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Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

Correspondence
Chancellor letter to the Treasury Select Committee (TSC) – Budget 2026 date

The Chancellor has today written to the Treasury Select Committee (TSC) to confirm the date of the budget.

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Chancellor letter to the Treasury Select Committee (TSC)
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The Budget will be held on 28 October 2026.

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Published 31 July 2026

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Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

Press release
Budget to move “power and money out of Westminster, and into every postcode around Britain”.

Today (Friday 31 July), the Chancellor has confirmed that the date of the Budget will be Wednesday 28 October.

In a video message posted this afternoon, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, John Healey MP said:

This government is working fast to restore hope and back Britain’s communities.


In the past two weeks, we have begun to kickstart growth in every postcode.


We have backed British jobs, British skills and British businesses.

 
And we have provided just a bit of breathing-space for those families and businesses that feel so squeezed, that feel without hope.

 
Today, I’m confirming the date of my first Budget as Chancellor will be Wednesday 28th October.


This will be a Budget that moves money and power out of Westminster, and into every postcode around Britain.


It will be built on fiscal discipline.

 
It will meet our fiscal rules.

 It’ll give businesses and families some of the stability they need to plan for the future.


Now, let’s get on with the job.

More information

Watch the Chancellor’s announcement video
HM Treasury has launched the Budget Representation Portal where you can submit comments on existing policy for consideration in the Budget.

The portal will close at 23:59 on Wednesday 9 September.

The representations will be collated and shared with HMT policy officials.

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

Press release
Government takes action to crack down on rogue funeral operators

Urgent work to take place to protect bereaved families.

Proposals for formal regulation of the funeral sector to be developed following harrowing case in Hull
DHSC to lead cross-government work to ensure that every person in every setting is treated with the respect they deserve in death.


Work will formally commence following the sentencing of criminal funeral director Robert Bush today

The government has announced urgent plans to crack down on rogue operators in the funeral sector and ensure better protection for bereaved families after the sentencing of Robert Bush today.


Bush, of Legacy Independent Funeral Directors in Hull, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for a total of 67 charges, including the prevention of a lawful and decent burial, fraud, fraudulent trading, and theft.


The Department for Health and Social Care will now drive forward work alongside other government departments, including the Ministry of Justice and the Law Commission to crack down on rogue operators in the funeral sector, and to protect bereaved families against the heartbreak of having their loved ones mistreated in death.


This will include developing a range of detailed proposals to drive up standards, including regulation of the funeral sector.

These will be drawn up in discussion with established operators, faith groups, families, and other stakeholders.


As part of this work, the Law Commission will undertake a review of the criminal law in relation to the deceased, consider any gaps in existing legal protections and make recommendations on the creation of new offences, if they are needed.


For bereaved families, there can be few things more painful than knowing a loved one was not treated properly after they died.

The deceased cannot speak for themselves, which is why clear safeguards, stronger oversight and consistent standards are needed to protect their dignity and give families the reassurance they deserve.


Health and Social Care Secretary, Yvette Cooper said:

Robert Bush’s actions were utterly abhorrent, and my thoughts are with all the bereaved families in Hull who have been so badly let down.


In the wake of this horrific case, we will now bring forward comprehensive proposals to ensure respect and dignity for the deceased in every setting, including proper regulation of the funeral sector.

We are determined to drive rogue operators out of this industry, and protect other families from suffering this same heartache.


Every person in every situation deserves dignity in death, and every bereaved family deserves certainty that their loved ones are being treated with care and respect.

The Government will work closely with bereaved families, funeral providers, faith groups and others to ensure that future policy is proportionate, effective and informed by those with relevant experience.

 
This will ensure action is designed to give families confidence that funeral providers are meeting clear, consistent standards, no matter where they live or which provider they choose.


It will also reinforce the profound responsibility placed on anyone entrusted with caring for someone after death.


This case is another horrendous example of where the deceased have not been honoured with the care and respect many of us would have expected.

The findings from Sir Jonathan Michael’s independent inquiry into the actions that allowed David Fuller to commit his horrific crimes showed that we need to consider how we can ensure better standards across all settings that look after our loved ones after they die, including where some level of regulation is already in place.


Many funeral providers offer compassionate and professional care every day.

Stronger oversight, including regulation and other measures, would protect families from poor practice, support good providers, and restore confidence in a sector people rely on when they are at their most vulnerable.


Andrew Judd, Chief Executive Officer, National Association of Funeral Directors, said: 

We welcome the government’s commitment to raising standards and oversight across the whole funeral sector and look forward to working with government to ensure that every single deceased person and their bereaved families are treated with the respect and dignity that they deserve.


We will work with Government and industry during the engagement to secure meaningful change for all bereaved families as soon as possible.

We believe that statutory regulation can best achieve this aim and will continue to make that case during this process.

Paul Allcock, Government Liaison at the National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF), said: 

SAIF welcomes the DHSC’s commitment to engaging with the funeral profession on regulation.

 
Any framework must protect the deceased and their families as a priority, but must also uphold standards and recognise small and medium-sized independent funeral businesses.

It should be proportionate, preserve family choice and maintain a diverse market.

 
We’re committed to supporting the engagement and cross-government work.

 
SAIF members currently follow the UK Funeral Director Code and undergo inspections of premises, mortuary facilities and administrative processes.

Families also have access to an independent complaints and redress process, delivered by an externally audited alternative dispute resolution body certified by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute, providing an added safeguard.

 
We’ll continue working closely with the DHSC and MOJ to shape regulation that protects the deceased, their families and supports a sustainable funeral profession.

Phil Rosenberg, President of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, said:  

We look forward to working with the Department of Health and Social Care and the Ministry of Justice to ensure the improvement of standards in the funeral sector enable all families and communities to bury their loved ones with dignity and care.


The Jewish community is proud of its high standards of care for the deceased and internal regulatory processes, which ensure that Jewish people are buried safely, respectfully, and in accordance with religious requirements.

Mohamed Omer MBE, Chair, National Burial Council, said: 

We have followed the Robert Bush (Legacy Independent Funeral Directors) case with deep distress.

The findings are profoundly troubling and have caused immense pain to families who entrusted their loved ones to this service.

We extend our heartfelt sympathies to all bereaved families affected by this appalling breach of trust, care and decency.

 
The National Burial Council welcomes the Government’s commitment to urgent action to strengthen oversight, accountability and professional standards across the funeral sector.

Muslim and Jewish communities have specific religious requirements for timely burial and respectful handling of the deceased, making dignity and transparency essential.

NBC works closely with burial societies and funeral directors to uphold high standards and will support DHSC and the Ministry of Justice in strengthening safeguards and effective self‑regulation.

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Updates to this page
Published 31 July 2026

Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

Press release
G7 Cyber Expert Group 2026 Cross Border Coordination Exercise (CBCE)

The G7 Cyber Expert Group has successfully concluded its 2026 Cross-border-coordination exercise.

The G7 Cyber Expert Group (CEG) successfully concluded its 2026 Cross-border-coordination exercise (CBCE) on May 18 2026.

This exercise demonstrates the Group’s ongoing commitment to strengthening cyber resilience across the G7 financial sector.

A long-term exercise strategy has now been adopted to increase the frequency and consistency of these simulations, thereby enhancing preparedness across all jurisdictions.


Building on the success of the 2024 CBCE exercise, which aimed to strengthen the G7 financial authorities’ capacity to coordinate and communicate effectively in response to a major cross-border cyber incident affecting the financial sector, this year’s sessions tested key improvements identified through previous simulations and workshops focused on incident response, recovery, and crisis communication, further advancing collective preparedness.

To enhance coordination among G7 financial authorities, the exercise simulated a large-scale cyber-attack across all G7 jurisdictions.

The scenario brought together ministries of finance, central banks, bank supervisors, and market authorities, fostering a unified response.


Through these exercises, the G7 Cyber Expert Group seeks to reinforce the financial sector’s capacity to withstand cyber threats and reduce potential disruptions across G7 jurisdictions.


This initiative enables financial authorities to further align and integrate the various operational and strategic components required for an effective response to cyber incidents.


In an increasingly interconnected world, cross-border coordination, incident response preparedness, and timely information sharing remain key G7 priorities.

The G7 Cyber Expert Group continues to work and collaborate to address potential cyber threats to safeguard the stability and integrity of the global financial system.


About the G7 Cyber Expert Group
The G7 Cyber Expert Group is responsible for coordinating cybersecurity policy and strategy across the G7 jurisdictions.

Its mission is to enhance the cyber resilience of the financial sector by fostering preparedness, establishing a shared understanding of the threat landscape, and promoting unified approaches to risk mitigation.


Recent G7 Cyber Expert Group publications include:

G7 Cyber Expert Group Statement on AI and Cybersecurity (2025)
G7 CEG Reconnection Framework Best Practice (2025)
G7 Cyber Expert Group statement on transition to post-quantum cryptography (2026)

For more information about the G7 Cyber Expert Group and its publications, please visit here.

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release
PM call with Prime Minister Modi of India: 31 July 2026

The Prime Minister spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India today.

The Prime Minister spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India today.


The Prime Minister began by reflecting on the strength of the UK-India partnership and the significant impact it has had on local communities across the UK.


The Prime Minister set out his ambitions to further enhance the UK-India relationship, including through the UK-India Vision 2035 framework and strong people-to-people links.

 
The Prime Minister praised the contribution Indian communities in the UK make to the fabric of UK society, with Prime Minister Modi noting the links between the two leaders’ own home cities of Manchester and Ahmedabad, in Gujarat,  which he called the “Manchester of India”.


Turning to trade, the Prime Minister underlined the value of the recently introduced Free Trade Agreement between the UK and India, which will create opportunities for people across both countries.


The Prime Minister set out his personal commitment to the UK-India Technology Security Initiative, and both leaders noted the potential to work together on cutting edge technology, such as AI.


The two leaders then discussed the situation in the Middle East, agreeing to continue to work closely together towards deescalation and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.


Both leaders look forward to speaking again soon and meeting in person at the earliest opportunity.

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

News story
Criminal Bills Assessment Manual (CBAM) and Supervisor Guidance

We have made a number of changes to the Criminal Bills Assessment Manual (CBAM) and Supervisor Guidance for the 2025 Crime Contract.

Updates to the Criminal Bills Assessment Manual and Supervisor Guidance take effect on 31 July 2026 for the Crime Contract.


Changes to CBAM
We have made bespoke changes to prison law funding.

These changes follow discussions with the Association of Prison Lawyers (APL).

The Prison Law chapter now offers greater clarity and practical guidance for providers and Legal Aid Agency (LAA) caseworkers.

This includes guidance on the Parole Board process and other core prison law issues.


We have also reduced the administrative burden on providers.

These amendments apply across all criminal legal aid categories.

They relate to remuneration for administrative activities, including completing forms and other interactions with the LAA.

The changes align criminal legal aid guidance more closely with existing civil legal aid arrangements, promoting consistency across both areas.


We have amended the general principles in CBAM relating to the assessment of costs for telephone calls and letters.

This will have a wider impact across criminal legal aid cases.

As with other amendments, we have drawn on wording used in civil guidance to help ensure a consistent approach.


Changes to Supervisor Guidance
Our supervision guidance includes paragraphs from the Solicitors Regulation Authority’s (SRA) guidance on effective supervision.

We have updated this in line with the changes the SRA made on 12 June 2026, following the Court of Appeal decision in CILEX and others v Mazur and others.


Why we are making these changes
We are making these changes following discussions with representative bodies on operational improvements that would benefit providers, particularly in relation to prison law.

These amendments take effect on 31 July 2026.


Further information
Criminal Bills Assessment Manual
Supervisor Requirements and Guidance on Effective Supervision
Standard Crime Contract 2025

Source: City of Derby

Elite track cyclists and athletes from Scotland, New Zealand, South Africa and Ghana have used Derby Arena as a training base ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Over the course of July, Derby Arena Velodrome Track has become a hub of elite international sport, with nations from around the globe setting up camp to prepare for the Games.

Team Scotland was the first to arrive, relocating to Derby after the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome in Glasgow closed for Games preparations. The squad brought the majority of its riders to sharpen their form ahead of the competition, with Lewis Askey the notable absentee instead competing at the Tour de France. Among those on the boards in Derby were World, European and Olympic medallists including Neil Fachie OBE, Neah Evans, Lauren Bell and Fin Graham MBE.

New Zealand Cycling arrived shortly after, travelling from the other side of the world to base half of its track cycling squad in Derby, including medal contenders Ellesse Andrews, Emma Foy and Sam Dakin.

South African track sprinter Mitch Sparrow also based himself in Derby ahead of his first Commonwealth Games, where he will compete in the track sprint events.

Ghana brought its cycling team to Derby Arena, while other members of its Commonwealth Games delegation, including weightlifting, athletics and para-athletics athletes, trained across the city. The Derby Arena team provided additional support to the Ghana cycling squad, including rider coaching and bike repairs and improvements, to give the squad the best possible chance of success at the Games.

Derby Arena and the city of Derby are proud to have hosted and supported all these nations, and hope that their time in Derby helps set them up for medal success in Glasgow.

Councillor Ndukwe Onuoha, Derby City Council’s Cabinet Member for Streetpride, Public Safety and Leisure, said:

It has been a fantastic month for Derby Arena, welcoming elite athletes from Scotland, New Zealand, South Africa and Ghana as they put the finishing touches to their preparations for Glasgow 2026. Our world class facilities exist to support sport at every level, from grassroots participation to Commonwealth Games champions. We wish every athlete who trained here the very best of luck at the Games.

Source: City of Derby

Derby City Council and the Cathedral Quarter Business Improvement District (BID) have confirmed that the city’s beloved ice rink will be making a welcome comeback this Christmas, with tickets available to book from Saturday 1 August.

Located in Derby Market Place, the covered Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink is set to be the star attraction of this year’s seasonal celebrations. Skaters can hit the ice from Friday 28 November all the way through to New Year’s Eve.

From seasoned skaters to absolute beginners, the rink offers a wonderful festive activity for all ages and skill levels. Ticket prices include full-hour sessions and skate hire, with free balance aids available for anyone needing a bit of extra support on the ice.

Making a popular return alongside the rink is the enchanting Nordic Bar, brought to life in partnership with Sami Tipi and Mambo Bars. Housed inside striking tipis, it provides the ultimate winter retreat to thaw out and unwind. Guests can soak up the atmosphere complete with twinkling fairy lights, festive greenery, disco balls, and roaring firepits.

Councillor Gurkiran Kaur, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for City Centre, Culture and Tourism, said:

The Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink is a highlight of the festive calendar in Derby, and we’re thrilled to bring it back alongside the brilliant Nordic Bar. Festive Derby continues to grow year after year, and 2026 is shaping up to be our best yet. We look forward to welcoming residents and visitors into the city centre to make some magical memories.

Visitors to the Nordic Bar can look forward to a rich menu of seasonal drinks, from rich hot chocolates and spiced mulled wine to festive cocktails, alongside a lineup of delicious local food vendors. The tipis will also play host to an array of live entertainment, including musical performances and family shows.

Building on the success of last year, which saw over 22,000 visitors head to the Nordic Bar and 11,000 people take the ice, this season promises to be even bigger.

Craig Bidder, founder of The Nordic Bar Co, said:

We always get such a fantastic reception in Derby! Returning with our tipis for another Christmas is an absolute joy, and we’re getting ready to bring even more seasonal cheer to the city centre this year.

Brad Worley, Manager for the Cathedral Quarter and St Peters Quarter BIDs, said:

We’re delighted to partner with Derby City Council once again to sponsor the Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink. It has become a true focal point for the festive season, creating a fantastic buzz, boosting footfall for our local traders, and sprinkling a special Christmas magic over the city centre.

The ice rink and Nordic Bar will officially open on Saturday 28 November to coincide with the grand launch of Festive Derby and the Christmas Lights Switch-On, supported by media partner Smooth Radio. Visitors can follow illuminated trail displays across the city centre leading into the Cathedral Quarter, where weekend entertainment will be hosted throughout the season.

Last year’s visitors were left feeling truly festive:

“This season, Derby is the ultimate choice for unforgettable experiences that will shine brightly in your memories for years to come…Festive Derby has it all. A true Christmas gift wrapped in joy and wonder, it’s the perfect destination to make your celebrations unforgettable!” What’s Good To Do

Tickets for the Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink are on sale from Saturday 1 August so if you want to secure the date for a festive group get-together, plan a work event or simply want something exciting to look forward to, book your tickets now. The rink is popular for group bookings and is also available for private hire, so if you’re planning an event, get in touch!

Standard tickets priced at £13 during peak sessions and £11 for off-peak sessions. Under 16s tickets are £11 during peak sessions and £9 during off-peak sessions.

There are family and group discounts available, starting at groups of 4+, with larger discounts available for bigger group bookings. There will also be special sessions for toddlers and their parents/carers. The rink is wheelchair accessible. Check the Derby LIVE website for opening times and booking information.

Of course, the festive season wouldn’t be complete without Derby’s annual panto spectacular at Derby Arena. This year we’re teaming up with Morgan Brind and the multi award-winning Little Wolf Entertainment  again to present Snow White from Friday 4 to Thursday 31 December.

Tickets for all shows and attractions can be purchased on the Derby LIVE website, at the Sales and Information Centre,19 Chapel Street, Derby, DE1 3GU, or by calling 01332 255 800.

Source: City of Preston

Laughter at The Lounge, Preston’s monthly comedy club, returns this August with another exceptional line up of stand-up talent, bringing together three of the UK’s most exciting comedians for an unforgettable night of live entertainment.

Taking place on Friday 7 August 2026, the latest edition of the popular comedy night will feature performances from Karen Bayley, Sandro Ford, and Elliot Steel, each bringing their own unique style of comedy to The Guild Lounge.

Held on the first Friday of every month, Laughter at The Lounge has quickly become a must visit event for comedy fans, highlighting a carefully curated mix of established names and rising stars from across the UK comedy circuit.

Leading the August line-up is Karen Bayley, one of the UK’s most respected stand-up comedians. Known for her fearless humour, razor sharp one-liners and infectious stage presence, Karen became the first female winner of The Comedy Store’s prestigious King Gong competition. She has toured alongside comedy favourites Joe Lycett and Jason Manford, performing to audiences across the UK and internationally.

Joining Karen is Sandro Ford, a fast-rising comedian whose sharp observations, brilliant storytelling and unapologetically honest style have earned him a loyal following. As co-host of the popular Problematic Pub Podcast, Sandro has also appeared on Have a Word, Dead Men Talking and Hot Water Green Room. Drawing inspiration from everyday life, growing up, getting older and the unforgettable characters found in and around pubs, he is quickly becoming one of the most exciting names on the comedy circuit.

Completing the lineup is Elliot Steel, one of British comedy’s brightest young talents. Performing stand-up since the age of 16, Elliot has appeared on Comedy Central’s Roast Battle, BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 4 as well as performing at the Edinburgh Fringe, The Comedy Store, Hot Water Comedy Club, and many of the UK’s leading comedy venues. Renowned for his intelligent, fearless, and unpredictable style, Elliot consistently delivers performances that leave audiences wanting more.

Whether you are a dedicated comedy fan or simply looking for a great night out with friends, Laughter at The Lounge promises another evening packed with laughter from three outstanding performers.

Laughter at The Lounge event details

Date/time – Friday 7 August (8pm)
Cost – £19

To book visit The Guild Lounge – Laughter at the Lounge.

Please note that line-ups may be subject to change at short notice.

Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

Families in Stoke-on-Trent will soon find it easier to get the support they need through a new family help programme.

The new programme – the local delivery of the government’s Families First Partnership – is designed to make support simpler, earlier and more effective.

It is designed to make support easier to access and navigate by placing one trusted practitioner at the centre of each family’s journey.

A Family Help Lead Practitioner will work with every family who needs this level of support. Families will no longer need to repeat their story to multiple teams.

The single point of contact will make it easier for families to:

• Understand what help is available
• Get the right support at the right time
• Build confidence to manage challenges

Family Help Lead Practitioners will bring together support from education, health, early help, housing and wider services to help children grow up safe, well and thriving, whatever their family’s situation.

The programme focuses on early help so issues can be addressed before they grow into crisis. Support may include help for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), guidance for families from different cultural backgrounds, support for families where a parent is in custody and practical day-to-day assistance.

The role focuses on early support to work with families to solve problems early and provide help before situations reach crisis point.

In Stoke-on-Trent, the new programme will build on the success of the existing Family Matters programme. The two offers are distinct but closely linked, creating a seamless pathway of support across the city.

Councillor Sarah Jane Colclough, cabinet member for children’s services at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “In Stoke-on-Trent we want families to get the right support at the right time, without the stress of repeating their story to different services. A single point of contact will make that possible.

“One trusted practitioner will build a relationship with each family, coordinate help and make support clearer and more joined up.

“This builds on what already works in our city and gives families one contact, one shared plan and one clearer route into support.

“This is about evolution, not revolution. By stepping in earlier, we can make support less stressful and more effective – helping families through challenges before they become crises.”

Claire Bailey, Managing Director of the Children and Families Care Group at the Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The Families First Partnership Programme puts health and support at the heart of family life – strengthening wellbeing by supporting families early, working together across services, including MPFT’s Integrated 0-19 Health Visiting & School Nursing Service and building the foundations for healthier, more resilient communities.

“When families are supported to thrive, health outcomes improve for everyone.”

Detective Chief Superintendent, Sally Blaiklock, Head of Public Protection, Staffordshire Police, said: “Families First is a significant step forward in how we support and protect children, young people and families.

“By bringing agencies together through one coordinated approach, we can identify vulnerability earlier, reduce harm and ensure families receive the right support before problems escalate into crisis.

“Building on the strong partnerships already established across Stoke-on-Trent, this programme will strengthen safeguarding, support victims and help deliver better outcomes for those who need us most.”

Vanessa Whatley, Chief Nursing Officer for NHS Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent and NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin Integrated Care Boards, said:

“We welcome the introduction of the Families First Partnership Programme in Stoke-on-Trent, which reflects our shared commitment to providing earlier, more joined-up support for children, young people and their families. By bringing services together around a single trusted practitioner, families will find it easier to access the right help at the right time.

Partnership working is central to improving outcomes for children and families, and this programme strengthens collaboration across services, ensuring families receive co-ordinated support that is accessible and focused on helping children and young people thrive.”

The delivery of Families First is being shaped using feedback from local children and families, ensuring it reflects real experiences in the city.

Families can find support, tips and information, and share their views, at https://families.stoke.gov.uk/familyfirst