Weekly Policy Update – 19–26 June 2025
Stay informed with the latest policy developments from the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Here’s a brief summary of the key highlights:
- Industrial Strategy Published (23 June):
The Government unveiled a ten-year Industrial Strategy targeting eight priority sectors (from financial services to clean energy), backed by a £7.3 billion National Wealth Fund. New initiatives include Technical Excellence Colleges, AI Growth Zones and a Business Growth Service launching summer 2025, alongside measures to lower industrial electricity costs and expand access to finance. - Trade Strategy Launched (26 June):
The UK’s first post-EU Trade Strategy pledges to unlock £5 billion in export opportunities via a new Ricardo Fund, boost UK Export Finance’s capacity to £80 billion, and fortify trade defences. It introduces SME-focused schemes (Small Export Builder, streamlined export insurance) and commits the UK to the WTO’s MPIA arbitration arrangement, building on recent deals with India, the US and the EU. - UKEF Direct Lending Expansion (24 June):
UK Export Finance increased its Direct Lending Facility to £13 billion—earmarking at least £3 billion for defence exports—and launched a loan guarantee for critical-minerals supply chains. Plans also include raising its statutory commitment limit and growing its network of export finance managers. - UK–Bahrain Investment Partnership Signed:
A Strategic Investment and Collaboration Partnership commits £2 billion (double the 2023 pledge) to financial services, clean energy, manufacturing and technology, coinciding with the UK’s accession to the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA). - Consultations on Sustainable Finance (25 June):
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband launched three open consultations (closing 17 September 2025) on climate-related transition plan requirements, sustainability reporting standards, and assurance provider registration—part of the government’s push to position the UK as a global sustainable finance hub. - London Climate Finance Taskforce & Green Fund Round:
The Mayor announced a new Climate Finance Taskforce (chaired by Dr Rhian-Mari Thomas OBE) and the fifth £500 million round of the Green Finance Fund, which has already committed £318 million to projects saving over 45,000 tonnes of CO₂. - Smarter Regulatory Sandbox for Construction Safety (24 June):
The HSE, with the Safety tech Accelerator, launched a sandbox to trial AI and robotics for compliance monitoring in construction. Backed by a £249,580 grant, early trials show improved risk detection and the development of machine-readable regulations. - SME Exporter Awards Announced:
The “Made in the UK, Sold to the World” Awards honoured 12 SMEs for excellence in export—highlighting strengths in sustainability and AI—and introduced new categories for Digital & Technology and Export Services. Winners gain tailored promotional support and access to export networks.
Sources: London Chamber of Commerce and Industry Weekly Policy Update 26JUNE25