Soil nutrient balances.

Previously published copies of the monthly National Statistics publications on the activity of UK hatcheries and UK poultry slaughterhouses

Monthly statistics on the activity of UK hatcheries and UK poultry slaughterhouses.

The use of NDAs – legally binding contracts to maintain confidentiality – has been routine for trade groups and businesses working with the government over the past three years.

But Ministers believe that they hinder constructive debate and exchange of information, with some organisations for example saying they restrict their ability to properly tell members how to prepare for Brexit.

As the government continues to accelerate its preparations for Brexit on October 31, the decision to ditch NDAs in the vast majority of circumstances, was made this week by Ministers at a XO committee meeting.

From today, such agreements will only be entered into, or existing agreements maintained, when this is strictly necessary, including for example to protect the interests of third parties.

A government spokesperson said:

As we continue our preparations for Brexit on October 31, it makes no sense to engage processes which hinder constructive debate, transparency and exchange of information. It is vital that trade groups and businesses can speak openly to one another about preparations and so we will no longer enter into such agreements unless absolutely necessary.

The UK’s new High Commissioner to the Bahamas, Her Excellency Sarah Dickson today presented her letter of introduction to Dr The Hon. Hubert Minnis, Prime Minister of the Bahamas.

The presentation of the letter and subsequent meeting at the Prime Minister’s office signalled the reopening of the British High Commission in Nassau after 14 years.

Mrs Dickson’s letter of introduction from British Prime Minister, The Rt Hon. Boris Johnson MP noted the UK’s intention to maintain “the relations of close friendship which so happily exist” between both countries.

The High Commissioner also expressed her enthusiasm in being appointed to reopen and head the UK’s mission to the Bahamas.

“It is a great pleasure and honour to serve in this beautiful island nation as British High Commissioner,” Mrs Dickson remarked. She commented that both countries have a long shared history; common values such as democracy and the rule of law; and similar interests including protecting the environment and promoting trade.

The reopening of our Mission in Nassau allows us to supercharge our historic friendship as partners in the Commonwealth whilst signalling the UK’s commitment to being truly global.

“I’ve been warmly received since officially arriving in The Bahamas. Everyone I have met has been kind and friendly. I am confident that the relationship and ties between our two countries will strengthen as a result of reopening the High Commission.”

The High Commissioner has served the British Diplomatic Service for more than 20 years. Her last diplomatic appointment was as Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Guatemala and Honduras. She has also served in Spain, Argentina and Yugoslavia; as well as various appointments in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London.

Mrs Dickson has just returned from a role as International Director at the Scotch Whisky Association supporting British exports around the world.

The High Commissioner will be accompanied by her husband and two children.