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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Monthly GDP Estimates for July

    Source: Scottish Government

    An Official Statistics in Development publication for Scotland.

    Scotland’s onshore GDP grew by 0.3% in July 2024 according to statistics announced by the Chief Statistician. This follows no growth in June 2024 (revised up from -0.3%).

    In the three months to July, GDP is estimated to have grown by 0.3% compared to the previous three month period. This indicates a slight decrease in growth relative to the increase of 0.6% in 2024 Quarter 2 (April to June).

    The two industries which made the biggest contribution to overall GDP growth in July were Manufacturing and Information and Communications Services, both of which contributed 0.1 percentage points of growth to headline GDP.

    Background

    The monthly statistical publication and data is available from the Scottish Government’s website.

    All results are seasonally adjusted and presented in real terms (adjusted to remove inflation). GDP growth relates to Scotland’s onshore economy, which means it does not include the output of offshore oil and gas extraction.

    Gross Domestic Product (GDP) measures the output of the economy in Scotland and monthly data are designated as Official Statistics in Development. This means that they are still in development but have been released to enable their use at an early stage. All results are provisional and subject to relatively high levels of uncertainty.

    Further information on GDP statistics is available from the Scottish Government’s website.

    These estimates are compiled in line with the Code of Practice for Statistics – more information on the standards of official statistics can be accessed from the Statistics Authority’s website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Make September birth boom a bank account boon

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Claim Child Benefit using the HMRC app and receive payment within a week.

    With around 2,000 babies born on 26 September each year, more than any other day, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is urging parents to claim their Child Benefit entitlement.

    Claiming online means families could receive their first payment within just a week of their baby’s birth.

    Child Benefit is worth up to £1,331 a year for the first child and £881 for each additional child. 

    Claims can be using the free and secure HMRC app, or made online, 48 hours after the baby’s birth has been registered. With payments typically made within three days, this means parents could receive their first payment within a week. Claims can also be backdated for up to 3 months.

    Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, said:

    With more babies set to be born on 26 September than any other day, we hope that parents of these newborns take full advantage of their Child Benefit entitlement.

    We’ve made it simpler than ever to claim online and receive a first payment within as little as three days – so download the app today or search on GOV.UK.

    HMRC has released a YouTube video which explains what new parents need to do and how to make a claim.

    How do I claim Child Benefit online?

    To make a claim, families will need their:

    • child’s birth or adoption certificate
    • bank details
    • National Insurance number for themselves and their partner, if they have one
    • child’s original birth or adoption certificate and passport or travel document, for children born outside the UK

    The amount reduces if one person in the household earns between £60,000 and £80,000 and is subject to the High Income Child Benefit Charge. For families who fall into this category, the online Child Benefit tax calculator provides an estimate of how much benefit can be claimed, and what the charge may be.

    Families who were subject to the High Income Child Benefit Charge when the threshold was £50,000 and opted out of payments but now wish to restart their payments, can use the online form on GOV.UK.

    By claiming Child Benefit, claimants will also receive National Insurance (NI) credits. People need a minimum of 10 years NI credits to claim some State Pension, with 35 years NI credits needed to obtain the full State Pension. This can help people who are not in paid employment and not receiving NI credits through their employer.

    A person living in a household subject to the High Income Child Benefit Charge will still receive NI credits if they claim Child Benefit but opt out of receiving a payment that they may have to repay.

    Further information

    Birth data taken from the Census 2021 page ‘How popular is your birthday?’

    Information on Child Benefit can be found at GOV.UK.

    The simplest and quickest way to apply for Child Benefit is by using the HMRC app or online at GOV.UK.

    The Child Benefit award notice can be used to prove you qualify for Child Benefit and can be downloaded and printed from the HMRC app or from GOV.UK. Parents and carers may need proof of entitlement to access other benefits and services.

    The £50,000 High Income Child Benefit Charge threshold rose to £60,000 on 6 April 2024.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: GUU took part in the Russian-Arab Business Forum

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On September 24, 2024, the Russian-Arab Business Forum was held in Moscow: new connections, new opportunities.

    The State University of Management was represented at the Forum by the Rector’s Advisor Sergei Karseka.

    The event program included discussions of a wide range of current issues and problems of organizing and conducting business in the Persian Gulf countries, as well as the resolution of cross-border disputes involving Russian companies, including those under sanctions.

    Among the most interesting topics for discussion are the following: business dialogue between Russia and the Gulf countries – using mutual potential; development programs for the Gulf: openness to cooperation; cross-border trade and settlements; creation of business structures in the Gulf countries; judicial protection and dispute resolution in the Gulf countries.

    The Forum was attended by the Director of the Department of the Middle East and North Africa of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Alexander Kinshchak, representatives of the embassies of the Persian Gulf countries in the Russian Federation, professor of the Department of International Private Law of the S.S. Alekseev Research Center for Private Law, Deputy Chairman of the Arbitration Center at the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs Mikhail Savransky, business owners, top managers, heads of legal departments of large Russian and Arab companies.

    Advisor to the rector’s office of the State University of Management Sergey Karseka discussed with the participants of the discussion the possibility of using the experience of opening and running a business in the Persian Gulf countries in the educational program at the State University of Management, the prospects for cooperation between the State University of Management and Russian and Arab companies in a wide range of areas and topics of mutual interest.

    The event was held by the law firm Lidings in cooperation with the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs with the support of leading legal consultants from Bahrain, Oman and Saudi Arabia.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 09/25/2024

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    GUU took part in the Russian-Arab Business Forum

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Protecting the digital “I” and “we”: HSE’s new course on information security

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    Prepared Moscow Institute of Electronics and Mathematics named after A.N. Tikhonov (MIEM) HSE University continuing professional education program “Corporate information security” will enable students to acquire skills in searching for vulnerabilities in digital products and eliminating potential gaps in the security systems of electronic networks of corporations, universities and their own pages in open sources using specific examples and with the support of leading cybersecurity experts. Students will learn how to work with digital assets, resist the psychological tricks of fraudsters and pass on the acquired knowledge and skills to colleagues.

    MIEM HSE presented the additional education program “Corporate information security“, prepared jointly with leading experts in the field of cybersecurity.

    The head and author of the program idea, MIEM Director’s Advisor Elena Kabaeva, noted that now attention to the digital “I” is no less important than to the real one: “We actually have a full-fledged digital citizenship, the safe functioning of which determines our professional and life success.” Training in the program is designed to prevent corporate and personal losses in the digital space. “This is the first and so far the only training program in Russia aimed at developing practical skills to counter cyber threats. It is focused on the corporate sector, confident and active users of digital systems and equipment, as well as owners of digital assets,” said the MIEM Director’s Advisor.

    The theoretical component of the program includes master classes from experts, including the company InfoWatch — a leader in countering threats in the digital space.

    The program consists of three consecutive modules. The first module, “Digital Security,” involves mastering tools for identifying vulnerabilities in digital products and accounts. The developers of the practical content, Amir Atigaev, a methodologist at the Novosibirsk Institute of Modern Education, and Yulia Glukhikh, a curator of digital projects in the field of education, noted that the content has an increasing level of complexity — from analyzing one’s own digital footprint and creating secure authentication tools to creating a secure digital user environment. The program works through real cases of corporations and government agencies, as well as cases of specific users. “We will conduct several business games and offer digital simulators that will give listeners a sufficient arsenal of skills in the field of digital hygiene,” Amir Atigaev concluded.

    The second module, “Digital Projects and Psychological Safety,” immerses students in intensive work in various digital environments, reveals the possibilities of safe project implementation, and concludes with a topic dedicated to critical thinking. The developers of the second module, led by Associate Professor of the Nizhny Novgorod State Linguistic University named after N.A. Dobrolyubov and HSE University in Nizhny Novgorod Natalia Frolova emphasizes that students will become familiar with programming and acquire skills in identifying genuine and fake sites, and develop critical thinking skills. “We will teach you how to organize a digital detox and not drown in a sea of information,” noted Natalia Frolova. One of the aspects of this module is dedicated to the free online master class “Critical Thinking in a Digital World» October 9.

    The third module, “Legal Aspects,” expands on the understanding of digital assets, protected and open content, virtual property, and allows students to take into account important legal subtleties when designing their own digital projects.

    The program also includes a cross-cutting module that involves participants designing a secure digital project and profile. “We encourage it if a participant leads a specific project. The program will allow us to analyze it for vulnerabilities and prevent cyber risks. Listeners, interacting with the program’s experts, receive invaluable feedback, which enhances the positive effect of the program,” said Elena Kabaeva.

    It is expected that the audience will include cybersecurity specialists, HR and corporate university staff, teachers of higher and secondary specialized education, heads of functional departments, including those supervising digitalization, corporate lawyers, as well as students and postgraduates who will be able to use this course to expand their educational opportunities within the framework of the main educational programs.

    The Corporate Information Security program can also be implemented in a corporate format for groups of 20 people or more.

    The program, which will last 104 academic hours (including 72 contact – interactive hours), is expected to be completed over 9 weeks, starting on October 21, 2024. Classes will be held online, primarily in the evenings, twice a week. The cost of training is 42,000 rubles.

    Those who complete the program will receive a certificate of advanced training in the established format.

    “We hope that the program will develop sustainable skills in the students and that they will not return to the usual behavioral models in relation to digital assets, environments and projects and will pay due attention to the external and internal digital contour. This is essentially a program for the safe professional management of our second digital citizenship. We invite you!” – Elena Kabaeva summed up.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.hse.ru/nevs/edu/966071373.html

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Safety first: Polytechnic junior students explained how to avoid problems

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    A safety lesson for first- and second-year students was held in the White Hall of SPbPU. The event, organized by the Civil Security Department of SPbPU, was also attended by representatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia for the Kalininsky District of St. Petersburg, the Main Directorate of the Federal Service of the National Guard Troops of the Russian Federation for St. Petersburg and the Leningrad Region, the Kalininsky and Vyborgsky District Directorates of the Main Directorate of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia for St. Petersburg, and the private educational institution of additional professional education “Fire Safety”.

    Head of the Department for Ensuring Anti-Terrorist Security and Safety at SPbPU Facilities Aleksandr Fedorov reported that the peace of the Polytechnics is protected by employees of the organization “Kvadrat”. 98 people are on duty at 65 stationary posts, another seven groups periodically drive around the territory by car and two mini-scooters. In addition, the university campus is patrolled around the clock by the Russian National Guard.

    All entrances and exits of the university are equipped with access control and management systems, students and staff use electronic passes. In the academic buildings and dormitories, 45 panic buttons are installed – the call goes to the centralized security point of the Russian Guard. Order is also monitored by 3.5 thousand video surveillance cameras.

    The University Security Center operates 24/7. You can call it in case of danger at the following numbers: 7 (812) 534-61-18, 7 921 940-66-75.

    To practice the actions of employees and students in emergency situations, the Civil Security Department regularly conducts exercises and training.

    Alexander Fyodorov reminded that smoking is prohibited on the entire territory of the Polytechnic University – not only indoors, but also outdoors, including in the park. This applies to both regular cigarettes and electronic ones. Smoking areas are located behind the fence.

    Deputy Head of the Supervisory and Preventive Work Department of the Vyborg District Pavel Proshkin spoke about the operation of fire protection systems, which fire extinguishers are best to use in what conditions, and answered questions.

    “It is important for you to know that when the fire alarm goes off, you must immediately leave the building,” Pavel Aleksandrovich emphasized. “You can only start putting out a fire yourself when the fire is small and you understand that you can cope with it. If the fire has developed, then there is no need to be a hero. It is better to help get people out and notify the fire department. The 112 telephone number accepts all calls, and professionals will be sent to help you immediately.”

    Deputy Director of the Center for Professional Education “Fire Safety” Alexander Salabutin spoke in detail about compliance with fire safety rules at the university and dormitories. He said that recently the number of fires of devices with lithium-ion batteries, in particular, electric scooters, has increased. There are special fire extinguishers for them. Alexander Nikolaevich noted that the use of electric scooters is prohibited on the territory of the university.

    The students were also addressed by the Deputy Chief of Police of the Kalininsky District Alexey Amosyonok and the Chairman of the Council of Veterans of the OMON “Baltika” (on transport), a member of the St. Petersburg city branch of “Combat Brotherhood” Vadim Matveyev. They warned about the danger and consequences of thoughtless actions that young people can commit at the very beginning of their independent life. They explained in what situations one should be vigilant and careful so as not to harm their future.

    At the end of the lesson, youth workers from the Harmony Volunteer Projects Center, rescuers and first aid instructors Violetta Lee and Tatyana Plekhanova talked about what volunteering in the Emergencies Ministry is, and invited people to join their work and participate in collecting humanitarian aid.

    Arina Puchkova, head of the student fire and rescue squad “Pyotr Velikiy”, also spoke. She reported that the squad is part of the All-Russian Student Rescue Corps, whose main activity is assistance in eliminating emergency situations, and announced that a new recruitment will soon be taking place: those who wish can join.

    Photo archive

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://www.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/student_life/safety-above-all-junior-year-students-of-Polytechnic-explained-how-to-avoid-problems/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic University to host all-Russian competition “Best Welder 2024”

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University was visited by the Director General of the self-regulatory organization of the Association “National Agency for Welding Control” (NAKS) Andrey Prilutsky and the Director of the Regional North-West Interindustry Certification Center LLC Alexey Levchenko. The talks focused on popularizing and enhancing the prestige of the welding profession, as well as organizing the All-Russian competition of professional skills “Best Welder 2024”.

    At a meeting with the rector of the Polytechnic University Andrey Rudskoy and the director of the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport Anatoly Popovich, the partners agreed to hold the opening and draw of the Best Welder 2024 competition on November 25, 2024, at the university.

    The competition will be held in four nominations.

    Arc welding with a consumable coated electrode (RD/111). Arc welding with a consumable electrode in a protective gas (MP/135). Arc welding with a non-consumable electrode in a protective gas (RAD/141). Welding with a heated tool (NI).

    Discussing the upcoming events, Alexey Prilutsky noted the high level of training of SPbPU students in the Metallurgy department, and also appreciated the development of breakthrough technologies in the field of welding.

    At the end of the meeting, Andrei Rudskoy proposed using the university’s scientific potential to create joint educational programs for training highly qualified personnel.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/partnership/polytech-will-accept-all-Russian-competition-best-welder-2024/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Telegram of the Holy Father, signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, for the victims of the explosion in Tabas

    Source: The Holy See

    Telegram of the Holy Father, signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, for the victims of the explosion in Tabas, 25.09.2024

    The following is the telegram of condolence for the victims of the explosion in a mine in Tabas, Iran, sent on behalf of the Holy Father Francis by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin:

    Telegram
    HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS WAS SADDENED TO LEARN OF THE INJURY AND LOSS OF LIFE CAUSED BY THE RECENT COAL MINE EXPLOSION IN TABAS, AND HE SENDS THE ASSURANCE OF HIS PRAYERS FOR THOSE WHO HAVE DIED AND FOR THEIR GRIEVING FAMILIES. LIKEWISE EXPRESSING HIS SPIRITUAL SOLIDARITY WITH THE WOUNDED, HIS HOLINESS INVOKES UPON ALL AFFECTED BY THIS TRAGEDY THE ALMIGHTY’S BLESSINGS OF STRENGTH, CONSOLATION AND PEACE.
    CARDINAL PIETRO PAROLINSECRETARY OF STATE

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN engages in a Roundtable Dialogue with Guangxi University

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today held a roundtable dialogue with officials and academics from Guangxi University, in Nanning, China. The Guangxi University delegation was led by Vice President of Guangxi University Mr. Xiao Jianzhuang. Both sides exchanged views on ASEAN-China cooperation in education, human resource development, and the important role of universities and research institutions in advancing regional economic and social development.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN engages in a Roundtable Dialogue with Guangxi University appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FACT SHEET: New Report Shows 4.2 Million Entrepreneurs Get Health Insurance Through the ACA  Marketplaces

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Congressional Republican efforts to repeal the ACA would have a devastating impact on small businesses across the country
    President Biden and Vice President Harris believe that health care is a right, not a privilege, and their administration has driven the uninsured rate to the lowest point in history. New data released today by the Treasury Department illustrates just how critical those steps have been to America’s small businesses – and how devastating it would be if Congressional Republicans succeed in their efforts to repeal the ACA, roll back protections for people with pre-existing conditions, and increase American’s health care costs by failing to extend the ACA premium tax credits that President Biden and Vice President Harris passed, that are lowering health care costs by hundreds of dollars per year for millions of Americans. The fact is that millions of small business owners would lose health insurance if the ACA is repealed. Statement from the President: “Every time someone starts a new small business, it’s an act of hope and confidence in our economy. Thanks to my and Vice President Harris’s work to protect and build on the Affordable Care Act, more Americans have the freedom to start small businesses and chase their dreams – without having to worry about how they receive health insurance for their family. As a result, more Americans – and more small business owners – have signed up for health care coverage through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace than ever before. That’s 618,590 small business owners in Florida, 450,010 in California, 423,790 in Texas, and 168,070 in Georgia who have benefited from this quality, affordable health coverage. Congressional Republicans have a different vision and have voted more than 50 times to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Their agenda would strip millions of small business owners of their health coverage, gut protections for pre-existing conditions, and threaten the small business boom seen under my Administration. Vice President Harris and I won’t let it happen on our watch.” Statement for the Vice President: “Small business owners and entrepreneurs are the engine of America’s economy. We are ensuring small businesses have access to affordable health care so they can focus on starting and growing businesses, not on whether they can afford health coverage. I’m proud that over 4 million small business owners and self-employed workers have coverage through the ACA, up from 3.3 million in 2022. I will always support small businesses and invest in entrepreneurs by strengthening and expanding the ACA, and by rejecting Republican efforts to repeal it.” The Treasury Department’s report shows that 4.2 million small business owners and self-employed workers have coverage through the ACA Marketplaces, up from 3.3 million in 2022 and 1.4 million in 2014.  In fact, entrepreneurs are about three times as likely as other Americans to have health insurance in the Marketplace, with nearly 1 in 5 getting coverage there. The vast majority of these entrepreneurs – 82% in 2022 – claim the ACA premium tax credit to reduce their cost of coverage by an average of about $700 each year. The ACA was designed to finally provide a reliable source of health insurance for people who don’t get coverage through their jobs – after decades of facing high health care prices or outright coverage denials based on pre-existing conditions – and this report makes clear that system is working to support American entrepreneurship. Ensuring American small business owners can access affordable health insurance is yet another example of the many ways that the Biden-Harris Administration has supported a small business boom.  Since President Biden took office, Americans have filed more than 19 million new business applications, the most on record. This small business boom has been powered by landmark investments in infrastructure, clean energy, and domestic manufacturing made through the Biden-Harris Investing in America agenda, expanding access to capital and enabling all-time high levels of federal contracting with small businesses But Congressional Republicans continue their efforts to strip this progress away.  They have voted more than 50 times to repeal the ACA. They continue advance proposals that would strip coverage away, and undermine protections for people with pre-existing conditions. Millions of America’s small businesses owners and self-employed workers would find their health insurance disrupted if those plans succeed. And their plan to end the expansion of the ACA premium tax credits would raise taxes and heath care costs for millions of small business owners, including middle-class small business owners. Unlike Congressional Republicans, President Biden and Vice President Harris have committed to never raising taxes on households making less than $400,000, and are fighting to extend the premium tax credit enhancements. Number of small businesses owners and self-employed workers with Marketplace coverage in each state in 2022: 
    State
    Entrepreneurs with Marketplace Coverage
    State
    Entrepreneurs with Marketplace Coverage
    AK
    4,820
    MT
    12,500
    AL
    49,020
    NC
    134,260
    AR
    18,490
    ND
    7,550
    AZ
    41,550
    NE
    23,240
    CA
    450,010
    NH
    14,650
    CO
    42,750
    NJ
    72,890
    CT
    28,340
    NM
    8,860
    DC
    4,120
    NV
    24,350
    DE
    6,200
    NY
    59,200
    FL
    618,590
    OH
    51,520
    GA
    168,070
    OK
    39,040
    HI
    8,060
    OR
    34,200
    IA
    18,740
    PA
    88,700
    ID
    13,880
    RI
    6,230
    IL
    76,920
    SC
    59,160
    IN
    32,650
    SD
    9,770
    KS
    23,870
    TN
    66,270
    KY
    16,480
    TX
    423,790
    LA
    26,780
    UT
    36,320
    MA
    50,130
    VA
    66,110
    MD
    38,240
    VT
    7,170
    ME
    15,460
    WA
    53,130
    MI
    65,490
    WI
    45,790
    MN
    25,730
    WV
    5,040
    MO
    56,070
    WY
    7,120
    MS
    27,130
    Other
    1,100
    Total
    3,285,550

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Vets Market Investigation: CMA updates on ‘behind the scenes’ progress

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The CMA updates on information gathering and announces the appointment of a new advisory panel made up of 2 veterinary nurses and 4 veterinary surgeons.

    iStock

    In May 2024, the CMA confirmed its decision to launch a market investigation into veterinary services for household pets in the UK and published tips to help pet owners better navigate vet services.

    There are 16 million pet owners in the UK and the unprecedented response – from the public and veterinary professionals – showed the strength of feeling on this issue. With this in mind, the CMA is updating on the work going on behind the scenes to deepen the Inquiry Group’s understanding of the issues. The Group, made up of independent experts and chaired by Martin Coleman, has been carrying out the investigation, supported and advised by CMA staff.

    In July, the CMA published an issues statement which set out the scope of the investigation and the areas being explored – including the information pet owners receive when deciding on treatment options or making purchases, competition between vet practices, the profitability of different types of vet practices, and the regulatory framework which underpins the sector.

    The CMA has used and will continue to use its formal powers to gather information, examine concerns in more depth and be in a position to shape any remedies, if needed, to address them.

    The Inquiry Group has so far conducted:

    • Site visits: Over the summer members of the Inquiry Group and the case team have visited 20 different sites to talk to veterinary professionals to understand their work. These ‘behind the scenes’ visits happened across the UK – in Belfast, Edinburgh, Swansea, and various locations across England – and included visits to ‘first opinion’ local vet practices, veterinary hospitals, referral centres and practices that provide out-of-hours care. The team visited sites owned by larger corporate groups and several independently owned veterinary businesses, where they spoke to a range of veterinary professionals and observed several treatments and procedures first hand – including consultations, surgical procedures, and animal dentistry.
    • Roundtables: The CMA has held roundtable discussions with veterinary professionals at various stages of their careers, and representatives from animal charities. In-person roundtables were held in Edinburgh, Manchester, Swansea, and 4 virtual roundtables, to capture views on a variety of topics including the challenges faced by vets, how the sector has developed over the last 10 years, interactions with pet owners as well as costs and pricing. Roundtables with consumer groups will be held shortly.
    • Teach-ins: Various organisations in the veterinary sector have presented their views to the CMA at ‘teach-in’ sessions and shared how the veterinary market works, their concerns about the investigation and how regulation is working. Participants included the large corporate vet groups, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, the British Veterinary Association, and the British Veterinary Nursing Association.

    The CMA has also used its formal information gathering powers to require vets and vet businesses to provide large amounts of information about the way their businesses operate. This information is being analysed and will be an important part of the evidence relied on in the investigation.

    Today, the CMA is also announcing the appointment of its veterinary advisory panel whose purpose is to provide the Inquiry Group with clinical and practical insight and analysis on an ad hoc basis throughout the course of the investigation. It is comprised of two veterinary nurses and four veterinary surgeons.

    The advisory panel’s insight will help ensure the Group is fully informed on day-to-day matters when it comes to make its decisions, including but not limited to:

    • Operation of veterinary practices – including roles and relationships between veterinary professionals, other staff, and other related organisations
    • Interaction with pet owners – including how owners’ decisions might be informed in different treatment/service situations, communicating recommendations and potential costs, and how those in different professional roles within a vet practice may engage with customers
    • Clinical practice – such as possible treatment options for defined conditions or illnesses of household pets
    • Regulation – including the operation and application of regulations and regulatory bodies

    Martin Coleman, Chair of the Inquiry Group said:

    We know our investigation really matters to pet owners who are worried about costs and vet professionals who want to provide good care, which is why we’re updating on how this work is unfolding. I’m pleased with the progress we have made so far; we’re on target to make our provisional decision by the middle of next year.

    This is far more than a paper exercise – hands-on site visits, teach-ins and roundtables are helping us build a true picture of how vet services operate day-to-day and where the challenges lie. Our new advisory panel – made up of practicing vet nurses and surgeons – will also bring immeasurable experience to the process, all of which will help us make well-informed decisions and reach the right conclusions.

    The next steps are set out in the administrative timetable on the vets case page.

    Notes to editors:

    1. For information, brief biographies of each member of the advisory panel have been published online.
    2. The site visits took place across the UK – in Belfast, Edinburgh, Swansea, and several locations in England including Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Cheshire, East and West London, Greater Manchester, Somerset, and Surrey.
    3. The 6 large corporate vet groups in the UK are IVC, CVS, Medivet, Pets at Home, Linnaeus, and Vet Partners which together account for 60% of the market.  There are also around 350 smaller chains and a much larger number of independently owned practices. Sources: RCVS, IVC, CVS, Pets At Home, Medivet, Linnaeus – correct as of Oct 2023.
    4. Read more about the CMA and its predecessors’ market investigations work here: Market investigations: 75 years of UK experience – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
    5. For media enquiries, contact the CMA press office on 020 3738 6460 or press@cma.gov.uk.
    6. All enquiries from the public should be directed to the CMA’s General Enquiries team on general.enquiries@cma.gov.uk or by phone on 020 3738 6000.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The city has put 12 non-residential premises in the center of the capital up for auction

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The city has put 12 non-residential premises in buildings located in the central districts of the capital up for auction. Bid campaigns will be completed between September 25 and November 11, depending on the lot selected. This was reported by the press service of the capital Department of Competition Policy.

    “The presented objects are located in basements or ground floors of buildings. Their cost will be determined during auctions that will be held from October 4 to November 20, depending on the lot. All premises have a free functional purpose, so the winners of the auction will be able to open pick-up points, beauty salons, shops and other service institutions in them,” the press service said.

    11 premises are connected to the main utility systems: electricity, sewerage and water supply, one – only to water supply.

    Five non-residential premises are located in buildings located in Presnensky district, two objects per house in Khamovniki and Basmanny district, and one more in buildings in the districts Meshchansky, Arbat and Zamoskvorechye.

    The area of the premises ranges from 11.8 to 402 square meters. Registration on the digital trading platform is required to participate in the auction. “RoselTorg” and enhanced qualified electronic signature.

    The capital regularly puts up for auction properties for commercial use. As before reported Sergei Sobyanin, since 2014, sales of city real estate have increased 13 times. Commercial buildings and premises, parking spaces, plots for the construction of private houses or land for shops, service centers, cafes and restaurants are sold and leased at auctions. Non-stationary retail facilities are also offered.

    Moscow is a city that develops entrepreneurship. The capital puts various properties up for auction, and the showcase of the offered objects is Moscow investment portal. In the section “Property from the city” All necessary information about the lots is published: photographs, documentation, conditions and form of implementation. Here you can also take a 3D tour of the objects. You can participate in city auctions remotely – the entire procedure takes place online.

    Development of electronic services for business corresponds to the objectives of the national project “Digital Economy”. You can find out more about it and other national projects implemented in Moscow Here.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/144397073/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tougher sentences on the horizon for criminals

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Sentencing reforms that will ensure criminals face tougher consequences and victims are prioritised have passed first reading in Parliament today, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says. 

    “Despite a 33 per cent increase in violent crime, there has been a concerning trend where the courts have imposed fewer and shorter prison sentences.

    “We must restore confidence in our justice system to denounce and deter criminal activity. 

    The upcoming reforms will strengthen the criminal justice system by:

    • Capping the sentence discounts that judges can apply at 40 per cent when considering mitigating factors unless it would result in manifestly unjust sentencing outcomes.
    • Preventing repeat discounts for youth and remorse. Lenient sentences are failing to deter offenders who continue to rely on their youth or expressions of remorse without making serious efforts to reform their behaviour.
    • Responding to serious retail crime by introducing a new aggravating factor to address offences against sole charge workers and those whose home and business are interconnected, as committed to in the National-Act coalition agreement. 
    • Encouraging the use of cumulative sentencing for offences committed while on bail, in custody, or on parole to denounce behaviour that indicates a disregard for the criminal justice system, as committed to in the National-New Zealand First coalition agreement. 
    • Implementing a sliding scale for early guilty pleas with a maximum sentence discount of 25 per cent, reducing to a maximum of 5 per cent for a guilty plea entered during the trial. This will prevent undue discounts for late-stage guilty pleas and avoid unnecessary trials that are costly and stressful for victims.
    • Amending the principles of sentencing to include requirement to take into account any information provided to the court about victims’ interests, as committed to in both coalition agreements.  

    “Two aggravating factors are also included in the bill,” Mr Goldsmith says.

    These respond to: 

    • Adults who exploit children and young people by aiding or abetting them to offend; 
    • Offenders who glorify their criminal activities by livestreaming or posting them online.

    “Communities and hardworking Kiwis should not be made to live and work in fear of these offenders who clearly have a flagrant disregard for the law, corrections officers and the general public.

    “These reforms will help ensure there are 20,000 fewer victims of violent crime by 2029, alongside a 15 per cent reduction in serious repeat youth offending.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 2024 final registers of electors/voters for geographical/functional constituencies and Election Committee subsectors released today

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The 2024 final registers of electors/voters for geographical constituencies (GCs), functional constituencies (FCs) and Election Committee subsectors (ECSSs) were released today (September 25).

         “A total of 4 210 384 electors are carried in the final register for GCs. The final register for FCs contains 190 016 individual electors and 8 141 corporate electors, comprising a total of 198 157. The final register for ECSSs contains 3 267 individual voters and 5 389 corporate voters, adding up to a total of 8 656,” a spokesman for the Registration and Electoral Office said.

         Statistical information about these final registers of electors/voters has been uploaded to the voter registration website (vr.gov.hk).

         Notices on the inspection of the final registers of electors/voters were gazetted today. According to law, a copy of registers containing entries relating to individuals may only be shown in accordance with the statutory requirements, and made available for inspection by specified persons only. A copy of registers containing entries of corporate electors/voters (i.e. without entries relating to individuals) may be inspected by any member of the public. For details and arrangements regarding the inspection, please refer to www.reo.gov.hk/en/voter/checkvrstatus/registers.html.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Policing will always use Artificial Intelligence responsibly

    Source: United Kingdom National Police Chiefs Council

    Trials of AI programmes have been ongoing to help ease call demand, tackle child exploitation and to identify DA

    That’s the message from policing’s first-ever lead for Artificial Intelligence (AI) as he reaffirms his commitment to transforming the service.  

    Temporary Chief Constable Alex Murray took up this role in March this year and wants to focus on three key areas: improving productivity, making policing more effective in cutting crime and tackling the criminal use of AI. 

    He is also keen to highlight the innovative work and ambitious pilots already underway to help meet those key objectives.  

    They include:  

    • AI trials in control rooms to help call handlers manage demand and focus on those most at risk.  
    • The development of redaction tools, transcription and translation services.   
    • Tools which can search through huge amounts of data to find out where potential child exploitation is taking place.    
    • The NPCC is also taking part in the Probable Futures programme, a four-year research project which reviews all AI systems across law enforcement and will create a responsible and ‘operational-ready’ framework for using AI. 

    T/Chief Constable Murray said:

    “There are huge benefits to using AI across the wider criminal justice system, not just in policing, and we should not shy away from it. 

    “Technology is moving at such a fast pace, and it will never be this slow again which means we need to mobilise now and equip our workforce for the future. If we don’t, we risk falling behind the criminals who are embracing and exploiting these tools.  

    “AI offers huge opportunities for policing. It can automate a range of administrative tasks such as closing call logs, redacting huge court bundles and translating documents. It can help our call handlers to prioritise those who need their assistance most and can even help identify patterns and trends in evidence. These gains in productivity mean officers and staff will ultimately have more time to be back out in their community.  

    “There is always more demand for policing than it can supply and AI helps release officer time so they can concentrate on those who need them most. 

    “The public can be assured that AI is not replacing officers. Police will remain at the heart of everything we do because violent disorder, domestic abuse, child sexual exploitation for example, will always need a trained human officer to interact, offer support and make the final decisions and that will never change.” 

    The former West Mercia officer, now a Director in the NCA, added:

    “I want to be very clear with the public that our use of AI will always be responsible, transparent and explainable and this is why we have all signed up to the first-ever AI covenant. 

    “The responsible use of AI is paramount if we are to deliver a service that is trusted by communities. People will see the only motivation here is to improve what we do and to better achieve our mission of making people safer.   

    “We are open to scrutiny and want to build transparency into what we do. For us, innovation is about keeping our communities safe, not for profit, not for the sake of it.  

    “We will are committed to working with key partners, academia and industry leaders to improve but will always be open and transparent about our actions and intentions.”  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO and Bulgaria announce major emergency response exercise

    Source: NATO

    In September 2025, Bulgaria will host NATO’s 20th civil emergency response exercise. These exercises are among the world’s largest and most complex training events in disaster response and the management of complex emergencies.

    Organised by NATO’s Euro-Atlantic Disaster Response Coordination Centre (EADRCC), the exercise will bring together Allies and partners, as well as other international organizations. Participants will be confronted with scenarios that include natural and industrial disasters, hybrid threats, and complex emergencies. They will be able to test procedures related to the coordination of different activities and logistical support. Exercises like this help to gauge the ability of personnel from different countries to work effectively alongside each other, promote cooperation between civilian and military actors involved in disasters response, and build up the ability of Allies and partners to tackle complex and interconnected security threats. This is essential to building resilience and to preparing for potential challenges, including those related to climate change.

    The Euro-Atlantic Disaster Response Coordination Centre (EADRCC) is NATO’s principal civil emergency response mechanism. It is available to all Allies and partner countries and can support them with both response and preparedness for natural and human-made disasters and other emergencies.

    The exercise was announced today (25 September 2024) at NATO Headquarters by NATO’s Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Operations, Ms. Burcu San, and the Director General for Fire Safety and Civil Protection at the Ministry of Interior of Bulgaria, Mr. Aleksandar Dzhartov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU Blue Card will promote highly qualified labour immigration

    Source: Government of Sweden

    EU Blue Card will promote highly qualified labour immigration – Government.se

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    Ministers on this page who have changed areas of responsibility

    Between 18 October 2022 and 10 September 2024 he was Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade.

    Ministers on this page who have changed areas of responsibility

    Between 18 October 2022 and 10 September 2024 he was Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade.

    Press release from Ministry of Justice

    Published

    The Government has presented a government bill to the Riksdag with proposals aimed at improving Sweden’s ability to attract and retain highly qualified workers.

    “The rules regarding highly qualified workers must be improved. Sweden must be an attractive country for highly qualified workers, and employers in highly qualified professional sectors must be sure that they can get the workers they need in time. This is an important part of the Government’s efforts to strengthen Sweden’s competitiveness,” says Minister for Migration Johan Forssell.

    The proposals are aimed at implementing the new Blue Card Directive, which replaces the 2009 Blue Card Directive. An EU Blue Card is a combined residence and work permit that can be granted to foreign workers who have an employment contract for highly qualified positions in Sweden and who meet other conditions.

    In the bill, the Government proposes the legislative amendments needed to implement the new Blue Card Directive. The proposals aim to improve the ability to attract and retain highly qualified workers and facilitate their mobility within the EU, and include the following:

    • lowering the salary threshold to be granted an EU Blue Card and lowering the required period of employment to 6 months;
    • making more categories of workers eligible for an EU Blue Card;
    • expanding the possibilities of switching from other types of residence permit to an EU Blue Card; and
    • making it possible to switch to another highly qualified position without applying for a new EU Blue Card.

    It is proposed that the legislative amendments enter into force on 1 January 2025.

    Press contact

    Ministers on this page who have changed areas of responsibility

    Between 18 October 2022 and 10 September 2024 he was Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade.

    Ministers on this page who have changed areas of responsibility

    Between 18 October 2022 and 10 September 2024 he was Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Change to approach for mock-ups for VMD assessment

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Changes to when the VMD requires submission of veterinary medicine labelling mock-ups for assessment.

    From 1 October, the VMD has revised requirements for submission of mock-ups.

    The changes outlined below are being adopted with the common objective of reducing administrative burden and introducing efficiencies to application procedures.

    Applicants remain responsible for ensuring the labelling and package leaflet for product in the marketplace comply with the approved QRD and principles set out in VMD’s Product Literature Standard.

    Procedures requiring mock-up assessment

    The VMD will continue to review and approve mock-ups for new product applications, including variation extension applications that result in a stand-alone marketing authorisation (MA), prior to those products being placed on the market.

    The VMD will also review mock-ups for the following variation procedures:

    • G.I.15.z Variation Requiring Assessment (VRA) applied for in the following scenarios:

      • to introduce mock-ups for the first time prior to marketing where not submitted at the end of a new MA procedure
      • to facilitate joint assessment of mock-ups between VMD and HPRA following granting of a new MA
      • to assess significant changes to the design or layout of the mock-ups that are unrelated to the summary of product characteristics (SPC)

    • G.I.18 VRA to align product information to the latest QRD template

    What mock-ups do you need to submit

    Mock-ups for all approved pack sizes need to be submitted for assessment prior to their first marketing.

    Procedures no longer requiring mock-up assessment

    The VMD will not routinely assess new mock-ups or annotate existing mock-ups for other variation categories, however, may request these on a case-by-case basis where we consider that the overall design and readability could be significantly affected.

    If this is the case, the procedure will be closed with a condition, and you will need to submit a separate G.I.15z variation to facilitate review of the mock-ups.

    Mock-ups for ongoing applications

    The VMD will continue to assess mock-ups for applications that are ongoing as of 1 October where these have been requested. If you have received a request to submit mock-ups, please continue to submit these for VMD review.

    Contact

    For any queries relating to this news item, please email postmaster@vmd.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Tatyana Golikova: Within the framework of new national projects, the Government will continue to work on modernizing children’s healthcare

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova welcomed the participants of the first All-Russian forum “Children’s Health – Russia’s National Priority”.

    Dear colleagues!

    Today, the first All-Russian forum “Children’s Health – Russia’s National Priority” begins its work in Moscow. And I wholeheartedly welcome the participants, organizers, and guests of this major professional event.

    Tatyana Golikova greeted the participants of the first All-Russian forum “Children’s Health – Russia’s National Priority”

    12 hours ago

    For leading scientists and doctors from different regions of the country, this is an opportunity to discuss a wide range of issues, exchange experiences, and outline new paths for joint activities.

    Your forum is taking place in a significant year for the country – the Year of the Family.

    We pay special attention to preserving and improving children’s health. It is important that every child has access to medical care, no matter where they live – in the city or in the countryside. Families and parents of children must be confident that the state will always provide them with help and support, surround them with attention. To this end, within the framework of new national projects, the Government will continue to work on modernizing children’s healthcare, strengthening the medical infrastructure, updating the material and technical base of perinatal centers, children’s clinics and hospitals, as well as creating a healthy environment around children, developing healthy lifestyle skills in them.

    Particular attention will be paid to the introduction of modern technologies for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and medical rehabilitation of children, the creation of new drugs designed for convenient and comfortable administration by the child.

    I am confident that discussions of the medical and scientific community, experts of various profiles will allow us to develop specific measures that will help the modern development of children’s healthcare, maintaining the health of millions of our young citizens.

    I wish all participants fruitful work, constructive communication and success.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://government.ru/nevs/52790/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Veterinary drug chloramphenicol found in prepackaged frozen jade perch sample

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Veterinary drug chloramphenicol found in prepackaged frozen jade perch sample
    Veterinary drug chloramphenicol found in prepackaged frozen jade perch sample
    *****************************************************************************

         The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (September 25) that a sample of prepackaged frozen jade perch was detected with a veterinary drug, chloramphenicol. Members of the public should not consume the affected batch of the product. The trade should also stop using or selling the affected batch of the product immediately if they possess it. The CFS is following up on the case.      Product details are as follows:Product name: JADE PERCH FISHBrand: (Not available in English)Net weight: 251 grams to 300gBest-before date: February 25, 2025Distributor: Inspire Foodie Limited     A spokesman for the CFS said, “The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from an online shop for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that the sample contained chloramphenicol at a level of one microgram per kilogram.     “The CFS has informed the vendor concerned of the irregularity and instructed it to stop sales and remove from shelves the affected batch of the product. According to the CFS’s instructions, the distributor has initiated a recall on the affected batch of the product. Members of the public may call its hotline at 9778 8484 during office hours for enquiries about the recall of the product concerned,” the spokesman added.     According to the Harmful Substances in Food Regulations (Cap. 132AF), no fish (including shellfish) sold in Hong Kong for human consumption is allowed to contain chloramphenicol. Offenders will be liable to a fine of $50,000 and to imprisonment for six months upon conviction.     The CFS will alert the trade and will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action. An investigation is ongoing.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, September 25, 2024Issued at HKT 17:44

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Mismatch between ambitious targets and demand and investment needs for hydrogen – E-001730/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001730/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Beatrice Timgren (ECR), Charlie Weimers (ECR), Dick Erixon (ECR)

    The EU’s plan to invest billions of euro[1] in boosting renewable hydrogen fuel is being questioned by a recent European Court of Auditors report. The report highlights a mismatch between the ambitious targets set by the Commission and the actual demand and investment needs for hydrogen, suggesting that the strategy is politically driven rather than based on robust analysis.

    In light of this, the following questions arise:

    • 1.Reassessment and risk mitigation: According to the report, actual demand for hydrogen is expected to be significantly lower than the Commission’s targets, necessitating a reassessment and adjustment of the hydrogen strategy to reflect realistic market demand projections. Considering the Court’s warning about the EU’s high-risk exposure, what steps are being taken to mitigate these risks and ensure a balanced approach?
    • 2.Taxpayer protection: What measures are in place to protect taxpayers from potential financial losses if significant investments in hydrogen and projects like Northvolt do not yield the expected returns?[2][3]
    • 3.Climate benefit evaluation: How does the Commission evaluate the actual climate benefits of producing green steel and batteries (using imported raw materials) in Sweden compared to other potential green initiatives?[4][5]

    Submitted: 17.9.2024

    • [1] ‘For the 2021-2027 period, total EU funding for hydrogen-related projects is currently estimated at EUR 18.8 billion, mostly funded by the Recovery and Resilience Facility.’ Special report 11/2024 on the EU’s industrial policy on renewable hydrogen: https://www.eca.europa.eu/ECAPublications/SR-2024-11/SR-2024-11_EN.pdf.
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_24_224.
    • [3] https://www.eib.org/en/projects/all/20220461.
    • [4] https://www.eib.org/en/press/all/2024-015-eib-and-nib-to-provide-eur371-million-with-investeu-backing-for-h2-green-steel-s-large-scale-production-of-steel-with-minimal-carbon-footprint.
    • [5] https://www.eib.org/fr/projects/all/20200902.
    Last updated: 25 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Launch of the national program to combat foot rot

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    On October 1, the Consumer Affairs and Veterinary Service (SCAV) will begin inspections on all sheep farms in the canton of Geneva. This is part of the new program to combat foot rot, a disease that causes painful lesions on the hooves of affected animals.

    Designed by the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO), in collaboration with the main associations in the sector, the program aims to reduce the presence of this disease to less than 1% of Swiss farms, compared to around 25% currently. It will last a maximum of 5 years.

    Although this disease does not pose any risk to human health and does not affect the quality of the meat or milk produced by these animals, the fight against this sheep pathology responds to a problem of improving animal welfare. It will also help to minimize the economic impact of this epizootic on the canton’s sheep farms.

    The success of this programme will depend entirely on the good cooperation of sheep farmers with the veterinary services, due to the health treatments they will have to carry out, compliance with the immobilization measures that may be imposed and the rigour of biosecurity practices on their farms.

    More information:

    Fight against foot rot – ge.chFighting foot rot throughout Switzerland – admin.chFoot rot – admin.chOSAV press release – admin.ch

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Collected abusive signatures. The Federal Chancellery has filed a criminal complaint

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: Switzerland – Federal Chancellery

    Federal Chancellery

    Berne, 25.09.2024 – The Federal Chancellery has filed today a criminal complaint raised by the Public Ministry of the Confederation for the purpose of electoral fraud. The plainte is directed towards you. The ways of previous joints in plain text indicate that the signatures that the authorities ont declared are not valid pourraient avoir have been falsified.

    The Federal Chancellery has now filed a criminal complaint against the inconvenience of forgery of signatures in the context of popular initiatives in 2022. She completed these plain ones with two reprises bringing new ways of life. The signals come from the same time in the same canton. The second plain text deposited today by the Federal Chancellery brings the suspects here if they are produced this year in the largest cantons and therefore the authors appear to be different.

    The Federal Chancellery will report the suspect cases here in the object of the second plainte lors du contrôle et du dépouillement des lists de signatures. After 2022, the process of in-depth checks includes previously declared signatures not valid for municipalities. Also note the elements that indicate the forgeries, for example of different writings for several signatures of one person and the same person.

    The plaint contains also these signals of falsification that from cantons or communes, and in a particular case, it is common. Les signalements portent parfois sur une seule signature; the plupart, on those dizaines.

    In total, the plain door on the environment 950 signatures powerfully falsified coming from six cantons, for five popular initiatives. The most frequent reasons here reveal the soupcons and conduisent to invalidate the signatures are, other than the different writings for more signatures of one single person and the same person, incorrect dates of naissance, badly spelled names, incorrect or invented addresses Lists of signatures here satisfy the legal requirements. According to the ongoing procedure, the Federal Chancellery will not provide information on the file.

    For the last few weeks, new abusive practices have been discovered. The Federal Chancellery exploits all the possibilities it provides to protect the integrity of the signature collection process. Outside the criminal court, to know the grounds for suspects, it is necessary to prevent and improve the proceedings.

    The chancelier of the Confédération will convene a permanent round table to ensure that those who propose and ask for signatures are committed to respecting the rules of transparency and behavior required to prevent falsifications. An in-depth monitoring of the collection and control processes of the signatures is to help you find them in place. The Federal Chancellery will also contact the scientific community to examine the technical solutions to prevent abuse and fraud in the collection of signatures.

    Address for envoi de questions

    Urs BrudererChef ai Section Communication058 483 99 69urs.bruderer@bk.admin.ch

    Author

    Federal Chancelleryhttps://www.bk.admin.ch/bk/fr/home.html

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI: NexQloud to Compete in Blockchain Life 2024 Startup Pitch: Showcasing Decentralized Cloud Computing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NexQloud, a trailblazer in decentralized cloud computing, is set to participate in the Blockchain Life 2024 Startup Pitch competition in Dubai. This prestigious competition, held as part of the Blockchain Life forum, is one of the largest global platforms for blockchain, Web3, and cryptocurrency projects, attracting over 10,000 attendees from 120+ countries. NexQloud will compete on the main stage, presenting its groundbreaking decentralized cloud technology to top-tier venture funds, investors, and industry experts. With over 10,000 attendees expected from more than 120 countries, Blockchain Life is one of the world’s largest forums for blockchain, Web3, and cryptocurrency.

    The Startup Pitch offers NexQloud a prime opportunity to demonstrate its decentralized cloud platform and how it leverages unused computing power from everyday devices to build a secure, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional cloud computing.

    Competing for Investment and Recognition

    The Blockchain Life Startup Pitch competition is designed to spotlight innovative blockchain and cryptocurrency projects with the potential to transform industries. Participants are evaluated based on their relevance, business model, feasibility, and team competency, with winners gaining significant attention from investors and key players in the blockchain space. Past winners have seen remarkable growth, including companies that have secured major investments following their participation.

    “We’re thrilled to take part in the Startup Pitch, where we will showcase how NexQloud’s decentralized cloud platform not only reduces operational costs by up to 30%, but also lowers CO2 emissions by up to 40%. These reductions are based on our internal testing against conventional data center models,” said Mauro Terrinoni, CEO of NexQloud. “This event offers us the chance to present our solution to a highly engaged audience of investors and decision-makers.”

    Positioning for Growth in a Trillion-Dollar Market

    The global cloud computing market is forecasted to surpass $1 trillion by 2027, according to BusinessWire. NexQloud’s decentralized model places the company in a strong position to capitalize on this growth. With its unique use of blockchain and tokenomics, NexQloud aims to attract the attention from both investors and hardware contributors. The company’s NXQ token—with a capped supply of 21 million—mirrors successful early blockchain models like Bitcoin, presenting investors with an attractive long-term value proposition.

    About NexQloud

    NexQloud’s platform harnesses the power of its proprietary layer one blockchain to deliver decentralized cloud services that meet the rising demand for more affordable, secure, and environmentally friendly computing solutions. By tapping into idle computing resources from devices across the globe, NexQloud transforms unused capacity into a powerful, distributed cloud network. This decentralized approach not only ensures exceptional efficiency and reliability but also cuts costs and reduces environmental impact. NexQloud’s innovative system creates a scalable cloud infrastructure that is both economically and ecologically sustainable, offering businesses a smarter, greener alternative to traditional cloud providers.

    Contact:
    Name: Mauro Terrinoni, CEO
    Email: mterrinoni@nexqloud.io
    Company Name: NexQloud
    Website: nexqloud.io
    Contact number: +1 669 241 0916

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bf032a4e-b9ed-4764-b938-6bb9f4613f5c

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Press presentation 25 September 2024

    Source: Danmarks Nationalbank

    Danish economy

    On 25 September 2024 at a press conference, Governor Christian Kettel Thomsen’s main messages were that there is a prospect of moderate progress and stable prices in Denmark, but that there is still a need for monetary and fiscal policy to support low and stable inflation. (Presentation in Danish only).

    See the most recent presentations and speeches

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU measures in response to the ICJ advisory opinion on the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territory – E-001713/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001713/2024/rev.1
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Vicent Marzà Ibáñez (Verts/ALE)

    The advisory opinion issued on 19 July 2024 by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) states that the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territory is clearly illegal. The opinion further stresses that there are ‘legal consequences’ for UN member states, who are ‘under an obligation not to render aid or assistance in maintaining the situation created by Israel’s illegal presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory’.

    In this context:

    • 1.What specific action has the EU taken or does it intend to take within the scope of its powers to ban trade with the settlements, sanction companies operating in them, withdraw eligibility for subsidies and limit participation in EU programmes for, inter alia, companies and universities active in the settlements?
    • 2.What measures to sanction settlers are under consideration?

    Submitted: 13.9.2024

    Last updated: 25 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Are measures that make flying less accessible justified by a hypothetical benefit for the climate? – E-001732/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001732/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Mathilde Androuët (PfE)

    According to the European Commission, fares for flights within the EU were on average 20 to 30 % higher last summer than before the COVID-19 pandemic[1]. This price hike calls into question how accessible flying is as a means of transport, especially in the coming years with the reform of the EU emissions trading system[2], included in the Fit for 55 package[3], and the announced reform of the Energy Taxation Directive[4].

    Airlines for Europe indicates that compliance with these new rules could cost European airlines 13 to 14 times more in 2030 than in 2019[5]. However, according to calculations by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), flights departing from Europe account for 0.3 % of global greenhouse gas emissions, with approximately half being generated by flights within the EU[6]. While taxing this sector would prevent a 0.002 °C increase in temperature in 2100, it would bring about very damaging indirect consequences (job losses and relocation).

    Does the Commission consider that this hypothetical and derisory ‘benefit for the climate’ justifies the adoption of self-punitive social and economic measures?

    Submitted: 17.9.2024

    • [1] Airline fares in EU 20-30 % higher this summer than in 2019 – The Brussels Times – 10 November 2023.
    • [2] Fit for 55: European Parliament adopts key laws to reach the 2030 climate target – European Parliament press release – 18 April 2024.
    • [3] Fit for 55 package: Council reaches general approaches relating to emissions reductions and their social impacts – Ministry of the Ecological Transition and Territorial Cohesion – 29 June 2022.
    • [4] Belgium issues ultimatum over energy tax reform – Euronews – 22 April 2024.
    • [5] The European Green Deal and the Fit For 55 Package – AirlinesForEurope – 11 December 2023.
    • [6] IPCC, 6th Assessment Report, Summary for Policymakers, p. 28.
    Last updated: 25 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Does the Commission see it as urgent to adopt an ambitious family policy to tackle the demographic challenge? – E-001728/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001728/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Mathilde Androuët (PfE)

    In her State of the Union address[1], and in the political guidelines for 2024-2029[2], Ursula von der Leyen raised the issue of ‘skills and labour shortages’. One of the remedies she proposes to address these shortages is ‘legal immigration’, an idea already put forward in the Pact on Migration and Asylum[3]. The ‘shortages’ concerned largely stem from the demographic decline we are seeing. It is hitting many European regions very hard[4].

    Yet unless they are torrential in nature, the European Economic and Social Committee emphasised back in 2011 that ‘[m]igration inflows […] would not be sufficient in themselves, since immigrants do not necessarily settle in areas where the birth-rate is low’, and that ‘immigration requires active pursuit of integration policies in order to avoid inter-community problems’[5]. What is more, the unemployment rate among immigrants from outside Europe is significantly higher than it is among those in other categories[6].

    As part of a long-term recovery strategy for Europe’s demography, does the Commission not consider it a priority to adopt, as a matter of urgency, ambitious family policies, as already advocated by the EESC back in 2007?

    Submitted: 17.9.2024

    • [1] 2023 State of the Union address by President Ursula von der Leyen – European Commission – 13 September 2023.
    • [2] Europe’s Choice – Political Guidelines for the next European Commission 2024-2029 – 18 July 2024.
    • [3] Pact on Migration and Asylum – European Commission – https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/promoting-our-european-way-life/migration-and-asylum/pact-migration-and-asylum_en.
    • [4] Ninth report on economic, social and territorial cohesion – EESC – 30 May 2024.
    • [5] Opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee on ‘The role of family policy in relation to demographic change with a view to sharing best practices among Member States’ – OJ 2011/C 218/02.
    • [6] Immigrants and descendants of immigrants – INSEE – 11 April 2023.
    Last updated: 25 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Ignazio Cassis in Central Asia: Speech on the occasion of the Swiss National Day

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    Bischkek, Swiss Embassy, 03.07.2024 – Speech by H.E. Federal Councilor Ignazio Cassis, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) – check against delivery

    Benvenuto a tutti
    Bienvenue à tous et toutes
    Ich heisse alle recht herzlich willkommen

    Добро пожаловать!

    Кош келиңиздер!
     
    I would like to welcome you all to our celebration of the Swiss National Day – one month in advance, indeed, but this is the only way to catch you all here!

    This is a very special occasion that I am privileged to share with you today:
    This year, we are also celebrating the 30th anniversary of development cooperation between our countries; and the centenary of the Kara Kyrgyz Autonomous Oblast, the new beginning of the modern Kyrgyz Republic.

    A few years after that beginning, Swiss travellers started to visit your country:
    Notably the writer and photographer Ella Maillart, who is honoured in the karakul museum, and the alpinist Lorenz Saladin, who climbed Khan Tengri.
    Today, I have had the pleasure to discover a bit of your beautiful country and its many similarities with mine.  

    • We both have stunning nature and impressive mountains.
    • We are both rather small and landlocked countries;
    • We both have larger neighbours.

    Geographic, natural, cultural, ethnic, religious, and linguistic diversity has been a key asset and factor for success for Switzerland as it is for the Kyrgyz Republic.

    Our relations are fruitful and strong.
    In 2023, Switzerland was the biggest export partner of the Kyrgyz Republic.
    We have regular high-level meetings, including political consultations, and now, my visit to Bishkek.

    It was about time to come here, to strengthen our relations.

    The team at your Embassy in Switzerland and at the Swiss Embassy in Bishkek invest countless hours in nurturing our bilateral relations.

    Not to forget the personal link of friendship between our countries:

    I would like here to recognise some of my compatriots who live in Kyrgyzstan – thank you for promoting Switzerland by your presence.

    I would also like to acknowledge the role of Kyrgyzstani citizens in Switzerland in strengthening links of friendship.

    Dear Guests
    In international fora, Kyrgyzstan and Switzerland support each other.
    The most obvious example is our collaboration within the World Bank and International Monetary Fund boards.
    Yesterday, I attended the constituency meeting in Dushanbe, with participation of the Kyrgyz Republic.
    It showed me how strong our links are.

    Switzerland will stay committed to its development cooperation with the Kyrgyz Republic. We will continue to work together in the future.
    We should continue supporting the private sector, local governance and the water-energy sector, to the extent allowed by today’s trying circumstances.

    Speaking of circumstances, the stability and prosperity of our two countries strongly depend on the global balance of power.

    As a neutral country, Switzerland is a traditional partner for peace and dialogue.
    To fulfil this responsibility my country hosted the first Summit on Peace in Ukraine two weeks ago.
    We have launched a broadly supported process, where voices from all corners of the globe can discuss their ideas and points of view.
    The path to peace is long and challenging but it is in the interest of everyone – including Switzerland and Kyrgyzstan – to commit to this ambition.
    Both our countries thrive in peace, as will Ukraine and Russia when a “comprehensive, just and lasting peace” has been achieved.
     
    Ladies and Gentlemen
    On all anniversaries, it is customary to make wishes – and I have three wishes for your exceptional country:

    • May Kyrgyzstan navigate the difficult international context successfully, grounded in its neutrality.
    • May the Kyrgyz Republic and the Republic of Tajikistan soon find a good and equitable way to resolve the outstanding border issues.
    •  May the Swiss support in the water, health, economic and local governance sectors help make my first two wishes come true!

    Чоң рахмат!
    I wish you all a wonderful anniversary evening.
    Thank you!

    Address for enquiries

    FDFA Communication
    Federal Palace West Wing
    CH-3003 Bern, Switzerland
    Tel. Press service: +41 58 460 55 55
    E-mail: kommunikation@eda.admin.ch
    Twitter: @SwissMFA

    Publisher

    Federal Department of Foreign Affairs
    https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: RAF 60 Second Update25 Sep 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Royal Air Force

    We’re back with the latest RAF 60 Second Update from the RAF Police Military Working Dog Trials at RAF Honington.

    In this episode:‌

    • Wedgetail, the UK’s newest Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft, has completed its maiden UK test flight.
    • Teams battle for ‘Top Dog’ at the RAF Police Military Working Dogs Trials.
    • Her Majesty The Queen visits RAF Leeming in her role as Royal Honorary Air Commodore of the Station to meet personnel and their families.

    Thanks for watching and see you next time!

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Population and migration statistics 2023 published25 September 2024 ​​​​Statistics Jersey have today released population and migration statistics including:a provisional estimate of the resident Jersey population at the end of 2023a revision of the estimate of the… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    25 September 2024

    ​​​​

    Statistics Jersey have today released population and migration statistics including:

    • a provisional estimate of the resident Jersey population at the end of 2023

    • a revision of the estimate of the resident Jersey population at the end of 2022

    • new experimental statistics breaking population and migration statistics down by eligibility for Control of Housing and Work Law status (Registered, Licensed, Entitled for Work, Entitled)1

    • new experimental statistics breaking population and migration statistics down by self-declared nationality1

    Summary

    The resident population at the end of 2023 is provisionally estimated to be 103,650, an increase of 350 people from the end of 2022.​

    There were more deaths than births in 2023 for the second year in a row, resulting in a negative natural change of -110. More people inwardly migrated than outwardly migrated during 2023 leading to net migration of +470 people. 

    In the five-year period 2018 to 2023:

    • the number of over 64-year-olds grew by 12%

    • the number of under 16-year-olds fell by 5%

    • the number of working age people (16 to 64 years old) was relatively stable (fell by 1%)

    Although relatively stable in size, this report shows that the working age population would have fallen every year since 2012 by an average of 230 people each ​year without migration.

    ​The report provides detailed experimental statistics by eligibility for Control of Housing and Work Law statuses.1​ Over the five-year period 2018 to 2023:​

    • the number of people with Registered status decreased by 15%

    • the number of people with Licensed status increased by 38%

    • the number of people with Entitled for work status decreased by 4%

    • the number of people with Entitled status increased by 2%

    ​The self-reported nationalities of the resident population are also presented as experimental statistics in the report.1 Over the five-year period from 2018 to 2023:

    • the number of people with a European nationality decreased by 7% from 16,740 to 15,610

    • the number of people with a rest of world nationality (excluding Jersey, British, and European) increased by 150% from 1,720 to 4,300 people

    Statistics Jersey have produced these population and migration statistics using administrative data (data that is already held by government for running public services). See report for detailed data sources and methods, linked below.

    Population and migration statistics 2023​

    ​

    1Experimental statistics are considered to be in the testing phase. The statistics potentially have a wider degree of uncertainty and should be interpreted with care. Publishing experimental statistics gives an opportunity to involve potential users an​d stakeholders in assessing their quality and suitability, while still providing useful information for users. You can read more in the​guidance and interpretation of experimental statistics policy linked below.

    guidance and interpretation of experimental statistics policy

    ​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –