LONDON, Jan. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: We are deeply concerned about reports of violence by Iraniansecurity forces,and strongly condemn the killing of protestors.The Iranian authoritieshave the responsibility to protect theirown population and must allow for the freedom of expression and peaceful assembly without fear of reprisal.We urge the Iranianauthorities to exercise restraint, to refrain from violence, and to uphold the fundamental rights of Iran...
LONDON, Jan. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: * The bust has been valued at £3.1 million (plus VAT of £620,000 which can be reclaimed by an eligible institution) * Export bar is to allow time for a UK gallery or institution to acquire the bust An export bar has been placed on an 18th century bust of John Gordon of Invergordon by Edme Bouchardon in an effort to protect a key piece of the nation's history. The 18th century marble sculpture, signed a...
LONDON, Jan. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: Diplomat for a Day The Diplomat for a Day competition is a joint initiative by the British, Canadian, Australian, Dutch and New Zealand embassies in Belgium. It encourages young women and girls to become leaders and advocates for change, including through mentorship opportunities. Winners will be invited to spend a day at the embassies in Brussels on 3 March 2026, shadowing senior leaders and learning about the ...
LONDON, Jan. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: In response to the decrease in the Bank of England base rate on 18th December 2025, the Court Funds Office (CFO) rates of interest payable to clients have been reviewed and from 9th January 2026 these will change to the following: * Special Account - decreased from 4.00% to 3.75% * Basic Account - decreased from 3.00% to 2.81% The decision was made to ensure that the running costs of the CFO service can con...
LONDON, Jan. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: This statement provides an update on the AAIB investigation into the serious incident involving an ATR-72-212, registration G-ISLM, which suffered multiple electrical system failures on departure from Guernsey Airport on the 10 January 2025. The aircraft returned to Guernsey safely. Examination of the electrical system components has identified the Starter/Generator fitted to the right engine as the source of the...
LONDON, Jan. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: Sellafield Ltd, through its SiX (social impact, multiplied) programme, has announced a major investment in LEVELS, a ground-breaking £4.6 million redevelopment of the former Whittles department store in Whitehaven, West Cumbria into a state-of-the-art immersive entertainment and education centre. Delivered and developed by social impact property developers BEC, LEVELS has transformed a Grade II-listed ...
LONDON, Jan. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: The Technology Secretary comments on the changes xAI has implemented to its chatbot overnight, and government action to stamp out this form of abuse. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said: Sexually manipulating images of women and children is despicable and abhorrent. It is an insult and totally unacceptable for Grok to still allow this if you're willing to pay for it. I expect Ofcom to use the full legal powers...
LONDON, Jan. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: Police teams across the Civil Nuclear Constabulary's (CNC) Scottish sites have been commended for their professionalism and commitment as they continue to operate through a prolonged period of snow, ice and severe winter conditions. With further storms forecast, officers and staff at a number of locations, including Dounreay, St Fergus, Garlogie and Torness, have worked through challenging travel and weather cond...
LONDON, Jan. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: This document sets out how the UKseeksto support individuals and organisations at risk for their work in defence of human rights. The principles include: * Diplomatic action to raise visibility and provide protection. * Practical support, such as guidance and resources to reduce risks. * International collaboration with governments, civilsocietyand multilateral bodies. * Promotion of safe environments,...
LONDON, Jan. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: Theregulator is examining information about the charity's sale ofitsCity & Guildsawards operation (C&G)to a private company in October 2025. The Commission was previouslymadeawareof theproposedsaleby thecharity, andhadsoughtand receivedassurances aboutthetrustees' decision making, but the sale did notrequire theCommission'sregulatoryconsent. The statutory inquiry willnowexaminenew informationthat has been report...