £65 million conference centre to see how Liverpool has found a new lease of life.

Manchester has become a thriving media hub.

Newcastle and Gateshead have been reinvented as cultural capitals.

But the success of the great northern cities has happened in isolated pockets.

Individual cities and local authorities acting alone, even in competition.

A lack of co-ordination and shared infrastructure has meant that the north has been less than the sum of its parts.

And that has had a really serious impact on the region's businesses.

Between 1981 and 2013, economic growth in most of northern England was well below that of the UK average.

Productivity is lower than the UK as a whole.

16% lower here in the north-west.

20% in Yorkshire and the Humber.

And a massive 27% in the north-east.

A lack of investment in skills left the north-east with an unemployment rate more than twice that of the south-east.

And outdated, overcrowded transport links mean northern businesses are quite literally being left behind.

That's something this government is not prepared to tolerate.

Which is why we're working with business and local government to create the Northern Powerhouse.

Across the whole region we're investing in science and technology.

We're investing in transport, in innovation, in digital.

We're investing in culture and tourism.

And we're devolving real power, giving the north a powerful new voice.

For example, the directly elected mayor of Liverpool has been described as holding the most powerful political post outside London.

So the Northern Powerhouse isn't just being built with warm words.

It's not some short-term marketing campaign.

It's a serious vision for the future of the north.

And it's a vision that has the potential to pay incredible dividends for the region.

If the north grew at the same rate as is forecast for the rest of the UK the economic potential is huge.

We could add £37 billion to the economy by the end of the next decade.

Here in the north-west it would mean a boost of £2,000 for every man, woman and child.

And that would be great news for businesses of all sizes.

But we're not going to get there simply by looking inwards.

Yes, the Northern Powerhouse will make it easier for Liverpool to do business with Manchester.

For Leeds to link up with Sheffield. But the real gains are to be made by connecting northern businesses with the rest of the world.

For too long the big names, the high-street brands and the giant multinationals have monopolised the arena of international trade.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) make up 99% of all British businesses.

They provide the vast majority of Britain's private sector jobs.

But they only account for a small fraction of exports.

Only 1 in 5 British SMEs export at all – across the EU, the average is 1 in 4.

Things are particularly bad for the medium-sized firms.

Only 34% of British mid-sized companies export.

In Germany the figure is 68%; in Spain it's 85%.

It's a huge missed opportunity.

Last year, researchers found that up to 150,000 SMEs that could be exporting are not doing so.

Yet if they embraced that opportunity, if they made the most of their potential, it wouldn't just be good news for the exporters.

The benefits of bigger sales would be felt all the way down the supply chain and right across the community.

Why are small businesses limiting their ambitions?

While the specifics vary from business to business and sector to sector, there are some key issues that I come across again and again.

First is a simple lack of awareness.

SMEs don't have agents and networks and feelers right around the world.

For too long it has been too hard for them to even find out that an export opportunity exists, never mind make the most of it.

Second is a lack of finance.

Many SMEs lack the resources to engage with the international markets, or don't know where to turn to access it.

Finally, there's a lack of confidence.

Too many British SMEs don't have a culture of exporting, it's not something they're used to.

And when you're running a small firm with tight margins, it can be exceptionally hard to justify a step into the unknown.

So there are some big challenges.

But none are insurmountable.

They can be overcome.

And as Business Secretary, my views are very clear.

If a UK business wants to export to its full potential, there should be nothing to stop it from doing so.

That's why this government is working hard to support SMEs that want to dip their toes into the international market.

That support comes in many forms.

At the top of the tree is a whole new approach to exporting.

For years, governments saw it simply as a matter for my department, the business department.

But that's a much too narrow view.

Under this administration, boosting international trade is a responsibility shared by the whole of government.

So the Home Office looks at how the visa system can help.

The Department for Transport makes sure UK business travellers can connect with the world.

The Department for Health offers its support to med-tech firms. And so on.

All that comes together in the cross-government Exports Implementation Taskforce, which I chair.

One of the first initiatives to come out of that taskforce was Exporting is GREAT.

Launched in November, it's a 5-year, multi-million pound campaign to boost Britain's overseas trade.

At its heart, and particularly useful for SMEs, is a website listing current export opportunities right around the world.

Updated in real time, it tells you what's needed where and how to go about supplying it.

I checked this morning and there are currently almost 2,000 export opportunities listed, many of them perfect for SMEs.

A government agency in Jamaica needs marine fenders and bollards.

A Peruvian construction firm has a tender out for protective workplace clothing.

There's even a supermarket chain in Argentina that wants to stock British jam!

It's all there on exportingisgreat.gov.uk – go take a look.

Of course, even in 2016 you can't just build business relationships from behind a computer screen.

It still helps to get boots on ground.

That's why I led the first ever Northern Powerhouse trade mission, taking a range of SMEs to Singapore and Malaysia last year.

We had 50 companies spending 3 days in the 2 countries.

And we built countless contacts that will help boost business for years to come.

But trade missions aren't your only opportunity to engage overseas.

A year from now, Kazakhstan will be playing host to an international expo in its capital, Astana.

The UK will be one of 75 countries hosting pavilions, with delegates attending from many more.

The overarching theme is 'Future Energy', but that doesn't mean it's only open to the BPs and Shells of the world.

There are opportunities for SMEs working in any aspect of oil and gas, renewables, education, financial services and more.

It's an amazing opportunity to put your business in front of 5 million visitors from familiar and emerging economies.

So if you want to be a part of that, get hold of one of the UK Trade and Investment staff here at the festival.

In fact, get in touch with UKTI if you need any help at all with exporting.

They have an expert presence in markets around the world – and it's their job to help you succeed.

So we're providing information about export opportunities and practical support to make the most of them.

And we're also helping with that tricky financial side.

Through UK Export Finance, the nation's export credit agency, we are helping small firms to minimise the financial risks of overseas trade.

Accessing working capital to fulfil export orders and making sure an overseas buyer will pay on time can be particularly daunting for SMEs, so we are increasingly focussing support on them.

And we are improving UK finance markets through the British Business Bank.

It's currently supporting over £1.8 billion of finance to over 40,000 smaller businesses, and a further £1.4 billion of finance to small mid-cap businesses.

Together, it all adds up to a wide-ranging package of support for small northern businesses that want to export.

The opportunities are out there, and you could be too.

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Exports and growth go hand in hand.

That was true back in the days of the SS Savanah, and it's true today.

The history of Liverpool is built on international trade, and that's where its future lies.

The same applies right across the north, from Sheffield to Sunderland.

Exporting can really put the power into the Northern Powerhouse.

And it's not just for the big names.

Exporting is for you, too.

Today's customers don't think twice about going online and finding the best product at the best price, even if that means ordering from the other side of the world.

It has never been easier for SMEs to start exporting, and the potential rewards have never been greater.

Exporting is great for your business, it's great for your bottom line, it's great for your employees and it's great for the north.

So if you're running an SME with export potential, I only have one thing to ask.

What are you waiting for?

Thank you.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/331688 2016-06-20T16:03:00+01:00 2016-06-20T16:03:00+01:00 News story: Dads urged to consider Shared Parental Leave Eligible dads can now share up to 37 weeks' pay and up to 50 weeks of leave with the child's mother in the first year of their baby's life.

As millions of families celebrated Father's Day this weekend, soon-to-be dads should take a moment to consider whether they can play a more active role in the first year of their child's life by applying for Shared Parental Leave and Pay.

Eligible dads can now share up to 37 weeks' pay and up to 50 weeks of leave with the child's mother in the first year of their baby's life.

The scheme, which started last April, gives mums the opportunity to return to work earlier if they wish. Parents can take up to 6 months off work at the same time or alternatively stagger their leave and pay so that one of them is always at home with their child. This gives dads and partners an opportunity to bond with their new-born and many dads and partners will also qualify for statutory pay.

How it works

Parents must meet the eligibility criteria in order to take advantage of Shared Parental Leave and pay. Those eligible can take:

any weeks of Maternity Leave that the mother does not intend to use as up to 50 weeks of Shared Parental Leave

any weeks of Maternity Pay or Maternity Allowance that the mother does not intend to use as up to 37 weeks of Shared Parental Pay

Parents can decide how best they split up leave, and whether to take it all at once or in blocks. The scheme allows parents to book up to 3 separate blocks of Shared Parental Leave instead of taking it all in one go.

Eligibility

To qualify for Shared Parental Leave and Pay, an employee must have been employed continuously by the same employer for at least 26 weeks at the 'qualifying week'. To qualify for pay they must additionally have earned at least the lower earnings level (currently £112 a week) in an 8 week test period.

The other parent must be employed or a self-employed earner who has worked for 26 weeks and earned £30 on average in any 13 of those weeks in the 66 weeks before the week the baby is due. The same principles apply to adopters and in the case of joint adoptions, the other parent can qualify for Shared Parental Leave and Pay where the parent that qualifies for Adoption Leave and Pay doesn't intend to take their full leave and pay entitlement.

Shared Parental Leave is also available to new adoptive parents.

To find out if you are eligible for Shared Parental Leave and Pay and to work out your entitlement, see Calculate your leave and pay when you have a child.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/331669 2016-06-20T15:17:26+01:00 2016-06-20T15:17:26+01:00 News story: After one marathon, hundreds of experiments, and millions inspired, Tim Peake has returned to Earth Tim Peake, the UK's first European Space Agency astronaut has returned to Earth following the successful conclusion of his 6 month mission.

On Saturday (18 June 2016), the UK welcomed Tim Peake – the UK's first European Space Agency astronaut – back to Earth following the successful conclusion of his 6 month Principia mission on board the International Space Station (ISS).

Since captivating the nation when he blasted-off from Kazakhstan on 15 December 2015, Tim Peake was on board the ISS for a total of 186 days. Through Tim Peake's mission and government investment in the European Space Agency, the UK has played a full part in scientific research aboard the International Space Station. Whilst there Tim conducted over 250 scientific experiments and underwent regular testing to record the effect of space and zero-gravity on his bones, muscles and organs – research which will help inform manned space missions in the future, including possibly to Mars.

The UK government has also provided over £3 million for educational programmes around Tim Peake's mission to inspire young people to pursue STEM subjects and careers – and Tim helped provide 10,000 British schools with plant seeds that experienced life on board the ISS so they can monitor any changes.

During his mission, Tim also found time in April 2016 to set a world record time for running a marathon in space and mesmerised children and adults around the world with his breath-taking photos on Twitter. He was recognised in the Queen's Birthday Honours for his work in space research and scientific education - receiving the first ever appointment to the Most Distinguished Order of St Michael and St George for extraordinary service beyond our planet.

Business Secretary Sajid Javid said:

Tim has inspired millions of children and adults alike to take an interest in space exploration and the solar system. Even when he was busy conducting important scientific research for the benefit of us all, he shared every step of his out of this world experience and ran a marathon. He has broken countless records and was rightly recognised for his extraordinary achievements beyond our planet.

Science Minister Jo Johnson said:

Throughout his mission as the UK's first European Space Agency astronaut, Tim Peake embodied the very best of British scientific endeavour and exploration.

With one marathon run, hundreds of experiments conducted and millions of people inspired, Tim has set new heights for British research.

Support for Tim's Principia mission, underlines the government's recognition of the strategic value of space to the UK's future. Last year we published our first National Space Policy, which supported industry ambitions to grow the UK's share of the global space market to 10% by 2030 – worth £40 billion to the UK and supporting 100,000 new jobs. This set out the government's ambition to establish a spaceport in the UK, and in the Queen's Speech it was confirmed we will be putting in place primary legislative and regulatory framework to enable a broad range of safe, commercial spaceflight operations and small satellite launch capabilities from the UK.

Did you know?

Tim's mission, Principia, was named after Sir Isaac Newton's work on the laws of gravity.

On the mission, Tim worked for up to 14 hours a day.

He participated in more than 250 experiments.

In April 2016, Tim Peake remotely controlled a prototype robotic Mars rover in Stevenage, whilst he was on the ISS. It took up to 15 minutes for Tim's instruction to be received and actioned by the rover.

The ISS orbits earth every 91 minutes. During his mission Tim Peake orbited the earth 2,976 times.

Whilst on the ISS Tim saw 15 or 16 sunrises and sunsets… every day.

Tim started the marathon at the same time as the runners in the London Marathon in April, and finished after 3 hours, 35 minutes and 21 seconds. Because the ISS circles the Earth at a relative velocity of 28,800km/h (17,900mph), Tim covered more than 86,000km (53,000 miles) during his run.

Astronauts lose up to 1.5% of their bone mass for each month in space. After long spells in space it can take up to 3 years for bones to return to normal

On entering the Earth's atmosphere and its gravitational pull, astronauts experience g-forces that force them to weigh 5 times more than they normally would on earth

Without gravity, the human spine stretches out so astronauts return taller than when they left.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/331327 2016-06-15T10:53:55+01:00 2016-06-15T10:53:55+01:00 Speech: International Festival of Business: Blue Skies and the future of manufacturing Business Secretary Sajid Javid discusses the importance of innovation in British industry.

Good afternoon everyone.

It's great to be here in Liverpool.

It's great to be at the International Festival of Business (IFB).

And it's great to be kicking off the Blue Skies sessions.

Looking at the weather forecast I fear this is the only place we're going to get blue skies today!

We're here to talk about the future of manufacturing.

And it seems kind of appropriate that we've gathered next to the China and India suites.

Because within the past couple of decades both China and India have rapidly established themselves as major global manufacturers.

And that presents something of a dilemma for more traditional manufacturing countries like the UK.

Because developing nations often have a lot of factors on their side.

Cheaper labour, lower standards.

Raw materials on site.

And, sometimes, governments that are focused on economic success at the expense of workers' safety and wellbeing.

Faced with that, it's hard to see how British manufacturers can possibly compete.

We have higher standards.

Higher wages too, both secured over many years of development and growth.

And while we're rightly proud of that, it translates into higher costs.

The way I see it, we have 2 choices.

We can get into a race to the bottom with the developing economies.

We can cut corners, costs and quality in order to get by.

Or we can do what Britain has always done.

We can innovate.

We can do things nobody else can do.

We can take our skills and our experience and our history and our heritage and apply it to the challenges of the future.

And make no mistake, the future is coming and it is coming fast.

Whether you call it Industry 4.0 or the Fourth Industrial Revolution, it's impossible to deny that the way in which we live and work is undergoing a seismic shift.

People often talk about how nobody would have predicted a company the size of Kodak suddenly disappearing from view.

But the biggest changes aren't going to be in what we manufacture so much as how we manufacture.

Where we manufacture.

Even who does the manufacturing.

From 3D printing to virtual factories to the internet of things, the old order is being turned on its head.

And I don't want to see British manufacturers just responding to the changes and challenges the future will bring.

I want to see them shaping that future.

But before I get on to that, let me set one myth to bed once and for all.

I often hear people say that the UK is no longer a manufacturing nation.

That we simply don't make things anymore.

That's utter nonsense.

Our service economy has been an incredible success story and now accounts for something like 80% of British jobs.

But manufacturing is still going strong.

It contributed £168 billion to our economy last year.

In the past 10 years it has grown 2.5 times faster than the rest of UK PLC.

The sector spans almost 90,000 companies and provides work for literally millions of people.

And it accounts for half of all British exports.

The world wants what we're making.

2015 was the most successful year ever for our £23 billion aircraft industry.

Delivery numbers are up 44% since 2010.

A new car rolls off a British production line every 20 seconds, with 80% destined for export.

So around the world people are flying on British-built planes and driving in British-built cars.

And the Australians are even throwing British-made boomerangs!

That's right, the world's biggest boomerang manufacturer is based in south-west London.

And our Aussie friends provide one of their biggest export markets.

Although there's a chance they're just exporting one boomerang that keeps on coming back!

But the world doesn't just want to passively consume what we're selling.

The world wants in.

Since 2010, foreign direct investment in British manufacturing has risen by 60%.

Now, I used to work in international finance.

And I know that investment on that scale is a massive vote of confidence in a country's economy.

It's not all plain sailing.

Unprecedented conditions in the international steel market have had a devastating impact on too many British communities.

But alongside the steel industry, the unions and politicians of all parties, we're doing all we can secure the future of UK steelmaking.

That work is beginning to bear fruit.

The British Steel brand has returned to Scunthorpe thanks to Greybull Capital.

And bidders from around the world are keen to take over Tata's remaining British assets.

People know that British steelmakers are the best in the world and they're willing to invest serious money in the sector.

So British manufacturing has a proud history, and strong present.

And, most importantly, it also has a bright future.

As I said, that future doesn't lie in a race to the bottom with developing economies.

It lies in using our unique capability to shape the future of a sector that we did so much to create 2 centuries ago.

That's something we're already excelling at.

Around 70% of all UK research and development (R&D) spending takes place in manufacturing.

This is a sector that's used to pushing boundaries, used to experimenting.

Used to turning the blue sky thinking of today into the must-have products of tomorrow.

And I'm one business secretary who's determined to play an active role in making that happen.

Now it's not the job of government to come up with the ideas.

That's not something politicians and civil servants are generally very good at!

And it's certainly not our job to try and pick winners – to look at one company or one individual and throw taxpayers' money at them to try and secure success.

But what we can, should, must do, is create the environment in which modern manufacturing can thrive.

That's why, later this year, our national innovation plan will provide a clear framework for ensuring the UK is at the forefront of the fourth industrial revolution.

But our support goes way beyond that.

We're also encouraging long-term investment and a dynamic economy with open and competitive markets.

That includes cutting corporation tax to 17%, slashing a further £10 billion of red tape, and investing £6.9 billion in the UK's research infrastructure up to 2021.

We're also making sure our young people have the skills they need to fill the jobs of tomorrow, for which job descriptions have not yet been written.

We're developing digital skills capability.

We're reforming the computing science curriculum.

We're establishing a National Institute for Coding, and the new National College for Digital Skills.

And Higher Apprenticeships and Degree Apprenticeships are also helping to develop the higher level technical skills that manufacturers need.

Our High Value Manufacturing Catapult is helping smaller businesses access the R&D technology and knowhow they need in order to grow.

In its first 5 years of operation, around £300 million has been invested through the Catapult.

And in the past year alone it has worked with more than 1,600 private sector clients on over 1,300 projects.

Manufacturing is now a truly international industry, so this work doesn't begin and end at the UK border.

I'm personally working with the World Economic Forum to shape the focus of its work on the fourth industrial revolution.

The G20 has established a new industrial revolution task force.

And the UK is leading an EU-wide project on the digitisation of European industry.

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Now it's no coincidence that the IFB is being held here in Liverpool.

This is a city whose reputation is built on creativity, innovation, and reinvention.

Whether it's in industry or music or football, Liverpool is known throughout the world for doing things differently.

The Albert Dock, right next door, was revolutionary in its day, the first of its kind.

Today it's home to Tate Liverpool and The Beatles Story, both showcases for groundbreaking creative talent.

Up on Prince's Dock you can find the Liverpool City Region Local Enterprise Partnership.

It has a vision to make the city region a global manufacturing hotspot with the smartest networks, talent, technology and investment.

So Liverpool is synonymous with innovation.

And if businesses are going to thrive in the global markets of the 21st century they have to embrace that spirit themselves.

That's what this session is all about.

Over the next few weeks, each day will end with 'Blue Skies'.

It's an opportunity to hear from some of the great creative thinkers from all kinds of different fields.

The people who, as George Bernard Shaw put it, "dream things that never were; and say 'why not?'"

There's the first sailor to complete a non-stop solo circumnavigation.

The politician who ended apartheid.

The extreme adventurer who's all set to become the fastest woman on water.

Thinkers and dreamers, sure.

But most important of all do-ers.

They're the kind of people you're going to be hearing from at Blue Skies.

And they're the kind of people I want to be hearing from as Business Secretary.

My door is always open to blue sky thinkers who can help British industry thrive in the years to come.

Because Liverpool has long been inspiring the world.

And in the 21st century I want Britain's manufacturers to do the same.

Thank you.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/331092 2016-06-10T10:19:31+01:00 2016-06-10T10:19:31+01:00 Press release: First meeting of the cross-government retail round table Yesterday (9 June 2016) Business Minister Anna Soubry led the first cross-government retail roundtable with some of the top high street names.

Ms Soubry, along with Ministers from the Treasury, Department for Health and Department for Communities and Local Government met senior management from leading retailers including Asda, Sainsbury's, Tesco, Morrisons, John Lewis Partnership, B&Q and the British Retail Consortium to discuss their priorities and consider the business environment for retail.

As well as discussing the future of the British retail sector other topics included:

business rates

levelling the playing field between online only businesses and those with a high street presence

taking forward the obesity strategy

The group has huge influence on consumer behaviour in the UK, generating sales of £340 billion in 2015, and supported over 3 million retail jobs in the UK, up from 83,000 in 2010.

Following the meeting, Business Minister Anna Soubry said:

The first cross-government retail roundtable is an important milestone in getting some of the country's top retailers together to discuss collectively with government how we can work better to create an environment for them to grow, create more jobs and boost our economy.

This government will keep on going further to back British businesses – cutting red tape, lowering taxes on jobs, getting more young people into work and promoting enterprise.

Helen Dickinson OBE, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium said:

It was a valuable to attend such a meeting with ministers across government and some of the country's leading retailers. It gave everyone there the opportunity to directly consider issues facing the industry and their businesses with government and I was pleased with the open and constructive dialogue.

I was also encouraged that retailers saw the benefit of such a meeting and I want to thank Anna Soubry for her personal commitment to these meetings. I look forward to working more closely with her and others throughout government, given the significance of the structural change underway within retail, and getting round the table at the next government retail roundtable.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/331069 2016-06-09T14:34:15+01:00 2016-06-09T14:34:15+01:00 Speech: The student journey – from teenage to middle-age Universities and Science Minister Jo Johnson calls on universities to seize the opportunity to give students more choice and better quality teaching.

Thank you to Aldwyn Cooper and Regents University for hosting the event today. And thank you to Nick (Hillman) and everyone at Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI) for inviting me to speak at this year's conference.

Within the world of academia, you can find an expert on anything from anthropology to zoology, but those in higher education (HE) who study their own sector are a rare and important breed.

I'm sure I'm not the only person in this room who looks forward to those little blue A5 pamphlets landing on my desk.

So I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to HEPI's work this year and in particular those behind this year's Student Academic Experience Survey, which has received lots of coverage today.

Today, I plan to reflect on your theme (The Student Journey: from teenage to middle age) and how it fits with the white paper and bill which is now before Parliament.

It's a theme that chimes well with our plans for higher education, for 2 reasons:

Firstly, because everything we set out in our white paper is about ensuring students get the support they need throughout their journey – from the information available to them when they are applying, right the way through to their progression into the jobs market.

And secondly, because in a flexible and competitive labour market, we must continue to ensure there are opportunities to gain new qualifications at all stages of life. That's a principle that underpins the new part-time and post-graduate support we're introducing. I'll say a bit more about that later.

Higher Education and Research Bill

First, the white paper and bill.

From the 600 responses we had to the green paper, to the submissions to Lord Stern's Research Excellence Framework (REF) review, through to the input we are seeking to the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) technical consultation, and all the time and effort that will feed in to the Parliamentary process – we want you to continue to help us shape these plans.

We are now at the start of the legislative process.

The Higher Education and Research Bill introduced in the Commons last month responds to a recognition that the regulatory environment needs to reflect the realities of the changes since the 1992 Act, a quarter of a century ago.

There is a lot of catching up to do, but the economic case for a diverse and widely accessible higher education sector is as strong as ever.

Employers need the graduate-level skills, as much as our national and regional economies look to the university sector to boost productivity and help to create jobs. To quote the University Alliance's press release last week, higher education institutions are the "hub and spoke in UK innovation".

We are privileged to have such a successful higher education sector. Our universities top the league tables for research. The sector is the driving force behind our successful knowledge economy, and underpins many of the cultural and creative forces that put the Great in Great Britain.

We have made real progress in ensuring more people are able to benefit from access to our world-class higher education sector. The participation rate among young students from the most disadvantaged backgrounds has reached record levels – up from 13.6% in 2009 to 18.5% last year.

But, as we set out in our white paper, there are steps we must take to ensure our higher education system is fulfilling its potential both as a driver of productivity and an engine of social mobility. Among the questions we cannot afford to ignore and are seeking to address are:

is higher education as accessible as it could be?

do students have enough information and choice?

are courses sufficiently flexible in length and teaching methods?

does the teaching consistently meet students' expectations?

does the manner of regulation reflect the realities of the sector?

what more can we do to ensure all students get the best outcomes, irrespective of backgrounds?

are we making the most of our £6 billion annual investment in research and innovation?

These are not new questions, but they are ones we now have the opportunity to address.

This year's Student Academic Experience Survey confirms some recent trends:

a declining proportion of students are very satisfied with their course – from 37% in 2013 to 27% in 2016

18% of students feel they have enough information on how their fees are spent (unchanged from 2015)

1 in 3 (33%) say that with hindsight they would have chosen a different course

Overall, students' perception of value for money continues to fall. Just 37% of respondents feeling they receive good value for money compared to 40% in 2015, and 53% in 2012.

Student choice

As students now expect to meet more of the costs of their education through their future earnings, they rightly have a sharper eye for value, and higher expectations of quality.

So we have to ask ourselves what steps can be taken to make the whole 'student journey' even better.

At the start of the journey, there is the information and the choices available to students as they prepare their applications.

And as we set out in the white paper, we want students to be able to choose from a wider range of universities.

That's why the bill will level the playing field for high quality new entrants, making it simpler for innovative and specialist providers to set up, award degrees, drive-up quality, secure university status, and give applicants more choice about where and how to study.

Currently, high-quality new entrants are held back by rules that dictate that they must secure validation from an existing university before they can get up and running. This has been recognised as an inherently anti-competitive situation by the Competition and Markets Authority – one that potentially puts high-quality providers off and limits the choice and innovation that students deserve.

This year marks 40 years since the University of Buckingham, Britain's first 'private' university, was formally opened to 65 students. 98% of its students walk straight into a job. This is an example of what can be achieved by liberalising our higher education system.

Recently, we have seen providers with excellent reputations in their specialist field entering the sector and offering something distinctive to students.

Sotheby's Institute of Art, dealing in the intersection between art and commerce; Pearson College, where students can gain important business skills. And BPP, where you can complete a degree over 2 years, entering the workforce much more quickly.

And of course Regent's University, where we are today, has gradually expanded over time and is now a successful multi-disciplinary institution.

But the process for high-quality new universities is not as smooth or as swift as it could be.

Take Suffolk, one of the few counties in the country to lack its 'own' university. University Campus Suffolk has been in business since 2007. It had to wait until very recently to get its own degree awarding powers. And last month, almost a decade later, we were able to give it the green light to apply for university title.

Hereford is another HE 'cold spot', where there is the prospect of a real step-change in HE provision, through the 'new model in technology and engineering'. This has the potential to fill a national skills gap as well as meeting the needs of local students.

As these examples show, new higher education provision can offer diverse and innovative programmes of study, following in the footsteps of Ashridge, for example, who have recently launched their Creative MBA, backed by Lord Puttnam. This creative course has the potential to train the Oscar-winners of the future.

There will be those who worry about new universities challenging the established sector. And we have heard these concerns before.

Two of our most successful universities, University College London and King's College London, were dismissed as 'cockney' universities in the 1820s.

We heard it again when the great civic red brick universities emerged later in the nineteenth century, and the polytechnics in the 1990s. Over-education; a reduction in quality; a strain on the public purse.

Indeed, at the turn of the 20th century, some (Oxford) students apparently jeered: "He gets a degree in making jam / at Liverpool and Birmingham". Journalists asked: "What advantages can a Reading Degree confer, unless a "D.B." (Doctor of Biscuits) is established…"

How wrong they were.

And of course many opposed the conversion of the polytechnics in the 1990s.

Students deserve the choice that new universities can offer. They deserve choice, and they also deserve quality. That is why the government will make it easier for new universities to enter the sector, and it's why the quality bar for new entrants will remain high, reflecting the highest standards we expect of English higher education.

Through the Office for Students (OfS), we will ensure there is a level playing field for those seeking degree awarding powers and university title.

Poor quality or financially unsustainable providers at any level will not be able to enter, and all providers will need to continue to meet financial sustainability, management, and corporate governance requirements.

We are establishing the Office for Students with the tools it needs to regulate in a smarter, risk-based way, at arm's length from government, and maintaining institutional autonomy. This more risk-based approach means it will be able to:

focus on areas where risks are high and regulation is needed

reduce burdens on the best performing institutions

ensure that the way we regulate reflects the shape of the sector and the way it's funded

Social mobility

The student journey can only be regarded as a success if it is truly open to anyone, from any background, to take part.

That's why the other important feature of the Office for Students is the way it will have access and participation mainstreamed in everything it does.

The current powers of the Director for Fair Access will be incorporated into the OfS. We will create a nominated executive member of the OfS board, the Director for Fair Access and Participation.

And we will go further than before. The new OfS will have a statutory duty to promote equality of opportunity across the whole lifecycle for disadvantaged students, not just access, alongside its duty to promote choice. The OfS will have new powers not just to promote 'access' in these agreements but to ask universities to focus on 'access and participation'.

So new 'access and participation plans' will look beyond just the point of entry to ensure that universities are doing all they can to support the participation of students throughout their courses, helping to tackle drop-out rates and support disadvantaged students into employment.

We're underpinning this with more information than ever before to shine a spotlight on the institutions that are really playing their part, and those that need to do more.

That's why the new transparency duty included in the bill is so important.

We want students to make informed choices between institutions and courses – and this is especially important for those from disadvantaged and under-represented backgrounds, who may not be able to rely on their parents or others to guide their decisions.

Under the proposed transparency duty, all universities (approved providers) will be required to publish data on application and offer rates broken down by gender, ethnicity, and disadvantage from 2018.

We are already making progress, and I'm pleased that UCAS is today publishing data from around 100 universities on a voluntary basis. For the first time, we are able to compare and contrast offer rates between institutions.

This is something the Prime Minister called for in January and it's heartening to see the sector respond constructively. We have been calling on the higher education sector to publish much more information about their admissions process, and I welcome these first voluntary steps by those who have taken part.

This is a good start. But this is only a voluntary data release, and there are more than a hundred institutions that were not covered. That's why we are legislating to introduce a new transparency duty to cover all institutions.

Our legislation will ensure that all providers designated for the purposes of student support, whether they use UCAS or not, must publish this information. And the bill will secure the availability of this information in the future.

Our planned duty will potentially cover 400 or so institutions. And it will ensure that there are clear requirements on all universities to release more information about their admissions process, with real incentives on all institutions to go further and faster to promote social mobility.

Student journeys

The choices we want to make available to students are not just about where to study but how and when to study as well.

Lifelong learning is an essential element of today's labour market. If we want to continue to prosper as a great knowledge economy, we need to ensure that there are viable opportunities for people to gain qualifications in later life.

That is why we've introduced more financial support for part-time learners than ever before. We have introduced part-time tuition fee loans. Now we're introducing maintenance loans too – meaning we have utterly transformed the part-time funding landscape during this Parliament. And we've removed the equivalent or lower qualifications (ELQ) restriction on support for second degrees in STEM subjects.

And we are, for the first time, introducing student finance for postgraduate study – with the first Master's loans available this autumn.

But the choice of how and when to study must go further.

The future of our higher education system lies not just in spreading existing best practice, but also in the development of innovative delivery methods – such as degree apprenticeships, accelerated degrees, and the ability to accumulate credit and switch course.

So we have launched a call for evidence to understand student demand for switching degrees and 2-year programmes – and also to learn about the barriers. We want the whole sector to feed in views – to tell us what is working well, and to feed in ideas to make more flexible approaches to learning a reality.

UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)

Another area we want the sector to work with us on is the formation of UK Research and Innovation.

The UK has an unparalleled reputation for the excellence of its research and for a business environment that encourages innovation. And the government has taken the decision to protect the science budget at a time of difficult spending decisions. But being world-class is not just about investment. It's also about building collaborations across disciplines and between countries; finding new applications for technology; seizing commercial opportunities, and being able to respond swiftly to threats and challenges.

Our research and innovation structures have evolved over many decades and they have many strengths but Sir Paul Nurse recognised the need to 'support the research councils to collectively make up more than the sum of their parts'.

We share his vision to strengthen strategic thinking, reduce complexity and deal more effectively with multi-disciplinary and inter-disciplinary research.

As the bill makes clear, in setting up UKRI, we are also preserving our existing strengths. That includes:

preserving the autonomy and identity of the research councils and Innovate UK, so they can continue to serve their distinct communities

maintaining separate budgets for each part of UKRI

creating the first ever legal basis for the dual support system in England, with a requirement on us as ministers to have regard to the balance of spending between the 2 funding streams

This is legislation to enshrine in statute the dual support system – and the quality-related (QR) block grant to institutions – that has simply never existed before.

The bill also includes provisions to ensure joint working, cooperation and data sharing across all areas of shared interest between the OfS and UKRI, including being able to take a strategic view across academic and research careers.

Crucially, we are taking steps to bring teaching and research closer together. I want the REF and the TEF to be mutually reinforcing. We will ask institutions to consider how they promote research-led teaching in their TEF submissions; and I have also asked Lord Stern, as part of his review of the REF, to consider the impact of excellent teaching.

The opportunity here is to super-charge everything that is great about our universities and research base – protecting the funding and the autonomy that has served us so well, while putting in place the provisions that enable us to act strategically, and lead the world in our response to major challenges.

Conclusion

Our proposals are the latest in a long line that aim to extend the benefits of higher education to more people and enhance the global reputation of one of our greatest national assets – our universities.

And today's conference is a reminder about why we are doing this. The motivation is clear: to provide the opportunities for students from all backgrounds, as they progress 'from teenage to middle age' and beyond – from school into the wider workforce, or from their undergraduate course into post-graduate career in our research base, and with many other variations of that well-trodden path in between.

Whichever path a student chooses, their time at university is essential – for their own progress, and that of our country.

We want our universities to continue to innovate, to work more closely with employers in designing their courses and to find faster routes into the workplace, such as through more 2-year degrees. The message from this HEPI survey is clear, which is why our universities which are rightly recognised as world-class, must also seize this opportunity to ensure they are delivering real value to their students.

We want you to continue to engage with us as we move forward with our plans.

Please take a look at our call for evidence on course switching and accelerated degrees, and respond to the TEF technical consultation.

And have a great conference today. I'm looking forward to reading many more HEPI pamphlets, and to continuing the important discussion about the nature of the 'student journey'.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/331032 2016-06-09T11:13:15+01:00 2016-06-09T11:13:15+01:00 Press release: Antony Jenkins appointed as shadow chair of the Institute for Apprenticeships Antony Jenkins has been appointed to the role of shadow chair of the Institute for Apprenticeships.

Antony Jenkins has been appointed to the role of shadow chair of the Institute for Apprenticeships - the new independent, employer-led organisation established to support the government's plan to create 3 million apprenticeship starts by 2020.

Antony brings a wealth of experience as a chief executive of Barclays plc and the current chairman of Business in the Community – an organisation that supports businesses in acting socially responsible to create a fairer society and a more sustainable future. Antony is also a patron of the government's employee engagement programme.

As shadow chair, Antony will be an ambassador for the Institute for Apprenticeships and will also play a key role in designing its structure and providing strategic leadership and direction to the organisation during the critical phase of its development. He will work closely with the current team in preparing the organisation to start operations in 2017.

Antony takes up his new role today (9 June 2016). With the shadow chair in place, the remaining board members of the Institute for Apprenticeships will be appointed through a public appointments process by the end of 2016.

The Institute for Apprenticeships' primary responsibility will be to act as the ultimate decision maker on approving apprenticeship standards and assessment plans to ensure they are of high quality. It will also make recommendations on the maximum level of government funding available for those standards and how much employers can claim for them. The Institute for Apprenticeships' ultimate goal is to ensure employees get the skills they need to succeed from the apprenticeship system.

The government is committed to creating 3 million high-quality apprenticeships by 2020 as part of its drive to help all young people fulfil their potential and boost business productivity.

Skills Minister Nick Boles said:

Antony brings more than 3 decades of experience from the heart of business to the role and will help shape the Institute for Apprenticeships so it meets the needs of employers. We're putting employers in control when it comes to apprenticeships because it's employers who know the skills, training and experience their future workforce needs to succeed.

Antony Jenkins said:

Apprenticeships are something I care passionately about. I am delighted to be taking on this role and working closely with different sectors which will be important in helping to create opportunities for millions of our citizens and providing great talent for business.

Antony will be joined by Nicola Bolton who has been appointed as shadow chief operating officer of the Institute for Apprenticeships.

Notes to editors:

Antony Jenkins began his banking career as a graduate trainee at Barclays in 1983. He worked at the bank until 1989, when he joined Citigroup. After stints in the US and the UK at Citigroup, he returned to Barclays to fill a series of senior management roles in retail and corporate banking. He served as chief executive from 2012 to 2015.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/330990 2016-06-08T16:49:26+01:00 2016-06-08T16:49:26+01:00 News story: Second meeting of the joint Steel Council Plans to undertake new research into future market opportunities for UK steel were agreed today at the second meeting of the Steel Council.

The forum, chaired jointly by the Business Secretary Sajid Javid and the Chair of UK Steel Jon Bolton and attended by representatives from across the industry, was established last year to build on the work of a series of Ministerial Working Groups, and look at the longer term future of the sector. It aims to consider how industry and government can strengthen the capability and competiveness of the UK steel industry. A number of 'asks' have already been delivered.

The new research, which will be commissioned shortly, will be used to comprehensively map current capability of the UK sector, identify high-value opportunities in new markets and look at how to overcome potential challenges or barriers that are preventing industry from diversifying and meeting future demand. It will help inform how government can best direct R&D investment and build future skills capability.

As well as discussing future capability, the meeting also discussed energy, procurement and trade issues, acknowledging that much progress had been made.

Business Secretary Sajid Javid said:

Thousands of workers, businesses and communities up and down the country depend on the steel industry for their livelihoods, and I am determined to ensure a long-term sustainable future. That is why the work of the Steel Council is so important in enabling government and industry to work together to consider both the current and future needs of the industry and how best to meet them.

Much progress has been made - and I was delighted to welcome the new company British Steel to today's productive meeting. We recognise there is more to do and this new research into future capability will help to ensure we build on our world-leading status in developing new and innovative steel products.

The Steel Council builds on the work of the Steel Ministerial Working Groups which worked to identify solutions on short-term issues identified by industry such as emissions regulations, energy cost exemptions and anti-dumping measures.

More details of government action to support the steel industry

Attendees at the Steel Council were:

Sajid Javid, Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills

Jon Bolton, Chairman UK Steel

Alun Cairns, Secretary of State for Wales

Anna Soubry, Minister for Small Business, Industry and Enterprise

Lord Bourne, Department for Energy and Climate Change/Wales Office

Ken Skates, Economy Secretary, Welsh Government

Kevin Draper, Commercial Director, Acenta Steel

Sarah McCann-Bartlett, Director General, British Constructional Steelwork Association

Peter Hogg, Commercial Director, British Steel

Luis Sanz, CEO, Celsa UK

Chris Hagg, Public Affairs, Celsa Steel

Sanjeev Gupta, Executive Chairman, Liberty House Group

John Beeley, General Manager, Outokumpu Stainless Ltd

Jay Hambro, CEO, SIMEC (related to Liberty Group)

Bimlendra Jha, CEO, Tata Steel UK

Deirdre Fox, Strategic Business Development, Tata Steel UK

Tim Morris, Head of Public Affairs, Tata Steel Europe

Harish Patel, National Officer for Steel, Unite Union

David Hulse, National Officer, GMB Union

Eamon O'Hearn, National Officer, GMB Union

Alasdair McDiarmid, Head of Research and Policy, Community Union

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/330789 2016-06-06T17:09:00+01:00 2016-06-06T17:09:00+01:00 Statement to Parliament: BHS: update on support for workers, pension schemes and the investigation Statement on BHS by Anna Soubry, Minister of State for Small Business, Industry and Enterprise.

With permission, Mr Speaker, I would like to make a brief statement on BHS.

The House will remember that on 25 April I made a statement to the House after BHS had entered administration. The administrators Duff and Phelps tried to sell BHS as a going concern, with a view to retaining all the stores and as many jobs as possible. I understand that they had talks with a number of interested parties.

As reported last week, the administrators have now concluded that process, although offers were received, none was sufficient to enable a deal to be completed, and they have had to take the decision to wind the business down.

This will of course be devastating news for the workers at BHS and their families, and also for those businesses who supply BHS, our thoughts are with all of them. This followed the sad news received by Austin Reed workers on 29 May that only a partial sale of that business was possible with the remainder being wound down over the course of June. A number of questions have quite properly been raised about how BHS found itself in this situation. The proper authorities – the administrators, the Insolvency Service and the Pensions Regulator – are already looking into these matters.

I am clear that any wrongdoing will be taken very seriously and I will return to that later in my statement.

Support for people

Our focus now is to support all those affected and get people back into work as quickly as possible.

Whilst we await the administrators' plans for winding down the business, I can inform the House that Jobcentre Plus has already been in contact with the administrators and is preparing a range of support to assist staff.

Jobcentre Plus is on standby to go into BHS stores and directly advise affected staff of their various options.

Already, teams are centrally tracking vacancies in the retail sector and will make sure BHS branches are aware of any vacancies in their area.

Jobcentre Plus also stands ready to deploy its Rapid Response Service in acknowledgment of the scale of the job losses.

This is a service with a strong record of helping people at a very distressing time. They can offer workers support including:

help with job searches, including CV writing and interview skills

help to identify transferable skills and skills gaps, linked to the local labour market

training to update skills, learn new ones and gain industry recognised certification that will improve employability

help to overcome barriers to attending training, securing a job or self-employment, such as child care costs, work clothes and travel costs

I can also inform the House that the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) has written to major retailers asking them to consider what opportunities they may be able to offer the workers and local areas affected as the situation becomes clearer this week.

DWP will also be monitoring the impact of redundancies locally on a continuing basis and will provide additional targeted support to any areas particularly badly affected.

I can assure the House we will do everything in our power to support workers and their families through this difficult time, not just for BHS but also for those made redundant by Austin Reed.

Insolvency Service investigation

Can I now turn to some of the wider issues here? On 3 May, the Business Secretary instructed the Insolvency Service to begin its investigation into the extent to which the conduct of the directors of BHS led to the insolvency of BHS and/or caused detriment to its creditors.

While the Insolvency Service can't give a running commentary on its investigations, I know that the work is well underway. And I'm clear that if evidence is uncovered that indicates that any of the directors' conduct fell below what is expected, then action will be taken. This can include applying to the courts to disqualify the relevant parties from being a company director for a period of 2 to up to 15 years.

If there are any indications of any criminal wrongdoing relating to BHS, we will ensure that the relevant investigatory body is informed.

Pensions

Members will also be aware of considerable concern about the BHS pension scheme. The BHS schemes are in a Pension Protection Fund (PPF) assessment period. Now this test is whether or not the schemes' funds are sufficient to allow each scheme to buy annuities which will pay members at least PPF fund level benefits. If it cannot the scheme will transfer to the PPF and compensation will be paid. The PPF aims to resolve these issues as quickly as possible.

PPF compensation is generally 100% of the pension in payment for anyone over the scheme's normal pension age at the date of the insolvency and, for everyone else, 90% of the accrued pension, subject of course to a maximum cap.

The Pensions Regulator is also currently undertaking an investigation into the BHS pensions scheme to determine whether it would be appropriate to use their anti-avoidance powers. This means that if the Regulator believes that an employer is deliberately attempting to avoid their pension obligations, leaving the PPF to pick up their pension liabilities, the Regulator may intervene and seek redress from the employer, and if I may say Mr Speaker, rightly so. There is a clear process that must be followed and this can sometimes take a considerable amount of time. When it becomes appropriate to do so the Regulator will consider issuing a report of its activities in this case. We will closely examine its findings.

Retail sector

As I said on 25 April, retail is a vital sector for the United Kingdom economy and we are committed to it as a government, that is one of the reasons I will be meeting key retailers this Thursday with ministerial colleagues from other government departments. While the news of BHS's closure is a huge blow, the retail sector as a whole is resilient. There are now 3.1 million retail jobs in the United Kingdom, up by 83,000 since 2010, and almost back to record pre-recession levels.

High streets remain a crucial part of our local and regional economies, creating jobs, nurturing small businesses and injecting billions of pounds into our economy. A recent report by the Association of Town Centre Managers found that town centres contribute nearly £600 billion pounds to the economy each year.

That is why we will continue to support the British high street.

By way of example, we've reduced corporation tax.

And in particular, I'm so pleased we've announced the biggest ever cut in business rates in England – worth £6.7 billion over the next 5 years, notably affecting small businesses.

I know little of this will be of comfort to BHS workers facing an uncertain future. But I can assure them and the House this government will do everything within in its powers to get every affected worker back in a job as soon as possible.

I commend this statement to the House.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/330775 2016-06-06T08:00:00+01:00 2016-06-06T08:00:00+01:00 Press release: Regius Professorships awarded to leading universities to mark Queen's 90th birthday Her Majesty the Queen will honour 12 of Britain's leading universities today by creating Regius Professorships as part of her 90th birthday celebrations.

The title of Regius Professorship is a rare and prestigious award bestowed by the Sovereign to recognise exceptionally high quality research at an institution. Only 14 have been granted since the reign of Queen Victoria, including 12 to mark Her Majesty's Diamond Jubilee.

As in 2012, recipients of new Regius Professorships have been selected by open competition, judged by an independent expert panel of business and academic experts. A Regius Professorship is a well-deserved reflection of the exceptionally high quality of teaching and research at an institution.

Of the 12 universities, 5 are receiving a Regius Professorship for the first time, including the first to be conferred on universities in Wales and Northern Ireland.

Each institution will assign the title to an existing Professor at the chosen department or will appoint a new professor to take the chair and hold the title.

The new posts of Regius Professor are:

University of Manchester – Materials

University of Cardiff - Chemistry

Queen's University Belfast - Electronics & Computer Engineering

University of Glasgow - Precision Medicine

Newcastle University - Ageing

University of Liverpool - Chemistry

Aston University - Pharmacy

University of Warwick - Manufacturing (Engineering)

Institute of Cancer Research (University of London) - Cancer Research

Imperial College London - Infectious Disease

University of Southampton - Ocean Sciences

University of Oxford - Mathematics

Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne said:

I am passionate about promoting science and economic growth right across the country.

That's why I promised to push for prestigious new Regius Professorships not just in London and Oxbridge, but in other great centres of learning, including the Northern Powerhouse, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. I'm delighted that promise is being honoured today.

John Penrose the Minister for Constitution, will be visiting Manchester University today to make the announcement.

John Penrose, Minister for Constitution, said:

It is a privilege and an honour to announce these new Regius Professorships to mark Her Majesty's 90th birthday.

They show how world class theoretical research can be translated into everyday applications that drive British jobs and exports, and benefit society as a whole.

Jo Johnson, Minister for Universities and Science, said:

The success of our economy is underpinned by the exceptional science and research taking place in our world-leading universities up and down the country, and I'm delighted these 12 institutions have been recognised for their achievements.

We'll continue to make sure pioneering science is recognised and supported to help improve the lives of millions across the country and beyond.

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester said:

I am delighted that the University of Manchester's world-leading research in materials has been recognised with this prestigious honour. The Regius Professorship will help to ensure that Manchester continues to be at the international forefront of materials research and applications.

In the past, Regius Professorships were created when a university chair was founded or endowed by a Royal patron. Previously, they were limited to a handful of the ancient universities of the United Kingdom and Ireland, namely Oxford, Cambridge, St Andrews, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Trinity College, Dublin.

Announced in the government's Productivity Plan in July, the new Regius Professorships will celebrate the increasingly important role of academic research in driving growth and improving productivity over the past 90 years.

The creation of Regius Professorships falls under the Royal Prerogative, and each appointment is approved by the Monarch on ministerial advice. For the Diamond Jubilee, 12 Regius Professorship were created but prior to that only two others have been awarded in the last century, to mark the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin in 2009. Before then, the most recent Regius Professorship was created by Queen Victoria.

Further information

All entries were assessed by the expert panel on the merits of their application alone, against a scoring system based on:

national and international recognition of excellent research across any field or fields of research

the leading role of the university in translating the research into use in wider society as a contribution to knowledge, or to solving a problem

a direct and significant benefit to the UK's economic effectiveness and productivity at a regional or national scale

other factors, such as the chance to mark a significant event in history of the institution or field of research

Panel members

The chair of the expert panel was Anne Glover, Chief Executive of Amadeus Capital Partners.

Other panel members include:

Baroness O'Neill: Philosophy and public policy; current chair the Equality and Human Rights Commission; former President of the British Academy; former Chair Nuffield Foundation; Emeritus Professor of Philosophy, University of Cambridge

Sir Robin Saxby: Founder, former Chief Executive and former Chair ARM and past president of IET; visiting professor, University of Liverpool and Fellow of Royal Academy of Engineering

Baroness Finlay: Professor of palliative medicine at Cardiff University; past president of the Royal Society of Medicine

Rowan Douglas: CEO of the Capital, Science and Policy Practice at Willis Group and Member of the PM's Council for Science and Technology and also Chairman; Willis Research Network, Willis Group and also member of the council of NERC

In addition to awarding Manchester University a Regius Professorship in Materials, over £250 million funding was confirmed for the Sir Henry Royce Institute for Advanced Materials which will be housed at the university.

This national institute will help accelerate the discovery and development of new materials systems for the benefit of the UK and builds on the world class materials science in universities across the UK.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/330706 2016-06-02T15:09:00+01:00 2016-06-02T15:09:00+01:00 Government response: Reaction to BHS announcement Business Minister Anna Soubry responds to the BHS announcement.

In response to the news today (2 June 2016) regarding BHS, Business Minister Anna Soubry said:

Today's announcement that the administrators have been unable to find a buyer for the business will be devastating news for all those who work at BHS and those in the supply chain. The government stands ready to support workers to find new jobs as quickly as possible.

The Business Secretary has already announced an accelerated Insolvency Service investigation into the activity of former BHS directors. Any issues of misconduct will be taken extremely seriously.

Notes to editors

This was a decision made by the administrators.

It is the administrators' role to consider potential bids for the business. The government cannot influence this as it is a legal process.

They are independent and their responsibilities are to the body of creditors of the company, not the government.

Job Centre Plus has been in contact with the administrators, and will work with them to support people through its Rapid Response Service. This is a service with a strong record of helping people at a very distressing time.

This service is tailored to individuals' needs and can include some or all of the following:

help with job searches, including CV writing and interview skills

help to identify transferable skills and skills gaps, linked to the local labour market

training to update skills, learn new ones and gain industry recognised certification that will improve employability

help to overcome barriers to attending training, securing a job or self-employment, such as childcare costs, tools, work clothes and travel costs

On Business Secretary investigation

The Insolvency Service would normally wait for the conclusion of the administrator's final report before commencing any investigation into a company entering administration. However, given the unique circumstances surrounding the BHS case, the Business Secretary has instructed the Insolvency Service to commence the investigation as soon as possible.

Should the investigation conclude that one or more present or former directors have been involved in any misconduct, an application may be made to a court to ask that they be disqualified from acting as a director for a period between 2 and 15 years depending on the nature of their misconduct.

Where conduct for which a person was disqualified took place subsequent to 1 October 2015 and caused a loss to creditors, an application could also be made to a court for an order that compensation be made for losses incurred.

Support for the retail sector

We are cutting corporation tax to 17% in 2020, the lowest of any major economy, benefitting over a million companies.

At Budget 2016 we announced the biggest ever cut in business rates, worth £6.7 billion, which will benefit 900,000 properties including retailers.

From next year, small and medium size retailers will be permanently supported by a more generous Small Business Rates Relief and from being taken out of the higher rate of business rates. Some of the smallest retailers will not pay business rates again.

From 2020, all retailers will benefit from our change to how business rates are increased for inflation. This change will be worth £370 million a year to business 2021 alone and growing significantly thereafter.

We have lifted thousands of businesses out of paying National Insurance Contributions and introduced the highest ever permanent level of Annual Investment Allowance to support business investment.

UK is the no.1 destination in Europe for foreign direct investment (FDI) in retail, and the second largest source of outward retail.

UKTI's recent inward investment strategy on retail assisted over 750 businesses and helped deliver around £500 million of value to the UK economy.

This government is proud of its record of supporting British businesses, workers and communities.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/330552 2016-06-01T10:22:00+01:00 2016-06-01T10:22:00+01:00 Press release: Business Secretary welcomes appointment of Burberry Chair to lead Midlands Engine Sir John Peace has been appointed to be the new Chair of the Midlands Engine.

He will lead the Midlands partnership which aims to drive up productivity and growth across the whole of the Midlands region from the Marches to the Wash.

Since the Business Secretary Sajid Javid launched the Midlands Engine's initial plans last December (2015), the partnership has been working with businesses, universities, colleges and the public sector to deliver its ambition to create 300,000 new jobs and generate an additional £34 billion by 2030.

As the current Chair of both Standard Chartered plc and Burberry Group plc, Sir John's extensive business experience across the financial and retail sectors will give him the ideal background to drive the region's vision.

The new Midlands Engine Chair will be supported by a Strategic Supervisory Group composed of representatives from local authorities, business, universities, and an executive, which will work together to define, drive forward and communicate the Midlands Engine ambitions.

Sir John will continue to chair Midlands Connect, developing a transport strategy to improve the connectivity of the region's key locations and drive economic growth.

Business Secretary Sajid Javid said:

It is great news that Sir John Peace will take up the role of Chairman of the Midlands Engine. His business leadership experience and continued commitment to Midlands Connect will drive forward exactly what we want to achieve with the Midlands Engine.

These are exciting times for the Midlands - the economy is growing, businesses are thriving and inward investment is up. By capitalising on the region's assets under Sir John Peace's leadership, the Midlands can become even greater than the sum of its parts.

I would also like to thank David Frost for his time and dedication as interim Chair of the Midlands Engine. The publication of the prospectus under his leadership was an historic moment in firing up the Midlands Engine.

The new Chair of the Midlands Engine, Sir John Peace, said:

The Midlands Engine is a compelling opportunity to better represent the Midlands region, attract significant new investment and create more jobs. A huge amount of work has already been done by stakeholders from both the private and public sectors with the aim of growing the wider Midlands economy, and as the newly appointed Chairman I will do my best to make this very exciting vision become a reality.

Notes to editors

Our long-term economic plan for the Midlands aims to add £34 billion to the Midlands economy by 2030 and 300,000 extra jobs.

Under this government, the Midlands has been growing faster than the UK average excluding London and has created over 279,000 new jobs.

Developed by local stakeholders, the Midlands Engine Prospectus sets out the ambitions, opportunities and challenges for the region.

In February 2016, Sir John Peace was appointed as independent Chair of Midlands Connect and will continue this role alongside that of Midlands Engine Chairman.

Sir John Peace joined the Board of Standard Chartered plc in 2007 as Deputy Chairman and was appointed Chairman in 2009. He is also Chairman of Burberry Group plc. Sir John has a strong financial services and retailing background. In 2000, Sir John became Group CEO of GUS plc, of which Experian and Burberry were a part. He spearheaded a major restructuring strategy to refocus the group, including the acquisition and disposal of more than 50 businesses worldwide. In 2002, Burberry was floated on the London Stock Exchange with Sir John Peace as its Chairman, a position he continues to hold. Burberry today is a leading global luxury brand with worldwide retail operations. In 2006, Sir John was appointed Chairman of Experian following the demerger of GUS plc, a position he held until he stepped down in July 2014. Sir John is committed to supporting his local community and has a long standing interest in education. In February 2016, Sir John Peace was appointed as independent Chair of Midlands Connect.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/330326 2016-05-26T16:46:31+01:00 2016-05-26T16:46:31+01:00 Statement to Parliament: UK steel industry: update, May 2016 Statement on the steel industry by Secretary of State for Business Sajid Javid.

With permission, Mr Speaker, I would like to make a brief statement on Britain's steel industry.

Yesterday, Tata's board met in Mumbai and reviewed progress on the sale of their UK steelmaking assets.

Ahead of that meeting I travelled to India for discussions with Tata's leadership.

I arrived back in London just a few hours ago.

I used the opportunity to stress the importance of Tata continuing to run a responsible and effective sales process - something I commend them for doing so far.

I raised various challenges and issues that have been flagged to me by potential buyers.

And I reiterated the government's willingness to support bidders who can deliver a sustainable and successful future for British steelmaking.

Tata, understandably, wants the sale process to be as swift and straightforward as possible.

However, they assured me that they remain absolutely committed to being a responsible seller.

There are a number of credible bids on the table, all of which we discussed.

Tata is now studying the proposals closely before making a decision on which to take through to the next stage of the sales process.

We will be continuing our dialogue with the bidders and with Tata while this happens.

This remains, quite rightly, an independent commercial process.

It is not the government's job to pick a winner or back a specific bid.

What we can do is listen to Tata, listen to bidders and work with everyone involved to remove potential barriers to a sale.

For example, we are today launching a consultation on options to delivery clarity and security for British Steel Pension Scheme members.

This follows representations from both the trustees of the scheme itself and from Tata.

And let me just thank my RHF the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, and everyone in his team, for all their hard work in making this consultation happen.

The House will appreciate that commercial confidentiality stops me offering a running commentary on the sale process.

Indeed all the bidders have themselves signed non-disclosure agreements.

I will, however, continue to update the House on progress whenever it is appropriate to do so.

And I will continue to work around the clock to support British steelmaking and British steelworkers.

That support has already seen tens of millions of pounds of compensation paid to energy intensive industries, and will see them exempted from renewable policy costs.

It has seen us become the first government to implement new guidelines making it easier for the public sector to buy British steel.

And it has seen us consistently standing up for British steel in Europe, including calling for tariffs on a range of Chinese imports where there is evidence of unfair trade.

Mr Speaker, as yesterday's demonstration by steelworkers reminded us, this is ultimately all about people.

About the hardworking men and women who make British steel the best in the world.

We owe it to them – and their families and communities – to do everything we can to secure the future of their industry.

That's why my colleague, the Business Minister, and I have been fighting for British steel since long before the current crisis hit the headlines.

And that's why we will continue to fight for British steel for as long as it takes.

We're very pleased to have been supported in that fight by the First Minister of Wales.

We're also receiving constructive support from the trade unions, particularly Community.

By putting aside political point-scoring and focussing on what really matters we are, together, forging a secure and sustainable future for British steelmaking.

I commend this statement to the House.

 tag:www.gov.uk,2005:AnnouncementPresenter/330271 2016-05-26T14:39:28+01:00 2016-05-26T14:39:28+01:00 Press release: Reappointment of Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council Chair Dr Paul Golby has been reappointed as Chair of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).

Universities and Science Minister Jo Johnson has today (26 May 2016) announced the reappointment of Dr Paul Golby as Chair of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).

Universities and Science Minister Jo Johnson said:

I am very pleased to announce the reappointment of Dr Paul Golby as Chair of EPSRC.

Building on a successful four years in post, his strong engineering background, wide-ranging business experience and knowledge of working with government will serve him well in his second term.

Dr Paul Golby said:

I am delighted to have been reappointed as Chair of Council of the EPSRC. I look forward to working with BIS and the other Research Councils to implement the recently published White Paper.

The reappointment is for a 2 year period.

Council Member Reappointment

The Minister has also reappointed Professor Sir Richard Friend to a second term as a member of the Council.

EPSRC Chair Dr Paul Golby said:

I am also pleased that Richard Friend has been re-appointed as a member of Council for another 3 years, his knowledge, skills, experience and unique perspectives that he brings are exceptionally valuable to EPSRC.

Notes to editors

This appointment has been made in accordance with the requirements of the Code of the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Dr Golby also holds one other public appointment as a member of the Prime Minister's Council for Science and Technology.

Dr Paul Golby took up the post of Chairman of the EPSRC in April 2012. After gaining a doctorate in and training as a mechanical engineer, he held a series of management positions with Dunlop and BTR before becoming an executive director of Clayhithe plc in 1992. He joined E.ON UK plc (formally PowerGen) in 2001 where he held the position of Chairman and Chief Executive until his retirement in December 2011. A chartered engineer, Dr Golby is a fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering, the Institution of Engineering and Technology, the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and the Energy Institute. He was awarded an honorary degree from Aston University in 2007 and Cranfield University in 2008. In January 2009 he was appointed Pro-Chancellor of Aston University and Chair of Council. He was appointed member of the Prime Ministers Council for Science and Technology in June 2011 and was awarded the CBE by HM The Queen in the same year. Dr Golby was also appointed Engineering UK Chairman in September 2010, appointed Non-Executive Director of National Grid plc in February 2012 and in October 2014 appointed Chairman of the Board for NATS. He became Non-Executive Chairman of Costain Group PLC on 05 May 2016.

Professor Sir Richard Friend is the Cavendish Professor of Physics at the University of Cambridge. His reappointment to EPSRC Council is for 3 years from 1 April 2016 to 31 March 2019. His appointment was made in accordance with the requirements of the Code of the Commissioner for Public Appointments

The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) - As the main funding agency for engineering and physical sciences research, our vision is for the UK to be the best place in the world to Research, Discover and Innovate. By investing £800 million a year in research and postgraduate training, we are building the knowledge and skills base needed to address the scientific and technological challenges facing the nation. Our portfolio covers a vast range of fields from healthcare technologies to structural engineering, manufacturing to mathematics, advanced materials to chemistry. The research we fund has impact across all sectors. It provides a platform for future economic development in the UK and improvements for everyone's health, lifestyle and culture. We work collectively with our partners and other Research Councils on issues of common concern via Research Councils UK.