Hamish Falconer

Ministers and MPs, including Robert Jenrick and Hamish Falconer, have expressed anger over the cancellation or delay of road infrastructure projects in their constituencies to fund a defense spending increase. Investment cuts in the East Midlands and other regions contribute to a £15bn defense uplift.

Pakistan and the UK agreed to expand cooperation in counterterrorism, combating illegal migration, institutional collaboration, and police training. The UK minister praised Pakistan's role in the US-Iran peace deal and highlighted progress from the UPSCALE Project. Both sides also discussed addressing fake student visas and illegal migration enforcement in Pakistan.

The UK announced an additional £8 million to support joint efforts with Pakistan against crime and illegal migration, thanking Pakistan for facilitating the US-Iran peace deal. The funding will enhance border management, visa systems, and law-enforcement cooperation to disrupt human-smuggling networks and address migration drivers.

Pakistan's Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb emphasized economic planning mindful of external and geopolitical risks during a meeting with UK Parliamentary Under-Secretary Hamish Falconer. Discussions covered regional stability, structural reforms, and strengthening Pakistan-UK economic cooperation.

A UK MP stated Pakistan has the right under international law to defend itself against attacks from Afghanistan, emphasizing the need for dialogue and regional stability. The official discussed security concerns with Pakistani leaders, including recent violence linked to Afghan-based terrorist groups and regional issues like the Strait of Hormuz.