Manchester

Addressing Current Economic Challenges Good morning, everyone. I would like to extend my gratitude to the International Chambers of Commerce (ICC) and Clifford Chance for their gracious hosting today. It is always encouraging to be invited back, suggesting that my previous presentation did not go awry. Unless, of course, you are hoping for another slip-up. In my remarks last year, I emphasised the critical role that competition and consumer regimes play in fostering economic growth and enhancing household prosperity. This was particularly relevant given the economic sluggishness, the pressures of rising living costs, and the prevailing geopolitical uncertainties. Nearly a year later, the urgency to stimulate growth across the UK remains pressing, and the geopolitical landscape is as unpred...

Government Calls for Continued Water Efficiency Measures Today, the government has emphasised the importance of maintaining momentum in water efficiency initiatives, urging water companies to persevere until the drought conditions have been fully addressed. The latest meeting of the National Drought Group, which included the chief executives of water companies, focused on updates regarding leakage reductions and preparations for the upcoming autumn and winter seasons. The situation remains critical, with nearly 75% of England still classified as being in drought following an unusually dry spring and summer, which was punctuated by multiple heatwaves. Official guidelines state that drought conditions will only be considered resolved once water levels in rivers, groundwater, and reservoirs r...

Addressing the Challenges and Achievements of Policing Honouring Fallen Officers Last week, I gathered with the policing community and the citizens of Cleveland to pay tribute to PC Blades and PC Clough during their funerals. Earlier this year, I also attended the funeral of PC Jess Turnbull, who tragically passed away at the young age of 19. Since this time last year, we have lost six officers, including PC Corke, PC Najeeb, and PC Chester. The emotional impact of these losses remains profound, especially for those who were close to these dedicated individuals. It is important to acknowledge that the essential work of policing continues, even in the face of such heart-wrenching events. Officers must persist in their commitment to serve their communities amid shock and sorrow, a resilien...

Strengthening Regulatory Ties with Malaysia The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has reiterated its dedication to enhancing regulatory collaboration with Malaysia following high-level discussions held in Kuala Lumpur. These discussions involved Malaysia’s Minister of Health and senior figures from various healthcare, regulatory, and research organisations within the country. During this pivotal meeting, representatives from the MHRA, led by Chief Executive Lawrence Tallon, were briefed on Malaysia’s advancements in healthcare, the regulation of medicines, and ongoing research initiatives. Minister YB Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad articulated his vision for further fortifying Malaysia’s status as a prominent hub for healthcare innovation, clinical research, and lif...

Enhancing Support for Young People Across England In a significant move to bolster support for young individuals, the government has announced an expansion of the Young Futures Hubs programme, aiming to provide better access to mental health services, employment opportunities, and crime prevention support. This initiative will simplify the process for young people to seek help within their local communities, addressing some of the pressing issues they face today, such as mental health challenges, unemployment, and violence. With the establishment of 42 new hubs across various local authorities in England, young people aged between 10 and 18 (and up to 25 for those with special educational needs and disabilities) will have a dedicated space to access essential services. Each hub will offer ...

Revolutionising School Meals Across the Nation In an unprecedented move, the government is set to transform school meals for millions of children throughout the country, marking the most significant reform in school food standards in a generation. These enhancements aim to incorporate more fresh fruits and vegetables, fibre-rich options, and nutritionally balanced meals. The objective is to ensure that children remain focused, energised, and prepared to learn throughout the school day. The revised standards have undergone extensive testing in collaboration with various schools, caterers, and sample menus. This rigorous process aims to guarantee that schools nationwide can serve exciting, nourishing meals that students will enjoy. Dishes such as sweet chilli stir fry, lasagne, and chicken o...

New Digital Age Verification for Alcohol Purchases Licensed establishments such as pubs, music venues, shops, and restaurants across England and Wales are set to benefit from a new initiative that introduces a secure digital method for verifying the age of customers purchasing alcohol. This innovative approach empowers businesses to incorporate existing digital identification technology alongside traditional physical ID checks, streamlining the process of age verification for both patrons and staff. With this new regulation coming into effect, customers will have the option to utilise a certified application on their smartphones to confirm they are over 18 when buying alcohol, eliminating the need to present a physical ID. This advancement aims to make the experience more convenient and se...

Strengthening Ties in Film and Television A newly forged agreement between the UK and Canadian governments is set to enhance collaboration within the film and television industries on both sides of the Atlantic. This modernised treaty aims to facilitate co-productions, allowing filmmakers from both nations to benefit from the same conditions as those working solely within their own countries. The updated treaty will provide British and Canadian production companies with improved access to domestic funding and tax incentives, as well as enhanced flexibility and clearer guidelines regarding copyright and revenue sharing. Additionally, it will offer stronger assurances for distribution and broadcasting when working on joint projects. Historically, similar international agreements have yielded...

Community-driven initiatives aimed at fostering connections among residents and enhancing local life are now invited to apply for the latest round of funding from the Common Ground Award. This initiative offers financial support to projects that enhance the facilities and resources essential for community engagement, enabling individuals to gather, interact, and feel a sense of belonging. Starting today, applications are open for this funding opportunity, which builds upon the success of 211 projects that have previously received government backing across England, ensuring their crucial operations can continue. Empowering Local Communities The Common Ground Award, originally launched in 2025, is now welcoming a second wave of applications aimed at supporting community organisations that po...

Embracing Our Shared Humanity This address is not intended as a discourse on development or a focus on Africa specifically. Rather, it aims to explore the imperative of learning to coexist harmoniously. The stakes are high; if we fail to achieve this, we may face even darker times ahead. Indeed, warning signs are already manifesting. The spectre of war has re-emerged in Europe, and the geopolitical landscape is marred by conflict, competition, and chaos. We find ourselves teetering on the brink—or, in some instances, well beyond—environmental tipping points that threaten the life-support systems we so depend upon on this small, fragile planet. There are numerous reasons for concern. Yet, I maintain an unwavering optimism. I genuinely believe that if we can learn to coexist effectively, we ...