A Downing Street spokesperson said:

The Prime Minister met Prime Minister Cazeneuve of France at Downing Street today. They talked about a range of bilateral issues and also discussed foreign policy and Brexit.

The Prime Minister was clear that while the UK is leaving the EU, we are not leaving Europe, and they talked about the importance of coming to an early agreement on the rights of EU citizens in the UK and UK citizens in the EU.

They agreed on the need to maintain our close co-operation on security and defence, including through NATO. They discussed how we can work together to address the shared global challenges we face, including migration, the situation in Syria and in Ukraine, and the threat of terrorism.

Theresa May has today announced plans to transform the way we think about and tackle domestic violence and abuse – one of the most widespread and heinous offences, but one where victims are often let down by the legal system.

Domestic violence and abuse shatters lives but the way we deal with it at the moment does not go far enough – with a plethora of different offences and procedures scattered across the statute book. 

This lack of clarity has led to an unacceptable diversity across the country in terms of the degree of effort put in to try and tackle it. Although the prosecution of, and convictions for, such offences have started to improve in recent years, there is inconsistency in the use and effectiveness of the various law enforcement measures across the country.

In recognition of this, the Prime Minister has announced plans for a major new programme of work leading towards bringing forward a Domestic Violence and Abuse Act.  

The programme of work will look at what more can be done to improve support for victims especially in the way the law, and legal procedures, currently work for such victims. Experts in this area will be invited to contribute ideas and proposals for improving the way the system works which is likely to lead to legislation – making it much easier for law enforcement bodies to find and use more consistently the measures at their disposal. The Prime Minister will also ask for any potential ‘quick wins’ in the intervening period to be identified and acted upon. The Prime Minister will directly oversee this work, which will be truly cross-governmental – but co-ordinated by the Home Office and the Ministry of Justice.

Like the Modern Slavery Act, the Prime Minister believes that the measures that come out of this work will raise public awareness of the problem – as well as encourage victims to report their abusers and see them brought to justice.

Prime Minister Theresa May said:

Domestic violence and abuse is a life shattering and absolutely abhorrent crime; tackling it is a key priority for this government – and something I have always attached a personal importance to, both as Home Secretary and now as Prime Minister. I am clear that we need to build on the measures I introduced as Home Secretary– including the new offence of ‘Controlling and Coercive Behaviour’, Domestic Violence Protection Orders, and the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme – and ensure that no stone will be left unturned in delivering a system that increases convictions, and works better for victims.

She added:

I believe that the plans I have announced today have the potential to completely transform the way we think about and tackle domestic violence and abuse. There are thousands of people who are suffering at the hands of abusers – often isolated, and unaware of the options and support available to them to end it. Given the central importance of victim evidence to support prosecutions in this area, raising public awareness – as well as consolidating the law – will prove crucial.  

Attending the annual Munich Security Conference, Sir Michael said the Alliance should not wait for another crisis before it modernises itself.

Calling for an ambitious programme of change, the Defence Secretary outlined three areas for a fitter, faster, more agile NATO:

• Greater flexibility for NATO’s top commanders, including the power to move more staff resources around to meet current and future threats.

• Less duplication - the Alliance has five financial control centres.

• Increased coherence - Sir Michael outlined that while improvements were being made, particularly in the merging of intelligence structures, more needed to be done to break down silos.

Describing Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 as a “wake up call” for NATO, the Defence Secretary said NATO members needed to invest more on defence and called on Allies to increase spending every year until the 2% Defence Investment Pledge, agreed at the UK hosted NATO summit in 2014, is met.

At the same time NATO should strengthen its relationships with other organisations, particularly the EU, while avoiding duplication.

Defence Secretary also called on NATO to project stability beyond its borders, by working globally to improve the security areas of fragile nations.

Speaking last night at the conference, Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon said:

We want a fitter, faster, more agile NATO. This means more spending on defence by all the Allies, faster, more flexible decision making, and stronger partnerships.

Britain yesterday launched its International Defence Engagement Strategy, which contained a new plan for how the UK will strengthen cooperation with Allies and partners, allowing Britain to collectively pack a more powerful punch.

Sir Michael told the annual Munich Security Conference that while Britain is leaving the European Union, the UK would not be stepping back from its role in European security.

Britain’s leadership this year is demonstrated by two new major commitments to the NATO Alliance:

• Leading NATO’s Very High Readiness Joint Task Force, otherwise known as the ‘spearhead force’. This UK-led NATO Brigade is ready and willing to respond to any threat the Alliance faces and shows how NATO is strengthening its collective defence and deterrence.

• Deploying a battle group of around 800 personnel to lead in Estonia NATO’s Enhanced Forward Presence, another way in which NATO is stepping up to deter threats. Britain will deploy as part of the battle group the United States is leading in Poland, with over 100 troops.

The Defence Secretary also met with his German counterpart, Ursula von der Leyen, where he discussed the unprecedented level of cooperation between the two countries. Sir Michael also welcomed Germany’s commitment to increase its defence spending.

Sir Michael, along with the Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, yesterday launched Britain’s new strategy for engaging more internationally in defence activity.

The International Defence Engagement Strategy is the way in which all defence activity, short of combat operations, work abroad to prevent conflict, build stability and gain influence internationally.

Speaking at the Munich Secretary Conference, Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon said:

Britain is committed to Europe’s security, and we’re stepping up our engagement internationally. Whether defeating Daesh in Iraq and Syria, deploying with our NATO Allies to deter threats, or engaging globally to help countries develop their security, Britain is playing a major role - and will continue to do so.

The Defence Secretary also confirmed that Britain would keep the momentum up in the fight against Daesh. In Iraq and Syria, the RAF are flying day and night to defeat Daesh.

The RAF hit over 300 targets as part of recent operations to liberate eastern Mosul, and is now focussing efforts on the approaches to the west of the city, where it is expected the liberation operation will begin within days.

• Prison officers at 31 prisons to receive immediate pay increase

• Thousands of staff to benefit from specialist training opportunities in skills such as self-harm and suicide prevention – further professionalising and building pride in the service

Thousands of frontline staff in London and the South East will benefit from an immediate boost to their pay, thanks to a new £12 million package announced today by Justice Secretary Elizabeth Truss.

The new package will mean prison officers at the 31 establishments will see a pay boost of up to £5,000, with new recruits receiving higher starting salaries. New starters will receive up to £29,500 – an increase of £5,000 – while a prison officer in London could see earnings increase to £31,000.

Justice Secretary Elizabeth Truss said:

Prison officers do a challenging and demanding job day in and day out. I want frontline staff to know that their work, experience and loyal service is valued. We also want to attract the best new talent into the service, ensuring we recruit and retain the leaders of the future.

These hard-working, dedicated staff are key to delivering our ambitious reform agenda, and it is right that we offer them greater support as we move ever closer to transforming prisons into places of safety and reform.

Thousands of new learning and development opportunities which will help staff progress in their career will also be made available nationwide.

As part of a comprehensive strategy to further professionalise and upskill the service, staff who take part in the new training scheme will be required to support and mentor colleagues – handing down knowledge and supporting future leaders.

They will also be given specialist training in mental health and self-harm prevention, boosting their pay and progression in the Prison Service.

This investment supports the government’s nationwide recruitment drive to recruit the best talent from around the country.

Governors at 30 prisons across the country have also been given greater freedom and flexibility to attract and recruit locally, reducing the time it takes to get new recruits through the door. Applicants will also be able to visit the prison before they take up post, and be in touch with a mentor while the recruitment process is underway

This wholescale, organisational reform will be supported by measures within the Prisons and Court Bill, which will set out a new framework and clear system of accountability for prisons, building on the wide-ranging reforms set out in the Prison Safety and Reform White Paper.

Today’s news comes just days after ministers announced a new frontline service focused on reforming offenders and cutting crime, to launch from April 2017. Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service will have full responsibility for the operational management of offenders in custody and the community, including strengthening security in prisons, tackling extremism and building intelligence about criminal gangs.

Notes to editors:

The pay increase will be granted to Band 3 Officers on Fair and Sustainable (F&S) terms at eligible prisons.

The prisons include: Aylesbury, Bedford, Bullingdon, Coldingley, Cookham Wood, Downview, Elmley, Feltham, Grendon, High Down, Highpoint, Huntercombe, Medway, Send, Stanford Hill, Swaleside, The Mount, Woodhill, Brixton, Belmarsh, Isis, Pentonville, Rochester, Wandsworth, Wormwood Scrubs, Erlestoke, Lewes, Whitemoor, Chelmsford, Guys Marsh and Littlehey.

The new award replaces existing pay increments for staff at the most difficult-to-recruit prisons.

Since publication of the White Paper

• 389 job offers have been made to new recruits wanting to join the Prison Service which puts the government on track to recruit the first 400 of the additional frontline officers committed to be in place by March 2017
• we are appointing 75 mentors for new starter Prison Officers to help them in their first few months in the job which we know can be a difficult time
• we have started targeted local recruitment initiatives at 30 sites so that governors can more easily recruit the people they need
• we are launching a new Prison Officer apprenticeship scheme that will help increase diversity and make it easier to join the Prison Service
• we have launched a new graduate scheme to attract people from top universities to join the Service
• we have launched a Troops to Officers scheme that will support people to join the Prison Service after leaving the military.

The British Embassy Kabul have a dedicated fund for supporting projects which further our priorities in Afghanistan. The fund will support projects implemented between 1 April 2017 and 31 March 2018.

How to apply to the 2017-18 bidding round:

We are looking for a range of bids which can achieve an impact in one year. A guide to the scale of project funding we are looking at is set out below but this is indicative and we will consider larger or smaller-scale bids if they can still demonstrate impact.

Currently we are inviting bids in the area(s) of:

Strengthening the Role of Women (bids between c£150k and c£350k) [closing date: Thursday 2nd March 2017]

Bidders should submit bids that focus on:

Early and Forced Marriage

Project ideas/initiatives that will work at a community and provincial level to challenge social norms around the acceptability of marrying girls before they reach maturity highlighting associated risks to education and health and raising awareness of Afghan legislation on the age women can be legally married.

Sexual harassment in the workplace

Project ideas/initiatives to support the effective implementation of recent legislation to combat the sexual harassment of women in the workplace. Projects might seek to work with local authorities, including the judiciary and law enforcement agencies, or the business community or seek to raise awareness amongst women in the workplace of their rights and how they can be comfortable.

Access to Justice

Project ideas/initiatives to further promote access to justice for women in provincial communities.

HeforShe

Initiatives around men and boys support for women’s rights with a focus on community action to facilitate women’s access to health, education, employment and participation in local decision-making.

Social Cohesion and Countering Extremism [NOW CLOSED]

Project bids under additional priority themes may follow. Please check this site for details and closing dates.

In all thematic areas, successful bidders will be expected to demonstrate:

• That the project proposal provides good value for money;

• That the project proposal has a clear, achievable impact, and responds to a local demand or need;

• That their organisation has the capacity to deliver the project to a high standard;

• How the project helps build Afghan capacity (International NGOs/companies should aim to partner with a local Afghan counterpart where feasible);

• That the impact of the project will be sustainable beyond the end of the funding period (i.e. 31 March 2018);

• That they have carefully considered all risks and have proposed suitable mitigation methods.

N.B. Bids for projects in Afghanistan’s provinces will be given a higher priority.

To apply, you should:

• Read all the documents and requirements

• Complete the project concept note form and submit your proposal to BEKProgrammeFund@hotmail.com by the date given above in the theme header. Please ensure the theme area of the bid is included in the subject line.

In submitting an application or considering whether to do so, please note that:

• The British Embassy does not have the capacity at this stage to provide any further guidance or information beyond that already provided.

• We are unable to meet with implementers ahead of any concept bid being submitted.

• It is not necessary for implementers to seek pre-approval ahead of submitting a concept bid.

• All implementers will be notified on the outcome of their bids. However the British Embassy is unable to provide feedback to unsuccessful implementers at the concept bid stage.

• Implementers who have been successful at the concept bid stage will be invited to submit a full proposal.

• Implementers whose proposals are awarded funding will be contracted on the understanding that activity will begin as early as possible within financial year 17/18.

Before bidding please familiarise yourself with the following key documents:

Guidance for Implementers

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Project Concept Form

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Avian influenza (bird flu) is a disease of birds. The H5N8 strain of the disease has been found in wild and farmed birds in the UK. A number of measures are in place to reduce the risk of the disease spreading.

Public Health England advises that the risk to public health is very low and the Food Standards Agency has said there is no food safety risk for UK consumers.

Where avian influenza has been confirmed, we put restrictions in place to limit the spread of disease, and investigate the source of the infection.

Latest situation

The H5N8 strain of the disease has been confirmed at a poultry farm in Suffolk, three linked premises on a commercial game farm in Lancashire, three separate poultry farms in Lincolnshire and in backyard flocks in North Yorkshire and Carmarthenshire. Protection and Surveillance Zone restrictions remain in place at the following sites:

• Redgrave, Suffolk (confirmed on 14 February following introduction of a Temporary Control Zone on 13 February)
• Wyre, Lancashire (confirmed on 27 January 2017, updated 30 January with a case at a further linked premises)
• Boston, Lincolnshire (confirmed on 26 January 2017)
• Wyre, Lancashire (confirmed on 24 January 2017)

Use our interactive map to check if you live within the Protection or Surveillance zones around any infected premises, or within the ‘Higher Risk’ areas we expect to put in place from 28 February 2017.

The same strain has also been found in wild birds in England, Scotland and Wales. We publish a list of cases where we find avian influenza in wild birds.

H5N8 has been circulating in wild birds in Europe for several months – we publish details of the situation in the latest veterinary outbreak assessment.

If you keep poultry and captive birds

If you keep poultry you are required to take action to reduce the risk of avian flu spreading.

All poultry keepers – whether commercial farmers or those with a small backyard flock – are currently required by law to house poultry or otherwise keep them separate from wild birds. This is because a Prevention Zone is currently in force across the UK. This applies until 28 February 2017.

We have done this to reduce the risks of the disease spreading, and to help protect poultry and captive birds from avian flu.

All poultry keepers are required to take steps to reduce the risk of infection via the environment, for example in wild bird droppings, by practising good biosecurity. You should do this even if your birds are inside. You should read our detailed guidance on what you need to do.

If you have a backyard flock, you should read our short, simple advice on how to comply with these rules and how to protect birds’ welfare when they’re housed.

We have also banned gatherings of poultry across the UK. This applies to birds including chickens, turkeys, ducks and geese, and restricts events such as livestock fairs, auctions and bird shows.

Advice on rearing game birds and shooting whilst the Prevention Zone is in force is available from The National Gamekeepers Organisation.

After 28 February

From 28 February we anticipate adopting a more targeted approach, with mandatory biosecurity measures across the country and continued housing or range netting in higher risk areas. Anyone planning to allow their birds outdoors from 28 February must take action now to reduce the risk of infection from birds being let outside by following Defra guidance. You can find out whether, based on current risk levels, you are likely to be affected using our interactive map.

Video: advice for keepers of backyard flocks

Bird flu advice for poultry keepers

Reporting suspicion of disease in your poultry

For advice and guidance on what to do if you keep poultry or to report suspicion of disease in animals, call the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301 or read our detailed guidance on avian influenza.

Reporting dead wild birds

Members of the public should report dead wild birds - such as swans, geese, ducks, gulls or birds of prey - to the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77. Defra will then collect some of these birds and test them to help us understand how the disease is distributed geographically and in different types of bird.

Advice from the Chief Vet

Chief Veterinary Officer Nigel Gibbens has issued the following statement:

The Government has taken swift action to limit the spread of the disease, with restrictions around affected premises and wider measures in place across the country.

To reduce the risk of bird flu spreading from bird to bird there is currently a legal requirement for all poultry keepers – even those who just keep a few birds as pets – to keep their birds housed or otherwise separate from wild birds. There is also a ban on poultry gatherings.

Bird flu is also transmitted via the environment, for example in wild bird droppings, and it is vital that keepers practice strict biosecurity. This means taking precautions such as putting up netting, keeping food and water inside and disinfecting footwear and equipment after contact with birds.

Further information

• Detailed guidance on avian influenza (bird flu): latest situation; how to spot it and report it
  • Specific advice on biosecurity requirements
• Food Standards Agency advice
• Public Health England advice
• Health and Safety Executive advice on protecting workers from avian influenza
• Latest veterinary outbreak assessment on H5N8 in the UK and Europe
• Results of findings of H5N8 in wild birds in Great Britain

Government announcements on avian influenza

• 13 February 2017, updated on 14 February 2017: Avian Flu confirmed at a farm near Redgrave in Suffolk
• 8 February 2017: Update on on biosecurity measures to protect against Avian Flu
• 27 January 2017: Avian flu confirmed at a farm in Wyre, Lancashire
• 26 January 2017: Avian flu confirmed at a farm near Boston, Lincolnshire
• 24 January 2017: Avian flu confirmed at a farm in Wyre, Lancashire
• 16 January 2017: Avian Flu confirmed at a farm in East Lindsey, Lincolnshire
• 6 January 2017: Avian flu confirmed in backyard flock in Yorkshire
• 4 January 2017: Avian flu prevention zone extended
• 4 January 2017: Extension of Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (Scottish Government)
• 4 January 2017: Cabinet Secretary declares extension of Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (Welsh Government)
• 3 January 2017: Avian influenza H5N8 in a backyard flock of chickens and ducks in Carmarthenshire (Welsh Government)
• 23 December 2016: Avian influenza (bird flu) in wild birds in England and Scotland
• 23 December 2016: Avian influenza in wild bird in Scotland (Scottish Government)
• 22 December 2016: Poultry keepers urged to maintain biosecurity as avian influenza (bird flu) is found in wild duck in Carmarthenshire
• 22 December 2016: Avian influenza in wild duck in Carmarthenshire (Welsh government)
• 20 December 2016: Poultry gatherings suspended
• 16 December 2016: Avian influenza (bird flu) at Lincolnshire farm
• 6 December 2016: New measures to protect poultry against avian flu

The UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) has helped broker a landmark agreement which will see search engines and the creative industries work together to stop consumers being led to copyright infringing websites.

Representatives from the creative industries, leading UK search engines, and the IPO developed a Voluntary Code of Practice dedicated to the removal of links to infringing content from the first page of search results.

The Code agreed on 9 February 2017 will come into force immediately, and sets targets for reducing the visibility of infringing content in search results by 1 June 2017.

Minister of State Jo Johnson MP will oversee the implementation of this Code of Practice, and the IPO will work with all parties to evaluate progress.

Jo Johnson, Minister of State for Universities, Science, Research and Innovation, said:

Search engines play a vital role in helping consumers discover content online. Their relationship with our world leading creative industries needs to be collaborative. Consumers are increasingly heading online for music, films, e-books, and a wide variety of other content. It is essential that they are presented with links to legitimate websites and services, not provided with links to pirate sites.

I am very pleased that the search engines and representatives of the creative industries have agreed this Code. I look forward to this valuable collaboration benefiting both the UK’s digital and creative sectors.

Minister of State for Digital and Culture, Matt Hancock, added:

We are one of the world’s leading digital nations, and we have a responsibility to make sure that consumers have easy access to legal content online. Pirate sites deprive artists and rights holders of hard-earned income and I’m delighted to see industry led solutions like this landmark agreement which will be instrumental in driving change.

As we build a more global Britain we want the UK to be the most innovative country to do business, and initiatives like this will ensure our creative and digital economies continue to thrive.

Notes to editors

1. The UK Intellectual Property Office is responsible for Intellectual Property (IP) rights in the United Kingdom, including patents, designs, trade marks and copyright

2. Signatories of the Voluntary Code of Practice are:

• Google
• Bing
• BPI
• Motion Picture Association

Under the Alliance for IP umbrella, the following members have indicated agreement:

• ACG
• Association of Authors Agents
• BASE
• British Brands Group,
• BSA
• FDA
• PPA
• Premier League
• Publishers Association
• PLS
• UKIE
• Entertainment Retailers Association
• Educational Recording Agency

The deal with Qioptiq in St Asaph, North Wales, will see battle-winning handheld equipment – including night-vision goggles and day and night weapon sights – maintained over the next six years, to ensure they are available to our personnel around the globe.

This good news for Wales, as the UK prepares to celebrate St David’s Day, follows the recent announcement that North Wales will be a global repair hub providing maintenance services for F-35 components, in a move worth millions for the region.

Speaking at the IDEX trade show, Minister for Defence Procurement Harriett Baldwin said:

It’s a pleasure to announce this £82 million contract here at IDEX. This deal will provide our troops with the equipment they need to stay safe, while also delivering £47 million of savings.

This contract is made possible by our £178 billion equipment plan, supported by a Defence budget that will rise every year until the end of the decade.

Work under the new Surveillance Target and Acquisition Support (STAS) contract will create eight new positions at the company, which employs around 560 at its St Asaph and Bodelwyddan sites. By merging 20 individual support contracts into one deal, the MOD will save £47 million for the tax payer over the next six years.

Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns said:

This massive contract for Qioptiq underlines Wales’ reputation as a world leader in the defence technology sector, coming hot on the heels of the choice of DECA Sealand as the global repair hub for the F35 aircraft.

This enormous vote on confidence in the Welsh economy demonstrates that we offer the highly skilled workforce and facilities that investors need. It is also clearly great news for employment in the region.

The contract covers equipment used right across the Armed Forces, from frontline infantry and Royal Marine soldiers, to military specialists such as bomb disposal experts, including infantry periscopes, laser aimers and target locating equipment.

Chief Executive Officer of the MOD’s Defence Equipment and Support organisation, Tony Douglas said:

This new deal with Qioptiq has reduced costs by a third, demonstrating how we are constantly striving to build innovation and value into Defence procurement and support. Crucially, the STAS contract, will deliver improved support to Her Majesty’s Armed Forces.

IDEX is a biannual international defence exhibition and conference dedicated to unmanned systems held in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. The United Kingdom has supported IDEX since its inception and this year a Royal Navy Mine Counter Measure Vessel, HMS Penzance, will be attending.

Mrs Baldwin and the UK team will be working to develop closer links with a range of Governments and industrial partners in the Gulf. British companies are promoting a range of innovative world leading technologies, many suitable for armed forces in the region.

They are keen to share technology, offer value for money solutions supported by training and logistical support, and build joint venture partnerships on land and maritime border security; maritime mine detection and countermeasures; and chemical, biological, radiation and nuclear and biological and chemical defence.

British scientists will be able to fly to the edge of space to conduct vital medical experiments under new powers unveiled this week.

Laws paving the way for spaceports in the UK will allow ‎experiments to be conducted in zero gravity which could help develop medicines.

The powers will allow the launch of satellites from the UK for the first time, horizontal flights to the edge of space for scientific experiments and the establishment and operation of spaceports in regions across the UK.

Next steps involve government encouraging business and industry to come forward with specific proposals for space launches and the introduction of a Bill later this year, after which specific rules and regulations will developed for operators - such as safety and insurance measures. In addition, the government is inviting commercial space businesses to bid for funding to help create a space launch market in the UK.

• Commercial spaceflight

The sector is vital to the future of the UK economy, it creates high-value jobs and generates wealth across the country. Our regions will benefit from direct access to space as the building of local spaceports will lead to more demand in hospitality and tourism services, creating jobs and opportunities. The UK construction, engineering and service sector will benefit too from supply-chains and supporting services.

Together the new powers and funding will potentially allow a commercial spaceflight from a UK spaceport by 2020.

Space satellites are vital for our daily lives – once launched they can help provide broadband to rural communities, monitor weather systems as they move around the earth, and even help rural health workers who use satellite communications to diagnose and assist patients situated far from specialist health services.

The move has the potential to take UK scientists up to space so they can research and develop vaccines and antibiotics, which grow differently where there is no gravity. The flights could also carry out hundreds of vital scientific experiments on medical issues such as aging and the human body.

Aviation Minister Lord Ahmad said:

The UK’s space sector is the future of the British economy. It already employs thousands of people and supports industries worth more than £250 million to the economy, and we want to grow it further. Forty years ago, meteorologists couldn’t have imagined the importance of satellites for predicting the weather. Today over 90% of data used in every forecast comes from a satellite, with hundreds of other applications used in GPS, telecommunications and broadband.

We have never launched a spaceflight before from this country. Our ambition is to allow for safe and competitive access to space from the UK, so we remain at the forefront of a new commercial space age, for the next 40 years.

Although the UK is a world-leader when it comes to satellite technology and services, businesses currently have to rely on launch services located in other countries such as the US, Japan, or India, and often have to share launch vehicles, which can lead to delays and restrictions on where satellites can go.

• UK space missions: case studies and programmes

The Bill builds on £10 million of grant funding announced by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy earlier this month which will deliver an early boost to the UK’s commercial spaceflight market, helping us harness our research and innovation while creating high skilled jobs. It will work alongside the government’s modern Industrial strategy, which will support sectors like the space industry by creating an environment where companies big and small can thrive.

Universities and Science Minister Jo Johnson said:

From the launch of Rosetta, the first spacecraft to orbit a comet, to Tim Peake’s 6 months on the International Space Station, the UK’s space sector has achieved phenomenal things in orbit and beyond.

With this week’s Spaceflight Bill launch, we will cement the UK’s position as a world-leader in this emerging market, giving us an opportunity to build on existing strengths in research and innovation. Through our ‘Industrial strategy’ we will harness this potential, creating an environment where companies across this sector will thrive.

New launch technology for small satellites will provide low cost, reliable access to space.

Forecasts suggest the global market for this will be worth £25 billion over the next 20 years. Our new laws will put British businesses at the forefront of these services.

RAIB has today released its second interim report into a fatal accident involving a tram near Sandilands Junction, Croydon on 9 November 2016.

This report contains material which appeared in our first interim report, published on 16 November 2016, as well as some new information which we are now able to release.

New information in paragraph 9 updates the number of people we believe were on the tram. Paragraph 28 sets out the investigation activities that have taken place so far. Paragraphs 30 to 34 describe the infrastructure in the area, including the speed restriction sign on the approach to the tight curve where the derailment occurred. Paragraphs 36 and 37 describe how the tram was driven immediately before the accident. Paragraphs 38 and 39 describe the initial findings of the RAIB’s examination of the tram, including the damage to the vehicle and the locations of the fatal casualties.

The response by the industry to the RAIB’s urgent safety advice (issued on 14 November 2016) is described in paragraphs 42 and 43.

The ongoing and future areas for the RAIB’s investigation are listed in paragraphs 40, 45 and 46.

We will publish a final report, including any safety recommendations, at the conclusion of our investigation.

Our investigation is independent of any investigation by the tramway industry, the British Transport Police or by the Office of Rail and Road.

You can subscribe to automated emails notifying you when we publish our reports.

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Public policy can have an impact on parenting behaviour and achieve positive outcomes for children, but there is currently a lack of evidence on what works - according to new research by the Social Mobility Commission.

The report says that parenting interventions can be successful - particularly those that focus on parenting styles, the creation of a supportive home learning environment, relationships within the family and parental stress and mental health.

Programmes can give parents a greater understanding of child development, develop parents’ confidence in their role and support both parents to become actively involved in a child’s upbringing.

The research finds that an authoritative parenting style which combines warmth with firmness in setting boundaries, secure attachment between children and parents and the provision of a supportive home learning environment can improve children’s outcomes.

It finds that programmes which offer targeted support for parents, are most effective. But these should be termed ‘universal’ to reduce stigma for those taking part and increase parental participation. Home visits were found to have moderate to high levels of success. It also concludes that highly trained and skilled practitioners, such as nurses, social workers and teachers, are crucial to the successful delivery of parenting interventions.

However, one of the report’s key findings is that there is currently a lack of long-term evidence and studies about what parenting interventions work best. The Social Mobility Commission is calling on the government to commission further research to address gaps in this area.

Figures show that, in the last decade, more than 2.5 million children in England - including over 580,000 children known to be eligible for free school meals, had not reached the government’s definition of a good level of development at the age of 5.

By the time students receive their GCSE results, around 32% of the variation in performance can be predicted based on indicators observed at, or before, the age of 5.

The Rt Hon Alan Milburn, chair of the Social Mobility Commission, said:

The early years of a child’s life have a lasting impact, but there are stark differences in how ready children are for school. In the last decade, over half a million poorer children were not school ready by the age of 5.

We want the government to set a clear objective that, by 2025, every child is school ready and the child development gap has been closed. This requires every low-income family having access to high-quality childcare.

Parenting programmes also have an important role to play in reducing social inequality. But it is clear that there is currently a lack of evidence in this area. The government should commission further research to address this knowledge gap and develop a robust and consistent tool for the evaluation of parenting interventions.

Dr Barbie Clarke, Managing Director of Family Kids and Youth, which carried out the research, said:

Our research shows that public policy can have a real impact on parenting behaviours and achieve positive outcomes for children. Intervention can develop parental management skills and confidence, build healthy family relationships and enhance children’s social, behavioural and cognitive development and wellbeing.

Highly trained and skilled practitioners, such as nurses, social workers and teachers, are crucial to their successful delivery. Programmes also need to be universal, but targeted, to reduce stigma and encourage parents to take part.

The ‘Helping parents to parent’ report was commissioned by the Social Mobility Commission to bring together evidence on parenting behaviours and the extend to which public policy can support parents. It examined 28 interventions and programmes in the United Kingdom and internationally.

Successful schemes examined in the report include:

Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) runs in several countries and aims to improve the home literacy environment, as well as to enhance the parent-child relationship, to prepare children for school. Aimed at parents of 3- to 5-year-olds, it combines 30 sessions of home visiting and community-centre-based support over 2 years, with daily activities at home. HIPPY has been tested in 9 countries and studies have shown a positive impact on child adaptation and readiness for school.

Parenting Shops in Belgium aim to provide a one-stop ‘shop’ for a range of parenting support mechanisms. Designed to increase community cohesion and reduce parenting stress, the intervention includes parenting classes, home visits, lectures and local community initiatives such as counselling. Professional staff and some skilled volunteers offer a range of support, and the ‘shops’ have been shown to be successful in reducing family tension and difficulties.

The Incredible Years operates in several countries, targeting parents, children and teachers. The aim is to increase parents’ confidence, competence and coping strategies, and build good parent-child relationships, while helping parents build supportive networks. Delivered through videos, role play and peer support to assist problem solving, research has shown that the programme significantly improves parenting interaction and promotes children’s social and emotional wellbeing.

Key recommendations include:

1. There is a need for highly trained practitioners to implement and deliver parenting interventions.

2. There is a need for more family centres or single-access platforms that provide an umbrella of universal parenting support and services and are easily accessible for all families.

3. Home visiting programmes, or those with a home visiting element, have the potential to deliver more success in improving children’s outcomes.

4. There is a lack of long-term evidence on parenting interventions and programmes. The government should commission further research on this issue and there needs to be a robust and consistent tool for evaluation.

Notes for editors

1. The Social Mobility Commission is an advisory, non-departmental public body established under the Life Chances Act 2010 as modified by the Welfare Reform and Work Act 2016. It has a duty to assess progress in improving social mobility in the United Kingdom and to promote social mobility in England. It currently consists of 4 commissioners and is supported by a small secretariat.

2. The commission board currently comprises:
   • Alan Milburn (chair)
   • Baroness Gillian Shephard (deputy chair)
   • Paul Gregg, Professor of Economic and Social Policy, University of Bath
   • David Johnston, Chief Executive of the Social Mobility Foundation
3. The functions of the commission include:
   • monitoring progress on improving social mobility
   • providing published advice to ministers on matters relating to social mobility
   • undertaking social mobility advocacy
4. For further information, please contact Kirsty Walker at the Social Mobility Commission by:
   • phoning 020 7227 5371 or 07768 446 167
   • emailing kirsty.walker@education.gov.uk

The following summary of planned new and ongoing road improvements over the coming week is correct as of Friday 17 February and could be subject to change due to weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances. All our improvement work is carried out with the aim of causing as little disruption as possible.

Drivers looking for roadworks information (such as overnight carriageway closures) for individual schemes should now visit Traffic England. Some of our larger schemes have project pages giving other information. These can now be accessed from a dedicated regional page.

M53 junction 1 to junction 2 (Wallasey to Upton)

Work to upgrade the safety barrier in the central reservation between junctions 1 and 2 on the M53 started on Monday 6 February. Lane closures will be in place overnight, with some full carriageway closures later in the project. The scheme is expected to take around a month to complete.

M53 junction 9 to junction 10

Overnight, 10pm to 5am, Monday to Friday work to renew the safety barrier in the central reservation will start on Monday (20 February) for 5 weeks. This work will require overnight carriageway closures with clearly signed diversion in place.

M56 junction 10 to junction 11 (Stretton to Preston Brook)

Work to upgrade the safety barrier and paint new road markings on the M56 near Warrington started on Monday 30 January. Lane closures will be in place overnight between 8pm and 5am, Monday to Friday. The project is due to be completed by the end of March.

M6 junction 16 to junction 19 (Cheshire smart motorway)

Work is underway to upgrade the M6 to a smart motorway between Crewe and Knutsford, converting the hard shoulder to an extra lane and introducing new variable speed limits. Narrow lanes and a temporary 50mph speed limit are in place for the safety of drivers and workers.

M6 junction 19 (Knutsford) roundabout resurfacing

A £75,000 project to resurface the junction roundabout will be delivered overnight during week nights over the next 2 weeks. The work will start on Monday night (20 February) with nightly overnight closures of the roundabout between 10pm and 5am.

M6 Junction 21 and junction 21a (cycle improvements with A574 Birchwood Way)

We’re improving pedestrian and cyclist access across the M6 with improvements to the existing overbridge and along the bridge’s links with the A574 Birchwood Way.

The project will also improve the bridge parapet. Works started today (Friday 17 February) for 2 weeks. Cycleway improvement work is taking place between 9.30am and 3.30pm Monday to Friday, requiring the closure of the footway along the southern side of the A574 Birchwood Way with a localised pedestrian diversion route. A lane closure will also be required on the A574 Birchwood Way westbound carriageway between the same hours.

Bridge improvement works will follow between 10pm and 4am, Monday to Friday.

The M6 between junction 21 and junction 21a will be closed overnight on Thursday (23 February) and Friday 3 March (both northbound only) and Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday (20, 21, 22 February) and Wednesday and Thursday 1 and 2 March (all southbound). Clearly-signed diversions will be in place.

M6 junction 21a and /M62 junction 10 (Croft Interchange)

Construction work on a major project to tackle congestion and improve the flow of traffic between the M6 and M62 at Croft Interchange has now started. While the work is taking place, a 50 mph speed limit, backed by average speed cameras, will be in place along main carriageways of both the M6 and M62 and interchange link roads. Some overnight slip road closures will also take place.

M6 junction 26 to junction 27 (Orrell to Wigan)

We’re renewing the boundary fence and carrying out drainage repairs in the verge alongside the northbound M6 between Junctions 26 and junction 27 in a 2 week project that starts on Monday (20 February). The work is taking place between 8am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

M6 junction 33 to junction 32 (Lancaster to M55 interchange)

Resurfacing work on the southbound carriageway started on Monday 6 February. 2 lanes will remain open during the day and 1 lane will remain open overnight. The scheme is due to be completed by early March.

M6 junction 34 Lancaster

Lancashire County Council’s new link road between junction 34 of the M6 and Heysham has now opened but finishing work will require lane and hard shoulder closures along the M6 through junction 34 to continue for the time being.

M6 junction 34 to junction 35 (carriageway and drainage repairs)

Overnight drainage and carriageway repairs along the northbound carriageway between Lancaster and Carnforth started on Monday (13 February). Drivers can expect lane – but no full carriageway – closures between 8pm and 6am each night until Friday (24 February).

M6 junction 39 to junction 38, north of Tebay Services

Resurfacing is taking place north of Tebay Services with 1 lane closed during the day and 2 lanes closed overnight on the southbound carriageway. The work is due to be completed by March and a temporary 50mph speed limit in place.

M6 junction 45 to junction 44 (Gretna Green to Carlisle)

Resurfacing work is taking place on the southbound M6 overnight with 1 lane remaining open to traffic. The scheme is due to be completed by the end of February.

M60 junction 8 to M62 junction 20 (Sale to Rochdale)

A major smart motorway scheme is taking place to cut congestion and improve journey times on parts of the M60 and the M62 in Greater Manchester. The scheme involves overnight slip road and carriageway closures, with narrow lanes and a temporary 50mph speed limit in place for the safety of drivers and road workers.

M66 junction 1 to junction 4 (Ramsbottom to Simister Island)

Resurfacing work is continuing and 4 nights of closures of the southbound carriageway between junction 1 and junction 2 are scheduled to take place before Friday (24 February) between 9pm and 5am – with clearly signed diversions in place. The scheme is due to be completed by March.

A5103 Princess Parkway

Drainage repairs along the northbound exit slip road from the A5103 onto the M60 will start on Monday (20 February) with one lane of the slip road closed and re-positioning of the bus stop. Work will take place in several phases between 8am and 6pm and midnight and 5am.

A556 Knutsford to Bowdon

Construction work to provide a £192 million dual carriageway linking junction 19 of the M6 at Knutsford and junction 7 of the M56 at Bowdon, has entered a final phase with the first of 3 full weekend closures of the motorway junctions and the old A556 taking place from 9pm tonight on Friday (17 February) until 5am on Monday (20 February). Routine overnight A556 - 9pm to 5am - closures will continue on weekdays next week and include the northbound between Mere and Bowdon roundabout, southbound between Bowdon roundabout and Bucklow Hill and all M56 slip roads at junction 7 and 8. Overnight traffic travelling between the A56 Lymm and A56 Dunham roads will be managed by temporary traffic lights overnight.

A585 West Drive to Fleetwood Cycleway

Work is taking place on a new shared footpath and cycleway between West Drive and Fleetwood. Narrow lanes and a temporary 30mph speed limit are being used along the route to help provide a safe space for workers constructing the new shared paths. Work will take place between 7am and 7pm each day with occasional overnight work. The project is due to be completed by the end of March.

A590 Lindal in Furness

Work is being carried out to tackle flooding between Pennington Lane and Bank End Cottages. 24hr temporary traffic lights are now in place until late March.

A595 Egremont

Repairs are taking place to the safety barriers adjacent to Wyndham Place on the A595 and are due to be completed by the end of February. A contraflow system is in place on the southern approach to the Main Street/East Road roundabout. Traffic management for the project will be removed next week with a full overnight closure of the carriageway – between 8pm and 6am – on Tuesday night, February 21.

A66 Bassenthwaite Lake

A contraflow system is in place while work is carried out on the embankment in the central reservation next to Bass Lake. The scheme is due to be completed in the spring.

A66 Thornthwaite (Osprey Site)

Flood resilience work is continuing. Full overnight – 8pm to 6am - closures of the carriageway nightly until the end of March started on Monday 6 February. Clearly-signed diversions are in place. During the day, Temporary traffic lights are in place along with a 40mph speed limit.

A66 Marron Bridge

Maintenance is underway on Marron Bridge, between Broughton Cross and Bridgefoot. Nightly overnight – 9pm to 5am - closures, with a clearly-signed diversion are in place. Due to the temporary bridging plates, a 30mph speed limit backed by speed cameras is required during the day. The project is due to be completed by March.

A66 Brough

Resurfacing and drainage work is taking place on the eastbound carriageway at Brough. Overnight lane closures will be in place, between 8pm and 6am, with traffic led through the roadworks by a contractor’s vehicle. There will also be some lane closures in place during the day.

A665 Bury Old Road

A scheme is taking place to upgrade the safety barriers on the A665 bridge on Bury Old Road over the M60 near junction 17 (Whitefield). The work will be carried out between 8.30am and 11pm, Monday to Friday, with temporary traffic lights and lane closures in place from 6.30pm. Some overnight and weekend working may also be required. The Kenilworth Avenue junction with Bury Old Road will be closed throughout the scheme, with a diversion in place. The project is due to be completed by March.

General enquiries

Members of the public should contact the Highways England customer contact centre on 0300 123 5000.

Media enquiries

Journalists should contact the Highways England press office on 0844 693 1448 and use the menu to speak to the most appropriate press officer.

The following summary of planned new and ongoing road improvements over the coming week is correct as of 17 February 2017 but could be subject to change due to weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances. All our improvement work is carried out with the aim of causing as little disruption as possible.

A38 – Claymills to Wood End Lane: carriageway repairs

Southbound carriageway closed overnight between 8pm and 6am from 20 February until 26 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A449 – Gailey Roundabout to Brewood Road: carriageway repairs

South and northbound carriageway closed overnight between 8pm and 6am from 20 February until 26 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A45 – A4423 to Church Road: carriageway repairs

Eastbound carriageway closed overnight between 8pm and 6am from 20 February until 25 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A45 – Stivichall to Tollbar End: carriageway repairs

Westbound carriageway closed overnight for one night from 8pm 21 February until 6am the following morning (22 February). A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A45 – Stonebridge A45/A46 Stivichall Junction and A45/A46 Tollbar: carriageway repairs

Eastbound carriageway and slip roads closed overnight on 22 and 24 February from 8pm until 6am the following morning. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A46 – Oversley to Shottery: carriageway repairs

Carriageway will be closed in both directions overnight between 8pm and 6am from 20 February until 22 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A46 – Salford Priors to Oversley: carriageway repairs

Northbound carriageway will be closed overnight between 8pm and 6am from 20 February until 26 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A46 – Stoneleigh to Stivichall and exit slip road: carriageway repairs

Northbound carriageway and exit slip road closed overnight for one night from 8pm 20 February until 6am the following morning (22 February). A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A46 – Binley Wood to Tollbar: carriageway repairs

Southbound carriageway closed overnight on 23 and 24 February from 8pm until 6am the following morning. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A46 – Stoneleigh to Stivichall: carriageway repairs

Southbound carriageway closed overnight for one night from 8pm 23 February until 6am the following morning (24 February). A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A5 – Wall Island to Muckley Corner: carriageway resurfacing

Westbound carriageway closed overnight between 7pm and 6.30am from 20 February until 26 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A5 – Churchbridge to Turf Island: carriageway resurfacing

Eastbound carriageway closed overnight for one night from 9pm 20 February until 6am the following morning (21 February). A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A5 – Chase Road to Rising Sun island: carriageway resurfacing

Westbound carriageway closed overnight for one night from 9pm 22 February until 6am the following morning (23 February). A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A50 – Meir Tunnel to Stanley Matthews Way: carriageway repairs

Westbound carriageway closed overnight between 8pm and 6am from 20 February until 26 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A50 – Heron Cross to Stanley Matthews Interchange Burton Road entry slip: carriageway repairs

Westbound carriageway closed 24 hour 7 days a week from 8 Feb ongoing until 7 July. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A50 – Blythe Bridge Entry Slip Road to Meir Tunnel: carriageway repairs

Westbound carriageway closed overnight for one night from 8pm 20 February until 6am the following morning (21 February). A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A50 – Heron Cross exit slip road to Foley Road Interchange: carriageway repairs

Eastbound carriageway and all associated slip roads closed overnight for one night from 8pm 20 February until 6am the following morning (21 February). A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A50 – Foley Road exit slip road to Trentham Road: carriageway repairs

Eastbound carriageway and all associated slip roads closed overnight between 8pm and 6am from 21 February until 24 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A50 – Heron Cross exit slip road to Meir Tunnel: carriageway repairs

Eastbound carriageway and all associated slip roads closed overnight between 8pm and 6am from 24 February until 26 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

A500 – Talke Island including exit slip roads and approaches: carriageway repairs

Eastside of the gyratory including all associated slip roads and approaches closed 24 hours 7 days a week from 11 January ongoing until 30 March. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M42 – junction 5 exit slip road: carriageway works

Northbound exit slip road closed overnight between 10pm and 6am from 20 February until 23 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M42 – M6 junction 4a to M42: carriageway works

Southbound carriageway closed overnight between 10pm and 5am from 20 February until 25 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M42 – junction 3a to junction 5 including junction 4 entry slip: carriageway works

Northbound carriageway including junction 4 entry slip road closed overnight between 10pm and 6am from 20 February until 24 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M42 – junction 1 exit and entry slip road: carriageway works

Entry slip and exit slip roads closed overnight in both directions between 9pm and 5.30am from 20 February until 26 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M42 – junction 4 entry slip road: carriageway works

Southbound entry road closed overnight from 10pm 22 February until 5am the following morning (23 February). A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M42 – junction 5 entry slip to junction 6: carriageway works

Northbound carriageway closed overnight between 10pm and 6am from 23 February until 26 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M42 – junction 6 exit slip road: carriageway works

Northbound exit slip road closed overnight between 10pm and 6am from 23 February until 26 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M42 – junction 5 to junction 6: carriageway works

Northbound carriageway closed overnight between 10pm and 6am from 17 February until 19 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M5 – junction 4a to junction 5: carriageway works

Southbound carriageway closed overnight between 8pm and 6am from 20 February to 24 February and then at the same time on 26 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M5 junction 5 to junction 4a: carriageway works

Northbound carriageway including northbound entry slip at junction 5 closed overnight between 8pm and 6am from 20 February until 22 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M5 junction 6 to junction 5: carriageway works

Northbound carriageway including junction 6 northbound entry slip closed overnight between 8pm and 6am from 20 February until 22 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M5 junction 5 to junction 6: carriageway works

Southbound carriageway including southbound entry slip closed overnight between 8pm and 6am on 23 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M50 – junction 1 to junction 2: major scheme works

Westbound carriageway closed overnight between 8pm and 6am from 20 February until 26 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M50 – junction 4 to junction 2: major scheme works

Westbound carriageway closed overnight between 8pm and 6am from 20 February until 22 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M54 – junction 5 to junction 6: carriageway repairs

Westbound carriageway closed overnight between 8pm and 6am from 20 February until 26 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M54 – junction 5 entry slip road: carriageway repairs

Westbound entry slip road carriageway closed overnight between 8pm and 6am from 20 February until 26 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M54 – junction 6 entry slip road: carriageway repairs

Westbound entry slip road carriageway closed overnight between 8pm and 6am from 24 February until 27 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M54 – junction 4 to junction 3: carriageway repairs

Eastbound carriageway closed overnight between 10pm and 6am from 24 February until 27 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M54 – junction 3 to junction 4: carriageway repairs

Westbound carriageway closed overnight between 10pm and 6am from 24 February until 27 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M6 – junction 10 to junction 7 including junction 10 and 9 entry slip roads and link from M5: carriageway works

Southbound carriageway and associated slip roads closed overnight between 9pm and 6am from 20 February until 25 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M6 – junction 11 entry slip road to junction 10 exit including M54 junction 1 entry slip road: carriageway works Southbound carriageway and associated slip roads closed overnight between 9pm and 6am from 20 February until 25 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M6 – junction 7 to junction 8: carriageway works

Northbound carriageway closed overnight between 9pm and 6am from 20 February until 24 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M6 – junction 7 entry slip road: carriageway works

Northbound entry slip road closed 24 hours 7 day days a week from 17 February ongoing until 24 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M6 – junction 7 to junction 10 including junction 9 entry slip and link from M5 northbound: carriageway works

Northbound carriageway and associated slip roads closed overnight between 9pm and 6am from 20 February until 25 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M6 – junction 10 entry slip road to junction 11 exit slip road: carriageway works

Northbound carriageway and associated slip roads closed overnight between 9pm and 6am from 20 February until 25 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M6 – junction 7 entry slip road: carriageway works

Northbound entry slip road closed overnight between 9pm and 9am from 24 February until 26 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

M6 – junction 7 to junction 8: carriageway works

Northbound carriageway closed overnight between 9pm and 9am from 24 February until 26 February. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

General enquiries

Members of the public should contact the Highways England customer contact centre on 0300 123 5000.

Media enquiries

Journalists should contact the Highways England press office on 0844 693 1448 and use the menu to speak to the most appropriate press officer.

The following summary of planned new and ongoing road improvements over the coming week is correct as of 17 February but could be subject to change due to weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances. All our improvement work is carried out with the aim of causing as little disruption as possible.

M20 junctions 3 to 5, Kent: smart motorway surveys

Work to improve journeys continue this week on the M20 between junctions 3 & 5. There will be various lane closures in both directions on Monday 20 February for 5 nights, between 8pm and 6am. Surveys are scheduled to be complete in April 2017.

M23 junctions 8 to 10a, South Nutfield to Crawley: smart motorway surveys

Work to improve journeys continue this week on the M23 between junctions 8 and 10a. There will be various lane closures in place in both directions overnight on Monday 20 February for 5 nights, between 8pm and 6am. Surveys are scheduled to be complete in April 2017.

M23 junction 9 to 8, Horley: embankment works

Work to improve safety continue this week on the M23. Lanes 1 and 2 will be closed on the northbound carriageway on Monday 20 February for 5 nights, between 8pm and 6am. Works are expected to be complete in April 2017.

A2 Darenth to Bean, Kent: carriageway resurfacing

Work to improve journeys continue this week on the A2. There will be a full closure between the Darenth A282 junction and the Bean B255 junction on Monday 20 February for 3 nights between 10pm and 6am. A clearly signed diversion will be in place via the M25 junction 1a, A206 and B255. Works are scheduled to be complete in early March 2017.

A2 Canterbury, Kent: resurfacing

Work to improve journeys take place this week on the A2 between Upper Harbledown and Bridge. There will be a full closure in place on the eastbound carriageway between Upper Harbledown A2050 junction and the Bridge A2050 junction on Friday 24 February overnight between 8pm and 6am. A clearly signed diversion will be in place via the A2050, A28, A257 and the A2050.

A21 Battle, Sussex: tree works

Work to improve safety commence this week on the A21 between Robertsbridge and Hastings. There will be a full closure in place between Johns Cross and Westfield on Monday 20 February for 5 nights between 8pm and 6am. A clearly signed diversion will be in place via the A2100.

A21 Tonbridge to Pembury, Kent: major improvement

Work to improve journeys on the A21 between Tonbridge and Pembury continues this week. A 40mph speed limit remains in place 24/7 between the Vauxhall interchange and the A228.

A full closure will be in place overnight between 8pm and 6am on Friday 24 February on the southbound carriageway between Quarry Hill and Longfield roundabout and on the northbound carriageway between Longfield roundabout and Vauxhall interchange.

A full closure will be in place overnight between 8pm and 6am on Sunday 26 February on the southbound carriageway between Quarry Hill and Pembury interchange and on the northbound carriageway between Pembury Interchange and Vauxhall interchange. In addition Longfield Road will be closed in both directions between Longfield roundabout and Knights Park roundabout. A clearly signed diversion will be in place via the A26, A2014, A26 and the A228.

Two way traffic lights will be in place on the A21 overnight between 8pm and 6am from Monday 20 February for four nights.

Tonbridge Road will remain closed after Pembury Hospital up to and including Longfield Road roundabout until Spring 2017. A clearly signed diversion route will be in place via the A228 and the A21.

The scheme is due to be completed in Summer 2017. For further information, visit the scheme website.

A27 Portslade, Brighton – tunnel maintenance

Works to improve journeys by undertaking routine tunnel maintenance take place this week. The Southwick tunnel will be closed in both directions between 8pm and 6am on Friday 24 February for 2 nights. A clearly signed diversion will be in place via the A270 and A293

A249 Queenborough, Kent – barrier repair

Work to improve safety takes place this week on the A249 at Breille Way. There wil be temporary traffic signals on Monday 20 February between 9am and 4pm.

General enquiries

Members of the public should contact the Highways England customer contact centre on 0300 123 5000.

Media enquiries

Journalists should contact the Highways England press office on 0844 693 1448 and use the menu to speak to the most appropriate press officer.

People across Merseyside and Cheshire are being reminded that consultations over 2 major road improvements – delivering better journeys and a multi-million pound boost for the local and regional economy – will end in just over a week.

The 6 week public consultations over Highways England’s shortlisted options for a brand new junction 11a along the M56 near Runcorn in Cheshire – serving the new Mersey Gateway bridge - and improvements to the A5036 Port of Liverpool route in Merseyside, started in January and will close on Monday 27 February. The consultation included a series of public information events near both locations.

Money for each of the improvements is included in the Government’s £15 billion Road Investment Strategy and as well as improving journeys for commuters and commercial road users, it will support future investment in jobs and housing.

Tristram Bardrick, Highways England’s project manager for the M56 junction 11a scheme, said:

Whether it’s been from people attending one of our public information exhibitions or filling in a questionnaire, we’ve had a fantastic response to both consultations and everyone’s views will be considered as we work towards determining which of the options to take forward to the next stage of design for a start of work before the end of 2020.

We would like to thank people who’ve been involved so far and encourage anyone with an interest in either of the 2 projects to let us know what they think by Monday week.

Carl Stockton, Highways England’s project manager for the A5036 scheme, said:

While we have had a tremendous response so far with over 1,000 questionnaires completed and returned - either through the digital link or in the post direct to the team - we want to hear as many views as possible by 27 February.

The options for the A5036 link between the motorway network at Switch Island and the Port of Liverpool remain a choice between improving the existing road or building a brand new bypass through Rimrose Valley, although some of the ideas have changed. New plans include modifying suggested junction improvements along the existing road to reduce the impact for local people.

Options for the new M56 junction 11a include 2 different ideas for modifying the existing Murdishaw Roundabout with the A553 Southern Expressway. An option for a new junction west of Murdishaw Roundabout has now been discounted.

More information, including consultation brochures and electronic versions of the questionnaires are available on following schemes:

• A5036 Port of Liverpool Access
• M56 new junction 11a

Anyone with any questions about how to get involved can also call the Highways England customer contact centre on 0300 123 5000

General enquiries

Members of the public should contact the Highways England customer contact centre on 0300 123 5000.

Media enquiries

Journalists should contact the Highways England press office on 0844 693 1448 and use the menu to speak to the most appropriate press officer.

The following summary of planned new and ongoing road improvements over the coming week is correct as of 17 February but could be subject to change due to weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances. All our improvement work is carried out with the aim of causing as little disruption as possible.

M3 junctions 2 (M25) to 4a Farnborough, Hampshire: Smart motorway improvement

Work to reduce congestion and improve journey times continues this week with narrow lanes a 50mph speed limit in place on both carriageways between junctions 2 and 4a, with a free recovery service operating 24 hours a day.

For further details, visit the scheme website.

M3 junction 8 Popham, Hampshire: bridge strengthening

Work to maintain journeys by undertaking bridge bearing and support replacement continues this week. Narrow lanes and a 50mph speed restriction are in place on the link form the M3 southbound to the A303 westbound 24 hours a day until May.

M3 junction 11 Winchester, Hampshire: safety barrier

Work to improve safety by carrying out repairs to the barrier along the southbound slip road finishes this week. Lane closures will be in place on the southbound carriageway overnight, between 10pm and 6am, until Friday 24 February.

M3 junctions 12 Chandlers Ford to 13 Eastleigh, Hampshire: signs

Work to keep road users informed by maintaining the signage along the M3 continues this week. Lane closures will be in place on the southbound carriageway overnight, between 9pm and 6am, until Wednesday 8 March (Monday to Friday only).

M4 junction 6 Windsor, Berkshire: resurfacing

Work to improve journeys by repairing a damaged section of the M4 takes place this week. Lane closures will be in place on the eastbound carriageway overnight, between 9pm and 6am, on Monday 20 February.

M4 junctions 7 to 8/9 Maidenhead, Berkshire: street lighting

Work to maintain road user safety by carrying out maintenance to the street lighting along the M4 continues this week. Lane closures will be in place on the east and westbound carriageways overnight, between 9pm and 6am, from Monday 20 February for 3 weeks (Monday to Friday only).

M4 junction 8/9 Maidenhead, Berkshire: street lighting and drainage

Work to maintain road user safety by carrying out maintenance to the street lighting and drainage system at the junction continues this week. Lane closures will be in place on all approaches to the junction overnight, between 9pm and 6am, until Tuesday 29 February (Monday to Friday only).

M4 junction 10 Wokingham, Berkshire: bridge reconstruction

Work to refurbish the bridge which carries the link roads over the M4 continues this week. Narrow lanes and a 40mph speed limit are in place on the slip roads and a 50mph speed limit is in place on the M4 carriageway until November 2017.

M4 junctions 11 to 12 Reading, Berkshire: resurfacing

Work to improve journeys by replacing a bridge joint and resurfacing a section of the M4 westbound carriageway between Moto services and junction 12 continues this week. The westbound carriageway will be fully closed overnight, between 10pm and 6am, on Monday 20 February. A clearly signed diversion will be in place via the A33 and A4.

In addition, lane closures will be in place on the westbound carriageway overnight, between 10pm and 6am, from Tuesday 21 February for 6 nights (Monday to Friday only).

M4 junctions 12 Theale to 13 Chieveley, West Berkshire: resurfacing and bridge refurbishment

Work to improve journeys by resurfacing a section of the westbound carriageway takes place this week. The M4 westbound carriageway between junctions 12 and 13 will be closed overnight, between 10pm and 6am, from Thursday 23 February for 2 nights.

In addition, work to refurbish the bridges which carry the M4 over Dark Lane and Ashampstead Road continues this week. To allow for narrow lanes to be installed, the M4 westbound carriageway between junctions 12 and 13 will be closed overnight, between 10pm and 6am, on Saturday 25 February. The M4 eastbound carriageway between junctions 13 and 12 will be closed overnight, between 10pm and 6am, on Sunday 26 February.

During all closures a clearly signed diversion will be in place via the A4.

M27 junction 2 Ower, Hampshire: signs

Work to keep road users informed by maintaining the signage at the junction finishes this week. Lane closures will be in place on all approaches to the junction overnight, between 9pm and 6am, until Friday 24 February.

M27 junctions 3 Southampton to 2 Ower, Hampshire: resurfacing

Work to improve journeys by resurfacing the M27 westbound carriageway continues this week. Lane closures will be in place on the westbound carriageway with traffic running along the hard shoulder only overnight, between 9pm and 6am, from Monday 20 February for 2 weeks (Monday to Friday only). Traffic will also be directed to exit at junction 3, cross the junction and return onto the M27 westbound carriageway via the entry slip road.

M27 junction 4 Chilworth, Hampshire: road markings

Work to improve journeys by renewing the road markings along the M27 continues this week. The eastbound carriageway between the links for the M3 will be closed overnight, between 10pm and 6am, on Saturday 25 February. A clearly signed diversion in place via the M3 northbound to junction 12 and return.

M27 junctions 7 Hedge End to 8 Bursledon, Hampshire: communications

Work to improve journeys by maintaining the traffic flow sensors within the carriageway takes place this week. The eastbound carriageway from junction 7 to junction 8 will be closed overnight, between 10pm and 6am, from Monday 20 February for 2 nights. A clearly signed diversion will be in place via Charles Watts Way, Kanes Hill and A3024.

M27 junction 8 Bursledon, Hampshire: road markings

Work to improve journeys by renewing the road markings along the M27 continues this week. The westbound entry slip road at junction 8 and lanes 1 and 2 of the main carriageway will be closed overnight, between 10pm and 6am, on Wednesday 22 February. A clearly signed diversion in place via junction 9 and return.

In addition, the eastbound entry slip road at junction 8 and lanes 1 and 2 of the main carriageway will be closed overnight, between 10pm and 6am, on Sunday 26 February.

A clearly signed diversion in place via junction 7 and return.

M271 Southampton, Hampshire: signs

Work to improve journeys by maintaining the road signage along the M271 takes place this week. Lane closures will be in place on the northbound and southbound carriageways between Redbridge Roundabout and the M27 overnight, between 9pm and 6am, on Tuesday 21 February.

A27 Langstone, Hampshire: resurfacing

Work to ensure road user safety by repairing a damaged section of the A27 westbound carriageway takes place this week. The westbound carriageway between the slip roads at the A3023 Langstone junction will be closed overnight, between 9pm and 6am, from Tuesday 21 February for 2 nights. A clearly signed diversion will be in place down and across the junction.

A31 Ashley Heath to St Leonards, Dorset: drainage

Work to maintain road user safety by carrying out drainage maintenance starts this week. Lane closures will be in place on the east and westbound carriageways overnight, between 9pm and 6am, until Friday 24 February.

A34 Bullington Cross to Highclere, Hampshire: resurfacing and road marking

Work to improve road user’s journeys by resurfacing a section of the A34 northbound carriageway starts this week. The A34 northbound carriageway will be closed from the A303 (Bullington Cross) to the A343 (Wash Common) overnight, between 10pm and 6am, from Monday 20 February for 11 nights (Monday to Friday only). A clearly signed diversion will be in place via the A303, Andover and A343.

A34 Chieveley to Speen, West Berkshire: road markings

Work to improve journeys by renewing the road markings along the A34 continues place this week. The A34 southbound carriageway from the Chieveley Junction (M4 junction 13) to the A4 (Speen) will be closed overnight, between 10pm and 6am, until Tuesday 21 February. A clearly signed diversion will be in place via Newbury.

A34 Oxford, Oxfordshire: resurfacing

Work to improve road user’s journeys by resurfacing the A34 northbound carriageway around Oxford finishes this week. The A34 northbound carriageway will be closed from the Hinksey Hill Interchange to the Botley Interchange overnight, between 10pm and 6am, until Friday 24 February. A clearly signed diversion will be in place via the Oxford ring-road (A4142 Eastern-by-Pass, A40 Northern-by-Pass and A44).

General enquiries

Members of the public should contact the Highways England customer contact centre on 0300 123 5000.

Media enquiries

Journalists should contact the Highways England press office on 0844 693 1448 and use the menu to speak to the most appropriate press officer.

To help customers process their work and save time, we have reduced the number of documents we send to confirm their application.

Receive fewer documents online

From today, customers who send an application to us online will receive fewer confirmation documents.

Customers who receive their completed applications through the Land Registry portal or via Business Gateway will now receive a single Register Completion Sheet. This will contain important information that used to be on the Title Information Document. The Title Information Document duplicated much of the information in the Register Completion Sheet and contained information that is no longer relevant.

We will send a bilingual Register Completion Sheet when we complete any application against a Welsh title.

In November 2016, we introduced this change for customers who receive confirmation through the post.

We are currently testing an option for customers who use our online services, to choose whether they receive separate completion documents, or whether they receive a single combined PDF. We hope to introduce this option next month.

Innovate UK and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) are inviting business to apply for a share of up to £14 million to develop quantum technologies.

Quantum technologies have the potential to significantly improve imaging and computing. We predict they will have a major impact on the finance, defence, aerospace, energy and telecommunications sectors.

The competition aims to encourage collaborative research and development (CR&D) projects and feasibility studies that will either:

• develop prototype devices and demonstrators of quantum technologies or their component technologies
• improve the understanding of the technical, business or market challenges of taking a new device or service to market

There are 2 streams of the competition to support technologies at different stages of development.

Feasibility studies

This competition strand is seeking collaborative feasibility studies that will improve understanding of the technical or market feasibility of a product or service. Projects can be technical or non-technical projects and focus on understanding the business or market opportunity and challenges. They should last between 6 and 12 months with costs from £50,000 to £500,000.

Collaborative R&D

Projects in the collaborative research and development strand should be challenge-led. We are looking to fund projects that produce prototype devices and demonstrators with a clear commercial application or market need. They should last between 12 and 18 months with costs from £500,000 to £2 million.

Competition information

• this competition is open and the deadline for registration is midday on Wednesday 29 March 2017
• proposals must be collaborative and a UK-based business must lead the project
• there will be briefing events for potential applicants in Edinburgh (21 February) and Birmingham (2 March)

Member protection, funding and investment, scheme affordability and consolidation will be reviewed as part of the consultation.

The government will also consider strengthened powers for The Pensions Regulator.

The green paper will be a wide ranging call for evidence from employers, the pensions industry and consumers.

Background

Defined benefit schemes, many of which are also known as ‘final salary pensions’, are an important pillar of the UK economy and our pensions system. Currently, around 11 million members in the UK will rely on a defined benefit scheme for all or part of their retirement income and defined benefit pensions hold around £1.5 trillion of assets.

Increased life expectancy, changes to working patterns and the economy mean that defined benefit schemes are operating in very different circumstances from when they first became popular.

The purpose of the green paper

The government is committed to a system that works for employers, schemes and the 11 million people who are in a defined benefit scheme.

The green paper will consider the powers of The Pensions Regulator and encourage a debate about striking the right balance between the needs and aspirations of sponsoring employers, members, the Pension Protection Fund, and the wider economy to ensure that no one group is unfairly disadvantaged.

Minister for Pensions, Richard Harrington, said:

People need to have confidence in their pension and it is vital that they feel that they are secure. With recent high profile cases highlighting the risks inherent in defined benefit pensions, we want to ensure that these important pension schemes remain sustainable for the future and that the right protections are in place for members.

Over the coming months we’ll be working closely with the pensions industry, employers and scheme members to see what more can be done to increase confidence in defined benefit pensions.

While there is no evidence of a systematic issue, the government recognises that recent high profile cases have raised concerns regarding pensions and is looking to improve confidence in the sector and hear from a wide range of experts, employers and consumers about what action or support could be put in place.

The green paper looks at a range of issues that have been raised by various stakeholders. In particular it focuses on 4 key areas so that we can start to build consensus on whether we may want to reform the current system. They are:

• funding and investment

• scheme affordability

• member protection

• consolidation.

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