Manchester

Government Reviews Electric Vehicle Sales Targets to Boost UK Automotive Sector The UK government has initiated a review of its electric vehicle (EV) sales targets, aiming to enhance job creation, attract investment, and sustain a competitive edge within the domestic automotive industry. This initiative invites insights from vehicle manufacturers, suppliers, charge point operators, dealers, consumers, and local communities concerning the strategy to phase out new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, with a goal of achieving 100% zero-emission sales of new cars and vans by 2035. This announcement comes at a time when the UK's transition towards cleaner transport is gaining momentum, evidenced by the fact that over one in four new cars sold in July were electric. Notably, EV sales surged by 45% c...

Enhanced Online Medical Service for Drivers Over 60,000 drivers have embraced the DVLA's improved online medical service, opting for a more efficient and straightforward alternative to traditional paper applications. This innovative platform enables drivers to access vital information on approximately 1,600 medical conditions and their potential impact on driving by simply visiting GOV.UK. Those who need to notify the DVLA about their health conditions can now do so online, a convenience that is especially advantageous given the current surge in applications from individuals with medical issues. The online service significantly reduces processing times for many users, with some applications being completed up to 10 days quicker than their paper counterparts. In fact, DVLA can often initiat...

Ms Louise Cantillon has been appointed as the British High Commissioner to New Zealand and will also serve as Governor of the Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie and Oeno Islands. This appointment follows the tenure of Ms Iona Thomas OBE, who has accepted a new position within the Diplomatic Service. Ms Cantillon is set to begin her role in August 2026. Professional Background Louise Marie Cantillon brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having held various significant positions within the British diplomatic corps. From 2021 to 2026, she served as the British Consul General and Deputy Trade Commissioner for the Asia Pacific region, primarily focusing on Australia and New Zealand. Her work in this capacity has equipped her with a deep understanding of the trade dynamics and diplomatic relati...

Investigation Leads to Closure of Freight Company Malcolm Wright Associates Limited has been dissolved in the public interest following an investigation conducted by the Insolvency Service. The Leeds-based freight company was found to have outstanding debts exceeding $508,000 (US), €334,000, and £25,000, leaving several overseas freight businesses significantly impacted. The winding-up of Malcolm Wright Associates Limited was finalised after a hearing at the High Court in Manchester on 11 August 2026. This action was taken in light of troubling findings regarding the company’s trading practices, which resulted in considerable financial losses for its creditors across the United States, Europe, and the UK. Credibility Misleading Suppliers The investigation into Malcolm Wright Associates Lim...