LONDON, Feb. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: The SIA, using its powers under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, has reclaimed over £40,000 that was earned through fraudulent activities by former security company boss John Gaines, and has returned it to his victims. Mr Gaines was sentenced to 4 years and 8 months' imprisonment in 2019 after being found guilty of 4 counts of fraud by false representation and one offence under Section 16 of the Private Secur...
LONDON, Feb. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: TheForestry Commissionis recruitingthe next cohortof Development Woodland Officers into theProfessional Forester Apprenticeship programme, alongside introducing a new scheme to support small forestry employers. National Apprenticeship Week starts today, and these programmes highlight the positive impact that apprenticeships have in developing a skilled workforce for the forestry sector. Both schemes are designed...
LONDON, Feb. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: This year, 83 scholars returned to Pakistan after completing prestigious UK government-funded awards. This included 42 Chevening Scholars and 41 Commonwealth Scholars, comprising 19 Master's scholars, 15 PhD scholars, and 14 Split-Site PhD scholars. The event recognised their academic achievements, global exposure, and leadership potential, while also celebrating their reintegration into Pakistan's growing alumni...
LONDON, Feb. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: The UK Space Agency has awarded contracts to three UK companies to investigate producing these advanced materials in Low Earth Orbit, where the conditions - including microgravity, natural vacuum, and extreme temperatures - can create products that are difficult, expensive, or impossible to manufacture on Earth. The research supports in-orbit servicing, assembly and manufacturing (ISAM), which the government iden...
LONDON, Feb. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: * Universal Credit legislation laid today to tackle perverse incentives that discourage work and trap people on long-term benefits. * Changes to narrow the gap between payments for people on health-related benefits and those actively seeking work. * It comes alongside £3.5 billion for tailored employment help by end of decade, including 1,000 dedicated work coaches offering voluntary support to tens of thousa...
LONDON, Feb. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: * Government has carried out aReview of Budget information securityin light ofthe events that occurred in the run up to the 2025 Budget Statement * This includesthe outcomesand recommendations of the National Cyber Security Centre'sinvestigationinto thepublication of theOffice for Budget Responsibility'sEconomic andfiscaloutlook(EFO)and the Cabinet Office's leak inquiryrelating tothe 13 Novemberarticleon inco...
LONDON, Feb. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: An FCDO spokesperson said: The UK strongly condemns the Israeli Security Cabinet's decision yesterday to expand Israeli control over the West Bank. The major changes to land, enforcement, and administrative powers proposed in the West Bank will harm efforts to advance peace and stability. The UK has been clear: any unilateral attempt to alter the geographic or demographic make-up of Palestine is wholly unaccept...
LONDON, Feb. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: 1. I am a Brit with Czech citizenship. Do I need a British passport to travel to the United Kingdom, or can I apply for an ETA? As a British citizen, you do not need an ETA. However, to travel to the United Kingdom you must have a valid British passport. As a dual national, you must travel to the UK either with a valid British passport (or an Irish passport), or with another valid passport (for example, a Czech o...
LONDON, Feb. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: * Young adults encouraged to find their matured Child Trust Fund quickly and for free using the GOV.UK locator tool. * Child Trust Funds worth on average £2,242 each. * Those starting an apprenticeship can use the HMRC app for essential information needed by their employer. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is urging young people who have yet to claim their Child Trust Fund to do so during National Apprenticeshi...
LONDON, Feb. 9 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news: Councilsmost in needwill have more money to bring back clean streets, fillpotholesandrestore localservicesthroughan extra£440 millionfundingboostconfirmedtoday (February 9). Around£78 billionis beingmade availablefor councils across Englandthrough the Final Local Government Finance Settlementwith a top up to the Recovery Grant for areas hit hardest by historic cuts. This record-breaking package marks a...