UK Government – Page 6 – The NEN

Government sets out plans to protect summer holidays from disruption

There are no immediate supply issues, but government is preparing now to give families long-term certainty and avoid unnecessary disruption

summer holidays to be better protected as government consults on relaxing flight take-off/landing rules, providing certainty for passengers and businesses
lightning consultation launched to provide airlines flexibility to lock in flight schedules early, prevent last-minute disruptions and cancellations
Transport Secretary reiterates passengers are entitled to be re-routed or refunded if their flight is cancelled by the airline

Passengers will have their summer holidays better protected as government sets out plans today (3 May 2026), which will help cut the likelihood of last-minute flight cancellations this summer in the event of significant disruption due to ongoing global uncertainty caused by the Middle East conflict.  

The contingency preparations are designed to give families greater confidence when travelling this summer by enabling airlines to plan realistically and lock in schedules earlier so that people are less likely to be affected by short‑notice changes at the airport.

While UK airlines say they are not currently facing supply issues, the government will be consulting with the industry in order to act quickly if needs be, before disruption takes hold, giving passengers and the aviation sector the certainty they need to plan ahead. 

These temporary measures would allow airlines to, for example, consolidate schedules on routes where there are multiple flights to the same destination on the same day. 

Instead of cancelling flights at the last minute, the measures would:

help move passengers onto similar services much earlier, helping avoid stressful delays at the airport
prevent running flights which have not sold a significant proportion of tickets
reduce wasted fuel from flying near-empty planes

The Transport Secretary discussed the plans at a roundtable with key industry figures on 30 April 2026, including representatives from Heathrow, Gatwick, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and easyJet, reaffirming the government’s commitment to keeping Britain flying this summer. 

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said:  “Since the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the government has been monitoring jet fuel supplies daily and working with airlines, airports and fuel suppliers to stay ahead of any problems. 

“There are no immediate supply issues, but we’re preparing now to give families long-term certainty and avoid unnecessary disruption at the departure gate this summer. 

“This legislation will give airlines the tools to adjust flights in good time if they need to, which helps protect passengers and businesses. We will do everything we can to insulate our country from the impact of the situation in the Middle East.”

The measures being considered will allow airlines to proactively hand back a limited proportion of their allocated take-off and landing slots without losing the right to operate them the following season. ‘Hand backs’ help airlines build realistic schedules and avoid last-minute cancellations rather than flying empty ‘ghost flights’ or cancelling at short notice, putting passengers’ plans at risk.

This will build on the UK’s independent slot coordinators’ (Airport Coordination Limited) decision to update its guidance, ensuring airlines do not permanently lose their take-off and landing slots if they are unable to use them due to jet fuel shortages. 

The measures the government is considering go further by allowing airlines to plan ahead and act on the best information they have available on fuel supply or wider impacts of the Middle East conflict, rather than wait for a shortage to occur.

The government continues to plan for a range of contingencies to increase flexibility on jet fuel supply and domestic jet fuel production has increased. The UK imports jet fuel supplies from a range of countries not reliant on the Strait, including the United States.

As part of today’s action, the government is upping awareness of the existing rights available to passengers in the event of disruption. If your flight is cancelled by the airline, you have a legal right to a choice between being re-routed or a refund.

If a flight is subject to a significant delay –  at least 2 hours for short-haul, 3 hours for medium-haul and 4 hours for long-haul - passengers are entitled to care and assistance, including food, drink and overnight accommodation where necessary.

Rob Bishton, Chief Executive of the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said: “Passengers in the UK are well protected by some of the strongest rights in the world, offering reassurance if disruption does occur.

“Airlines have a duty to look after their passengers when they face disruption, and should offer a choice between a refund or alternative travel arrangements, including with another airline, if a flight is cancelled.

“Relaxing the rules around slots at airports will allow airlines more flexibility and so we expect them to give passengers as much notice as possible of cancellations during this period.”

Tim Alderslade, CEO of Airlines UK, said: “UK airlines continue to operate normally and are not experiencing issues with jet fuel supply. We are planning to take our customers on their well-earned holidays this summer and will always look after them in line with our obligations.

“We welcome the government’s contingency planning, including slot alleviation, which is one measure which enables airlines to adjust schedules responsibly, avoid unnecessary flying and continue operating efficiently while protecting connectivity for passengers.”

Karen Dee, Chief Executive of AirportsUK, said: “While our partners across the aviation sector continue to report no shortage of jet fuel supplies, it is sensible for government to consult on possible action if this were to change.

“We will now work closely with our airport members, ministers and officials to examine the proposals and respond on the best way to proceed that will lead to the best outcomes for passengers.”

If notified of changes to their flights by airlines, passengers are advised to speak to their airline, travel agent or tour operator in the first instance.

Further information on passenger rights is available in the Air passenger travel guide.

Threat level increase following antisemitic terror attack

National Threat Level increased to SEVERE following Golders Green attack and increasing threat of Islamist and Extreme Right Wing terrorism in the UK

The Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC) has today (30 April 2026) raised the UK National Threat Level from SUBSTANTIAL, meaning an attack is likely, to SEVERE, meaning an attack is highly likely in the next six months.

The increase in threat comes following yesterday’s stabbing in Golders Green in North London, but it is not solely a result of that attack. The terrorist threat level in the UK has been rising for some time, driven by an increase in the broader Islamist and Extreme Right Wing terrorist threat from individuals and small groups based in the UK.

While the UK National Threat Level set independently by JTAC reflects the terrorist threat in the UK, it comes against a backdrop of increased state-linked physical threats which is encouraging acts of violence, including against the Jewish community.

This is an independent, systematic, and rigorous process, based on the very latest intelligence and analysis of internal and external factors which drive the threat.

Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, said: “Yesterday’s abhorrent, antisemitic attack was a vile act of terrorism.

“My thoughts today remain with the victims, and with the whole Jewish community at a time of deep disquiet and fear.

“My deepest thanks go to the volunteers and emergency services, a number of whom I met today. Their actions saved lives and they are, and forever will be, heroes.

“Today, the national threat level has increased to “severe”, which means a terrorist attack is considered highly likely.

“I know this will be a source of concern to many, particularly amongst our Jewish community, who have suffered so much.

“The Government has today announced a significant increase in investment to protect our Jewish communities, with record funding for policing and security at synagogues, schools and community centres. And we will do everything in our power to rid society of the evil of antisemitism.

“As the threat level rises, I urge everyone to be vigilant as they go about their daily lives, and report any concerns they have to the police.

“And I can assure everyone that our world-class security services and the police are working day and night to keep our country safe.”

The UK was last at SEVERE in November 2021, following the Liverpool Women’s Hospital bombing and murder of Sir David Amess, before being lowered to SUBSTANTIAL in February 2022.

In light of yesterday’s attack and a spate of vile antisemitic arson attacks in London, the Government is investing an additional £25 million funding to protect Jewish communities against horrific antisemitic attacks.

This brings the total funding to £58 million this year – the largest investment a government has made in protecting Jewish communities in history.

This funding will go towards increasing police presence and patrols in communities, as well as added protective security in synagogues, schools, and community centres.

It will also be invested into the expansion of Project Servator, putting specialist and plain-clothes officers in the community who are trained to spot suspicious activity and identify individuals preparing to commit serious crimes.

Legislation will also be fast tracked in the coming weeks to clamp down on individuals and groups carrying out hostile activity for foreign states, including those who act as their proxies.

The Home Secretary will be given new proscription-like powers to ban the activities of state-backed organisations who pose a threat to the UK’s national security. It will give police and intelligence agencies stronger tools under the National Security Act to disrupt the activities of anyone acting on behalf of state-backed organisations.

More information about how the threat levels is set and what it means can be found by visiting the Security Service webpage

PM remarks from Downing Street on Golders Green attack: 30 April 2026

Yesterday, Britain’s Jewish community suffered yet another vile terrorist attack. Two men stabbed in broad daylight on the streets of Golders Green because they were Jews. I’ve just come back from Golders Green where I expressed my sadness and solidarity with that community but also my determination to act because the truth is this attack is not a one-off.

There have been a series of attacks including an arson attack in Hendon, an attack on the Jewish Ambulance Service Hatzola, the fireball at Kenton United Synagogue which I visited last week and on top of all this Heaton Park in Manchester last October where two Jewish men were killed in a vile Islamist attack on their synagogue. And so people are scared, scared to show who they are in their community, scared to go to synagogue and practise their religion, scared to go to university as a Jew, to send their children to school as a Jew, to tell their colleagues that they are Jewish, even to use our NHS. Nobody should live like that in Britain but Jews do.

And so yesterday this anxiety that is always there went to another place, to terror frankly. That is the right word. I want to thank the Jewish Security Services who wrestle with this every day and who alongside the police prevented a much greater tragedy yesterday.

I met some of the first responders today and on behalf of the country I thanked them for their bravery. We will strengthen the visible police presence in our Jewish communities. We will increase our investment in those Jewish Security Services.

We will introduce much stronger powers to shut down charities that promote antisemitic extremism. We will prevent hate preachers from entering our country, bar them from our campuses, our streets, our communities. Work with our justice system to speed up sentences on antisemitic attacks so there is a stronger deterrence factor as we do with riots.

And we need stronger powers to tackle the malign threat posed by states like Iran because we know for a fact that they want to harm British Jews which is why we will fast-track the necessary legislation. And yet the truth is while we can and we will bring the full power of the state to bear on this, this is about society every bit as much as it is about security. At moments like this we often say this is not Britain, that these attacks are an afront to British values, to British tolerance, British decency but they keep happening.

And so today instead I will simply say that our values are not a gift handed down generation to generation. They are something we earn each day through action. They come from us.

Antisemitism is an old, old hatred. History shows that the roots are deep and if you turn away it grows back. Yet far too many people in this country diminish it.

They either don’t see it or they don’t want to see it. Take the marches that happen regularly across Britain. Of course we protect freedom of speech and peaceful protests in this country but if you are marching with people wearing pictures of paragliders without calling it out you are venerating the murder of Jews.

If you stand alongside people who say globalise the intifada, you are calling for terrorism against Jews and people who use that phrase should be prosecuted. It is racism, extremely racism and it has left a minority community in this country scared, intimidated, wondering if they belong. So, I say again this government will do everything in our power to stamp this hatred out.

We will strengthen our security and protect our Jewish community, but I also call on everyone decent in this country to open their eyes to Jewish pain, Jewish suffering and Jewish fear. I call on everyone to come together and fight antisemitism and I call on everyone to fight for the decent, respectful, tolerant Britain that I and millions of people love so that our freedom and our values can still speak loud and true to a community that can no longer take it on faith. Thank you.

YOUR PARTY RESPONSE:

Retirement boost of £29,000 awaits millions as landmark Pension Schemes Act becomes law

Over 20 million workers are set to get more from every pound they save towards retirement thanks to the passing into law of historic pensions legislation yesterday, Wednesday 29 April 2026

Pension Schemes Bill to receive Royal Assent, delivering major reform to the UK’s £2 trillion worth of pensions.
New rules aim to benefit 22 million people as they drive down costs and boost returns on retirement savings.
Act paves the way for the upcoming Pensions Commission to ensure savers can look forward to a comfortable retirement.

Over 20 million workers are set to get more from every pound they save towards retirement thanks to the passing into law of historic pensions legislation yesterday, Wednesday 29 April 2026.

The Pension Schemes Act will bring about major reform to the UK pensions system, benefitting an average worker to the tune of up to £29,000 by the time they retire.

The Act will require pension schemes to prove they are delivering value for money, enable the automatic consolidation of small pension pots, and create larger, better-performing funds.

Many people build up several small pension pots as they move between jobs, making it difficult to keep track of their retirement savings. The new law will enable these pots to be brought together automatically, giving savers a clearer picture of their pension.

The new Act also introduces a Value for Money framework, protecting savers from being stuck in underperforming schemes. In future, pension schemes managers and trustees will need to offer clear default options for turning savings into retirement income, with the aim of giving people who choose this, a sustainable income in their retirement.

Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell said: “Today is a landmark moment for the 22 million workers building up a pension pot across the UK.

“For too long, our pensions system has been fragmented and rarely ensures that people’s savings are working hard enough to support them in retirement.

“The Pensions Schemes Act will change that by creating schemes that drive down costs, deliver higher returns, and give savers the security they deserve.”

The Act aims to transform the pensions landscape, ensuring every pound saved delivers stronger returns while driving investment in the economy. Key measures include:

Enabling small pension pots to be automatically consolidated.
The VFM framework will standardise how value is assessed, leading to transparency and comparability. This, in turn, will drive competition and a long-term focus on value across the DC pensions sector.
Creating multi-employer defined contribution “megafunds” of at least £25 billion, which will drive down costs and enable investment in a wider range of assets, including in UK businesses and infrastructure.
Consolidating Local Government Pension Scheme assets into pools managed by FCA-regulated managers, supporting long-term investment in local infrastructure, housing and clean energy across the country.
Providing Defined Benefit schemes with greater flexibility to release surplus funds, unlocking collectively around £160 billion to support employers and deliver for scheme members.

Together the measures will benefit working people on an average salary who save into a pensions pot over their career by up to £29,000 by the time they retire.

The Act paves the way for the upcoming Pensions Commission which is examining how we ensure tomorrow’s pensioners are on track for a comfortable retirement and will make recommendations for change – potentially benefiting millions of people across the UK.

DWP ‘puts disabled people first’: Thousands of health staff complete landmark autism and learning disabilities training

Training tackles harmful assumptions about disability and ensures staff make practical, meaningful adjustments for the people they serve

Thousands of DWP healthcare professionals completed Oliver McGowan training to better support autistic people and those with learning disabilities as they navigate the benefits system.
Marking Autism Awareness Month, the milestone forms part of the Government’s broader commitment to putting disabled people at its heart.

Over 4,000 DWP healthcare professionals have completed part of training designed to transform how the government supports autistic people and those with learning disabilities, as Autism Awareness Month draws to a close.

The training is named after Oliver McGowan, a young man with autism and a learning disability who died in 2016 after being given antipsychotic medication against his and his family’s wishes. It was established following a campaign by his family to ensure that staff working with autistic people and those with learning disabilities have the knowledge and skills to support them safely.

The accomplishment is a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to putting disabled people at the heart of everything it does.

The training tackles “diagnostic overshadowing” – where symptoms are wrongly attributed to a person’s disability rather than investigated properly – ensuring people receive the right support at the right time.

It also gives staff practical tools to make meaningful reasonable adjustments for people with learning disabilities and autism as they navigate the benefits system. These include:

More time in assessments, reducing anxiety and allowing people to communicate clearly and confidently.
Simpler, clearer communications from Jobcentres, making information accessible to people who may find complex language difficult to process.
Sensory-aware Jobcentre environments, ensuring spaces feel safe and manageable for people who may find busy or loud environments overwhelming.

“This training is part of how we achieve that, equipping our staff to treat every autistic person and everyone with a learning disability as an individual, and to provide support that genuinely works for them.

“We’re determined to break down barriers for disabled people, and to put autistic people and those with learning disabilities at the very heart of our decisions and direction.

“I pay tribute to the hard and brave work of the McGowan family in Oliver’s memory.”

This milestone is part of the Government’s wider commitment to ensuring disabled people’s voices and lived experience shape policy.

The Independent Disability Advisory Panel – ten experts with lived experience of disability and long-term health conditions – have been appointed to advise on the design and delivery of health and disability policy.

Clinical Author at DWP: “Hearing directly from people with lived experience made this training memorable and practical. It reinforced that autism and learning disability affect people in very different ways, and that taking time to listen- to the individual, and to those who know them best – makes a real difference.

“These principles are now reflected in the guidance I develop for health professionals carrying out assessments on behalf of across DWP.

“I believe this training helps support safer, more person-centred assessments and helps us get it right for autistic people and people with a learning disability.”

The training is one part of wider support the Department is investing into better support people with autism.

Earlier this year, DWP funded Acas to deliver free neurodivergence masterclasses for small and medium-sized employers – with more than 1,800 employer representatives attended, building the knowledge and confidence to recruit and support neurodivergent staff effectively.

Alongside this, the Government also legislated to give benefit claimants the legal right to try work without the immediate risk of losing their benefits – a significant and practical change for neurodivergent people navigating the employment system.

Separately, an expert academic panel has examined the specific barriers neurodivergent people face in the workplace, with its recommendations under active consideration.

Autism Awareness Month serves as an important moment to reflect on progress, and to reaffirm this Government’s determination to ensure autistic people and those with learning disabilities are supported, heard, and treated with the respect they deserve.

Jon Sparkes, OBE, Chief Executive of learning disability Mencap, said: “Increasing benefit assessors’ understanding of learning disability is an important step towards a more accessible and inclusive benefits system. The training they’ve received has the potential to make a real difference in helping them to communicate more clearly, recognise individual needs and make reasonable adjustments.

“People with a learning disability need to be properly understood and receive the level of support that’s right for them to navigate the benefits assessment process.

“This training is already making a difference in health and social care teams, and we hope it will now make another public service more accessible to people with a learning disability so that they can live their lives to the full.”

The Oliver McGowan Training is named after Oliver McGowan, whose death in 2016 was found to be potentially avoidable. His mother Paula McGowan OBE campaigned for it to become law under the Health and Care Act 2022.

‘We are appalled by the deteriorating trajectory in the West Bank and East Jerusalem’: UK statement at the UN Security Council

MORE FINE WORDS – BUT THE SLAUGHTER GOES ON

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Chargé d’Affaires to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on the Middle East:

The United Kingdom strongly supports the important work of the Ad-Hoc Liaison Committee, and we welcome the constructive discussion that recently took place in Brussels.

Colleagues, as we’ve heard today, the region faces another period of crisis. But we must not be distracted from seizing this historic opportunity to implement the 20 Point Plan for Gaza, endorsed by this Council in resolution 2803, and map a pathway to realising a two state solution.

Sir Tony’s briefing set out how we can do that.

I will make three points.

First, it is vital that all parties fulfil their commitments, respect the ceasefire, and engage constructively to implement phase two of President Trump’s 20 Point Peace Plan.

We need a stable and phased security transition. This must include the demilitarisation of Hamas and other armed groups, deployment of the International Stabilisation Force alongside a Palestinian-led police force, and the withdrawal of the IDF.

The United Kingdom has been clear that Hamas can have no future in the governance of Gaza. We urge them to engage constructively with demilitarisation talks, which, as we’ve heard, are taking place right now.

We also need the right transitional governance arrangements in place.

The National Committee for the Administration of Gaza and the Palestinian Authority must work together to deliver for the Palestinian people’s immediate needs and support early recovery and reconstruction efforts.

Second, President, the humanitarian situation in Palestine remains grave.

The World Food Programme has warned that whilst famine has not returned to Gaza, the food and nutrition situation remains deeply concerning.

The UN reports that in the first quarter of this year, aid into Gaza from the UN and its humanitarian partners declined by 37 per cent compared to the previous 3 months.

This is not meeting the targets defined in the 20 Point Plan.

And the Government of Israel’s de-registration measures for international NGOs continue to constrict the humanitarian space for critical assistance.

This is unacceptable.

The UN, including UNRWA, and other humanitarian partners, must be able to operate unimpeded, with unrestricted entry and functioning crossings.

Israel must allow much-needed medical equipment, shelter items, and fuel in to support essential and lifesaving services.

And third, we are appalled by the deteriorating trajectory in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

Violence, including extremely troubling reports of sexual and gender-based violence, forced displacement, and illegal evictions, is surging.

According to OCHA, Israeli forces and settlers killed 33 Palestinians and injured 790 others in the first few months of this year alone.

And last week, two Palestinians, Jihad Abu Naim and Aws al-Naasan, were shot and killed by an Israeli settler in a school.

Aws was just 14 years old.

We deplore such egregious acts of settler violence.

The Israeli Government has rightly condemned this violence and launched an investigation.

But accountability for previous incidents has been severely lacking.

Condemnation alone is not enough; it must be translated into concrete steps to prevent attacks against Palestinians, ensure protection of civilians in line with International Law and ensure accountability where crimes have been committed.

We are also witnessing an unprecedented pace of illegal settlement expansion in the West Bank, as well as severe Israeli economic restrictions.

These must stop.

These actions undermine the 20 Point Plan and the very viability of the two state solution.

Mr President, we stand at a historic juncture. We urge the parties to show courage, engage in good faith on the peace plan, and seize this opportunity for the benefit of Palestinians, Israelis, and the whole region.

NOTE: Despite these latest words and months of hand-wringing, the slaughter continues unchecked and the UK continues to supply weapons support to Israel.

More than 100 pro-Palestine activists staged a blockade outside Leonardo, an arms factory with links to Israel, at Crewe Toll yesterday – Ed.

F-35-A5-leaflet-PRINT-v2 Download

Right to Buy overhaul to safeguard social housing in England

UK government has confirmed it will bring forward further reforms to Right to Buy

The Westminster government has today (Tuesday 28 April) confirmed it will bring forward further reforms to Right to Buy.

Right to Buy is a government scheme allowing eligible council tenants in England to buy their home at a discount.

Last year the government published its consultation response to overhaul Right to Buy that will support councils to better protect and rebuild depleted housing stock while maintaining a responsible route into homeownership for longstanding tenants.

New reforms to be brought forward will include:

Increasing the minimum eligibility period from three to ten years before tenants can apply to buy their home.
Amending discount rules so that discounts start at 5% of the property value and increase by 1% each year up to the maximum discount of 15% of the property value or the cash cap (whichever is lower).
A 35-year new build exemption period so new social homes cannot be sold under Right to Buy for 35 years after they are built.

Since the consultation, the government has also been undertaking further policy development and analysis to explore more effective fraud prevention to mitigate vulnerable tenants being pressured into buying and reviewing how the Right to Buy scheme applies in rural areas.

The government has already taken steps to give councils more confidence to ramp up the delivery of new social homes, including reducing maximum cash discounts to £16,000 – £38,000 depending on the area. Councils can also retain all of the receipts from sales and combine those receipts with grant funding to build and buy more homes.

The ‘cost floor’ protection has been extended from 15 to 30 years, meaning landlords can limit discounts so that the sale price does not fall below the amount spent on building, repairing and maintaining the properties. The government has been exploring further reforms to the cost floor to better protect council investment in existing homes.

The changes will be brought forward when Parliamentary time allows.

Gavin Smart, CEO, Chartered Institute of Housing, said: “CIH welcomes the government’s continued focus on reforming Right to Buy and the clear recognition that change is needed to better protect and rebuild our social housing. The measures confirmed today are a positive step towards addressing the long-standing imbalance between homes sold and those replaced.

“We also welcome the further work on fraud prevention and the scheme’s impact in rural areas, both of which are crucial to ensuring Right to Buy operates fairly and sustainably.”

Jet fuel and travel plans: what you need to know

UK airlines say that they are not currently seeing a shortage of jet fuel. The government is working with industry and international partners to keep passengers moving

There is no current need for passengers to change their travel plans. UK airlines buy jet fuel in advance, and airports maintain stocks to support their resilience. The government is working closely with the aviation industry to monitor risks and minimise disruption to passengers.

If your flight is cancelled, you have clear legal rights, including the right to a full refund or re-routing. Read this factsheet for the full picture on the current situation and what it means for you.

Is there a shortage of jet fuel in the UK?

UK airlines are clear that they are not currently seeing a shortage of jet fuel. It is typically bought in advance, with airports and their suppliers keeping stocks of bunkered fuel to support their resilience.

Do you need to change your travel plans?

There is no current need to change upcoming travel plans. Government regularly meets with industry to monitor risks, understand pressures and ensure clear communication with passengers, should circumstances change.

We recognise that families may be concerned, and that aviation and tourism businesses are operating in challenging global conditions. We are working hand‑in‑hand with industry to help flights keep operating.

We advise passengers to continue checking with their airlines before they travel, and to check the FCDO travel advice for the latest updates. You should also ensure you have appropriate travel insurance.

How is the government protecting passengers?

Under UK law, if your flight is cancelled, you are entitled to either a full refund or to be booked onto an alternative flight if you:

depart from an airport in the UK on any airline
arrive at an airport in the UK on an EU or UK airline
arrive at an airport in the EU on a UK airline

For more information about your rights, you can:

speak directly to your airline, travel agent or tour operator
visit the Civil Aviation Authority’s website for guidance on delays and cancellations
read the air passenger travel guide

What is government doing?

Since the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, we have been closely monitoring UK jet fuel stocks and working with airlines, airports and fuel suppliers to ensure passengers keep moving and businesses are supported.

We continue to plan for a range of contingencies, while focusing on securing a long lasting and workable solution to get shipping flowing freely again through the Strait of Hormuz.

How are airlines being supported?

At some UK airports, airlines are given scheduled times known as ‘slots’ in which to take off or land.

Under normal rules, airlines must use at least 80% of their allocated slots during a season to keep them for the following year. If they fall below this threshold, those slots can be reassigned to another airline. This is known as the ‘use it or lose it’ rule.

Airport Coordination Limited, the independent body that manages slot allocation at UK airports, has updated its guidance so that airlines will not lose their slots if fuel shortages prevent them from flying. Airlines can now apply for an exemption from the ‘use it or lose it’ rule in these circumstances.

This means airlines can focus on minimising disruption for passengers, rather than feeling pressure to operate flights purely to protect their slots.

New UK-France agreement to reduce illegal crossings

New agreement between the UK and France to step up patrols and intelligence operations in France to reduce illegal crossings

The United Kingdom and France yesterday signed an agreement to strengthen operations to combat illegal migration in northern France to prevent crossings to the United Kingdom with a significant increase in dedicated human, technological and intelligence resources.

Since the 2024 UK election, work between the UK and France has prevented more than 42,000 illegal migrants from crossing the Channel. The joint action also led to the arrest of 480 smugglers in 2025.

The new partnership will build on these encouraging results to reduce the number of illegal Channel crossings.

For the first time, UK funding will include a flexible part to support actions to strengthen the effectiveness of the scheme. These actions will be subject to a regular joint evaluation in order to analyse their impact on reducing the flow of illegal immigration.
The personnel (nearly 1,200 agents of the police force, the intelligence services and the maritime prefecture) already deployed will be renewed and reinforced in the North to prevent illegal crossings from France.
The new partnership aims to increase the number of personnel deployed by 53% – 907 personnel funded in the 2023-2026 cycle and 1,392 in the 2026-2029 cycle, as well as a CRS unit dedicated to the fight against illegal immigration, managed by France. This will be accompanied by the deployment of new technologies to reduce the number of departures of small boats, in particular water taxis.

Under the new partnership, £500 million (€580 million) will be invested to strengthen the control system in northern France and a further £161 million (€187 million) will fund new actions based on their impact on crossing prevention. If these new measures do not yield sufficient results, on the basis of a joint annual evaluation, funding will be redirected to new actions.

This new partnership includes:

Reinforcement of staff on the ground: currently, 907 people are deployed on the ground and have prevented 42,000 crossing attempts since the 2024 UK elections. This new partnership provides for a 53% increase in the workforce, including the creation of a new specialized unit (SIPAF – Interministerial Border Police) of 80 people.
The completion of major real estate projects and new investments: the administrative detention centre in Dunkirk and the future CRS cantonment in Calais, which will increase the efficiency of the police forces.
The strengthening of intelligence and judicial police units: this unit, the GAO, composed of 18 people, led to the arrest of 480 smugglers in 2025. The number of personnel in this unit will be increased to 30 in order to intensify the fight against smuggling networks in the northern zone
Strengthen surveillance capabilities and infrastructure using drones, helicopters and electronic means to better prevent crossing attempts.

These measures are complemented by the desire to combat the phenomenon of illegal immigration to the United Kingdom upstream, by strengthening joint actions in countries of origin and transit.

As the Channel is an external border of the European Union, the partnership between the United Kingdom and France is part of a broader European cooperation that both countries wish to strengthen.

Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, said: “Our collaboration with the French has prevented tens of thousands of illegal migrants from boarding the boats bound for Britain.

“But we need to go further. This historic agreement will prevent illegal migrants from making the perilous journey and put smugglers behind bars.”

French Minister of the Interior, Laurent Nunez, said: “This new agreement gives our security forces the means to continue their decisive commitment in the fight against dangerous Channel crossings and to strengthen the security of coastal residents.

“I also welcome Frontex’s commitment, which is intended to be amplified in the context of enhanced European involvement in the surveillance of this external border of the European Union.

“I also recognise Frontex’s commitment to be strengthened as part of a stronger European involvement in the surveillance of this external border of the European Union.

“A large part of the resources provided for in this partnership will be concentrated from the beginning of the summer and during the summer period, which is traditionally the busiest period for small craft crossings.”

This partnership complements the important reforms undertaken by the UK government to reduce the pull factors that push irregular migrants across the Channel and to intensify the expulsion of irregular foreign nationals from British territory.

Nearly 60,000 illegal migrants and foreign criminals have been sent back or deported since this UK government came to power, an increase of 31%.

Immigration control measures to combat illegal working have reached levels unprecedented in British history, with an 83% increase in arrests and a 77% increase in police interventions under this government.

The UK government is also closing all reception hotels for asylum seekers and transferring them to accommodation centres, especially those on former military sites.

New EU rules for pet travel for GB residents

Changes apply to non-commercial movements of dogs, cats and ferrets

From TODAY – Wednesday 22 April – new EU rules have come into effect covering how GB residents can travel to the EU with their pets.  People can still travel to the EU with their pets, but they are strongly encouraged to check the latest guidance.

The changes, announced by the EU, apply to the non-commercial movement of pet dogs, cats and ferrets entering the EU from Great Britain.

There are no major changes to pet travel requirements for re-entry into Great Britain.

Key updates include:

GB residents should no longer use EU pet passports to travel into the EU. EU pet passports may now only be issued to people whose main home is in the EU and should not be used by people who have holiday homes in the EU or visit seasonally. EU pet passports issued to GB residents before 22 April 2026 may no longer be valid documents for entry to the EU. This means GB residents – even if they already have an EU pet passport – may need a different document to take their pet to the EU. To guarantee smooth travel, owners resident in Great Britain should get an Animal Health Certificate for their dog, cat or ferret(s) if they’re travelling from Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland) to an EU country.

Individual Member States may have specific pet travel requirements and pet owners should always check the specific entry requirements of the destination country before travel.

GB residents are still able to use EU pet passports for their return journey to GB.

Animal Health Certificates (AHCs) now last longer once you arrive, but they are still single‑use. Although you still need a new AHC for each trip from GB to the EU, the certificate can now be used for up to six months for onward travel within the EU and for re‑entering Great Britain, as long as rabies vaccinations remain valid.
If someone else travels with your pet, extra paperwork is needed. If the owner is not travelling with the pet, the pet must travel within five days of the owner, and the person accompanying the animal must carry written permission from the owner. This permission must travel with the pet’s travel document.
There is a new five‑pet limit per private vehicle. Non‑commercial travel into the EU is now limited to a maximum of five pets per private vehicle, rather than five per person. The existing limit of five pets for people travelling on foot stays the same. Exceptions apply for pets travelling to competitions, events or training, if specific conditions are met.

An APHA spokesperson said: From 22 April, new EU rules change how GB residents travel to the EU with their pets, but holidays with your pets are still possible.

“Anyone planning to travel should check guidance on GOV.UK, and the entry rules for their destination.

“To avoid delays and ensure a smooth journey, pet owners residing in Great Britain should get an Animal Health Certificate if they’re travelling from Great Britain to an EU country.”

The Government’s guidance to pet owners has been updated to reflect these changes. For more information, visit:

Ofgem ‘transformed’ to strengthen protections for energy consumers

Billpayers ‘set to benefit from a stronger energy regulator to ensure they are treated fairly’

Energy regulator Ofgem reformed to introduce stronger protections for consumers
Households supported with faster redress if they are let down by their supplier
Energy executives incentivised to act in consumers’ best interests

Billpayers are set to benefit from a stronger energy regulator, under reforms of its remit set out by the government today (22 April).

The transformation will empower the regulator to ensure energy consumers are treated fairly, including measures to guarantee good practice in the market. This is the first major update to Ofgem’s scope since the regulator was founded in 2000.

The comprehensive overhaul will give Ofgem new powers to act as a true consumer champion, including:

Stronger powers for the regulator to enforce consumer law directly, meaning it will no longer need to go through a lengthy courts process to make sure customers get what they are owed if companies treat them unfairly;
Measures to ensure energy bosses act on behalf of consumers, with powers for Ofgem to ban their bonuses if they break the rules;
Reforms to the regulator’s remit to focus on economic and consumer protection and ensure every energy consumer is protected, including the ability to regulate in new areas of the market if needed.

Since Ofgem was established, the market has grown more complex, with a wider range of products and services for consumers to choose from – with growing numbers of customers in parts of the market which are covered by little, if any, regulation.

That includes heating oil customers, who have seen prices spike following the start of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Last month the government announced funding worth over £50 million to support low-income families reliant on heating oil, and committed to introducing new consumer protections to the sector.

The changes announced today mark another step in that process, transforming Ofgem so that it is fit for the future and can ensure all consumers in today’s energy market are supported.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: “This Government is fighting people’s corner, and today we set out steps to strengthen protections for energy consumers.

“This includes tough and fair measures to ban energy company bonuses if they break the rules.”

Minister for Energy Consumers Martin McCluskey said: “Every household must be given a fair deal, and today, we transform our energy regulator to give families stronger protections.

“We’re giving Ofgem stronger powers to fight consumers’ corner, changing their remit so they can protect every consumer, and introducing new measures so they can hold energy executives to account.

“We’re making the market work for those who use it, working with the regulator to make sure customers are put first.

“We will continue to stand up for working people and fight their corner as we tackle the affordability crisis – our number one priority.”

Interim Ofgem CEO Tim Jarvis said: “Great Britain’s energy system is going through the biggest changes in our lifetimes, and the regulator needs to be able to keep pace with that change.

“This review sets out ambitious, necessary reforms that will enable Ofgem to meet the challenges of regulating an increasingly electrified and flexible energy system and protect consumers so they can engage confidently in markets offering new products and services.

“We have delivered significant reforms in recent years, but this review enables us to make changes at a more systemic level to ensure we are delivering an energy system that works for consumers, that is attractive to investors and provides a stable, reliable environment for participants in the industry.

“With the tools, remit and clarity to deliver this, we look forward to working with the Government, consumer representatives and the energy sector to drive the change that’s needed – both in Ofgem and across the energy sector.”

To deliver the shift, Ofgem’s remit will be streamlined to focus on its core functions as an economic and consumer protection regulator. This involves removing Ofgem’s responsibility for oversight of home upgrade schemes in a role that is set to be performed within government by the Warm Homes Agency.

This will help equip Ofgem to drive forward clean power and economic growth, ensuring regulation supports innovation, unlocks investment in Britain’s electricity networks, and helps to modernise the energy system.

Ofgem’s capabilities will also be reformed, with its technical expertise strengthened, its use of data improved and its approach to risk reassessed – enabling the regulator to take faster decisions in the interests of consumers.

They will also develop a workforce plan, building on changes already underway, to ensure staff have the right skills to deliver the changes required, supported by stronger board‑level oversight of skills and culture.

The changes build on the reforms the government and regulator have already delivered to rebuild the energy retail market and improve standards in the sector – driving customer satisfaction with their suppliers to record highs.

They follow the government’s proposals to protect energy consumers with fairer, quicker and easier access to compensation when they are let down, as well as Ofgem’s plans to make sure suppliers’ Guaranteed Standards of Performance reflect the evolving energy system.

The plans come as the government is continuing to fight people’s corner in response to the impacts of the conflict in the Middle East. Yesterday (21 April) the Energy Secretary set out plans to go further and faster on the mission to make the UK a clean energy superpower and protect people from the increasing global fossil fuel price shocks.

Gillian Cooper, Director of Energy at Citizens Advice said: “We welcome the actions set out in the review, which will strengthen consumer protections, enable a fair transition to green energy and give Ofgem the tools it needs to enforce the rules.

“Ofgem should now seize the opportunity to bring about a more innovative market, with better choices and protections for consumers, ensuring energy suppliers know there are real consequences for falling short.

“Effective regulation is one pillar which underpins a well-functioning energy system. But consumers also need strong advocacy, trusted advice and the ability to get problems sorted quickly and fairly, so they can make informed decisions and know they won’t be left out of pocket if things go wrong.”

Laura Sandy CBE, Chair of the Energy Network Innovation Taskforce and Green Alliance said: “Excellent to see that the review is focused on the clarity of Ofgem’s role, streamlining its role to become a truly modern regulator, moving from technology-based regulation to a consumer centric model and being responsible for driving growth.

“While, consumer protection and network regulation are the core functions, I hope that these roles also mean driving growth, unlocking wider societal opportunity and delivering customers greater choice.

“The culture within the organisation is a strong theme throughout with the need to move from a process, input regulator, to a dynamic opportunity and risk regulator. Crucially there are excellent recommendations around independent assessment on progress supporting Ofgem in the delivery of their new remit.”