Category: AM-NC

MIL-OSI Submissions: Research – Choice Overload: Why More Options Lead to Worse Decisions

Source: Open Researchers Alliance for International Drivers Association

Psychological Basis of Choice Overload

Choice overload, a prevalent cognitive bias in decision-making, occurs when individuals face too many options, leading to anxiety and stress. The brain struggles to process and evaluate a large number of choices, and this phenomenon is closely linked to the “Paradox of Choice,” which suggests that while options are generally beneficial, an excess can paralyze decision-making and induce dissatisfaction. This mental strain is associated with decision fatigue, where cognitive resources are depleted from repeatedly choosing among numerous alternatives. As a result, stress levels increase, and decision-making becomes more complex, often leading to decision paralysis or regret.

When individuals perceive options as similar, the analysis of potential outcomes becomes intricate and burdensome, further complicating decision-making. The psychological basis of choice overload is rooted in the limitations of human cognitive processing and inherent biases that arise when overwhelmed by choices.

Research and Studies

Over the past two decades, choice overload has been extensively studied in consumer behavior research. A literature review spanning 22 years and 92 articles highlights the circumstances under which choice overload occurs. The phenomenon suggests that too many options can lead to decreased satisfaction with choices or inability to decide. Studies demonstrate that choice complexity and factors like preference uncertainty significantly affect choice overload experiences.

Notably, even with fewer options, some choice sets can cause overload if choices are complex or not easily comparable. Conversely, larger sets may not always lead to overload if there is a clearly dominant option or attractive choices. Research shows that choice overload varies depending on context and individual differences. Identifying specific conditions that mitigate or exacerbate choice overload offers valuable insights for consumers and marketers in navigating complex decision landscapes.

Factors Contributing to Choice Overload

Understanding the factors contributing to choice overload is crucial for improving decision-making.

Perceptual Attributes and Information Load

The complexity of perceptual attributes and the volume of information contribute to choice overload. As attributes describing options increase, so does the difficulty of decision tasks. The arrangement and presentation of options also influence decision-making by affecting how information is processed.

Choice Set Complexity

Choice set complexity amplifies choice overload. Factors like dominant options, overall attractiveness, and alignability of choices affect how assortment size impacts choice overload. Higher complexity makes it harder to distinguish between options, increasing anxiety and uncertainty.

Decision Task Difficulty and Preference Uncertainty

Decision task difficulty and preference uncertainty are pivotal factors. More challenging tasks and uncertain preferences increase the likelihood of choice overload, as they require greater cognitive effort, overwhelming individuals.

Brand Association and Decision Goals

Brand associations and decision goals moderate the impact of assortment size on choice overload. Strong brand associations can simplify or complicate decisions, depending on alignment with consumer preferences. Decision intent—choosing or browsing—also influences choice overload experiences.

Impacts on Consumer Behavior

Despite the promise of greater freedom, an abundance of choices often leads to decision paralysis and decreased satisfaction. Choice overload manifests in various ways, impacting buying decisions and overall satisfaction. Consumers may experience analysis paralysis, where evaluating all outcomes leads to indecision, resulting in abandoned purchases due to overanalysis and fear of making the wrong choice.

The emotional and cognitive toll of choice overload ext

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish Government Workforce Statistics March 2025
Source: Scottish Government
An Official Statistics Publication for Scotland.

The latest quarterly Scottish Government Workforce Information statistics have been published today by Scotland’s Chief Statistician. These statistics cover the numbers of workers, staff sickness rates, and the diversity of staff up to the most recent quarter ending March 2025.

The statistics show that:

At the end of March 2025 there were 8,917 full time equivalent (FTE) directly employed staff, an increase on last year’s figure of 8,843 (0.8%) at the end of March 2024.

At the end of March 2025 99.6% of full time equivalent (FTE) directly employed staff were permanent and 0.4% were temporary. This compares to last year (March 2024: 99.4%, 0.6%).

There was a 17% decrease in the number (headcount) of contingent (non-directly employed) workers from the end of March 2024 (1,290) to the end of March 2025 (1,075), a decrease of 215 workers.

The staff sickness level was 8.7 average working days lost (AWDL) per staff year in the 12 month period ending March 2025, compared with 8.2 AWDL for the 12 month period ending March 2024. This equates to a loss of 3.9% of working days in the 12 month period ending March 2025.

Just over half (56.6%) of the workforce were female, compared to 43.4% male. The proportion of female staff is slightly higher than that in the same period last year (56.4% March 2024).

At the end of March 2025 the majority of staff were aged between 30 and 59, broken down as follows: 30-39 (28.8%), 40-49 (27.9%), 50-59 (22.8%), 13.2% were aged 16-29, and 7.3% were aged 60 or over.

Detailed statistics on the diversity and inclusion of the Scottish Government workforce were also updated today with the inclusion of the 2024 People Survey demographic data and will be available at https://data.gov.scot/workforce-diversity-2024-update

Background
The figures released today were produced in accordance with professional standards set out in the Code of Practice for Official Statistics.

The full statistics are available at: www.gov.scot/publications/workforce-information/

The statistics contain quarterly data from March 2012 to March 2025 and present:

full time equivalent numbers and headcounts in each directly employed staff category

headcounts of contingent workers engaged in work for the Scottish Government

sickness absence levels of directly employed staff, headcounts of directly employed staff by age, disability status, ethnicity, sex, marital/civil partnership status, religion or belief, sexual orientation and socio-economic background.

The Scottish Government uses the data internally for monitoring the performance of its workforce. Other expected users of the data in this publication are likely to include the general public and media for information about the Scottish Government, and other government departments for comparative purposes.

Official statistics are produced by professionally independent statistical staff. More information on the standards of official statistics in Scotland can be accessed at:

Statistics and research – gov.scot (www.gov.scot)
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish Crime and Justice Survey 2023/24

Source: Scottish Government

An Accredited Official Statistics Publication for Scotland.

Scotland’s Chief Statistician today released the main findings of the 2023/24 Scottish Crime and Justice Survey (SCJS).

The Scottish Crime and Justice Survey shows that most adults in Scotland (80.1%) were not victims of any SCJS crime in 2023/24, including fraud and computer misuse for the first time.

One-in-five (19.9%) were estimated to have experienced at least one crime, this included property crime (10.3% of adults), violent crime (2.9%) and fraud and computer misuse (9.5%).

The latest findings shows that the overall level of property and violent crime combined and the likelihood of being a victim of these crimes has increased since 2021/22. However, no change is detected with the pre-pandemic year of 2019/20, and both measures are down since 2008/09.

The latest findings also show that people feel safer in their local communities though there has been a fall in confidence in the police across a range of measures.

The extent and prevalence of crime in Scotland in 2023/24

The proportion of adults who experienced at least one property or violent crime increased from 10.0% in 2021/22 to 12.1% in 2023/24. The latest figure remains lower than 2008/09 (20.4%) and is not statistically different from the pre-Covid position in 2019/20 (11.9%).

There were an estimated 1,185,000 crimes in 2023/24, of which 524,000 (44%) were fraud and computer misuse crimes, 429,000 (36%) were property crime and 231,000 (20%) were violent crimes.

The estimated volume of violent and property crimes individually have both fallen over the longer term, down 27% and 41% respectively since 2008/09. Estimated violent crime increased by 73% since 2021/22 but remains at a similar level to the pre-pandemic position in 2019/20, while property crime has remained at a similar level to both 2019/20 and 2021/22.

Consistent with previous years, the majority of violent incidents were cases of minor assault resulting in no or negligible injury (61%), with instances of serious assault (8%) and robbery (5%) remaining relatively uncommon.

Victims of two or more incidents (5.8% of adults) accounted for over half (55%) of all crime in 2023/24.

This report includes the first findings on the nature of and extent of fraud and computer misuse experienced in Scotland. These results show that, in 2023/24, around one-in-ten adults (9.5%) were the victim of a fraud or computer misuse crime, with around half of these crimes being bank and credit card fraud (47%). The survey also shows that most people who lost money through fraud were ultimately reimbursed.

Crime continues to be experienced disproportionately among some groups in the population. The likelihood of experiencing any SCJS crime, including fraud and computer misuse, in 2023/24 was higher among those aged 16 to 24, for adults who are disabled and those living in urban areas of Scotland. Many population groups have seen the likelihood of experiencing any property or violent crime decrease since 2008/09.

In 2023/24, the latest comparable survey period, overall crime victimisation rates in Scotland (including fraud and computer misuse) were higher to those in England and Wales (19.9% and 16.1%). When looking at property and violent crimes alone, the rate in Scotland was also higher than in England and Wales (12.1% compared to 10.1%). This is a change to the position in 2021/22, when both areas had a similar victimisation rate and 2019/20, when Scotland had a lower rate (11.9% compared to 13.3%).

Public perceptions of the police, the justice system and crime in Scotland

Fewer than half of adults (45%) said the police in their local area do an excellent or good job. This is a decrease from 61% in 2012/13 and from 49% in 2021/22. Males and those living in urban areas were less likely to feel positively about the police than comparator groups.

The survey also looks at attitudes towards more specific elements of policing (including policing effectiveness, community engagement and fairness). Most adults expressed confidence in the local police force’s capability across various aspects of police ‘effectiveness,’ including their ability to deal with incidents as they occur and solve crimes. An exception was in preventing crime where 42% of adults were confident in the police. These measures of confidence in police effectiveness have decreased from a high in 2014/15, with some returning to 2008/09 levels.

Over two thirds (71%) of respondents thought that the local crime rate had stayed the same or reduced in the two years prior to interview, down from 76% in 2021/22 and at a similar level to 2008/09. In 2023/24, the majority of adults in Scotland said they felt very or fairly safe walking alone in their local area after dark (75%) and when in their home alone at night (95%).

Generally the public were fairly confident about the operation of the justice system in Scotland. For example, around three-quarters of adults (73%) were confident that the justice system allows all those accused of crimes to get a fair trial regardless of who they are. However, adults were less confident on other related measures, for example, 35% were confident that it deals with cases promptly and efficiently, with 52% saying they were not confident.

Background

The figures released today were produced in accordance with professional standards set out in the Code of Practice for Official Statistics.

The full statistical publication is available on the Scottish Government website.

This report covers 4,970 face to face interviews were conducted between July 2023 and April 2024. Participants were adults (aged 16 and over) living in private households in Scotland. There was a 46.0% response rate which is comparable to that of 2021/22 (47.3%) which itself saw a large fall following the COVID-19 pandemic

The Scottish Crime and Justice Survey is one of the Scottish Government’s flagship national surveys. The survey allows the people of Scotland to independently report their experiences and perceptions of crime, and thus influence the continued development and improvement of the Scottish justice system. The SCJS also provides a range of additional information, including details on the characteristics of victims and offenders of crime. It also captures adults’ perceptions of policing and the justice system.

The publication presents statistics on the extent of crime in Scotland, importantly including crime that is not reported to the police. However, it is limited to crimes against adults resident in households, and also does not cover all crime types. Experiences of sexual offences are not included in the main estimates and are instead collected in the self-completion section. Police recorded crime is a measure of those crimes reported to the police and recorded by them as a crime or offence.

More information about the survey, including the online data tables for 2023/24 results are available on the Scottish Government website.

Further breakdowns for some smaller population groups are also being published on perception of crime in the local area from the Scottish Survey Core Questions, which combines data from the three large Scottish Government household surveys. These breakdowns are available on the Scottish Survey Core Questions webpage.

As with all surveys, SCJS results are estimates, not precise figures. Results are only described as ‘increases’ or ‘decreases’ where statistical tests identify statistically significant differences. Where they do not detect significant change, results are reported as showing ‘no change’ – even if the estimate from one year appears greater or smaller than the comparator year. Importantly, this does not mean there has definitely been no change, but that the sample is not large enough to confidently detect any change that has or has not occurred. These issues are common to all population surveys, particularly on issues that affect only a minority of people. Often, where changes and trends emerge, they can be more easily detected over longer time periods, as cumulative changes build year-on-year.

Official statistics are produced by professionally independent statistical staff. Further information on Crime and Justice statistics within Scotland or the standards of official statistics in Scotland can be found on the Scottish Government website.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Property and violent crime 37% lower than in 2008
Source: Scottish Government

Flagship survey shows people feel safer in their communities.

Total levels of property and violent crime have fallen by more than a third since 2008-09, according to the latest Scottish Crime and Justice Survey (SCJS).

The 2023-24 official statistics also show that people feel safer in their communities.

The survey of almost 5,000 people across Scotland estimates that since 2008-09:
- the volume of property and violent crime, including incidents not reported to police, is 37% lower
- violent crime is down 27%
- property crime is down 41%
- the proportion of people who feel safe walking alone in their local area after dark has increased to three-quarters (75%) from two-thirds (66%)
Those who took part in the survey were asked about their experiences of violent crime and property crime and, for the first time, their experience of fraud and computer misuse. The volume of property and violent crime combined has increased since 2021-22 but remains at similar levels to the pre-pandemic position in 2019-20 and below that in 2008-09.

The survey also asked people about their perceptions of crime, policing and the justice system. Most adults expressed confidence in their local police’s ability to deal with incidents as they occur and to solve crimes.

Justice Secretary Angela Constance said:

“This flagship national survey indicates that property crime and violent crime is more than a third (37%) lower than 2008-09 and that people feel safer in their local communities. These statistics are consistent with other official figures which show that police recorded crime is at one of the lowest levels since 1974. We are making record investments in policing and across the justice system to build on this progress.

“Crime continues to be down significantly over the long term, though the survey does highlight areas of concern and the need for continued action from governments and justice partners. While the levels of crime experienced remain similar to the pre-pandemic position in 2019-20, I am keen to understand what has contributed to the rises in crime identified since the 2021-22 survey.

“I am also concerned about levels of fraud and computer misuse, including bank and credit card fraud, which can cause significant harm to individuals and businesses. A range of action will continue to enhance Police Scotland’s response to fraud, to raise awareness among the public of the potential risks and to help protect individuals and organisations from cyber criminals.

“Overall, and importantly, this survey shows most people do not experience any crime and only a very small proportion are affected by violent crime, but I have been consistently clear that any incidence of violence is one too many. That is why we are taking forward a wide range of actions to prevent, reduce and tackle violence, funded with more than £6 million invested over the past three years on top of our record funding for police.

“This week, I will also chair, with the First Minister, a cross-party summit with MSPs, youth workers and partners to consider what more can be done to address and prevent violence among young people.”

Background

Scottish Crime and Justice Survey 2023-24

The full statistical publication is available on the Scottish Government website.

The Scottish Crime and Justice Survey is a flagship national survey funded by the Scottish Government. The survey allows the people of Scotland to independently report their experiences and perceptions of crime and influence the continued development and improvement of Scotland’s system of community safety, policing and justice system.

Some of the 2021-22 SCJS covered reference periods when Covid restrictions were in place. Analysis from the Scottish Victimisation Telephone Survey suggested crime fell significantly during the first UK national lockdown, which started in March 2020. Scottish Victimisation Telephone Survey 2020: main findings
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New carbon footprint estimates for key agricultural enterprises

Source: Scottish Government

An official statistics in development publication for Scotland

New average carbon footprint estimates for beef, sheep, milk and cereal production in Scotland have been released. These are average emission intensity estimates for enterprises (activities) on farms in the Farm Business Survey.

In 2023-24 the average beef emission intensity for livestock farm types in the Farm Business Survey ranged from 30.9 to 32.8 kgCO₂e/kg dwt. Average sheep emission intensity was higher on Less Favoured Area sheep farms (35.5 kgCO₂e/kg dwt) than on lowland cattle and sheep farms (25.2 kgCO₂e/kg dwt). On dairy farms, the average emission intensity for milk production was 1.3 kgCO₂e/kg FPC milk in 2023-24. This is an increase of 2% from the previous year, as average milk yields fell. Lower productivity is associated with higher emission intensities.

Emission intensity for cereals production in 2023-24 increased on cereal (by 14% to 258 kgCO₂e/tonne crop) and general cropping farms (by 7% to 241 kgCO₂e/tonne crop), compared with the previous year. The rise was mostly driven by increased emissions from fertiliser and manure. Fertiliser usage rates rose in 2023-24 as prices fell from their peak in 2022-23.

The report includes estimates of total emissions for agricultural sub-sectors. While total agriculture emissions continued at their lowest levels in 2023 at around 7.5 MtCO₂e, arable farming saw the largest increase in emissions (by 5% to 1.5 MtCO₂e). Emissions for suckler beef, dairy, sheep and dairy beef sub-sectors fell by 1% each, compared with the previous year.

Estimates of nitrogen use at farm level show an increase in nitrogen balance (input minus output) and a decrease in nitrogen use efficiency on the average farm compared to the previous year. Similar results are seen for most farm types and generally driven by increased fertiliser and high energy feed inputs. Falling cereal outputs, where lower yields can lead to nitrogen accumulation in the soil, also drove increases in nitrogen balance.

Background

The full statistical publication with supporting data tables is available at:

Scottish agriculture greenhouse gas emissions and nitrogen use: 2023-24

Results for the agriculture sector, along with national greenhouse gas emissions, were released in the publication. The report includes new subsector analysis based on methodology developed by SRUC . Subsector analysis allocates total Scottish Greenhouse Gas Statistics emissions from agriculture to subsectors that align more closely with agricultural enterprises.

Farm level results are calculated from the 2023-24 Farm Business Survey, which covered the 2023 cropping year and the 2023-24 financial year. The Farm Business Survey is an annual survey of approximately 400 commercial farms with economic activity of at least approximately £20,000. Farms which do not receive support payments, such as pigs, poultry and horticulture, are not included in the survey. On-farm emissions are estimated using a life cycle assessment (LCA) based carbon calculator (Agrecalc). Enterprise estimates are not weighted to the 2023 June Agricultural Census and represent sample averages of farms in Farm Business Survey. Nitrogen estimates are based on standard estimates of nitrogen content in all farm inputs and outputs where possible.

More information is available at: Methodology

The data are designated as official statistics in development. They are being released to involve users in our assessment of the suitability and quality of the data.

We would like to hear about your use of this data, please get in touch with us at agric.stats@gov.scot.

For the latest statistics news follow us on Twitter @SGRESAS.

Official statistics are produced in accordance with the Code of Practice for Statistics

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Local Economic Partnership launch marks milestone in borough’s economic development strategy

Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

Lord Mayor, Alderman Stephen Moutray and Chief Executive Roger Wilson OBE at the launch of the new Local Economic Partnership. Pictured with (L-R) Michelle Craig (DfE), Ian Snowden (Permanent Secretary of DfE) and Ethna McNamee (Invest NI)

Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council successfully hosted the inaugural meeting of the new Local Economic Partnership (LEP) on Monday 9^th June at The Palace Demesne, Armagh, marking a significant step forward in the borough’s drive to strengthen economic growth and collaboration.

The meeting brought together a broad and diverse group of stakeholders to lay the foundation for the newly established partnership, which is being supported by £4.5 million in funding from the Department for the Economy (DfE) over the next three years.

The LEP aims to identify key barriers to economic development across the borough and to co-design and deliver interventions that enhance the region’s value proposition, support local enterprise, and promote innovation and skills development.

The Partnership includes four elected members—Alderman Paul Greenfield, Councillor Joy Ferguson, Councillor Kevin Savage and Councillor Kyle Savage —along with representatives from Southern Regional College (SRC), Business Partnership Alliance (BPA), Labour Market Partnerships (LMP), Community Planning, Invest Northern Ireland, and the Department for the Economy.

Reflecting on the launch of the LEP, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Stephen Moutray, said: “The first meeting of the ABC Local Economic Partnership was a defining moment for our Borough. We are now in a stronger position than ever to work hand-in-hand with our partners to unlock potential, boost competitiveness, and build a sustainable economy that serves everyone in our communities.”

Ian Snowden, Permanent Secretary of the Department for the Economy, attended the event to mark this important milestone, and said: “One of the Minister for the Economy’s four priorities is achieving better regional balance to make sure that all areas share in greater economic prosperity. Local Economic Partnerships are the centrepiece of our Sub-Regional Economic Plan. They will identify the main barriers to economic development and the interventions that will help to unlock the area’s potential. The Department is providing the Partnerships with dedicated funding to support their work.”

The Council reaffirmed its commitment to supporting economic development through strategic collaboration and long-term investment, ensuring that the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough remains a thriving hub for business, innovation, and opportunity.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Our Lady’s RC Primary School in Dundee receives prestigious UNICEF UK Gold Award

Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

Dundee’s Our Lady’s RC Primary School has been awarded Gold by UNICEF UK’s Rights Respecting School programme.

UNICEF is the world’s leading organisation working for children and their rights. The Rights Respecting Schools Award is granted to schools that show commitment to promoting and realising children’s rights and encouraging adults, children and young people to respect the rights of others in school. Gold is the highest accolade given by UNICEF UK and shows a deep and thorough commitment to children’s rights at all levels of school life. There are two schools in Dundee that have received Gold.

This school has been working with UNICEF UK since June 2021. They received their Silver Certificate in June 2023.

Children Families and Communities Convener Stewart Hunter said: “I am delighted to see that Our Lady’s RC Primary has been awarded this Gold Award.

“This achievement highlights the school’s dedication to placing children’s rights at the heart of everything they do. It was great to see several of the school’s strengths play a key role in earning this award, including its positive ethos based on mutual respect and trust, as well as children feeling valued, supported and safe in school.”

“I want to thank the staff, the young people and community for all their efforts, I know how important it was for them to win this award.”

Headteacher of Our Lady’s Primary School Lorna Dashwood said: “I am incredibly proud of our school community for achieving the Gold Award from UNICEF UK. This recognition reflects our deep commitment to placing children’s rights at the heart of our school, and it celebrates the ongoing support and dedication of everyone involved.

“A heartfelt thank you to Kirsty Keegan, our Principal Teacher, for her outstanding leadership, and to our children, families, staff, and the wider Our Lady’s school community for their continued support and commitment.”

The Award recognises achievement in putting the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child at the heart of a school’s planning, policies and practice. A Rights Respecting School is a community where children’s rights are learned, taught, practised, respected, protected and promoted.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Trip of a lifetime for local students

Source: City of Coventry

Moat House Primary School Y5 pupils recently had the trip of a lifetime to visit Shanghai and Wuhan in China.

The school applied for funding through the Turing Scheme and were successful. In Shanghai, they went to the top of the Shanghai Tower (the third tallest building in the World!). The nine and 10-year-olds then travelled to Wuhan on a bullet train at speeds of up to 350km/h.

Two days at Honglinjin Primary School and a day at Wuhan Primary School where the children worked with their buddies, played football, prepared dumplings and joined in with music, art and calligraphy lessons.

Published: Tuesday, 10th June 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: 1967: Ravi Shankar & Yehudi Menuhin at the United Nations | United Nations

Source: United Nations (Video News)

In 1967, two musical legends — Yehudi Menuhin, a British-American violin virtuoso, and Ravi Shankar, India’s sitar master — came together on the world’s stage: the United Nations General Assembly Hall.

Utilizing footage from the UN Audiovisual Library, this story showcases more than a concert — it reveals a powerful moment of cultural dialogue, mutual respect, and musical unity.

www.unmultimedia.org/avlibrary

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tKToRz_pmSE

MIL OSI Video –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: UN Ocean Conference Opens | United Nations

Source: United Nations (Video News)

The 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference, co-hosted by the Governments of France and Costa Rica, opened this Monday 9 June in Nice, France, with strong calls to accelerate action and mobilize all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-A1QV2DJh7o

MIL OSI Video –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: UN Ocean Conference – UN Chief Presser | United Nations (Nice, France)

Source: United Nations (Video News)

António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General will address the media on Day 2 of the 2025 UN Ocean Conference.

Press conference moderated by Stephane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General of the United Nations.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OzFo6EXaO1M

MIL OSI Video –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Ocean Conference, Gaza, Lebanon & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

Source: United Nations (Video News)

Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.
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Highlights:
– Secretary-General/Ocean Conference
– Occupied Palestinian Territory
– Lebanon
– Security Council
– Nigeria

SECRETARY-GENERAL/OCEAN CONFERENCE
The Secretary-General delivered remarks this morning at the opening of the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, which is co-hosted by France and Costa Rica.  In his remarks, the Secretary-General said that although the sea that has sustained life for millennia, we are failing to protect the ocean – thanks to overfishing, plastic pollution and rising temperatures.
He urged all countries that have not yet ratified the Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction to do so. He also issued a strong call to all countries to agree on an ambitious and legally binding treaty on plastic pollution this year.
Underscoring his support for the work of the International Seabed Authority, the Secretary-General said the deep sea cannot become the Wild West.
Mr. Guterres urged Member States to advance progress on Sustainable Development Goal 14, which is unfortunately one of the least funded SDGs. He encouraged the conference participants to be bold in all their efforts, saying, “The ocean of our ancestors – teeming with life and diversity – can be more than legend. It can be our legacy.”
In the afternoon, the Secretary-General spoke at the Africa for the Ocean event, co-hosted by Morocco and France. In his remarks, the Secretary-General said that with over 30,000 kilometres of coastline and 38 coastal states, Africa is a maritime powerhouse. “Its future is also written in its waters,” he said, adding that this blue wealth is too often undervalued and overexploited. He said that investments have too often bypassed Africa, even as its marine resources were exploited by others.
Also this afternoon, the Secretary-General had a productive meeting with civil society representatives from around the world active in ocean action. He highlighted the current paradox: despite major breakthroughs —such as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction— the crisis facing the oceans is worsening.
The Secretary-General noted similar dynamics in climate action: while renewable energy is expanding rapidly, emissions continue to rise. The ocean-climate connection, he warned, is deteriorating —marked by rising temperatures, accelerating sea-level rise, glacier melt, coral bleaching, and growing plastic pollution. He also pointed to the threat of mass displacement from vulnerable river deltas.
He emphasized the importance of civil society perspectives, momentum, and insights to accelerate progress and increase global attention on ocean, climate, and biodiversity action.
On the sidelines of the conference, the Secretary-General held a number of bilateral meetings.

OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) today said that the crisis in Gaza has reached unprecedented levels of despair as people continue to go hungry across Gaza. Many are forced to risk their lives in search of food, as we receive more reports of people being killed and injured near non-UN distribution sites.
According to the International Committee of the Red Cross, just this morning, 29 casualties arrived at the ICRC field hospital in west Rafah, eight of whom were dead. Almost all had explosive trauma wounds, with two others admitted with gunshot wounds. The UN reiterates that civilians must always be protected. No person, anywhere, should be forced to choose between risking one’s life and feeding one’s family.
Fuel stocks in Gaza are critically low – putting further strain on critical services and humanitarian operations. Over the weekend, some 260,000 litres of fuel were looted in northern Gaza. Prior to this, the UN had repeatedly attempted to reach these stocks to retrieve them, but these attempts were denied by the Israeli authorities.
Since 15 May, the missions to retrieve this fuel were denied by the Israeli authorities 14 times. The UN attempts to reach fuel supplies in Rafah, in the south of Gaza, also continue to be denied. The UN warns that unless a solution is found in the coming days, the entire aid operation could come to a standstill.
Since the Israeli authorities allowed limited amounts of aid to enter Gaza on 19 May, the UN and its partners have only been able to collect about 4,600 metric tonnes of wheat flour from the Kerem Shalom crossing. Most of it was taken by desperate, starving people before the supplies reached their destinations. In some cases, the supplies were looted by armed gangs.

Full Highlights:
https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=09%20June%202025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3T6VaM3ASY

MIL OSI Video –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: 2025 National Veterans Golden Age Games – Day 6 Highlights

Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

Veterans showed up and showed out in Memphis breaking records, turning up the heat, and bringing the rhythm of #fitnessforlife to the Bluff City.
If you’re thinking about the next #GoldenAgeGames stop thinking and make it happen. Your moment’s waiting. The countdown to Tampa, June 27 to July 2, 2026, starts now. James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital
#FeelTheVictory #Sports4Vets

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onH3MCLBoFg

MIL OSI Video –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: #NoToHate: Toxic effects of hate speech at work | United Nations

Source: United Nations (Video News)

Nenna Ndukwe-Hertz speaks about the negative impact of hate speech at work in a new series for the #NoToHate campaign.

The #NoToHate campaign is a global initiative that aims to counter hate speech and promote tolerance and inclusion. It’s part of a larger UN effort to combat antisemitism and Islamophobia, racism, discrimination, and intolerance, focusing on preventing human rights violations and promoting peace and equality.
The campaign is in line with the United Nations Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech.

The International Day for Countering Hate Speech is 18 June.

https://www.un.org/en/hate-speech

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxwH3nyORUo

MIL OSI Video –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Football betting firm boss banned after company went into administration owing investors more than £10 million
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Football betting firm boss banned after company went into administration owing investors more than £10 million

The company was making substantial losses when it accepted additional investment from bondholders it was never going to be able to repay
Former sports presenter Alan Bentley has received an 11-year directorship ban after his football betting firm collapsed owing investors over £10 million, having continued to collect £1.5 million in investments despite no evidence of trading activity

His company, Bentley Global (UK) Limited, promised investors returns of up to 20% by using a football betting algorithm, but financial records showed trading losses of millions of pounds with no recorded turnover

Insolvency Service investigations found that the company had “no reasonable prospect” of repaying investors despite continuing to accept their money

The founder of a football betting investment firm has been banned as a director after his company went into administration owing investors more than £10 million.

Former television presenter Alan Bentley allowed his Bentley Global (UK) Limited company to obtain more than £1.5 million from investors during late 2019 and the first half of 2020, promising returns of up to 20%.

Investors’ funds were to be used to place bets on the outcomes of football matches using an artificial intelligence algorithm called Algol88.

However, no evidence was produced that Bentley Global (UK) Limited was actually betting on football matches in that period.

Bentley Global (UK) Limited also had no known source of trading income in that time, having suffered losses of more than £5 million by August 2019 and over £4 million by August 2018.

The 63-year-old, of Ongar Road, Kelvedon Hatch, Essex, has been banned as a company director for 11 years.

Bentley’s brother, Brian Bentley, was also disqualified as a company director in 2024 for misconduct while he was a director at Bentley Global (UK) Limited.

Brian Bentley, 62, of Anchorage Lane, Doncaster, was banned as a director for six years, with his disqualification running until April 2030.

Kevin Read, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said:

Alan Bentley’s company secured more than £1.5 million from hundreds of investors under a bond investment scheme during a nine-month period in 2019 and 2020 when there was no evidence of any trading.

Bentley knew the company had made huge losses and was unable to pay its debts. His company had no reasonable prospect of being able to repay the investments and interest payments under the bond scheme because of its dire financial position.

Directors have a responsibility to be honest and transparent with investors, especially when handling their money. This case sends a clear message that those who abuse their position and mislead investors will not be able to continue to act as company directors.

Bentley Global (UK) Limited began receiving funds from investors in 2018 under a bond investment scheme.

The scheme offered annual interest payments between 12% to 20% and repayment of the investment funds at the end of three years.

Bentley Global (UK) Limited’s accounts for the periods ending 31 August 2018 and 31 August 2019 recorded no turnover for the company.

Trading losses of £4.137 million and £5.321 million were recorded for the same periods.

Despite this, Bentley Global (UK) Limited continued to acquire money from investors.

A total of £1.597 million was secured from investors across the world between 4 September 2019 and 16 June 2020.

Bentley has not disputed that there is no evidence of the company carrying out its stated trading activity of betting on football matches in that period. The company also had no known source of trading income during that time.

Bentley Global (UK) Limited owed £10.065 million to investors when it went into administration in May 2022.

The Official Receiver has since been appointed as liquidator and is overseeing the winding-up of the company and identification of any potential assets.

The Secretary of State for Business and Trade accepted a disqualification undertaking from Alan Bentley, and his ban started on Wednesday 4 June.

It prevents him from being involved in the promotion, formation or management of a company, without the permission of the court.

Further information

Alan Bentley is of Ongar Road, Kelvedon Hatch, Essex. His date of birth is 6 January 1962

Brian Bentley is of Anchorage Lane, Doncaster. His date of birth is 2 February 1963

Bentley Global (UK) Limited (company number 09718466)

Individuals subject to a disqualification order or undertaking are bound by a range of restrictions 

Further information about the work of the Insolvency Service, and how to complain about financial misconduct.

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Published 10 June 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Island’s Adult Learning Service celebrated in latest Ofsted inspection 10 June 2025 Island’s Adult Learning Service celebrated in latest Ofsted inspection

Source: Aisle of Wight

The Isle of Wight Council’s Adult and Community Learning (ACL) service has been praised in a newly published Ofsted inspection, which awarded the service an overall rating of ‘Good’.

The inspection highlighted strong performance across the board, with the quality of education, personal development, leadership and management, and adult learning programmes all rated ‘Good’. Notably, behaviour and attitudes to learning were judged ‘Outstanding’.

Learners reported enjoying their lessons and valuing the practical benefits of their new knowledge and skills in everyday life. Inspectors noted that learners with special educational needs or disabilities achieve just as well as their peers, thanks to the high expectations and inclusive support provided by tutors.

Inspectors were particularly impressed by learners’ motivation and resilience. Many who had previously lost confidence in their abilities are now thriving in a supportive and encouraging environment, they said.

Rob Brindley, ACL manager, said: “We are incredibly proud of this Ofsted report. It reflects the hard work and dedication of our staff and the determination of our learners.

“Our mission is to help people rediscover their confidence and potential, and it’s heartening to see that recognised. We’ll continue to build on this success and ensure our programmes remain inclusive, inspiring, and impactful.”

The ACL service offers a wide range of programmes across the Island, including qualifications in English, maths, and digital skills, as well as non-accredited courses in health and well-being, family learning, and employability.

At the time of inspection last month, 66 learners were studying maths, 22 were enrolled in English courses, and eight were developing essential digital skills. An additional 18 learners were participating in tailored, non-accredited programmes.

Learners praised the nurturing and friendly atmosphere created by staff, which encourages them to take risks, make mistakes, and grow in confidence.

Tutors were commended for their expert planning, clear explanations, and ability to adapt lessons to meet individual needs. Volunteer learning helpers also play a key role in supporting learners to overcome barriers.

The service’s partnerships with local organisations were highlighted as a strength, enabling learners to progress from foundation-level courses to higher qualifications.

Innovative programmes such as equine therapy and carnival arts are helping to reach learners in disadvantaged communities, building both practical and interpersonal skills.

While the report was overwhelmingly positive, Ofsted recommended a few areas for improvement.

These include increasing the number of learners who complete their programmes, offering a more structured personal development curriculum, and better tracking of learners’ progress after they finish their courses.

Councillor Paul Brading, chairman of the children’s services, education and skills committee, said: “The Adult and Community Learning Service plays an important role in supporting learners across the Island, and this report reflects the commitment of its staff and leadership.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Beijing airports processed record amount of VAT refund applications for outbound foreign tourists in January-May 2025

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

BEIJING, June 10 (Xinhua) — Customs offices at Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport processed 478 million yuan (about 66.52 million U.S. dollars) worth of value-added tax (VAT) refund applications for outbound foreign tourists in the first five months of 2025, up 91.61 percent year on year and breaking a new historical record in the same period of previous years.

The figures show that 12,180 VAT refund applications were processed at the two airports during the period, up 147.01 percent year-on-year, Beijing Customs said, adding that China’s 240-hour visa-free transit policy has significantly boosted the number of foreign visitors to China.

Thanks to China’s continuous efforts to optimize its tax refund policy for foreign tourists, the consumption potential of the country’s inbound tourism is being fully realized. During the recently concluded three-day holiday for China’s traditional Duanwu or Dragon Boat Festival, Beijing’s two international airports handled 263.81 percent more tax refund applications than the same period last year, with the total refundable amount increasing by 130.59 percent, according to data from Beijing Customs.

Currently, in addition to setting up more tax refund processing windows at airport departure areas, Beijing Customs has also established close cooperation with tax authorities, tourism departments and airport operators to enhance the VAT refund application process awareness of foreign tourists through airport media infrastructure, multimedia systems and government media platforms.

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: An-2 plane out of contact in Russian Yakutia — media

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

Moscow, June 10 /Xinhua/ – An An-2 plane with Avialesookhrana workers is out of contact in Russia’s Yakutia, with three people on board, TASS reported on Tuesday, citing information from emergency services.

According to the report, the An-2 was monitoring the forest fire situation when contact with it was lost. There are two crew members and an Avialesookhrana observer on board. The incident occurred at about 08:00 Moscow time. The An-2 sent a distress signal in Yakutia. An Mi-8 helicopter was sent out to search for it. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: The first issue of the Project Management Bulletin magazine has been published: continuation of traditions and new horizons

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

The first issue of the journal “Project Management Bulletin”, established by the State University of Management (GUM) and the Association of Professional Project Managers “SOVNET”, has been published and is available at the link https://vestnikpu.guu.ru/jour.

This magazine continues the 20-year history of the well-known publication “Project and Program Management” and is a modern publication aimed at promoting advanced project and program management methods among specialists in various industries. Its goal is to become a reliable source of up-to-date information, practical recommendations and analytical materials that contribute to the development of competencies in the field of project management.

The new journal preserves the best traditions of its predecessor, focused primarily on practical publications, while expanding the scope of its subject matter and audience. Now it will publish not only applied recommendations, but also world-class scientific articles aimed at improving the efficiency of project management in Russia and beyond.

The main task of the new editorial team is to create a meaningful, interesting and useful resource that combines the theory and practice of project management.

In his address to readers, the rector of the State University of Management, editor-in-chief of the journal “Project Management Bulletin” Vladimir Stroyev noted the following: “The opening of the journal “Project Management Bulletin” continues the traditions of the State University of Management not only as a leading management university, but also as a project-oriented university in the Russian Federation, which stood at the origins of the formation of the theoretical and research base for project management.”

The Chairman of the Editorial Board of the Vestnik Proektnogo Upravleniye magazine, President of the SOVNET Project Management Association, Alexander Tovb, emphasized: “The Editorial Board sees its main mission in making the magazine interesting and useful. This requires cooperation between the editors and readers – together we can make it relevant to the demands of the times, attractive to authors and in demand by readers.”

The first issue opens with Alexey Tashkinov’s article “Managing a Portfolio of Industrial Enterprise Digital Transformation Projects”. It is dedicated to a new approach based on the Industry 4.0 concept, which allows for the effective management of all aspects of production using enterprise digital transformation projects. This approach opens up the possibility of significantly increasing productivity, improving product quality, and quickly adapting to dynamically developing markets.

The next article by Askar Nurzhanov examines the specifics of organizing a project management office at enterprises in the oil and gas sector. The approach described by the author emphasizes the importance of the office model matching the maturity level of the project management system of a particular organization. This topic is continued by the article by Irina Brikoshina and Igor Elistratov “Development of an Algorithm for Implementing a Project Office in the Activities of Modern Organizations”. The authors conduct a comprehensive analysis of domestic and foreign experience, note the features of the state standard R 58305-2018 and consider SberMarket as an example of adapting existing project approaches and methodologies for organizing a project office.

The issue pays special attention to international issues of project management. For example, Daniil Chelobitchikov and Ekaterina Khalimon presented a study of the specifics of organizing startup projects in the BRICS countries, highlighting important aspects that influence the success of innovative initiatives in these regions.

The issue concludes with traditional sections reviewing the events of the quarter and a calendar of significant conferences and seminars, inviting all interested parties to actively participate in the life of the project management community.

We remind you that the journal will be published four times a year and publications for the second issue are currently being collected. We invite Russian and foreign professionals, certified project managers and project team members, heads of project-oriented organizations, as well as researchers, postgraduate students, young scientists and other specialists in the field of project management to cooperate.

The journal is open for collaboration with experts, scientists and practitioners and invites everyone to join in the creation of a modern and influential tool for promoting the best practices of project management!

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.

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: 10 June 2025 Departmental update WHO launches new Collaborating Centre on Alcohol Policy and Public Health Research

Source: World Health Organisation

The World Health Organization (WHO) Department of Health Promotion is pleased to announce the designation of the Institute for Social Marketing and Health (ISMH) at the University of Stirling, Scotland, as a new WHO Collaborating Centre for Alcohol Policy and Public Health Research.

With more than four decades of international research expertise on marketing, behaviour change and public policy, ISMH becomes one of the few WHO Collaborating Centres specifically focused on alcohol policy.

Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) bear some of the highest burdens of alcohol-related deaths worldwide. As populations grow – especially among young people – the number of individuals affected is expected to rise. Despite this, many countries still lack comprehensive alcohol policies to safeguard public health. The new Collaborating Centre will work closely with WHO to support alcohol policy research in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in areas concerning alcohol licensing, the regulation of alcohol marketing and addressing unrecorded alcohol. The partnership aims to generate evidence to inform public health policy and protect individuals and communities from the health and social harms associated with alcohol consumption.

“The time is now to tackle the harm caused by alcohol consumption and to empower decision-makers with the evidence and practical tools they need to drive meaningful change that will save lives. This new Collaborating Centre will play a crucial role in addressing this often-hidden public health crisis,” said Dr Rüdiger Krech, Director of the WHO Department of Health Promotion. “As harm from alcohol consumption continues to grow in many parts of the world, we are proud to partner with ISMH – an institution with an impressive track record of research that has directly contributed to alcohol policy innovation and public health improvement.”

Professor Niamh Fitzgerald, Director of ISMH and Co-Director of the new Centre, commented,
“We are tremendously proud to achieve this designation in recognition of our past and planned collaboration with the World Health Organization. Over more than 40 years, ISMH has developed an international reputation for its important research seeking to improve the health of the world’s population, and this designation further acknowledges the Institute’s success as a global leader in alcohol research.”

Dr Robyn Burton, Co-director of the Centre, added, “As the market for alcohol in high-income countries has become saturated, the alcohol industry has turned its attention to global markets as a new source of growth and profit, prompting increased consumption in low- and middle-income nations. Our work for WHO will help to prevent the wide-ranging negative impacts of alcohol on health and well-being, productivity and communities in these countries by working in collaboration with local research leaders to generate high-quality evidence for policymakers. We look forward to working with WHO and supporting its important work.”

WHO’s Less Alcohol Unit supports the design of policies and implementation of evidence-based and population-wide interventions that address the cultural, social and commercial determinants of alcohol consumption. WHO works closely with leading experts, civil society and academia to synthesize ground-breaking evidence for policymakers and advocate for actions across sectors. It also shares innovative approaches for front-line practice to sustain population-wide interventions over time.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Results of monthly survey on business situation of small and medium-sized enterprises for May 2025

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Results of monthly survey on business situation of small and medium-sized enterprises for May 2025
The current diffusion index (DI) on business receipts amongst SMEs increased from 41.2 in April 2025 in the contractionary zone to 42.1 in May 2025, whereas the one-month’s ahead (i.e. June 2025) outlook DI on business receipts was 45.4. Analysed by sector, the current DIs on business receipts, despite below the 50-mark, rose in May 2025 as compared with previous month for many surveyed sectors, particularly for the import and export trades (from 40.2 to 41.9) and wholesale trade (from 40.0 to 41.5).

The current DI on new orders for the import and export trades increased from 42.0 in April 2025 to 44.0 in May 2025, whereas the outlook DI on new orders in one month’s time (i.e. June 2025) was 45.8.

Commentary

A Government spokesman said that business sentiment among SMEs and their outlook in one month’s time saw some improvement in May, as the global trade tensions eased somewhat. The overall employment situation also turned slightly better.

Looking ahead, the uncertain external environment could continue to affect business sentiment. Nonetheless, the resilient local economy and sustained steady growth in the Mainland economy should provide a solid backstop. The Government will continue to monitor the situation closely.

Further information

The Monthly Survey on Business Situation of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises aims to provide a quick reference, with minimum time lag, for assessing the short-term business situation faced by SMEs. SMEs covered in this survey refer to establishments with fewer than 50 persons engaged. Respondents were asked to exclude seasonal fluctuations in reporting their views. Based on the views collected from the survey, a set of diffusion indices (including current and outlook diffusion indices) is compiled. A reading above 50 indicates that the business condition is generally favourable, whereas that below 50 indicates otherwise. As for statistics on the business prospects of prominent establishments in Hong Kong, users may refer to the publication entitled “Report on Quarterly Business Tendency Survey” released by the C&SD.

The results of the survey should be interpreted with care. The survey solicits feedback from a panel sample of about 600 SMEs each month and the survey findings are thus subject to sample size constraint. Views collected from the survey refer only to those of respondents on their own establishments rather than those on the respective sectors they are engaged in. Besides, in this type of opinion survey on expected business situation, the views collected in the survey are affected by the events in the community occurring around the time of enumeration, and it is difficult to establish precisely the extent to which respondents’ perception of the business situation accords with the underlying trends. For this survey, main bulk of the data were collected around the last week of the reference month.

More detailed statistics are given in the “Report on Monthly Survey on the Business Situation of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises”. Users can browse and download the publication at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1080015&scode=300
Users who have enquiries about the survey results may contact Industrial Production Statistics Section of the C&SD (Tel: 3903 7246; email: sme-survey@censtatd.gov.hkIssued at HKT 16:30

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CategoriesMIL-OSI

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Special offers announced in celebration of HKSAR’s 28th anniversary

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Special offers announced in celebration of HKSAR’s 28th anniversary
For public transport, members of the public can enjoy free rides on all passenger tram routes from July 1 to 3. The MTR will give away 71 000 e-single journey tickets through a lucky draw on July 1 and provide Airport Express offers to holders of Child Octopus and JoyYou Cards. Moreover, free rides on several ferry routes will be offered to the public on July 1, with vouchers for certain ferry routes to be distributed in advance.

In culture, arts and leisure, the public will be offered free admission to a number of fee-charging leisure and cultural facilities of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department and to the Hong Kong Wetland Park under the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department on July 1. They can also enjoy free admission to all General Admission exhibitions at M+ and all thematic exhibitions at the Hong Kong Palace Museum in the West Kowloon Cultural District on that day. Furthermore, additional free guided tours, dining, consumption and accommodation offers will be provided from mid-June to early July by the 12 projects under the Revitalising Historic Buildings Through Partnership Scheme.

As for dining and consumption, several public markets under the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department will roll out different offers. Members of the public can also enjoy a 29 per cent discount when purchasing selected products of the Fish Marketing Organization and the Vegetable Marketing Organization via the “Local Fresh” online store or mobile app from July 1 to 7. The Environmental Protection Department will offer double GREEN$ Points to the public who recycle at its community recycling network GREEN@COMMUNITY on July 1.

Meanwhile, more than 1 000 restaurants and merchants are expected to provide dining offers on July 1. The Peak Tram, Ngong Ping 360 and Ocean Park Hong Kong will offer ticket discounts, while Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong Science Park, various shopping malls and department stores will roll out shopping, dining, consumption or parking offers. In addition, the Hong Kong Tourism Board will team up with local businesses to offer various dining, shopping, attractions, tours and entertainment deals.

The Government thanks various sectors for actively responding to its call by launching special offers and activities to celebrate with the public the HKSAR’s 28th anniversary. Information about the offers and activities is available on the dedicated website (www.hksar28.gov.hkIssued at HKT 13:18

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CategoriesMIL-OSI

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Quarterly business receipts indices for service industries for first quarter of 2025

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Quarterly business receipts indices for service industries for first quarter of 2025
Comparing the first quarter of 2025 with the first quarter of 2024, double-digit increases were recorded in business receipts indices of the financing (except banking) (+32.5%), insurance (+23.1%), import/export trade (+19.4%) and banking (+19.0%) industries. On the other hand, decreases were recorded in business receipts indices of the real estate (-6.7%) and retail (-6.5%) industries during the same period.

Analysed by service domain, business receipts index of the computer and information technology services domain increased by 60.2% year-on-year during the same period, while that of the tourism, convention and exhibition services domain also increased by 1.1% year-on-year.

On a seasonally adjusted quarter-to-quarter comparison, business receipts in value terms of many major service industries recorded increases of varying magnitudes in the first quarter of 2025 when compared with the fourth quarter of 2024. In particular, double-digit increases were recorded in business receipts indices of the insurance (+32.5%), import/export trade (+20.3%) and banking (+19.9%) industries. On the other hand, business receipts index of the real estate industry decreased by 5.7% during the same period.

Analysed by service domain, comparing the first quarter of 2025 with the fourth quarter of 2024 on a seasonally adjusted basis, business receipts index of the computer and information technology services domain increased by 50.3%, while that of the tourism, convention and exhibition services domain also increased by 0.7%.

Commentary

A Government spokesman said that business receipts of many service industries recorded increases in the first quarter of 2025 over a year earlier. More notable increases in business receipts were seen for the financing (except banking), insurance, import/export trade and banking industries.

Looking ahead, business of the service industries should be supported by economic growth. Continued growth of the Mainland economy and the Hong Kong Government’s various measures to boost economic momentum should be conducive to the businesses of the services industries, though some industries may be affected by the continued headwinds stemming from the uncertainties in the external environment and the changing consumption patterns of residents and visitors in the local market.

Further information

Table 1 presents the business receipts indices and their corresponding year-on-year rates of change in respect of selected service industries and service domains for the recent five quarters, while Table 2 shows the corresponding quarter-to-quarter rates of change in the business receipts indices for the recent five quarters based on the seasonally adjusted series.

The revised figures of business receipts indices for the first quarter of 2025 will be released at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/web_table.html?id=660-69001
Data for compiling the business receipts indices are mainly based on the Quarterly Survey of Service Industries conducted by the C&SD, supplemented by relevant data provided by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the Hong Kong Tourism Board.

A service domain differs from a service industry in that it comprises those economic activities which straddle different industries but are somehow related to a common theme. It may include all activities carried out by all establishments in a service industry that is closely related to the domain. For a service industry that is less closely related, however, only a portion of the establishments in the industry or even only part of the economic activities of the establishments is related to the domain. Taking the tourism, convention and exhibition services domain as an example, it includes all services of convention and exhibition organisers, short-term accommodation services and services of travel agents, and some of the services (only those involving visitors as customers) of restaurants, retailers and transport operators.

The classification of service industries follows the Hong Kong Standard Industrial Classification Version 2.0, which is used in various economic surveys for classifying economic units into relevant industry classes.

More detailed statistics are given in the report “Quarterly Business Receipts Indices for Service Industries, First Quarter 2025”. Users can browse and download this publication at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1080006&scode=520
For enquiries about the business receipts indices, please contact the Business Services Statistics Section of the C&SD (Tel: 3903 7274 or e-mail: business-receipts@censtatd.gov.hkIssued at HKT 16:30

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Construction output for first quarter of 2025

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Construction output for first quarter of 2025
After discounting the effect of price changes, the provisional results showed that the total GVCW performed by main contractors slightly decreased by 0.9% in real terms over the same period. GVCW in real terms is derived by deflating the corresponding nominal value with an appropriate price index to the price level in the base period of 2000.

Analysed by type of construction works, the GVCW performed at private sector sites totalled $19.4 billion in the first quarter of 2025, down by 10.7% in nominal terms over a year earlier. In real terms, it decreased by 12.7%. The GVCW performed at public sector sites increased by 17.4% in nominal terms over a year earlier to $30.5 billion in the first quarter of 2025. In real terms, it increased by 13.8%.

The GVCW performed by main contractors at locations other than construction sites amounted to $20.6 billion in the first quarter of 2025, down by 3.9% in nominal terms compared with a year earlier. In real terms, it decreased by 5.7%. Construction works at locations other than construction sites included minor new construction activities and decoration, repair and maintenance for buildings; and electrical equipment installation and maintenance works at locations other than construction sites.

Analysed by major end-use group, the GVCW performed at construction sites in respect of residential buildings projects amounted to $20.9 billion in the first quarter of 2025, up by 5.0% in nominal terms over a year earlier. Over the same period, the GVCW performed at construction sites in respect of transport projects down by 19.4% in nominal terms to $8.8 billion in the first quarter of 2025.

On a seasonally adjusted quarter-to-quarter basis, the GVCW performed by main contractors slightly increased by 0.1% in nominal terms but decreased by 1.0% in real terms in the first quarter of 2025 compared with the fourth quarter of 2024.

Table 1 shows the provisional figures on the GVCW performed by main contractors in the first quarter of 2025. Tables 2 and 3 show the revised figures for the whole year of 2024 and the fourth quarter of 2024 respectively.

Owing to the widespread sub-contracting practices in the construction industry, a construction establishment can be a main contractor for one contract and a sub-contractor for another contract at the same time. The GVCW performed by main contractors covers only those projects in which the construction establishment takes the role of a main contractor, but not projects in which it takes only the role of a sub-contractor. However, sub-contractors’ contribution to projects should have been included in the GVCW performed by main contractors for whom they worked.

The classification of construction establishments follows the Hong Kong Standard Industrial Classification Version 2.0, which is used in various economic surveys for classifying economic units into different industry classes.

More detailed statistics are given in the “Report on the Quarterly Survey of Construction Output”. Users can browse and download this publication at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1090002&scode=330
For enquiries about the survey results, please contact the Construction and Miscellaneous Services Statistics Section of the C&SD (Tel: 3903 6965; email: building@censtatd.gov.hkIssued at HKT 16:30

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ombudsman probes Hospital Authority’s assistive device loan service (with photo)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Ombudsman probes Hospital Authority’s assistive device loan service (with photo) 168–200 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong
Fax: 2882 8149
Email: cic-ha@ombudsman.hk
Issued at HKT 11:00

The following is issued on behalf of the Office of The Ombudsman: The Ombudsman, Mr Jack Chan, today (June 10) announced the launch of a full investigation into the procedures and mechanisms currently employed by the Hospital Authority (HA) in providing an assistive device loan service to the public. Hospitals under the HA have long provided patients and their families or carers with a loan service of assistive devices, such as wheelchairs, canes and walking frames to support patients in their daily routine and rehabilitation during recovery. While this service is undoubtedly beneficial to the public and worthy of support, available information indicates that the borrowing and returning procedures are rather cumbersome and overly stringent. For example, when a device is returned, the deposit payer must present the deposit receipt to collect the refund in person at the hospital; authorising a representative is not acceptable. Moreover, without the receipt, a refund will be denied even if the deposit payer visits the hospital in person and provides proof of the device’s proper return. Mr Chan said, “Assistive devices are essential to facilitating the early recovery and daily lives of patients with needs, and alleviating the burden on families and carers. The Office has noted that the HA’s current loan arrangements may cause varying degrees of inconvenience to patients and their families and carers. Given the significant number of borrowers and a 10/06/2025, 09:54 Ombudsman probes Hospital Authority’s assistive device loan service (with photo) https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202506/10/P2025061000292p.htm 1/2 deposit as high as $3,500 for each assistive device, denying refunds due to missing receipts would not only lead to conflicts, but also imposes a financial burden on patients and their families. In this light, I have decided to launch a full investigation into the HA’s current procedures and mechanisms for assistive device loan services to identify any areas for improvement. Pertinent recommendations will be made for the benefit and convenience of the public.” The Ombudsman welcomes views from members of the public on this topic. Written submissions should reach the Office of The Ombudsman by July 10, 2025: Address: 30/F, China Merchants Tower, Shun Tak Centre 168–200 Connaught Road

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Three property owners fined over $410,000 in total for not complying with statutory orders

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Three property owners fined over $410,000 in total for not complying with statutory ordersIssued at HKT 11:00

Three property owners were convicted and fined over $410,000 in total by the court earlier for failing to comply with statutory orders issued under the Buildings Ordinance (BO) (Cap. 123). The first case involved an unauthorised structure with an area of about 50 square metres on the roof of a village house in D.D.183, Sha Tin. Since the Lands Department would not issue a certificate of exemption for the unauthorised building works (UBWs) and the UBWs were carried out without prior approval and consent from the Buildings Department (BD), a removal order was served on the owner under section 24(1) of the BO. Failing to comply with the removal order, the owner was prosecuted by the BD and was fined $128,300 in total, of which $108,300 was the fine for the number of days that the offence continued, upon conviction at the Shatin Magistrates’ Courts on June 4. The second case involved two unauthorised structures with a total area of about 102 square metres on the flat roof of a residential building at Tsing Chui Path, Tuen Mun. As the UBWs were carried out without prior approval and consent from the BD, a removal order was served on the owner under section 24(1) of the BO. Failing to comply with the removal order, the owner was prosecuted twice by the BD and was fined $22,760 in total upon conviction by the court. As the owner persisted in not complying with the removal order, the BD instigated the third prosecution in 2023. The owner was convicted and fined $197,500 in total by the Court, of which $97,500 was 10/06/2025, 09:57 Three property owners fined over $410,000 in total for not complying with statutory orders https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202506/10/P2025061000261p.htm#:~:text=%E2%80%8BThree property owners were,a village house in D.D. 1/2 the fine for the number of days that the offence continued, upon conviction at the Tuen Mun Magistrates’ Courts on June 4. The third case involved alteration works at a composite building on Prince Edward Road West, Kowloon, including removal of two fire rated doors on the eighth floor and at the yard on the ground floor respectively, and a door opening formed in the wall of the yard on the ground floor. The alteration works affected the fire resisting construction of the building and contravened the Building (Construction) Regulation. A removal order was served on the owner under section 24(1) of the BO. Failing to comply with the removal order, the owner was prosecuted by the BD and was fined $85,060 in total, of which $81,060 was the fine for the number of days that the offence continued, upon conviction at the Kowloon City Magistrates’ Courts on May 21. A spokesman for the BD said today (June 10), “Unauthorised building works, including unauthorised alterations affecting the fireresisting construction of a building, may lead to serious consequences. The owners concerned must comply with the statutory orders issued by the BD without delay. The BD will continue to take enforcement action against owners who fail to comply with statutory orders, including instigation of prosecution, to ensure building safety.” Failure to comply with a removal order without reasonable excuse is a serious offence under the BO. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $200,000 and one year’s imprisonment, and a further fine of $20,000 for each day that the offence continues. Ends/Tuesday, June 10, 2025 Issued at HKT 11:00 NNNN

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Committee on Innovation, Technology and Industry Development holds sixth meeting (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, chaired the sixth meeting of the Committee on Innovation, Technology and Industry Development (CITID) this morning (June 10).

At the meeting, members were briefed on the major initiatives and latest developments of new industrialisation in Hong Kong, and shared their views on the relevant measures.

Professor Sun said, “The current-term Government has proactively launched and implemented a series of policies and measures in accordance with the Hong Kong Innovation and Technology Development Blueprint (the Blueprint) to improve the local innovation and technology (I&T) ecosystem, develop new and emerging industries of strategic importance, support start-ups, formulate plans for future industries, and facilitate the upgrading and transformation of traditional industries through I&T, thereby promoting the development of I&T industries and new industrialisation.”

Established on March 3, 2023, the CITID advises the Government on the directions and strategies as set out in the Blueprint on promoting the development of I&T in Hong Kong, and enhances co-operation among stakeholders.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National charged with assaulting federal officers

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Suspect crashed truck into two law enforcement vehicles injuring ICE-HSI and CBP officers

Seattle – A citizen of Mexico residing illegally in Stanwood, Washington, appeared in U.S. District Court in Seattle today charged with two counts of assault on a federal officer, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Victor Vivanco- Reyes, 25, was being sought by a team from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO), U.S. Border Patrol, and Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations (CBP AMO) due to his criminal convictions and lack of status in the United States. Vivanco-Reyes remains detained pending a hearing scheduled for June 13, 2025.

According to the criminal complaint, on May 22, 2025, HSI Special Agents attempted to locate Vivanco-Reyes in the Mount Vernon, Washington area. When his vehicle was located in a residential area, HSI agents activated the lights and sirens on their cars to get Vivanco-Reyes to stop. After pausing briefly at a driveway, Vivanco-Reyes accelerated away from the officers, driving at a high rate of speed in a residential area. Because of the reckless driving and risk to the community, the agents ended their attempt to arrest him.

On June 6, 2025, the agents again attempted to locate Vivanco-Reyes. Just after 9:30 am, agents with HSI, ERO, the U.S. Border Patrol, and CBP AMO were able to locate a work truck associated with Vivanco-Reyes’s apparent employer. The work truck was towing a trailer on Cascade View Drive on Camano Island, Washington. Using three different vehicles, the federal agents attempted to block the north and southbound lanes so that Vivanco-Reyes could be taken into custody. When the agents activated their lights, the truck and trailer accelerated right at the one of the vehicles, hitting it on the front passenger side. Ultimately the truck and trailer crashed head-on into another government car that was a short distance down the road. The truck continued on, driving into a ditch and hitting a power pole. Vivanco-Reyes tried to flee on foot but was taken into custody.

Two of the agents who were injured in the collisions were taken to area hospitals.

Assault on a federal agent with a deadly weapon is punishable by a term of imprisonment of up to 20 years and a $250,000 fine.

The charges contained in the criminal complaint are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations.

The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Jessica M. Ly.

MIL Security OSI –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: 5 Men Plead Guilty for Role in Global Digital Asset Investment Scam Conspiracy Resulting in Theft of More than $36.9 Million from Victims
Source: Office of United States Attorneys

LOS ANGELES – Five men have pleaded guilty for their roles in laundering more than $36.9 million from victims of an international digital asset investment scam conspiracy that was carried out from scam centers in Cambodia, the Justice Department announced today.

The following defendants were part of an international criminal network that induced U.S. victims, believing they were investing in digital assets, to transfer funds to accounts controlled by co-conspirators and that laundered victim money through U.S. shell companies, international bank accounts, and digital asset wallets:
- Joseph Wong, 33, of Alhambra;
- Yicheng Zhang, 39, of China;
- Jose Somarriba, 55, of Los Angeles;
- Shengsheng He, 39, of La Puente; and
- Jingliang Su, 44, of China and Turkey.
As part of the conspiracy, co-conspirators residing overseas contacted U.S. victims directly through unsolicited social media interactions, telephone calls, text messages, and online dating services and gain the victims’ trust.

The co-conspirators then promoted fraudulent digital asset investments to the victims. Scammers would tell victims that their investments were appreciating in value when, in fact, those funds were stolen and not invested at all.

Instead, more than $36.9 million in victim funds were transferred from U.S. bank accounts controlled by the co-conspirators to a single account at Deltec Bank in the Bahamas, opened in the name of Axis Digital Limited.

Somarriba, He, and Su directed Deltec Bank to convert victim funds to the stablecoin Tether (USDT) and to transfer the converted funds to a digital asset wallet controlled by individuals in Cambodia. From there, co-conspirators in Cambodia transferred the USDT to the leaders of scam centers throughout the region including in Sihanoukville, Cambodia.

Somarriba and He founded Axis Digital and opened the Deltec Bank account. Su joined Axis Digital as a director and participated in the digital asset conversions and transfers of victim funds.

Wong managed a network of money launderers in Los Angeles who registered shell companies, opened U.S. bank accounts, and wired victim funds to international bank accounts. Zhang opened and operated two U.S. bank accounts used to launder victim proceeds.

Zhang and Wong pleaded guilty to money laundering conspiracy. They each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Zhang has been in custody since May 2024. He, Somarriba, and Su pleaded guilty to conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money services business. He, Somarriba, and Su each face a maximum penalty of five years in prison. Su has been in custody since November 2024 and has a sentencing hearing scheduled for November 17.

Eight co-conspirators have pleaded guilty so far, including Daren Li, a national of China and St. Kitts and Nevis and former resident of Cambodia and the United Arab Emirates who has been in U.S. custody since April 2024, and Lu Zhang, a Chinese national illegally in the United States who managed a network of U.S.-based money launderers, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering on Nov. 12, 2024 and May 13, 2024, respectively.

The United States Secret Service’s Global Investigative Operations Center is investigating the case. The Homeland Security Investigations’ El Camino Real Financial Crimes Task Force, Customs and Border Protection’s National Targeting Center, U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, Dominican National Police, and U.S. Marshals Service provided valuable assistance.

Assistant United States Attorneys Maxwell Coll and Alexander Gorin of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section, Assistant United States Attorney Nisha Chandran of the Major Frauds Section, and Trial Attorneys Stefanie Schwartz of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Tamara Livshiz of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting these cases.

If you or someone you know is a victim of a digital asset investment fraud, report it to IC3.gov.

MIL Security OSI –
June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Portland Man Faces Federal Charges for Distributing Fentanyl and Possessing a Firearm Following Fatal Overdose Investigation

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland man has been charged with distributing fentanyl and possessing a firearm following a fatal overdose investigation by the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.

Daryl Antonio Edward Turner, 43, has been charged by criminal complaint with distribution of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

According to court documents, on June 2, 2025, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a suspected fatal overdose near Wood Village, Oregon. Deputies seized a substance suspected to be fentanyl from the scene and quickly developed leads of the alleged fentanyl supply source, later identified as Turner.

On June 5, 2025, investigators contacted Turner in Portland and seized a firearm, counterfeit pills suspected to contain fentanyl, and $922 in cash. When questioned by investigators, Turner admitted that he possessed fentanyl for further distribution, acknowledged the dangers of fentanyl, and was aware the substance could kill people.

Turner made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

This case was investigated by the FBI and the Multnomah County Dangerous Drug Team (DDT). It is being prosecuted by AUSA Scott Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

The Multnomah County DDT is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Program (HIDTA) and is composed of members from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Multnomah County Parole and Probation, Gresham Police Department, the FBI, and U.S. Marshal’s Service (USMS).

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives.

A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 80 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroin. A 2-milligram dose of fentanyl—a few grains of the substance—is enough to kill an average adult male. The wide availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has caused a dramatic increase in overdose deaths throughout the state.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, please call the Lines for Life substance abuse helpline at 1-800-923-4357 or visit www.linesforlife.org. Phone support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text “RecoveryNow” to 839863 between 2pm and 6pm Pacific Time daily.

MIL Security OSI –

June 10, 2025