Government roadshow showcases Scottish talent and boosts SME exports
Roadshow brings together exporters in the financial, professional, and business sector to buyers and trade experts from right across the world.
Minister for Small Business and Economic Transformation, Blair McDougall will celebrate the success of our service industries and urge more small firms to take advantage of Government export support.
Exports are key for the UK Government’s growth mission, supporting a fifth of UK employment, paying 7% higher wages, and delivering 28.5% higher productivity.
Small business exporters and ambitious SMEs across Scotland will be front and centre of a new roadshow in Edinburgh today, offering tailored support from the UK Government to get more SMEs exporting across the financial, professional, and business services sectors.
The Made in the UK, Sold to the World roadshow events offer SMEs the opportunity to directly connect with commercial officers, international buyers, and Export Champions to get advice, support, and discuss real export opportunities.
Boosting exports is a key part of the government’s Plan for Change to drive growth, create well-paid jobs and put more money in people’s pockets, with stats showing businesses that export are over a quarter more productive than businesses that don’t, and pay 7% higher wages.
The roadshow will demonstrate the incredible support being made available to SMEs through the Small Business Plan, from the expansion of UK Export Finance’s capacity to the Business Growth Service.
In 2024, the US was the largest market for Scottish services after the Netherlands, which is why the roadshow will provide a workshop for businesses on exporting services to the US.
As part of the Plan for Change, each roadshow is focused on one of the eight key growth driving sectors identified in the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy to channel support to sectors with the highest potential to create jobs, boost productivity and grow the economy.
DBT Minister for Small Business and Economic Transformation, Blair McDougall said: ““Scottish businesses are known for providing world-class Financial and Professional services, and this roadshow will be an excellent opportunity to showcase that talent and connect businesses with new international partners, opening the door to new markets.
“Export success and the professional and business services sector are key to the government’s Industrial Strategy and Plan for Change, which will drive growth and create well-paid jobs. That is why we are doing everything we can to support our small and medium sized businesses to grow and succeed.”
Minister McDougall will be giving the keynote address before touring the roadshow, seeing the many workshops and exhibition on offer. The Minister will meet with several businesses spanning law, insurance, and financial technology sectors.
Professional and business services are worth £300 billion a year and support one in every seven jobs. Strengthening the sector is central to the Modern Industrial Strategy, which aims to maintain the UK’s position as the second largest services exporter in the world while creating the most dynamic professional and business services ecosystem by 2035.
Plans include five new centres of excellence across country to help services firms grow and adopt new technology, and additional backing through UK Export Finance to secure overseas contracts.
Scotland is home to a dynamic financial, professional and business services industry ranging from law and accountancy, to consulting and engineering. Making Edinburgh a hub for both large corporations like the Royal Bank of Scotland and for smaller firms like Predictiva.
The commercial officers and international buyers present at the event span markets and regions from around the world, from the US and Europe to Africa, the Asia Pacific, Central Asia, and the Middle East.
On hand and ready to offer his advice, will be Export Champion and Founder & CEO at Modulr, Myles Stephenson.
Modulr, based in Edinburgh, has had global success having created an industry-leading payments platform. The company has seen tremendous growth in the last 9-years being one of the UK’s fastest growing tech companies. Our Plan for Change will give SME a clear path to growth, making success stories like Modulr a reality for more UK Businesses.
Myles Stephenson, Export Champion and Founder & CEO at Modulr, said:“International expansion is a fantastic opportunity for Scottish firms to scale and achieve significant growth.
“At Modulr we’ve worked hard and invested to navigate the challenges of expanding into new markets but know it’s not easy and would like more firms to start or increase their exporting activity.
“By sharing our experience we’d like to encourage more firms to start or increase their export activity. Accessing the support is a key enabler and critical item to consider when entering overseas markets – the Department for Business Trade can help navigate this.”
Thousands more young people are to receive life-changing support into work or training – with football clubs across England signing up to help the Westminster Government in their mission to ensure every 18-to-21-year-old has the chance to earn or learn
Every Premier League Football Club Charity now in talks with DWP to support the Youth Guarantee – helping more young people get into work or training.
Youth Hub scheme to double to over 200 locations, giving more young people access to employment, skills and wellbeing support at football clubs, libraries and community centres closer to home.
EFL in the Community, the charitable arm of the English Football League (EFL), and Rugby Football League confirm new partnerships, harnessing the power of sport to champion young people and break down barriers to opportunities as part of the Plan for Change.
Thousands more young people are to receive life-changing support into work or training – with football clubs across England signing up to help the Westminster Government in their mission to ensure every 18-to-21-year-old has the chance to earn or learn.
The Government’s highly successful Youth Hubs – which are hosted by sports clubs and other community venues in England, Scotland and Wales – will almost double in number thanks to £25 million investment announced today.
The funding was announced as it was revealed that every Premier League club charity in England is now discussing with Government how they can help get young people earning or learning, while the EFL in the Community and Rugby Football League have also been confirmed as new partners, supporting the same aim.
This means even more young people across the country are being helped by their local teams, as well as the Government’s other Youth Guarantee partners.
To mark the expansion of the programme and our partnership with the Premier League, Secretary of State Pat McFadden will visit Selhurst Park, home to the Palace for Life Youth Hub and Crystal Palace football club, where he will meet staff and young people benefitting from the service to see first-hand the impact it is having in the community.
Youth Hubs offer personalised, wraparound employment, skills and wellbeing support to young people in the areas of highest need. Thanks to this latest investment they will almost double to over 200 places across England, Scotland and Wales in the next three years.
The Hubs bring support, such as CV and wellbeing advice, directly to young people – taking place in settings right at the heart of the community like sports clubs, libraries and community centres.
With nearly one million young people not in education, employment or training, this expansion is helping to inspire a renewed sense of purpose and ambition in young people as well as breaking down barriers to opportunity as part of the Plan for Change.
Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Pat McFadden, said: “The number of young people not in education, employment or training is unacceptably high, and this government will not stand by while so many are robbed of their potential and our country of its future.
“Through our £25 million expansion of Youth Hubs and partnerships with the Premier League and other key organisations, we’re creating real opportunities for the next generation, ensuring support is targeted to those most in need.
“This investment will support our mission to give every young person the skills and confidence they need to thrive, as we break down barriers to opportunity under our Plan for Change.”
Run in partnership with Jobcentres, Youth Hubs bring Youth Work Coaches together with local partners including charities, councils and employers to provide everything from CV advice to skills training to careers guidance and wellbeing support.
In future, they will also provide access to mental health services, housing and homelessness support.
Erin is one of many young people who have flourished thanks to the government-funded support offered by her local Youth Hub.
Unemployed for two years and struggling with motivation, she visited the Palace for Life Youth Hub. After joining the hospitality programme where she gained valuable experience and confidence, she completed a work placement and was offered a permanent job, marking the start of an exciting new chapter.
The Secretary of State will host a roundtable at Selhurst Park with existing Youth Guarantee partners including the Premier League and Channel 4, as well as new partners such as the EFL in the Community and Rugby Football League.
Clare Sumner, chief policy and social impact officer at the Premier League said: “The Premier League is proud to support the expansion of Youth Hubs so young people, whatever their background, can access the opportunities, support and inspiration they deserve.
“Between 2022 and 2025, the Premier League has invested £1.6 billion into wider football and communities, helping support people of all ages who need it most, and create more chances for young people to learn and grow.
“By working in partnership with Government on the Youth Guarantee, we can build on this foundation and ensure Youth Hubs offer even more opportunities to help young people thrive.
“Together we are showing how football is more than a game, reaching those who need support most, helping them fulfil their potential and strengthening communities nationwide.”
"My first priority coming into the Department is to do more to get young people into work"
Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden outlined on @timesradio how giving young people the opportunity and skills to get into good, productive work is his early area of focus at the DWP pic.twitter.com/0Kf1jW7uKN
The announcement is the latest example of the UK Government’s work to tackle the rising number of young people not in education, employment, or training.
In August, an additional £45 million was invested to extend funding for eight Youth Guarantee trailblazers across England whilst an extra £100 million will help to train up 40,000 young construction workers as the Government continues to break down barriers to opportunity under the Plan for Change.
It marks another step in the plan to Get Britain Working and raise living standards by modernising Jobcentres, boosting the National Living Wage, and creating more secure jobs through the Employment Rights Bill.
Statement by The Rt Hon Yvette Cooper, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, at the High-Level International Conference for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution:
Thank you, Chair. Thank you, Your Excellencies, President Macron and Prince Faisal.I stand before you today, beneath the emblem of the United Nations, to confirm the historic decision of the British government to recognise the State of Palestine.
This step, alongside friends and partners, reflects a longstanding truth.
That statehood is the inalienable right of the Palestinian people and that two states is the only path to security and lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians alike.
But it also reflects a grave reality.
The two-state solution that for decades has commanded global support is in profound peril.
From continued bloodshed, man-made famine, terrorism and hostage taking, settlement expansion and settler violence.
And Hamas terrorists continue to hold hostages seized in the barbaric attack of October 7th, prolonging the unimaginable anguish of their families.
And in Gaza, the unbearable humanitarian catastrophe worsens as the Netanyahu government chooses to escalate war and hold back aid.
Children dying of starvation while food rots at the border.
And settlement expansion threatens the very viability of a Palestinian state.
The two-state solution risks disappearing beneath the rubble.
That is what extremists on all sides want.
But we refuse to let hope be lost.
Recognition is borne of urgency and principle.
Alongside our unwavering support for the security of Israel and its people.
This pathway is the opposite of Hamas’s hateful vision.
And this process around recognition has helped cement the rejection of Hamas across the Arab world.
Alongside new reforms to the Palestinian Authority.
Because there can be no role for Hamas in the future governance of Palestine.
But recognition must be a spur, not a substitute for urgent action.
A ceasefire now, the release of all hostages, the restoration of aid and a lasting framework for peace.
Recognition is about the future, but it is rooted in our past.
75 years ago, Britain was rightly proud to recognise the State of Israel.
But the promise of upholding Palestinian rights has gone unfulfilled.
For decades, my country supported a two-state solution but only recognised one state.
That changes now.
As we join more than 150 Member States in recognising the State of Palestine and protecting the pathway to peace.
Patients with a potentially deadly illness will be diagnosed sooner thanks to a new life saving patient safety initiative called Jess’s Rule
GPs across England to take “three strikes and rethink approach” after three appointments – as Jess’s Rule rolled out nationwide to prevent avoidable deaths
Move will save lives and help catch serious, deadly conditions earlier, particularly in young people
Named after Jessica Brady, who tragically died of cancer aged 27 after twenty appointments at her GP surgery failed to diagnose her condition
Patients with a potentially deadly illness will be diagnosed sooner through a new life-saving patient safety initiative called Jess’ Rule that is being rolled out across the NHS in England today [23 September 2025].
Jess’s Rule is named in memory of Jessica Brady, who died of cancer in December 2020 at the age of 27, and will help avoid tragic, preventable deaths as GPs are supported to catch potentially deadly illnesses sooner.
In the five months leading up to her death, Jessica had more than twenty appointments with her GP practice but eventually had to seek private healthcare. She was later diagnosed with stage 4 adenocarcinoma. With such an advanced disease there was no available treatment. She was admitted into hospital where she died three weeks later.
The new initiative will ask GPs to think again if, after three appointments, they have been unable to offer a substantiated diagnosis, or the patient’s symptoms have escalated.
While many GP practices already use similar approaches in complex cases, Jess’s Rule will make this standard practice across the country, aiming to reduce health inequalities and ensuring everyone – no matter their age or background – receives the same high standard of care.
Designed in collaboration with the Chair of Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) and NHS England, Jess’s Rule will help to catch serious conditions earlier and support GPs with guidelines that bolster their clinical judgment, while encouraging them to reflect, review and rethink if they are uncertain about a patients’ condition.
Jess’s mum Andrea Brady said: “Jess lived for just three short weeks following her terminal cancer diagnosis. Despite her shock and devastation, she showed unfailing courage, positivity, dignity, and love. Jess was determined that people should understand how desperately she had tried to advocate for herself and seek a resolution for her declining health.
“In the bleak weeks following the loss of Jess, I realised it was my duty to continue what she had started. It has taken nearly five years to bring about Jess’s Rule. I would like to dedicate this initiative to all the young people who have been diagnosed too late.
“It has only been made possible because of the people who have listened — politicians, medics, and the nearly half a million who supported the campaign.”
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: “Jessica Brady’s death was a preventable and unnecessary tragedy. I want to thank her courageous family, who have campaigned tirelessly through unimaginable grief to ensure Jessica’s legacy helps to save the lives of others.
“Patient safety must be the bedrock of the NHS, and Jess’ Rule will make sure every patient receives the thorough, compassionate, and safe care that they deserve, while supporting our hard-working GPs to catch potentially deadly illnesses.
“I don’t want any family to endure the pain Jessica’s family have been through. This government will learn from such tragedies and is taking decisive action to improve patient safety.”
Jess’s Rule could support GPs to ensure continuity of care for patients with persistent health concerns. This could involve arranging face-to-face consultations if previous appointments were remote, conducting thorough physical examinations, or ordering additional diagnostic tests.
It also encourages GPs to review patient records comprehensively, seek second opinions from colleagues, and consider specialist referrals when appropriate.
Research shows that younger patients and those from ethnic minority backgrounds often face delays in diagnosis of serious conditions, as their symptoms may not match typical presentation patterns seen in older or white patients.
A report from the Nuffield Trust and the Health Foundation found that half of 16 to 24-year-olds required three or more interactions with a healthcare professional from a GP practice before being diagnosed with cancer, compared to one in five across the whole population.
Jess’s Rule emphasises the need to remain alert to symptoms that might suggest serious conditions, regardless of a patient’s age or ethnicity, thereby reducing health inequalities.
Dr Claire Fuller, National Medical Director at NHS England says: “I am very humbled by the efforts of Andrea and Simon Brady, who have campaigned for this important initiative which will undoubtedly save lives by avoiding missed or delayed diagnoses and ensuring patients receive the right treatment at the right time.
“Many clinicians already apply a version of “three strikes and rethink” in their routine practice, but Jess’s Rule formalises this instinctive approach, providing a consistent structure to support reflection and timely action for patients.”
Professor Kamila Hawthorne, Chair of the Royal College of GPs, said: “No GP will ever want to miss signs of serious illness, such as cancer. Ensuring a timely diagnosis often means better outcomes for patients – but many conditions, including many cancers, are challenging to identify in primary care because the symptoms are often similar to other, less serious and more common conditions.
“Alternative diagnoses are often more likely, particularly when considering risk factors such as age.
“If a patient repeatedly presents with the same or similar symptoms, but the treatment plan does not seem to be making them better – or their condition is deteriorating – it is best practice to review the diagnosis and consider alternative approaches.
“We hope that by formalising this with Jess’s Rule, it will remind GPs to keep this at the forefront of their minds. The College has also worked with Jess Brady’s family and the Jessica Brady CEDAR Trust to develop an educational resource for GPs on the early diagnosis of cancer in young adults, based around the principles of Jess’s Rule.”
Jessica Brady’s legacy will ensure that patient voice is at the heart of healthcare – a key commitment in the government’s 10 Year Health Plan.
This initiative, targeting primary care, builds on the recent rollout of Martha’s Rule to every acute hospital in England, which empowers patients, families, and carers to request urgent clinical reviews if they are concerned about deteriorating conditions not being adequately addressed.
Jess’s Rule is just one of the ways the government is supporting GPs to provide worldclass healthcare for patients as part of the Plan for Change.
This includes recruiting over 2,000 extra GPs in a year, providing vital cash for over 1,000 GP surgeries to create additional space to see more patients, and securing a record funding boost for practices – over £1 billion in 2025-26. Public satisfaction with GP services is finally on the rise, with 73.6% of patients describing their GP experience as “good” according to recent ONS statistics, up 6.2% since July 2024.
By catching illnesses at earlier stages, Jess’s Rule will help reduce hospital backlogs, improve outcomes for patients, and save lives.
The UK has formally recognised Palestine ‘to protect the viability of a two-state solution and create a path towards lasting peace for the Israeli and Palestinian people’ – but continues to arm Israel
UK Government acts to protect the prospect of a two-state solution as the appalling situation in Gaza worsens, Israel continues its illegal settlement expansions in the West Bank and Hamas continues to hold the hostages
Prime Minister makes clear that Hamas will have no role in the future of Palestine and reiterates his call for them to release the hostages immediately and unconditionally
historic step taken alongside close allies Canada and Australia, as part of wider international effort to support a pathway to peace and protect the equal rights of both Israeli and Palestinian peoples
The UK has formally recognised Palestine to protect the viability of a two-state solution and create a path towards lasting peace for the Israeli and Palestinian people.
The historic decision, announced alongside Canada and Australia, comes as the situation on the ground in Gaza continues to worsen, Israel continues to expand its illegal settlements in the West Bank, and Hamas continues to hold the hostages.
In July, the Prime Minister pledged to act if the situation did not change and firmly believes that the UK has a moral responsibility to do everything it can to support a peaceful future for Israel and Palestine – the prospect of which is slipping further away.
A two-state solution, with a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state led by a reformed Palestinian Authority, is the only path to a lasting peace for the Israeli and Palestinian people – free from the horrendous violence and suffering of the last two years.
Recognising Palestine is a historic decision, firmly grounded in the Palestinian people’s inalienable right to self-determination, which the government committed to as part of its manifesto.
In a statement this afternoon, the Prime Minister was clear this decision is not about Hamas. They are a brutal terrorist organisation that wants to see Israel destroyed. Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace with recognised borders is the exact opposite of their hateful vision.
The government’s demands on them have not changed. It must release all hostages, agree to an immediate ceasefire, accept it will have no role in governing Gaza, and commit to disarmament.
The UK is also expected to take further action to sanction senior figures in the Hamas leadership in the coming weeks and keep doing everything possible to bring the hostages home.
Our support for Israel’s and the security of its people remains steadfast. But the Israeli government must also change course – halting their offensive in Gaza, letting the desperately needed humanitarian aid in, and stopping their illegal settlement expansion in the West Bank.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “Today’s historic decision, taken alongside some of our closest allies, to recognise a Palestinian State, reflects our unwavering commitment to a two-state solution and affirms the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to self-determination.
“Recognition is an important step to preserve the prospect of a two-state solution, at a time when it is now under unprecedented threat. Two states is the only way to safeguard long term peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians alike.
“We are clear that Hamas can have no role in Palestine’s future – they are a barbaric terrorist organisation who oppose the very idea of two states. They must release the hostages and relinquish any hold on Gaza. But Hamas are not the Palestinian people.
“Recognition is only one part of what must be a stronger and wider push for peace. We need to end the conflict in Gaza, secure the release of all hostages and get humanitarian aid to all those who desperately need it.
“That requires not just an immediate ceasefire, but a plan for a durable peace, which will be a key to my diplomatic drive at the UN this week.”
Having recognised the State of Israel in 1950, the government believes it can no longer credibly continue to support the two-state solution without recognising both States.
The decision does not remove the demands the government has made of the Palestinian Authority to conduct extensive reform. President Abbas has committed to this reform, including organising new elections within a year of a ceasefire.
The UK will continue to provide technical and financial support to the PA as it delivers these reforms and builds the State of Palestine, including through the work of UK Envoy for Palestinian Authority Governance Sir Michael Barber, who is enhancing the PA’s delivery and governance capabilities.
The government has been clear that recognition is not enough to change the situation on the ground on its own.
That’s why the decision comes as part of coordinated international efforts to build consensus around a Framework for Peace, which addresses governance, security, humanitarian access, and ceasefire monitoring in Gaza, and the foundations of a two-state solution.
The UK will continue working closely with its allies to advance this plan, which recognition forms part of as the first, most urgent step towards lasting peace.
PM statement on the recognition of Palestine:
In the face of the growing horror in the Middle East…
We are acting to keep alive the possibility of peace and a Two State Solution.
That means a safe and secure Israel…
Alongside a viable Palestinian State –
At the moment, we have neither.
Ordinary people – Israeli and Palestinian…
Deserve to live in peace –
To try to rebuild their lives…
Free from violence and suffering.
That’s what the British people desperately want to see.
Yet, almost two years after the barbaric attacks of 7 October…
Hostages are still held by the terrorists of Hamas.
Recent images show the hostages suffering and emaciated.
Hamas refuse even to release all the bodies of the dead.
I have met British families of the hostages.
I see the torture they endure each and every day…
Pain that strikes deep in people’s hearts across Israel and here in the UK.
The hostages must be released immediately…
And we will keep fighting to bring them home.
Let’s be frank –
Hamas is a brutal terror organisation.
Our call for a genuine Two State Solution…
Is the exact opposite of their hateful vision.
So we are clear –
This solution is not a reward for Hamas…
Because it means Hamas can have no future.
No role in government.
No role in security.
We have already proscribed and sanctioned Hamas…
And we will go further –
I have directed work to sanction other Hamas figures in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, the man-made humanitarian crisis in Gaza reaches new depths.
The Israeli government’s relentless and increasing…
Bombardment of Gaza…
The offensive of recent weeks…
The starvation and devastation…
Are utterly intolerable.
Tens of thousands have been killed –
Including thousands as they tried to collect food and water.
This death and destruction horrifies us all.
It must end.
We have now evacuated the first group of sick and injured children to the UK…
To be treated by the NHS.
And we continue to increase our humanitarian support.
But still, nowhere near enough aid is getting through.
We call again on the Israeli government…
To lift the unacceptable restrictions at the border…
Stop these cruel tactics…
And let the aid surge in. ***
With the actions of Hamas…
The Israeli government escalating the conflict…
And settlement building being accelerated in the West Bank…
The hope of a Two State Solution is fading.
But we cannot let that light go out.
That’s why we are building consensus with leaders in the region and beyond…
Around our Framework for Peace.
This is a practical plan to bring people together –
Behind a common vision and a series of steps…
Including the reform of the Palestinian Authority…
That take us from a ceasefire in Gaza…
To negotiations on a Two State Solution.
We will keep driving this forward.
As part of this effort…
I set out in July the terms on which we would act –
In line with our Manifesto –
To recognise Palestinian statehood.
That moment has now arrived.
So today –
To revive the hope of peace and a Two State Solution…
I state clearly, as Prime Minister of this great country…
That the United Kingdom…
Formally recognises the State of Palestine.
We recognised the State of Israel more than 75 years ago as a homeland for the Jewish people.
Today we join over 150 countries who recognise a Palestinian State too –
A pledge to the Palestinian and Israeli people…
That there can be a better future.
…
I know the strength of feeling that this conflict provokes.
We have seen it on our streets…
In our schools…
In conversations with friends and family.
It has created division.
Some have used it to stoke hatred and fear.
But that solves nothing.
Not only must we reject hate…
We must redouble our efforts to combat hatred, in all its forms.
We must channel our efforts…
United together in hope…
Behind the peaceful future that we want to see:
The release of the hostages…
An end to the violence…
An end to the suffering…
And a shift back towards a Two State Solution…
As the best hope for peace and security for all sides.
THE Green Party responded: “The UK government has confirmed it will finally recognise the state of Palestine – a welcome step.
“But this must be accompanied by real, concrete actions to bring an end to the genocide in Gaza, including boycotts, sanctions and the end of arms sales to Israel.”
Former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn said: “Well done to all those who have tirelessly campaigned for the recognition of Palestine — an inalienable right of the Palestinian people.
“Next, the UK should recognise the genocide in Gaza, end its complicity in crimes against humanity, and stop arming Israel.”
The Conservative Party said: “Keir Starmer’s decision to recognise Palestine does nothing to stop the suffering of the innocent people caught in this war.
“It makes freeing the hostages even harder than it was before.
Royal Air Force Typhoon patrolled the skies over Poland as part of NATO’s Eastern Sentry mission
Royal Air Force Typhoons have flown their first NATO air defence sortie over Poland as part of NATO’s Eastern Sentry, strengthening the Alliance’s defences on its eastern flank following a reckless Russian drone incursion.
Two British fighter jets took off from RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire on Friday night, supported by an RAF Voyager aircraft, to patrol Polish skies and deter and defend against aerial threats from Russia, including drones. They returned safely to the UK early Saturday morning.
This first operational mission follows the reckless and dangerous incursion by Russian drones into Polish sovereign airspace – the most significant violation of NATO airspace by President Putin to date since his illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine – and further breaches of NATO airspace by Russian jets and a drone over the past week.
On Monday, the Defence Secretary visited RAF Brize Norton, home of the Voyager air-to-air refuelling aircraft, to announce the UK’s contribution. He met with some of the RAF personnel who are among more than 400 personnel set to directly support these missions.
The UK operation comes as the UK marks the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain this weekend, with the UK and Poland sharing a poignant history. Just as during the Battle of Britain, when Polish pilots came to the aid of the UK forming one of the largest and most successful foreign contingents in the RAF, the UK is now standing side by side with the UK’s Polish allies in the face of Russian aggression.
The UK commitment follows last week’s North Atlantic Council meeting where Allies expressed full solidarity with Poland after it requested consultations under Article 4 of the Washington Treaty.
Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, said: “RAF Typhoons have now flown their first air defence mission over Poland, sending a clear signal: NATO airspace will be defended.
“I’m proud of the outstanding British pilots and air crew who took part in this successful operation to defend our Allies from reckless Russian aggression.
“This weekend, as we honour the heroism of the Battle of Britain generation, it is especially poignant that RAF pilots and crew are once again standing shoulder to shoulder with Poland in defence of our shared security – making us secure at home and strong abroad.”
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Harv Smyth, said: “Our partnership with NATO has never been stronger. This sortie marks the RAF’s first operational mission on Eastern Sentry, reinforcing the UK’s steadfast commitment to NATO and its allies.
“RAF Typhoons, supported by Voyager air-air refuelling aircraft, joined allies along the eastern flank to bolster NATO’s defence and deterrence.
“We remain agile, integrated, and ready to project airpower at range.”
This new era of threat – exemplified by Russia’s intensifying airspace violations – requires a new era for Defence, and the government is delivering the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the Cold War, to 2.6% of GDP by April 2027. The UK’s national security , the foundation of the government’s Plan for Change, starts with an unwavering commitment to NATO and Euro-Atlantic security.
The UK’s commitment to NATO is unshakeable. British Armed Forces continue to play a leading role in the Alliance, from the Army’s continuing presence in Estonia as part of NATO’s Forward Land Forces, to the RAF’s enduring air policing missions in Europe.
Over the past 18 months, the RAF has deployed Typhoons to both Poland and Romania to protect NATO airspace.
Typhoons are equipped with advanced sensors and infrared-guided ASRAAM missiles (Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missiles), making them ideally suited to detecting, monitoring and intercepting potential aerial threats.
UK Government has announced over £1.25 billion of inward investment from US finance companies, creating 1,800 jobs
New US investments will create 1,800 jobs from Belfast to Edinburgh and boost benefits for millions of customers.
Total of over £1.25 billion of private US investment committed to the UK’s world-leading financial services sector including PayPal, Bank of America, Citi Bank, and S&P.
Demonstrates the enduring strength of the UK-US ‘golden corridor’ in financial services, with British banks expanding operations into the US and booming cross-border investment flows reinforcing that working with America is best for Britain.
Deal lines up £20 billion in trade between the two nations – including an expected £7 billion commitment from BlackRock to grow in the UK.
London, Edinburgh, Belfast and Manchester are set to benefit from a wave of new US investment into the financial services sector, reinforcing the strength of the UK-US economic partnership ahead of next week’s Presidential State Visit.
The Westminster government says working with America is best for Britain — and today’s announcement proves it. A total of over £1.25 billion in private sector commitments from leading US firms — including PayPal, Bank of America, Citi Bank, and S&P Global — will support job creation, drive innovation, and deliver improved services for consumers in the UK.
US giants are capitalising on Britain’s leadership in financial services – expanding operations and opening new offices across the nation, with London, Edinburgh, Belfast and Manchester set to gain from a wave of skilled job creation.
Bank of America is set to create up to 1,000 new jobs in Belfast, marking its first-ever operation in Northern Ireland — a major milestone that underscores the region’s growing role in global financial services.
Citi Group today confirms it is investing £1.1 billion across its UK operations, including a further commitment to growing its presence in Northern Ireland where the bank is already one of the top employers in Belfast now employing over 4,000 people — firmly establishing Belfast as a major technology powerhouse.
BlackRock are celebrating the opening of their new Edinburgh office this week, which will see their 800-strong footprint nearly double, as part of their multi-billion dollar investment into the UK.
In Manchester, S&P Global are investing over £4 million into their Manchester offices which will support 200 permanent jobs to boost their nearly 3,000-strong UK workforce.
Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle said: “Today’s announcements reinforce the UK’s position as the world’s leading investment destination. Our financial services sector is at the heart of a modern, dynamic Industrial Strategy.
“Strengthening ties with the US boosts our economy, creates jobs, and secures our role in global finance, delivering on our Plan for Change.
“These investments reflect the strength of our enduring ‘golden corridor’ with one of our closest trading partners, ahead of the US Presidential State Visit.”
This marks a significant vote of confidence in the UK’s position as a global financial hub and in the government’s plan to make Britain the best place in the world to invest — a vision underpinned by the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy, which is driving investment into priority sectors like financial services.
These investments highlight the enduring value of the transatlantic relationship — a cornerstone of shared prosperity that supports millions of jobs and drives growth in every region.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said: “This commitment from America’s leading financial institutions demonstrates the immense potential of the UK economy, our strong relationship with the US and the confidence global investors have in our Plan for Change, which is making the UK the best place in the world to invest and do business.
“These investments will create thousands of high-skilled jobs from Belfast to Edinburgh, kickstarting the growth that is essential to putting money in working people’s pockets across every part of the United Kingdom.”
Broadridge is making major investments into their new London office, further strengthening its UK presence and deepening transatlantic ties in financial services.
As part of the UK’s expanding fintech and digital innovation sector, PayPal is announcing a £150m investment in product innovations and growth that will benefit customers throughout the UK, reinforcing Britain’s position as a key market for the brand globally.
Jane Fraser, Citi Group CEO said:“Citi’s commitment to the UK runs deep. This is home to many of our most senior leaders and nearly 14,000 colleagues across London, Belfast, Edinburgh and Jersey.
“We’re proud to be serving 85% of the FTSE 100 and to have stood beside UK companies through every market cycle, raising capital, financing growth and helping them compete on the world stage.
“The UK isn’t simply one of our largest markets; it is core to Citi’s foundation as a truly global bank.”
The UK-US investment relationship has never been stronger, with over £1.2 trillion invested in each other’s countries at the end of 2023.
These new investment announcements are accompanied by new significant commitments by financial companies to ramp up their commercial activity and capital flows between our two economies in the coming years.
Blackrock is expecting to allocate over £7 billion to the UK market next year on behalf of clients, and is investing £500 million into enterprise data centres across the country.
Rothesay is planning to double its investment in the US (by £7 billion) over the next few years, and OakNorth is committing to increased capital and lending of over £3.5 billion to support its US operations.
British banks are expanding their US footprint; Barclays alone has deployed over $2 trillion in capital across the US in 2024 and continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening UK-US investment ties. The bank has an ambition to double this amount over the next decade, expanding its footprint and supporting growth across sectors.
All in all, that will see investment and capital commitments of over £8 billion coming to the UK, and over £12 billion going the other way, creating jobs and opportunity in both countries.
Earlier this year, the Chancellor launched the Financial Services Growth and Competitiveness Strategy, which included financial services as a high growth sector, signifying the UK’s commitment improving financial regulations and driving investment and skilled jobs into the UK.
The UK and US agreed an Economic Prosperity Deal which secured major tariff reductions for key sectors and protected jobs in the automotive and aerospace sector. Discussions continue with the US on a wider UK-US Economic Deal which will look at increasing digital trade, strengthen supply chains and boost access for our world-leading services companies.
BlackRock will open their new Edinburgh offices on 18 September, which shows their ongoing commitment to the area – this new home will allow Blackrock to grow from 800 to 1,400. Once complete, two of the top five largest BlackRock offices will be in the UK.
Larry Fink, Chairman and CEO of BlackRock, said: “As the largest asset manager in the UK, BlackRock is proud to serve over 13 million British people who are saving for retirement. Today we are announcing an investment of half a billion pounds into enterprise data centres across the country, advancing digital infrastructure for British-based businesses.
“In addition, over the last year our clients around the world invested over £7bn into UK public equity and fixed income securities. We expect this trend to continue, supporting jobs, growth and innovation across a wide range of British industries.”
UK aid funding boost to support Ukraine’s emergency energy needs and help vulnerable communities targeted by Putin’s aggression
Foreign Secretary to meet President Zelenskyy, Ukrainian Ministers to boost UK and Ukraine relationship, because Ukraine’s security is crucial to the UK’s security
She will show unwavering support and hear from the Ukrainian people living through Russia’s aggression
Energy infrastructure and targeted communities in Ukraine will get new support to build resilience and support thanks to vital UK aid, as Yvette Cooper visits Ukraine in her first trip as Foreign Secretary.
In a show of solidarity with the Ukrainian people who are on the frontline in defending their country and standing up against Russian aggression in Europe, the Foreign Secretary is clear that Ukraine is a priority for the UK.
After a summer of Russian delay tactics at peace talks, weeks of increased attacks on Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure, and ahead of a difficult winter, her visit will reaffirm that this support is ironclad.
On Tuesday, Russia’s unprecedented violation of a NATO airspace in Poland showed a complete disregard for sovereignty and peace, following Russia’s delay tactics at peace talks throughout the summer. The Foreign Secretary will underscore the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine during her visit and make clear that the defence of Ukraine against Russian aggression is vital to the security of the UK and the whole of Europe.
The Foreign Secretary is due to visit the Cabinet of Ministers building in Kyiv, which was significantly damaged in recent Russia strikes. She will also visit one of the residential buildings destroyed by Russia’s brutal attacks on Ukraine, meeting families and children to hear first-hand their traumatising experiences of living through Putin’s illegal invasion.
The Foreign Secretary has also announced £142 million in UK aid, supporting Ukraine through winter and into next year.
£100 million will provide vital support for humanitarian assistance to help civilians in frontline communities, protect the most vulnerable and provide emergency support for those impacted by Russia’s continued attacks. This will include repairing critical water and heating systems, and helping to support livelihoods and jobs and strengthen Ukrainian resilience in the fourth winter of Russia’s illegal war.
£42 million will help carry out vital repairs to the electricity transmission network and put in place critical protection for gas and power infrastructure as winter starts to bite.
Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper said: “I have chosen to visit Ukraine in my first few days as Foreign Secretary because Ukraine’s security is crucial to the UK’s security.
“I am clear that the UK’s support is unwavering and stronger than ever as we know the long-term security and stability threat that Russian aggression poses not just to Ukraine, but to the whole of Europe and to all of us here in the UK.
“Through our ongoing military support, lifesaving funding announced today, the UK-Ukraine 100 Year Partnership and our ongoing leadership of the Coalition of the Willing, we will be by Ukraine’s side to achieve a just and lasting peace, and in friendship for years to come.
“Putin’s bombardment of Ukrainian civilians, his stalling and delaying in internationally-backed peace talks, and his blatant disregard for human life must end.”
Ukraine’s security is crucial to the UK’s national security, which is a central part of the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change.
As part of her visit, she will also meet with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, Foreign Minister Sybiha and Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko.
As part of her discussions with Foreign Minister Sybiha, she will also discuss shared priorities as part of the UK-Ukraine Strategic Dialogue, which will culminate in a meeting between the Prime Minister and the President.
The UK government is testing the Emergency Alerts system on Sunday, 7 September, 2025 at 3pm. Compatible mobile phones and tablets will receive an alert, make a loud siren-like sound and vibrate.
If you receive an alert while driving, do not pick up your phone and attempt to deal with the message. Continue driving as normal, staying in full control of your vehicle. You will not need to take any action.
Unprecedented UK defence sector growth with more than £1.4 billion in foreign direct investment committed in just 12 months.
More than 1,700 new jobs being created across the UK, delivering on this Government’s Plan for Change.
Ministers saw British innovation and investment in action with visits to Greenford and Farringdon.
More than 1,700 new jobs are being created as the UK’s defence sector drives unprecedented growth across the country, following at least £1.4 billion foreign direct investment being announced since July 2024.
This success reflects the Government’s commitment to making defence an engine for economic growth across the UK. The increase in annual foreign direct investment from international companies demonstrates the confidence that companies feel to invest in the UK, alongside the Government’s historic uplift in defence spending, providing a significant boost to the UK economy and showing more countries are choosing to invest in facilities in Britain.
The increased investment is supporting the UK’s defence industrial base, with thousands of new jobs created and supported across the country, including manufacturing, engineering, and business service roles. Recent investments include an expanded drone manufacturing facility in Hampshire, shipbuilding secured in Belfast, and the investment in artillery systems manufacture in Telford.
The soon to be published Defence Industrial Strategy will set out how the UK will further strengthen its defence industrial base and supply chains, enhance sovereign capabilities, and position Britain as a global leader in defence technology whilst creating high-skilled jobs and driving economic growth across the country.
Defence Secretary John Healey MP, said: “This record new investment is a confirmed vote of confidence in Britain.
“In a new era for defence, I am backing British industry, British innovators and British jobs.
“A strong defence industrial base helps keep Britain safe and makes defence an engine for growth.”
Ministers showcased this momentum yesterday with visits highlighting new British defence innovation sites.
The Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Rt Hon Maria Eagle MP, opened Ultra Maritime’s new £20 million manufacturing facility in Greenford, London, which will employ 100 staff including 35 new manufacturing and testing roles focused on producing cutting-edge sonobuoys for anti-submarine warfare systems.
Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Rt Hon Maria Eagle MP, said: “Ultra Maritime’s innovative work supports the Royal Navy to help keep the UK safe, whilst backing dozens of skilled manufacturing jobs.
“By deepening their investment in state-of-the-art facilities, it is another demonstration of the confidence defence firms have in growing their companies in the UK.”
The Defence Industrial Strategy will ensure we continue to attract world-class companies to the UK, creating high-skilled jobs and cementing Britain’s position as a global defence technology leader.
The Minister for Veterans and People, Alistair Carns DSO OBE MC MP, opened Arondite’s new Farringdon office, celebrating a British defence-tech company building AI software to connect autonomous systems. Veteran-founded Arondite announced a £100 million investment in advanced R&D, expanding its UK footprint and creating 100 new high-skilled jobs.
Minister for Veterans and People, Alistair Carns DSO OBE MC MP, said: “Arondite’s expansion represents exactly the kind of British innovation and entrepreneurship that exemplifies Defence as an engine for growth – combining cutting-edge AI technology with job creation and sovereign capability development.
“As outlined in the SDR, we are creating a new partnership with business and making it easier for SMEs to do business with Defence. Through our Defence Industrial Strategy, we’re backing brilliant British companies like veteran-founded Arondite to scale up, create careers, and keep our nation secure in an increasingly complex world.”
These developments build on the Government’s delivery of the Strategic Defence Review, which provided the strategic framework for strengthening Britain’s defence capabilities to meet the new era of threat, whilst harnessing the Prime Minister’s historic defence investment to create jobs and opportunity in communities nationwide.
