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MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Three senior appointments announced

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Government today announced the appointments of three senior officials.

Commissioner for Labour May Chan will take up the post of Permanent Secretary for Education on July 2. She will succeed Michelle Li, who will begin pre-retirement leave on the same day.

Deputy Secretary for Health Sam Hui will take up the post of Commissioner for Labour on July 2.

On July 3, Head (Policy Coordination) of the Chief Secretary’s Private Office Kinnie Wong will take up the post of Registrar of Companies. She will succeed Helen Tang, who is on pre-retirement leave.

Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung said the appointees are all seasoned administrative officers with proven leadership and management skills.

“I have every confidence that they will continue to serve the community with professionalism in their new capacity.”

On the retirements of the two senior officials, Mrs Yeung thanked them for each rendering over 30 years of loyal and dedicated service to the community and making significant contributions to the Government. She also wished them a fulfilling and happy retirement.

“During Ms Li’s tenure as Permanent Secretary for Education, she made commendable efforts in formulating and overseeing the implementation of various policies to promote quality education, developing Hong Kong into an international hub for high-calibre talent, and nurturing young people to become virtuous and capable lifelong learners with global competitiveness, positive values and love for our country and the city.

“She made valuable contributions to enhancing the quality of education, strengthening the professionalism of teachers, enhancing governance of schools and institutions, expanding vocational and professional education and training, promoting the internationalisation and diversification of the post-secondary sector, as well as catering for students with diverse learning needs.”

Regarding Miss Tang, the civil service chief said that during the latter’s tenure as Registrar of Companies, she capably led it in providing efficient, cost-effective and quality services for companies.

“She also paved the way for the company re-domiciliation initiative in Hong Kong, which complements the Government’s efforts in proactively attracting enterprises and investment.”

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Reassessment of the EU’s COVID-19 vaccine authorisation in the light of long-term effectiveness and international policy developments, particularly in the United States – E-002214/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002214/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Christine Anderson (ESN)

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine[1] reviews long-term data on COVID-19 vaccinations. It concludes that repeated booster doses provide only limited added benefit for healthy adults under 65 years of age, especially those with a history of prior infection or complete primary vaccination. The study raises concerns over the reliance on non-inferiority trials and short-term immunogenicity data as the basis for vaccine approvals.

The authors focus in particular on updated mRNA vaccines, including bivalent formulations (targeting ancestral and BA.4/BA.5 variants) and monovalent XBB.1.5-based boosters. They argue that these vaccines provide only modest and short-lived protection for low-risk groups and call for more targeted vaccination strategies supported by robust clinical evidence.

1.Can the Commission clarify how the European Medicines Agency ensures that its evaluation and authorisation of updated COVID-19 vaccines – specifically bivalent and monovalent XBB.1.5-based mRNA boosters – are based on clinically meaningful outcomes, particularly in light of the study’s critique of non-inferiority trials and short-term immunogenicity data?

2.Does the Commission intend to revise its guidance on booster vaccinations to reflect growing evidence supporting more targeted, risk-based approaches?

3.In the light of the recent decision by US health authorities to remove COVID-19 vaccinations from the recommended immunisation schedule for healthy children and healthy pregnant women, does the Commission intend to consider a similar adjustment to EU-level guidance?

Submitted: 3.6.2025

[1] 20 May 2025, DOI: 10.1056/NEJMsb2506929, https://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJMsb2506929.
Last updated: 13 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The Spanish Government’s spreading of false rumours about state security forces – E-002212/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002212/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Dolors Montserrat (PPE)

On 31 May 2025, Spain’s Deputy Prime Minister and two government ministers circulated a claim that a former Guardia Civil officer had threatened to plant a car bomb in the Prime Minister’s vehicle. Checks by journalists, however, revealed the claim to be false. It was nevertheless used as a political weapon, with statements explicitly identifying an agent of the Central Operative Unit (UCO), a specialist anti-crime team that is investigating scandals involving the government.

This is an example of institutional disinformation and an attack on the reputation and credibility of a state security force. It is undermining public trust in the police and democratic scrutiny.

In the light of Article 17 of Regulation (EU) 2022/2065, which obliges public authorities to act diligently so as not to encourage the spread of disinformation, and in line with the European democracy action plan:

1.Does the Commission take the view that such dissemination of false rumours breaches the principle of diligence that the regulation requires public authorities to uphold?

2.Is the Commission intending to include specific recommendations on institutional disinformation in its rule-of-law report?

Submitted: 3.6.2025
Last updated: 13 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Violation of the rights of ‘non-citizens’ in Estonia and Latvia according to EU law, with exclusion from fundamental civil and political rights – E-002211/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002211/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Danilo Della Valle (The Left), João Oliveira (The Left), Carolina Morace (The Left)

In Estonia and Latvia, a significant part of the population, including individuals of Russian-speaking, Ukrainian, and Georgian origin, hold the status of ‘non-citizen,’ despite often being born and residing in these Member States for decades. This status excludes them from fundamental civil and political rights, such as voting rights and access to public employment, violating the principles of equality and non-discrimination set out in Articles 20 and 21 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (CFR) and the right to political participation under Article 39 CFR.

This treatment conflicts with Article 18 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), which prohibits discrimination based on nationality, and Article 14 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).

The European Court of Human Rights (Strasbourg) and the Court of Justice of the EU have ruled on similar cases, such as X v Latvia (application no 27853/09) and the Petruhhin case (C-182/15).

In the light of this:

1.What is the Commission’s position on the persistence of ‘non-citizen’ status in Estonia and Latvia?

2.What measures will it take to ensure equal treatment and civic inclusion?

3.How does the Commission assess Estonia’s and Latvia’s compliance with EU obligations, and what steps might it consider to ensure conformity?

Submitted: 3.6.2025
Last updated: 13 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Study – Reporting obligations – 13-06-2025

Source: European Parliament

This study of Reporting Obligations was commissioned by the European Parliament’s Policy Department for Justice, Civil Liberties and Institutional Affairs at the request of the JURI Committee. It provides an overview of regulatory reporting and disclosure overlaps that businesses face across the recently enacted Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), and the EU Taxonomy. It provides recommendations on how to mitigate the burdens caused by these overlaps, together with a preliminary assessment of the Commission’s efforts to reduce burdens in the proposed Omnibus Directives.

MIL OSI Europe News –

June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Financial support for decarbonising the fishing fleet – E-002194/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002194/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Eric Sargiacomo (S&D)

The energy crisis linked to the situation in Ukraine, decarbonisation and climate change in general have become major challenges for fishers. Initiatives to reduce fishing vessels’ CO₂ emissions are springing up across Europe. However, initial feedback has raised an issue that had not been anticipated: the loss of revenue owing to vessels being out of action while work (sometimes taking between one and four months) is carried out. Such losses could discourage fishers from moving towards energy transition and therefore slow down experimentation and innovation. In light of this:

1.Could EU funds be used to compensate fishers for their loss of revenue as a result of their vessels being put out of action to carry out the work necessary to reduce their carbon footprint?

2.If compensation is not possible, does the Commission plan to take account of this issue in future reviews of legislation?

3.If compensation is not possible, does the Commission foresee the possibility for soft loans in conjunction with the EIB to shore up fishing companies’ accounts?

Submitted: 2.6.2025
Last updated: 13 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Recognition of occupational health certificates in connection with the posting of workers – E-002207/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002207/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Pascal Arimont (PPE)

For many workers and SMEs, posting plays a central role in everyday work, in particular in border regions. Because of the complexity of the applicable legislation and the requirements to be complied with, legal certainty is essential for firms, including in order to safeguard workers’ rights. Accordingly, Member State recognition of the equivalence of national occupational health certificates is a relevant issue.

1.To what extent can Member States insist on a further occupational health check for workers posted there if they have already undergone and passed such a check in their countries of origin (where those countries are also Member States)?

2.What is the position if workers have been posted to Member States from third countries and they can produce a valid health certificate issued by their countries of origin?

3.To what extent is the Commission planning measures to harmonise and recognise the equivalence of Member States’ national occupational health certificates?

Submitted: 2.6.2025
Last updated: 13 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Driving range of zero-emission vehicles and in-vehicle data – E-002205/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002205/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Bruno Tobback (S&D)

Given the importance of expanding the sale and use of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) to meet climate, energy and industrial goals, it is essential to ensure that consumers have full confidence in the technology and its everyday practicality.

Range anxiety is often cited as a major concern. This issue stems not only from limited charging infrastructure but also from the inaccuracy of the vehicle’s displayed range. External factors such as weather, terrain and payload can cause significant differences between the estimated and actual driving range.

The technology to provide accurate driving range estimates already exists; the main challenge is access to data. By adopting the long-awaited regulation on access to in-vehicle data, the EU can address this issue and facilitate the widespread deployment of services that would greatly enhance user confidence in everyday use.

1.When does the Commission intend to present the long-awaited legislative proposal on access to in-vehicle data, functions, and resources, in order to support the deployment of such use cases?

2.What are the reasons for the delay in bringing forward this proposal? Are there specific technological or administrative challenges, or are certain stakeholders hindering progress?

Submitted: 2.6.2025
Last updated: 13 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Information on the EU Deforestation Regulation’s benchmarking system – E-002231/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002231/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Alexander Bernhuber (PPE)

As part of the impact assessment regarding Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 on the making available on the Union market and the export from the Union of certain commodities and products associated with deforestation and forest degradation, in Annex 3 the cost estimate for the benchmarking system is given as EUR 337 000, with annual operating costs to the tune of EUR 168 000.

1.What have the actual costs of developing and deploying the benchmarking system been since the work began, and what will the running costs be?

2.To what extent and why do the actual costs differ from the estimates originally provided in the impact assessment?

3.Which companies/institutes or external individuals have been and are involved in the preparation of the benchmarking system, and what were their respective fees?

Submitted: 4.6.2025
Last updated: 13 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Supporting access to financing for LAG beneficiaries in rural communities – E-002208/2025

Source: European Parliament

Question for written answer E-002208/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Daniel Buda (PPE)

European reports state that in many areas, the implementation of activities through LAGs (local action groups) has generated economic multipliers that, in some cases, have exceeded a factor of 1.2-1.5 for every leu invested.

One of the main criticisms levelled at LAGs is that excessive bureaucracy has complicated access for beneficiaries to financing. According to official reports, beneficiaries often face difficult administrative procedures and long waiting times for projects to be assessed and approved. Many LAGs and beneficiaries have encountered major difficulties with the provision of co-financing for projects, especially in poor rural communities. This situation has limited access to European funds for many viable and important projects, thereby hampering the development of rural communities with scarce financial resources.

In this context, what concrete steps does the European Commission envisage to reduce the administrative burden of LAG procedures and facilitate access to co-financing for beneficiaries in these vulnerable communities so as to ensure a fairer economic impact and fully harness the potential of LAGs in supporting rural development?

Submitted: 2.6.2025

Last updated: 13 June 2025

MIL OSI Europe News –

June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Nutrient profiles and health claims – E-002255/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002255/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Christel Schaldemose (S&D)

In 2006, the EU adopted a regulation on nutrition and health claims made on foods (EC No 1924/2006). A key feature of the agreement was that, by 2009, the Commission had to establish nutrient profiles – limits on how much sugar, salt and fat foods may contain above which they may not be marketed as ‘good for bones’ or as providing ‘immune system support’, for instance.

Today – 16 years later – there are still no nutrient profiles. This means that food producers can highlight a number of positive nutrients in a product, even if, overall, it is unhealthy. Breakfast cereals and yoghurt drinks with an extremely high sugar content are a case in point: health claims are nonetheless made for them on the front of packages.

This situation is misleading for consumers and undermines trust in health notices on foods. For years, the Commission has been promising to act; but nothing has been done.

1.How does the Commission account for the fact that nutrient profiles have not yet been established in spite of the fact that that has been a political commitment since 2009?

2.Does the Commission agree that it is problematic in terms of consumer protection and public health that foods that are high in sugar can continue to be marketed with health claims?

3.If the Commission does not intend to bring forward proposals on nutrient profiles, is it willing to take steps to do away with the possibility of making health claims on foods in the EU?

Submitted: 4.6.2025
Last updated: 13 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Threat to the religious and property rights of the Orthodox Monastery of Sinai in Egypt – E-002248/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002248/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Nikolas Farantouris (The Left)

St Catherine’s Monastery at Sinai is the oldest continuously operating monastery, dating back to 456 AD, and an integral part of Christianity.

A recent court decision by the Egyptian judiciary (28 May) calls into question the ownership status of the Monastery, confiscates its property (from land to holy relics) in favour of the Egyptian State and creates conditions in which its future operation is objectively impossible.[1] Egypt and Greece – directly historically linked with the Monastery – had reached an out-of-court settlement that would protect the property of the Monastery, but Egypt ‘neglected’ to sign it in a timely manner.[2] The court ruling, which has provoked a reaction from all Orthodox Europeans, is a flagrant violation of religious and individual rights and constitutes a direct threat to a significant Christian community.

Accordingly:

1.What does the Commission intend to do to protect the religious freedom of Orthodox Christians in Egypt and the property rights of the Monastery at Sinai?

2.Given that the recently agreed provision of macro-financial assistance of EUR 4 billion to Egypt is conditional on progress in areas such as respect for democracy and the rule of law and the safeguarding of human rights, does the Commission consider that this condition for the provision of financial assistance has been met?

Submitted: 4.6.2025

[1] https://orthodoxtimes.com/orthodox-church-to-eu-deep-concern-over-egyptian-court-ruling-on-sinai-monastery/

[2] https://www.ekathimerini.com/politics/foreign-policy/1271268/historic-sinai-settlement-never-signed/
Last updated: 13 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – AFIR Implementing Act and requirements of ISO 15118 – E-002254/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002254/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Beatrice Timgren (ECR)

In April 2025 the Commission proposed a draft act under the new Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation[1] (AFIR) that would require all newly installed or upgraded public electric vehicle (EV) charging points to support the ISO 15118 communication standards, including the latest version of the standard, ISO 15118-20, by 2027[2].

While this aims to enable advanced functions like ‘plug and charge’ and bidirectional ‘vehicle-to-grid’ (V2G) charging, there are concerns that mandating ISO 15118-20 so soon could impose high compliance costs. Obviously many smaller charging equipment manufacturers do not yet support this complex standard, jeopardising their market access. Moreover, technical and legal readiness for full ISO 15118-20 implementation appears uneven across the EU, with certain features reportedly incompatible with existing national frameworks, such as German calibration or taxation rules.

1.Is the Commission aware that a premature ISO 15118-20 mandate may create disproportionate barriers for SME charger manufacturers and limit competition?

2.How does the Commission assess the current technical and legal feasibility of ‘plug and charge’ and V2G functionalities across Member States and what are its conclusions?

3.What approach will the Commission take to ensure that implementing AFIR remains proportionate, technology-neutral, and aligned with diverse national regulatory contexts?

Submitted: 4.6.2025

[1] Regulation (EU) 2023/1804 of 13 September 2023 on the deployment of alternative fuels infrastructure (OJ L 234, 22.9.2023, p. 1., ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/1804/oj).

[2] https://alternative-fuels-observatory.ec.europa.eu/general-information/news/european-commission-publishes-delegated-acts-afir-open-consultation#:~:text=,20.
Last updated: 13 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Article 215 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union – E-002306/2025

Source: European Parliament

Question for written answer E-002306/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Kathleen Funchion (The Left)

Can the Commission outline any aspect of Article 215 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union that expressly precludes individual Member States from issuing their own restrictive measures?

Submitted: 6.6.2025

Last updated: 13 June 2025

MIL OSI Europe News –

June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – Public procurement contracts – 12-06-2025

Source: European Parliament

Public authorities across the EU award contracts for works and services worth EUR 2.448 billion annually, making public procurement a major driver of economic growth, job creation and innovation. The 2014 public procurement package alone adds EUR 2.88 billion to the EU’s GDP each year. Moreover, EU procurement directives have significantly increased total award values, rising from under EUR 200 billion in 2009 to approximately EUR 525 billion by 2017.

MIL OSI Europe News –

June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – The Treaty of Nice and the Convention on the Future of Europe – 12-06-2025

Source: European Parliament

The Treaty of Nice only partially prepared the EU for its significant enlargements to the east and south on 1 May 2004 and 1 January 2007. Therefore, as part of the conclusions to the Laeken European Council meeting in December 2001, EU leaders established the European Convention on the Future of Europe – an effort to produce a new legal basis for the EU in the form of a treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe. Following ‘no’ votes in referendums in two of the Member States, this treaty was not ratified.

MIL OSI Europe News –

June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – Environment policy: general principles and basic framework – 12-06-2025

Source: European Parliament

The EU faces complex environmental issues, ranging from climate change and biodiversity loss to resource depletion and pollution. To address these issues, European environment policy follows the principles of precaution, prevention, rectifying pollution at source and the ‘polluter pays’. In 2019, the Commission launched the European Green Deal, moving environmental concerns to the fore of EU policymaking.

MIL OSI Europe News –

June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – Southeast Asia – 12-06-2025

Source: European Parliament

As part of the wider Indo-Pacific, Southeast Asia has vital geostrategic importance for the EU and is currently facing relevant geostrategic challenges. The Indo-Pacific is undergoing rapid change, and as home to more than 50% of the world’s population, it is becoming a key geostrategic region. Two thirds of the world’s container trade passes through the Indo-Pacific and its sea lanes are important routes for trade and energy supplies. The EU strategy for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific was adopted in September 2021 to increase the EU’s engagement and build partnerships to address global challenges. The EU is adapting its current instruments to achieve strategic autonomy. Its Strategic Compass for Security and Defence, formally approved by the Council in March 2022, promotes an open and rules-based regional security architecture, including secure maritime routes, capacity-building and an enhanced naval presence in the Indo-Pacific.The EU’s strategy priority areas in Southeast Asia are sustainable and inclusive prosperity, the green transition, ocean governance, digital governance, connectivity through the Global Gateway, security, defence and human security. The EU is forging closer ties with Southeast Asian countries and is promoting regional integration with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which represents, as a whole, the EU’s third-largest trading partner outside Europe (after China and the US). The region has geostrategic concerns, such as the South China Sea dispute and the Taiwan issue, as well as environmental concerns, especially in the Mekong sub-region. The EU is a strong economic player in Southeast Asia and a major development aid donor, working to foster connectivity, digitalisation, institution-building, democracy, good governance and human rights.

MIL OSI Europe News –

June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – The First Treaties – 12-06-2025

Source: European Parliament

The disastrous effects of the Second World War and the constant threat of an East-West confrontation meant that Franco-German reconciliation had become a top priority. The decision to pool the coal and steel industries of six European countries, brought into force by the Treaty of Paris in 1951, marked the first step towards European integration. The Treaties of Rome of 1957 strengthened the foundations of this integration, as well as the notion of a common future for the six European countries involved.

MIL OSI Europe News –

June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Finland to receive €235 million in EIB financing for hospital and school upgrades
Source: European Investment Bank
- EIB provides €235 million in loans to improve hospitals and schools in Finland´s Uusimaa region.
- Hospitals in Helsinki, Espoo and Vantaa, as well as schools in Vantaa among beneficiaries.
- Part of the EIB’s ongoing support for Finland’s public services, with over €3.8 billion invested in healthcare and education in recent years.
The European Investment Bank (EIB) is signing two major financing agreements, totalling €235 million, to support critical public infrastructure in southern Finland. The funding will significantly enhance healthcare services across southern Finland and education services in Vantaa.

The first agreement, worth €135 million, will support the modernisation of hospital infrastructure across the region. This includes improving access to specialised care, strengthening medical education, and enhancing the energy efficiency of hospital buildings. The financing is part of a broader €300 million loan package with the Helsinki University Hospital (HUS)—the joint authority for specialized healthcare in Helsinki and Uusimaa. Major upgrades are planned at hospitals in Meilahti in Helsinki, Jorvi in Espoo and Peijas in Vantaa.

In parallel, the EIB is also lending €100 million to support the development of modern, energy-efficient educational facilities in Vantaa, a rapidly growing city just north of Helsinki. This tranche is part of a larger €350 million loan package. The initiative will benefit over 11,000 students and deliver more than 160,000 square metres of new and refurbished educational space across more than 30 facilities, including schools, day centers, and sports venues.

“These projects will directly improve daily life for tens of thousands of people across southern Finland,” said EIB Vice-President Thomas Östros. “We are proud to support Finland in building modern, sustainable infrastructure that delivers better services and meets the highest environmental standards. Investing in healthcare and education is investing in people’s futures.”

Both loans reflect the EIB’s goals of fostering sustainable urban development, promoting social inclusion, and advancing climate action through energy-efficient infrastructure.

The major part of hospital upgrades in the Uusimaa region are due to be completed by the end of 2026.

“The EIB is an important and reliable financier of investments for HUS,” said HUS Chief Financial Officer Jari Finnilä. “The EIB and HUS have a long-time cooperation in financing investments of specialized healthcare.”

The works on the school buildings in Vantaa are scheduled to be completed within the next five years. “The long-term funding we receive from the EIB is vital to our efforts in renovating and constructing educational facilities,” said Vantaa Mayor Pekka Timonen.

In Finland, the EIB has provided financing of more than €2.1 billion in healthcare and €1.7 billion in education over the past decade. Recent projects include the Laakso hospital construction and modern school facilities in Tuusula, Helsinki and Turku.

Background information

EIB

The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, high-impact investments outside the European Union, and the capital markets union.

The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high -impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.

All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.

Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers. Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average.

High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI: US Lab Partners and SciSure Launch Strategic Partnership to Transform EHS Services and Lab Operations

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

BOSTON, Mass., June 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SciSure, the Scientific Management Platform (SMP) designed to unify scientific research, safety, operations, and compliance, today announced a strategic partnership with US Lab Partners, a leader in lab and facility operations and EHS (Environmental Health & Safety) consulting.

Together, the organizations are launching a transformative “Virtual Incubator Model” that gives emerging and scaling life science organizations affordable access to world-class digital lab infrastructure and operational support.

Unlocking Modern Lab Management for Scientific Entrepreneurs

Emerging life science organizations have long faced a costly challenge: accessing high-quality EHS, lab operations, and compliance infrastructure before they have the resources or scale to support large software investments. The new SciSure and US Lab Partners collaboration eliminates this barrier. By combining SciSure’s comprehensive, scalable software suite with US Lab Partners’ expert consulting and implementation services, these organizations can now operate efficient, safe, and compliant labs from day one.

“Our customers have often told us they needed digital infrastructure long before they had the budget or internal resources to manage it,” said Philip Meer, CEO of SciSure. “This partnership ensures they no longer have to choose between premium software or on-the-ground expert services – they get both, seamlessly integrated.”

Better Together: A Complete Solution for Emerging Labs

US Lab Partners provides deep, hands-on expertise in lab setup, operations, and EHS compliance. They become an extension of the customer’s internal team, guiding labs through complex requirements and day-to-day operations. SciSure complements this with an industry-leading platform encompassing Electronic Lab Notebooks (ELN), Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), inventory tracking and EHS workflows, all in one secure and scalable environment.

“Too often, emerging scientific companies are forced to rely on underpowered tools, systems that create data silos and are little more than glorified spreadsheets,” said Jon Zibell, Vice President of Global Alliances and Marketing at SciSure. “This partnership is designed to change that. We are delivering a seamless digital experience from day one, without sacrificing safety, compliance, or data integrity.”

“Digitizing lab operations is no longer optional – it’s critical for continuity, safety, and scientific integrity,” said Demet Aybar, CEO and Founder of US Lab Partners. “Together with SciSure, we’re delivering world-class software and hands-on expertise that have traditionally been reserved for Big Pharma, now accessible to startups and academic innovators.”

Impacting the Future of Scientific Innovation

This partnership marks a pivotal shift in how scientific organizations can launch and operate. By eliminating the traditional burden of high costs, fragmented systems, and lack of technical resources, the Virtual Incubator Model accelerates innovation while reducing overhead and risk.

Customers now gain access to a fully digital and seamlessly integrated record-keeping system from day one, end-to-end EHS and inventory management software and services, a robust LMS with training content library, tusted partners who bring both software and service to manage lab setup, safety, and compliance, as well as ELN, LIMS, SOP’s, and Sample Management built-in.

“This model reflects our shared mission: to help brilliant science thrive without operational bottlenecks,” Aybar added. “We’re here to make world-class lab infrastructure available without compromise.”

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c90d15db-77a2-4060-ae1b-ef857a726874

The MIL Network –

June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI: Elite Capital & Co. Limited Moves to 1 Cornhill After 12 Years at 33 St. James Square Amid Financial Sector Expansion

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

LONDON, June 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mr. George Matharu, President and CEO of Elite Capital & Co. Limited, announced today that Elite Capital & Co. has relocated its headquarters from 33 St. James Square to the iconic 1 Cornhill, a landmark building in London’s financial district.

“This move marks a pivotal moment in our growth. The expansion of our operations in the financial sector, coupled with the integration of NextGen Industrial Development Fund’s team into Elite Capital & Co. Limited, demanded exceptional scalability. 1 Cornhill provides the ideal environment to accommodate our ambitious vision and reinforce our leadership in global finance,” Mr. George Matharu said.

Elite Capital & Co. Limited is a Financial Management company that provides project-related services, including Management, Consultancy, and Funding, particularly for large infrastructure and mega commercial projects.

Elite Capital & Co. Limited offers a wealth of experience in Banking and Financial transactions and has a range of specialized advisory services for private clients, medium and large corporations as well as governments. It is also the exclusive manager of the Government Future Financing 2030 Program^® and NextGen Industrial Development Fund™.

Dr. Faisal Khazaal, Chairman of Elite Capital & Co., added, “Leaving 33 St. James Square is bittersweet, it’s where we built a legacy, sealing landmark deals that shaped our identity. Yet, 1 Cornhill represents a bold new chapter, mirroring Elite Capital’s stature not just in London, but as a global force in finance.”

NextGen Industrial Development Fund redefines industrial financing by replacing debt with equity partnerships, empowering entrepreneurs to build factories without the burden of collateral or loan repayments. Targeting first-time industrialists and global firms expanding into MENA, NextGen provides end-to-end support, from land acquisition and infrastructure construction to cross-border financial solutions, ensuring projects thrive from day one.

As a fund managed by Elite Capital & Co. Limited, NextGen’s innovative model aligns perfectly with Elite Capital’s vision for scalable, risk-shared growth. Together, they bridge the gap between visionary ideas and tangible industrial success, transforming the financial landscape for large-scale projects worldwide.

Mr. George Matharu concluded his statement by saying: “Our new home is more than an address; it’s a testament to our clients, partners, and team who drive our success. We invite you to visit us at 1 Cornhill as we write the next era of excellence.”

Contact Details –

Elite Capital & Co. Limited
1 Cornhill, City of London
England, EC3V 3ND

Telephone: +44 (0) 203 709 5060
SWIFT Code: ELCTGB21
LEI Code: 254900NNN237BBHG7S26

Website: ec.uk.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f5b39113-0481-40a1-9206-ad9b0619ebd8

The MIL Network –

June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Solaris Presale Enters Final Phase as $7 Token Heads for $20 Launch — 233% Growth Potential in Week
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TALLINN, Estonia, June 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoin Solaris (BTC-S), one of the year’s most anticipated blockchain launches, has officially entered Phase 7 of its presale, offering investors a final chance to secure tokens at $7 before the price climbs to $8 — and eventually to a fixed launch price of $20.

This final phase marks a major milestone for the project, with over $3.8 million already raised and 11,000+ unique participants joining the ecosystem ahead of its mainnet debut.

A Blockchain Built for Performance and Participation

Bitcoin Solaris is engineered with a hybrid consensus model that combines Proof-of-Work security with Delegated Proof-of-Stake scalability, enabling performance that rivals some of the fastest chains in the industry:
- Transaction Speed: Over 100,000 TPS with dynamic block sizes
- Finality: Achieved in under 2 seconds
- Energy Efficiency: 99.95% lower consumption than traditional mining chains
- Validator System: 21 rotating validators for decentralized governance
- Smart Contracts: Rust-based, fully audited by Cyberscope and FreshCoins
This architecture enables BTC-S to support complex smart contracts, cross-chain interoperability, and enterprise-grade applications — all while remaining accessible to users across mobile, desktop, and web platforms.

The Final Phase of the Presale Is Creating Real Urgency

Bitcoin Solaris has entered Phase 7 of its presale. The price has now risen to $7, with the next jump to $8 looming—and a launch price locked at $20. The upside? A built-in 233% potential gain for those who act before the cutoff.

This isn’t just hype—it’s math backed by growth:
- Over $3.8M raised
- 11,000+ unique buyers
- Less than 8 weeks left before the presale closes
- One of the fastest and most aggressive crypto launches of the year
A detailed breakdown by Ben Crypto highlights how BTC-S delivers beyond just price performance—showing why this chain is being seen as a foundational investment, not just a flip.

Behind the Speed: The Architecture Driving Bitcoin Solaris

Bitcoin Solaris combines security and scalability in a way few blockchains can match:
- Proof-of-Work Base Layer using SHA-256 for robust network integrity
- Delegated Proof-of-Stake Layer (21 validators, rotating every 24 hours)
- Dynamic block sizes up to 32MB
- TPS capacity of 100,000+, with 2-second finality
- 99.95% lower energy use than traditional PoW networks
All of this allows BTC-S to support heavy smart contract execution, cross-chain interoperability, and enterprise-grade deployments without congestion or bloat.

Explore the Bitcoin Solaris Ecosystem Now

Tokenomics That Reinforce Long-Term Value

Bitcoin Solaris doesn’t just pump and dump. Its fixed supply of 21 million BTC-S tokens is structured to mimic Bitcoin’s scarcity while enabling real-world usability:
- 66.66% reserved for mining (distributed over decades)
- 20% for presale participants
- 5% for liquidity
- 2% for ecosystem growth
- 2% for staking incentives
- 2% for community rewards
- 2% for marketing
- 0.33% for team and advisors
This tokenomics model ensures a healthy distribution curve while aligning incentives for long-term holders, developers, and validators.

Why Bitcoin Solaris Has Millionaire-Making Potential

Not every project has the mechanics to turn investors into wealth builders—but BTC-S is different. It’s not just the early entry point that makes it powerful. It’s the structure:
- Staking rewards, validator rotation, and mining profits are shared across an active ecosystem
- Smart contracts are fully audited by Cyberscope and Freshcoins, giving developers peace of mind
- The upcoming release of a mobile-first mining experience will bring in a new wave of users who don’t need advanced hardware to benefit
This isn’t a network built for whales—it’s built for participation. And the earlier that participation starts, the more rewarding it becomes.

The Market’s Watching. The Window’s Closing.

Trump’s pro-crypto stance may have shocked the markets, but it also validated what many in the community already knew: digital assets aren’t going anywhere. Bitcoin Solaris, with its hybrid consensus model, high-speed performance, and locked-in scarcity, is offering one of the last true “early” opportunities in a mature market.

For more information on Bitcoin Solaris:
Website: https://www.bitcoinsolaris.com/
Telegram: https://t.me/Bitcoinsolaris
X: https://x.com/BitcoinSolaris

Media Contact:
Xander Levine
press@bitcoinsolaris.com

Press Kit: Available upon request

Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Bitcoin Solaris. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3d2cec4a-d68e-4f96-9317-4d485e5f0d38

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c365c49b-aea8-49b5-8b4e-50bd8134afd5

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d8dd1d1d-9e5e-43f5-ba35-a0903a8ac58d

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/196bef8c-32be-4409-803b-a2e7c513a3bc

The MIL Network –
June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI: Bitget Wallet Launches Pharos and CESS Testnet Campaigns, Distributing 200,000 Tokens

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, June 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, the leading non-custodial crypto wallet, has launched two new testnet campaigns in collaboration with blockchain infrastructure projects Pharos and CESS. The initiatives will distribute a total of 200,000 testnet tokens to participants, part of the company’s broader push to support early-stage ecosystem engagement through simplified onchain access.

Pharos is a revolutionary Layer 1 blockchain platform that sets new benchmarks in decentralized technology with its extreme performance and scalability. CESS is a data value infrastructure, offering secure, scalable, and programmable storage and delivery for AI, DePIN, and Web3 applications. Both projects are currently in public testing and are using token incentives to drive user activity and network feedback.

The Pharos campaign runs from June 13 to July 13 and offers 100,000 PHRS test tokens. CESS is conducting two campaigns: one distributing 100,000 tCESS test tokens from June 13 to July 13, and a separate task-based campaign running from June 13 to June 20 with an additional $50,000 worth of CESS tokens allocated to a reward pool. The reward pool, offered exclusively through Bitget Wallet, is expected to be distributed after the project’s token launch (TGE). All campaigns are accessible directly within Bitget Wallet, with no external forms or social logins required.

Launched earlier this year, Bitget Wallet’s Testnet Faucet Center serves as a dedicated interface for accessing testnet campaigns across multiple blockchain networks. Designed to reduce friction in user onboarding, it allows participants to claim tokens, complete tasks, and track progress in real time—without needing third-party integrations. The platform is part of Bitget Wallet’s broader strategy to position itself as a gateway for users exploring new protocols and participating in early-stage blockchain ecosystems.

Find out more on Bitget Wallet’s official channels.

About Bitget Wallet
Bitget Wallet is a non-custodial crypto wallet designed to make crypto simple and secure for everyone. With over 80 million users, it brings together a full suite of crypto services, including swaps, market insights, staking, rewards, DApp exploration, and payment solutions. Supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges. Backed by a $300+ million user protection fund, it ensures the highest level of security for users’ assets. Its vision is Crypto for Everyone — to make crypto simpler, safer, and part of everyday life for a billion people.

For more information, visit: X | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord | Facebook

For media inquiries, contact media.web3@bitget.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2717b203-c62b-4215-89e2-331561f7f0bb

The MIL Network –

June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: East African Community (EAC), Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) sign Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in competition and consumer protection

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The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Competition Commission (CCC) and the East African Community Competition Authority (EACCA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing cooperation in the enforcement of competition and consumer protection laws across their respective Member States

The MOU sets out modalities through which the two regional agencies will cooperate and coordinate their activities in regard to cross-border competition and consumer protection enforcement, among other matters. The MOU further facilitates information sharing particularly during joint investigations, which shall be prioritized so as to safeguard the competition process and protect consumers in the region.

The MOU also provides for cooperation and coordination in carrying out market inquiries and studies, technical assistance and capacity building as well as address the potential duplication in enforcement, thereby creating certainty and predictability in the market.

Under the MoU, the two agencies have set up focal points tasked with coordinating and monitoring implementation of the prioritized activities through annual work plans. The two institutions have also committed to review various complementary regulations and guidelines to ensure they are fit for purpose.

Speaking during the ceremony, Ms. Stellah Onyancha Ag. Registrar of the EAC Competition Authority said the signing of the MoU marks a significant step towards strengthening collaboration and promoting fair competition within the regional landscape.

She commended CCC for its commitment and consistent support to the EACCA since its establishment in 2016 in terms of providing technical expertise on prioritization during its commencement, induction/capacity building for EACCA Commissioners, and assistance in the review of the merger guidelines of the EACCA, among others.

“I am confident that the MOU will further solidify the strong ties that already subsist between the EACCA and CCC, foster closer and more productive collaboration and enable the two agencies to contribute to the effective enforcement of their respective regional competition laws”

On his part, Dr. Willard Mwemba, Chief Executive Officer of the COMESA Competition Commission said the MOU is a milestone at the end of what has been a long journey involving several negotiation meetings between two competition authorities in an effort to marry concurrent laws and activities.“It is our hope as COMESA Competition Commission that the signing of this MOU will enhance certainty to business merging within the COMESA and EAC Region, increase detection of cross border anti-competitive practices and consumer violations, and lead to enhanced cross border enforcement”

CCC, a regional competition and consumer protection agency was established by the COMESA Competition Regulations of 2004 while EACCA, an institution of the EAC, was established by the EAC Competition Act, 2006.

The CCC regulates competition and consumer protection matters in twenty-one (21) COMESA Member States while EACCA exercises the same mandate in eight (8) Partner States. Six (6) of the Partner States of the EAC have membership in COMESA.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of East African Community (EAC).

MIL OSI Africa –

June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Uganda: Museveni preaches benefits of East African Federation, criticises corrupt politicians

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President Yoweri Museveni has emphasised the benefits of the East African Federation, saying that it will lead to economic prosperity and heightened security in the region.

President Museveni, who was speaking after the budget presentation by the Minister of Finance, Matia Kasaija, held in Kololo on Thursday, 12 June 2025, rallied lawmakers to appreciate the importance of the federation.

“Economic and political integration are the correct answer to the question of economic prosperity and security,” said Museveni.

Making reference to the history of the EAC started in 1967 and collapsed a decade later, Museveni said that the community was re-launched in 1999 in the spirit of patriotism and pan Africanism, following the realisation of the need for market for goods and services in the region.

“We are glad by 1980, African leaders had started seeing the importance of market integration as part of the Lagos plan of action,” he said.

Tracing back to the history of other African countries and Uganda’s experience after independence, Museveni said that it was discovered that the internal market for goods and services was not enough.

“As we speak today, Uganda has got surplus of milk, maize, bananas, cement, etc. Where do we sell all these,” he said, adding that East African and African countries are now buying some of the surpluses.

“Otherwise, these sectors of the economy would have collapsed by now. That is how the National Resistance Movement developed the second principle of Pan Africanism because we need it for our prosperity,” he said.

The ready market for goods and services, according to Museveni leads to prosperity of African countries, thereby reducing dependence on foreign aid.

“The East African Community has now expanded to incorporate Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, DRC and Somalia. In addition, we have COMESA and the Continental Free Trade Area. We need to remove all the trade barriers and develop infrastructure to facilitate this trade,” Museveni added.

He also spoke against trade imbalances, stressing the need to assist countries that are joining the federation.

“We do not want a common market where some countries benefit and others lose, no, it is very dangerous,” Museveni said.

Museveni also spoke tough against politicians giving handouts to voters for political support, saying that such leaders are enabling corruption.

“Politics is about principles and policies. That is what you should be telling the public to choose from,” he said.

He advised voters against electing leaders based on handouts, saying that they need leaders who will instead help in the fight against corruption.

“Do not accept petty money from politicians and throw away your power to elect politicians who will help to fight corruption,” said Museveni.

Local Government District officers were not spared, and the President vowed to take action against those found culpable of mismanaging the Shs1.3 billion meant for road maintenance.

He said that he discovered that some districts were instead using the funds to construct new roads.

“In the case of Bunyangabo district, they were mixing up issues. The Shs1.3 billion is for maintenance, not for constructing new roads. I will check and if I find out, there will be casualties among local government officials,” he said.

Digital number plates targeting criminals

President Museveni also dismissed claims that the new digital vehicle number plates are meant for collecting fines, but rather aimed at enhancing security, saying that they are traceable through the central command centre.

“Every vehicle must have a digital number plate. It is about security. Criminals are acting with impunity,” he said.

Referring to the case in which a 45-year-old Godfrey Wanyengera, a resident of Mukono was killed in a road accident, Museveni said that such criminal activities can be countered with the digital number plates.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

MIL OSI Africa –

June 13, 2025
Air India crash survivor says he escaped through broken emergency exit

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

The sole survivor of the Air India plane crash that killed more than 240 people said he walked out of a broken emergency exit after the aircraft hit a medical college hostel in the city of Ahmedabad.

Ramesh Viswashkumar, who police said was on seat 11A near the emergency exit and managed to escape through the broken hatch, was filmed after Thursday’s crash limping on the street in a blood-stained T-shirt with bruises on his face.

“I don’t believe how I survived. For some time I thought I was also going to die,” 40-year-old Viswashkumar told DD News from his hospital bed on Friday.

“But when I opened my eyes, I realised I was alive and I tried to unbuckle myself from the seat and escape from where I could. It was in front of my eyes that the air hostess and others (died)”, he added.

Police said some people at the hostel and others on the ground were also killed in the crash. Rescue workers were searching for missing people and aircraft parts in the charred buildings of the hostel on Friday.

Viswashkumar said the plane appeared to come to a standstill in midair for a few seconds shortly after take-off and the green and white cabin lights were turned on.

He said he could feel the engine thrust increasing but then the plane “crashed with speed into the hostel.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the crash site in Ahmedabad and also met Viswashkumar at the hospital on Friday.

Doctors said that he did not sustain any major injuries.

“The side of the plane I was in landed on the ground, and I could see that there was space outside the aircraft, so when my door broke I tried to escape through it and I did,” Viswashkumar said.

“The opposite side of the aircraft was blocked by the building wall so nobody could have come out of there.”

Viswashkumar said he walked out of the crash site with only burn injuries on his left arm.

-Reuters

June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Highland Cross 2025
Source: Scotland – Highland Council
Road users are advised that temporary traffic restrictions will come into operation on Saturday 21 June 2025 between 06:00 and 19:00 for the Highland Cross 2025 event.

The C1112 Glen Affric Road will be temporarily closed to vehicles from 11:00 to 17:00, from its junction with the C1110 Cannich Fasnakyle – Kerrow Wood Road to the north side of the bridge over the Abhainn Gleann nam Fiadh.

The following roads will also be temporarily closed from 12:45 to 18:00:

A862 Ardullie – Dingwall – Beauly – Inverness Road, closed between its junction with the A831 Drumnadrochit – Cannich – Beauly Toll Road and its junction with the U2288 Mid Street, Beauly

A831 Drumnadrochit – Cannich – Beauly Toll Road, closed between its junction with the A862 Ardullie – Dingwall – Beauly – Inverness Road and its junction with the U1480 Altyre Road

Beauly Square will also be closed from 06:00 to 19:00.

The closures affect vehicle access only. Pedestrian access and access for emergency vehicles will not be affected.
13 Jun 2025

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MIL OSI United Kingdom –
June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Secretary of State announces Chair of the Patrick Finucane Inquiry
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Secretary of State announces Chair of the Patrick Finucane Inquiry

The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Hilary Benn MP, has appointed The Rt Hon Sir Gary Hickinbottom as Chair of the Patrick Finucane Inquiry.
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, the Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP.

The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Hilary Benn MP, has appointed The Rt Hon Sir Gary Hickinbottom as Chair of the Patrick Finucane Inquiry.

Last year, the Secretary of State announced the government’s intention to establish an independent inquiry into the circumstances of Mr Finucane’s death. The human rights lawyer was brutally murdered in his North Belfast home by the loyalist paramilitary group, the Ulster Defence Association, in February 1989.

The Inquiry will be established under the Inquiries Act 2005, with full powers, including the power to compel the production of documents and to summon witnesses to give evidence on oath.

Mr Benn has also confirmed the appointment of both the Rt Hon the Baroness Nuala O’Loan, and Francesca Del Mese, as Assessors to the Inquiry. Both will provide advice to the Chair on their relevant expertise in regards to the Inquiry, while also giving further assurance about the Inquiry’s independence.

Sir Gary is the current President of the Welsh Tribunals. He is a solicitor and a retired Court of Appeal Judge, who undertook the statutory inquiry into corruption and governance in the British Virgin Islands.

Confirming the announcement via a Written Ministerial Statement to Parliament, Mr Benn said:

The murder of Mr Finucane was a barbarous and heinous crime and one which continues to highlight the legacy of the Troubles in Northern Ireland.

I commend and support the tireless campaign of Mrs Finucane and her family in seeking answers to the brutal murder of their loved one and I am confident that this Inquiry will provide answers to the family who have suffered so terribly.

I am delighted that Sir Gary Hickinbottom has accepted this important role as Chair of the Patrick Finucane Inquiry and that Baroness O’Loan and Francesca Del Mese have accepted the important roles of assessors to the Inquiry. I am confident that, together, their valuable knowledge, experience and professionalism will be of great benefit to the work of the Inquiry.

Sir Gary said:

I am privileged to take on responsibility for leading this public inquiry into the important issues raised by the circumstances surrounding the murder of Patrick Finucane, something I will do not only in accordance with my statutory duties but as fairly, openly and transparently as I can.

At the heart of this case lies a family who lost their husband and father in horrific circumstances, and I look forward to meeting the Finucane family in Belfast as soon as possible.

Baroness O’Loan said:

I look forward to taking up this role, having been appointed by the Secretary of State. The Finucane family has always been concerned that the full story of what happened should be told, and this independent inquiry will provide the opportunity to do so. There remain unanswered questions, and the public interest requires that we seek as best we can to get the answers to those questions.

Ms Del Mese said:

I am honoured to be appointed by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland as an Assessor for the long-awaited independent inquiry into the murder of Patrick Finucane, a human rights lawyer who was brutally killed in his own home in front of his family. I will do my utmost to assist the inquiry in seeking transparency and pursuing much-needed answers, both for the Finucane family, and in the hope it will lead to a more secure future for the communities of Northern Ireland.

As required by the Inquiries Act 2005, the Secretary of State will undertake a consultation exercise with the Chair on the proposed Terms of Reference for the Inquiry. These will be agreed and published in due course.

ENDS

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Published 13 June 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
June 13, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Expanding access to childcare
Source: Scottish Government

More than £1.5 million targeted funding over two years.

Families most at risk of living in poverty are benefitting from expanded childcare offers through projects backed by the Scottish Government’s Access to Childcare Funding.

Almost £1.5 million funding will support the seven initiatives situated in areas from Glasgow to Shetland over the next two years. Organisations will use funding to deliver free or subsidised breakfast clubs, after-school clubs, term-time and holiday childcare, as well as specialist provision for children with complex additional support needs. The expanded childcare offers for these families is improving outcomes for children while also supporting parents and carers to enter or sustain employment.

Confirming the funding, Children’s Minister Natalie Don-Innes met families attending an after-school club at Fairview Primary run by Support, Help, and Integration in Perthshire (SHIP). SHIP provides after school and holiday clubs for children aged 5-18 years with complex additional support needs, sensory and physical disabilities.

Ms Don-Innes said:

“Since 2020, we have provided over £4.5 million through the Access to Childcare Fund to support projects delivering activities, childcare, food and family support.

“Eradicating child poverty is the Scottish Government’s defining mission, and we know what a difference access to affordable school-age childcare can make for families that need it most.

“The projects receiving Access to Childcare Funding over the next two years are demonstrating the important role that school age childcare services play in supporting children’s health, wellbeing and relationships, and in enabling more parents and carers to balance caring for their children with work commitments, thereby helping increase household income.”

Lucas and Marc are 16 years old and have autism. They have been supported by SHIP since they were five years old. Their dad Brian said:

“SHIP has played a critical role in providing our sons with social opportunities and vital support with meeting their sensory needs that we would not as a family been able to. The term time clubs and holiday clubs have provided year round support for the boys, and the happiness and confidence this has given them is genuinely immeasurable.”

SHIP will receive £273,000 funding over two financial years through the Fairer Funding pilot. General Manager at SHIP Nicola Schelbert said:

“SHIP provides essential support for children and young people aged from 5–18 with complex needs, delivering youth clubs, Saturday clubs, after-school and holiday clubs. Access to Childcare Funding supports our after school clubs and childcare spaces at our holiday club, which enables parents to work or take respite.

“Families we work with tell us that without SHIP, continuing employment would be impossible, which would have a negative impact on their families’ wellbeing. This vital service strengthens families and ensures children receive the support they need.”

Background

Breakdown of latest Access to Childcare Fund projects and funding:

Fairer funding pilot – funding over next two financial years
- SHIP is a parent-led childcare provider in Perthshire providing holiday clubs and after-school clubs for children with complex additional support needs, sensory and physical disabilities aged 5-18 – £135,000 in 2025-26, £138,000 in 2026-27
- St Mirin’s Out of School Club delivers free or subsidised childcare for children aged 4-12 with term-time indoor and outdoor play at breakfast clubs, after school clubs and a holiday club in Glasgow – £135,005.92 in 2025-26, £141,787.72 in 2026-27
- Indigo offers both childcare and family support through their family matters programme for families in Castlemilk. They provide children aged 4-12 with breakfast clubs and after school clubs and holiday clubs – £196,325 in 2025-26, £196,325 in 2026-27
- Stepping Stones for Families provides a School Age Childcare service at their Flexible Childcare centre in Possilpark Glasgow. They deliver school-age childcare for children aged 5-12 years during term time as well as during the school holidays – £77,531 in 2025-26, £79.450 in 2026-27
- SupERkids is led by volunteer parents of disabled children and provides children aged 5-18 with additional support needs with after-school activities during term-time, as well as offering unsupported family activities during holidays in East Renfrewshire – £98,700 in 2025-26, £103,635 in 2026-27
Grant funding – financial year 25-26 only
- Hame Fae Hame provides wraparound childcare for children aged 5-12 with a breakfast club and after school subsidised childcare during term-time, and childcare during school holidays and in-service days, in Scalloway, Shetland – £37.880 in 2025-26
- The Wee Childcare Company provides after-school clubs for children aged 4-12, after-school clubs and 25 days of holiday provision across four sites in Angus, with breakfast clubs at two of these – £218,360.44 in 2025-26
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
June 13, 2025