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Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jimmy Panetta Introduces Legislation to Reclaim Congressional Trade Powers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

    Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) authored and introduced the Reclaim Trade Powers Act which would modernize outdated trade authorities and ensure that Congress, not the Administration, has the final say when it comes to imposing broad tariffs.  This legislation was introduced ahead of President Donald Trump’s planned widespread tariffs on U.S. trading partners.

    The Reclaim Trade Powers Act would strike Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, which currently allows the President to impose sweeping 15% tariffs on all imports in the event of a so-called balance of payments crisis.  This provision, originally intended to address a scenario in which a nation’s currency is backed by a commodity or foreign currency, is no longer applicable since the United States is no longer on the gold standard.

    “The balance of payments authority has been mischaracterized and misused to justify broad, indiscriminate tariffs that bypass Congressional oversight,” said Rep. Panetta.  “The Reclaim Trade Powers Act would close that loophole and help establish a trade policy that reflects modern economic realities rather than outdated statutes.  This legislation would protect our economy from unnecessary and harmful tariffs, ensure major trade decisions are not made solely by executive branch, and restore Congressional authority over trade.”

    In recent years, the Trump Administration misused the term “balance of payments issue” to justify imposing tariffs based on trade imbalances, rather than genuine economic crises.  This misuse underscores the need for Congress to reassert its Constitutional role in trade policy.

    By repealing Section 122, the Reclaim Trade Powers Act would:

    • Modernize U.S. tariff authorities to reflect current economic conditions;
    • Reclaim Congressional authority over trade powers;
    • Restrict the Administration from unilaterally imposing broad, across-the-board tariffs without Congressional approval.

    The Reclaim Trade Powers Act is co-sponsored by: Reps. Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Don Beyer (VA-08), Brad Schneider (IL-10), and Terri Sewell (AL-07).

    “Outdated laws are providing President Trump with the opening to argue that he can unilaterally impose huge tax increases on American consumers without congressional approval,” said Rep. DelBene.  “This legislation is one of several that would reaffirm Congress’ constitutional role in trade policy and ensure the president alone cannot impose broad-based tariffs, which are taxes, on our trading partners,” said DelBene.  

    “No one should be under any illusion that the Trump administration would require an actual balance in payments crisis to levy these across the board tariffs,” said Rep. Beyer.  “Pretextual and dishonest justifications are this president’s stock-in-trade, which makes this executive authority simply too dangerous to leave on the books.”

    “It’s long past time that Congress assert its constitutional responsibilities and put a check on President Trump’s reckless, arbitrary, and punitive approach to trade policy, which is only hurting our consumers, companies, and economy,” said Rep. Schneider.  “We must close outdated loopholes—like Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, among others—that Trump is using to impose sweeping tariffs while punishing our small businesses, retirement accounts, and economy.”

    “In a few short months, President Trump has abused multiple trade authorities as he initiates trade wars with our allies,” said Rep. Sewell.  “Congress must act to draw back trade authorities from this administration in order to protect American consumers, farmers, and manufacturers from President Trump’s reckless trade agenda.  I am proud to join my colleagues in this effort to strengthen our checks against this administration.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Khanna, Lee, Colleagues Unveil Bill to Abolish Super PACs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Rep Ro Khanna (CA-17)

    Abolish Super PACs Act would place limitations on contributions

    Bill Text | One Pager 

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, on the anniversary of the SpeechNow.org v. FEC D.C. Circuit Court decision, Congressman Ro Khanna (CA-17), Congresswoman Summer Lee (PA-12), Congressman James P. McGovern (MA-02),  Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), along with Representatives Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), and Delia Ramirez (IL-03), introduced the Abolish Super PACs Act, legislation that seeks to put an end to super PACs in federal elections. The bill would place a $5,000 per calendar year limit on contributions to super PACs, effectively abolishing them. 

    Billionaires, corporations, and other wealthy interests are currently able to make unlimited contributions to “super PACs” that are not controlled by candidates or political parties, even when they spend money to support or oppose specific candidates. These unlimited contributions to super PACs in federal elections often rise to the level of millions of dollars, presenting the threat of corruption in the political process and staggering influence by the ultra-wealthy.

    “The American people are sick of the corruption and influence of money in politics. Our democracy shouldn’t be for sale,”  said Rep. Ro Khanna. “That’s why I don’t take a dime of PAC money. Abolishing Super PACs is a step toward giving everyone a voice — not just the ultra-wealthy. I’m proud to join Rep. Summer Lee to introduce this legislation to ban Super PACs. I’m grateful for Larry Lessig’s scholarship and voice on this issue.” 

    “Campaign finance reform is long overdue. We’re seeing the effects of money in politics destroy our democracy at this very moment because billionaires have been allowed to buy their way into our politics and influence the outcome of our elections. This must end,” said Rep. Summer Lee. “The Abolish Super PACs Act is one step towards putting the power back in the hands of the people and dismantling the oligarchy our country is careening to. Campaign finance reform starts with Congress passing this legislation, and I am grateful to my colleagues and our advocates in the movement for their support of this critical bill.”

    “A lack of limits on contributions to Super PACs allows corruption and dark money to run rampant in U.S. elections. It makes us more vulnerable to foreign interference. And it contributes to billionaire nepo baby Elon Musk being able to buy his way into our government and make a mockery of it. The time is now to stop the undue influence of dark money and special interests in our elections,” said Rep. James P. McGovern. “Our elected leaders should be chosen by the people with the strongest voices, not the billionaires with the deepest pockets. We can’t let the people who want to destroy our democracy keep getting away with this. The Abolish Super PACs Act would stop the out of control flow of unlimited money into our elections and return the power back to the people.”

    “Our democracy should be of the people, by the people, and for the people – not for sale to the highest bidder,” said Rep. Pramila Jayapal. “In every cycle since the disastrous Citizens United and SpeechNow.org decisions, we have seen more and more special interest dark money poured into campaigns across the country – this year, with a billionaire paying millions to buy a seat as Shadow President. I’m proud to co-lead Rep. Lee’s Abolish Super PACs Act to cap contribution limits and ensure that our government isn’t beholden to donors.”

    “Our system is corrupt. Super PACs spent a record-breaking $1 billion in dark money this past election cycle. When billionaires and special interest groups continue buying our elections, including seats in Congress, politicians will continue to be accountable to the needs of the rich and powerful instead of the people,” said Rep. Rashida Tlaib. “This is not democracy. It’s oligarchy. We need to pass the Abolish Super PACs Act and overturn Citizens United.”

    The Supreme Court has long held that limits on contributions impose only a “marginal restriction” on free speech, and that states have a right to limit contributions to prevent the risk of quid pro quo corruption and the appearance of corruption. However, a wrongly decided 2010 DC Circuit Court of Appeals decision in SpeechNow v. FEC struck down contribution limits to political action committees engaged in making independent expenditures.

    The appeals court said that because the Supreme Court ruled in Citizens United v. FEC that independent expenditures did not pose a risk of corruption, unlimited contributions to independent expenditure PACs could not pose a risk of corruption either. But the decision overlooked (1) the Supreme Court’s longstanding practice of distinguishing between contributions and expenditures and holding expenditures to a heightened level of scrutiny; and (2) the fact that even if anti-coordination laws prevent candidates and super PACs from reaching quid pro quo agreements, those same laws do not stop candidates and super PAC contributors from agreeing to a quid pro quo arrangement that involve funneling bribes through super PACs. 

    This federal bill would be in line with the Supreme Court’s precedent upholding contribution limits, rather than the dubious SpeechNow decision of the federal appeals court.

    A copy of the bill text can be found here, and a one-pager can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Costa, Kaine, Padilla, Gray Introduce Legislation to Build Medical Schools and Curb Physician Shortage in Underserved Areas

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Representatives Jim Costa (CA-21) and Adam Gray (CA-13), alongside Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Alex Padilla (D-CA) introduced the Expanding Medical Education Act, legislation that would authorize federal grants to establish medical schools in underserved regions like California’s San Joaquin Valley.”The shortage of doctors in the San Joaquin Valley and across rural America has been a serious issue for far too long, and we must continue to address it,” said Congressman Costa. “My legislation will help build a medical school in the Valley and strengthen our healthcare system. Training and retaining local doctors are key to tackling this crisis and ensuring people access to quality healthcare.”“Communities of color and Virginians in rural and underserved areas have long faced serious challenges in accessing health care and finding providers that look like them or offer services nearby,” said Senator Kaine. “Research indicates physicians are more likely to practice in the areas they’re from—so supporting medical schools at HBCUs, MSIs, and in underserved areas is a commonsense way to help improve care in those communities. This legislation would help do that and improve recruitment and retention of talented individuals from historically underrepresented backgrounds, creating a health care workforce that more accurately reflects the communities they serve.”  “Expanding opportunities for students of color in medical fields is an essential public health priority,”said Senator Padilla. “By creating more pathways at minority-serving institutions for diverse groups to enter the health care workforce, the Expanding Medical Education Act would help improve access to culturally competent health care providers and address critical workforce shortages.”“The San Joaquin Valley is experiencing one of the worst physician shortages in the country,” said Congressman Gray.“I’m proud to have secured over $200 million in funding for development at UC Merced, including for the joint medical school program with UCSF, but there is still work to be done to make sure our communities have reliable access to medical care. The Expanding Medical Education Act would deliver much-needed support to medical education programs in rural and underserved areas like the Valley and improve access to care.”BACKGROUNDThe U.S. healthcare workforce shortage, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic, has pushed an already strained system to the brink. According to data from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the United States will have a projected shortage of up to 125,100 physicians by 2034. Despite being the fastest-growing region in the state, the San Joaquin Valley has the lowest supply of physicians at a ratio of 47 doctors per 100,000 residents, significantly lower than the state average.The San Joaquin Valley, a majority Hispanic region with already high rates of chronic illnesses like asthma, diabetes, and heart disease has been hit the hardest. In counties like Fresno, Merced, and Tulare, where over half the population is Latino, many areas are federally designated Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSA), making it harder to access timely, quality care. These shortages, combined with language barriers often lead to worse health outcomes.The Expanding Medical Education Act would provide federal grants to institutions of higher education by prioritizing minority-serving institutions (MSI) and those located in rural and underserved areas to establish schools of medicine or osteopathic medicines where none currently exist. This would open the door for eligible Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), and MSIs, including UCSF-Fresno and UC Merced. Funding could be used for planning, construction, accreditation, faculty hiring, student recruitment, and modernizing infrastructure, with a focus on underserved areas. UCSF-Fresno and UC Merced have laid the foundation with its San Joaquin Valley (SJV) PRIME+ BS/MD program, which builds off the existing program that trains medical residents at local hospitals like Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno. This legislation would build on that momentum by providing financial resources to assist with the establishment of a medical school in the Valley.
    Link to the livestream is available HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic Endowment Fund is 13 years old

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    Today, the University Endowment Fund is 13 years old. Although the first target capital was established at the Polytechnic by Sergei Witte at the beginning of the 20th century. The modern fund was created based on the historical experience of the largest universities in the world. It is never spent, invested in liquid financial instruments. Income from management goes to support student initiatives, preservation of historical heritage and infrastructure projects of the university.

    Today, the fund consists of six endowments and has already exceeded 110 million rubles. Over 13 years, hundreds of benefactors have contributed to the development of our university, the expansion of its capabilities, the implementation of ideas and initiatives. These are Russian companies, banks, public organizations, as well as graduates, employees and students of the university.

    We thank everyone who creates the future of the Polytechnic University. These names are forever inscribed in history, because the endowment is a living memory of different generations of friends of our university. The fund invites everyone to support the wonderful tradition of the best universities in the world by taking part in the development of endowments and the implementation of new projects.

    Contribute to the future of Polytechnic University you can 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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Takano Reintroduces Bipartisan Legislation to Guarantee Overtime Pay for Truckers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Takano (D-Calif)

    March 06, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Representative Mark Takano (CA-39) reintroduced the Guaranteeing Overtime for Truckers Act. This legislation would eliminate the current existing exemption in the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) of 1938 that exempts truckers from receiving overtime compensation. The bipartisan legislation is co-led by Congressman Jeff Van Drew (NJ-02); Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) are introducing the companion bill in the Senate.

    “Truckers are vital for our supply chain, manufacturing, and the American way of life,” said Congressman Mark Takano. “It is unfair that they are singled out as somehow unworthy of overtime pay. This legislation will help right that wrong and make sure they are fairly compensated for the hours they work. I am proud to partner with Congressman Van Drew and Senator Padillato build up workers and guarantee more money in their paychecks.”

    “Truck drivers keep our supply chain moving, often working long, exhausting hours to make sure goods get where they need to go,” said Congressman Van Drew. “But right now, they are not guaranteed overtime pay like most other workers. It is just not right. The Guaranteeing Overtime for Truckers Act is a simple fix—it ensures that truckers are fairly compensated for the extra hours they put in. These men and women do critical work, and it’s time we make sure their pay reflects that.”

    “America’s truck drivers are on the frontlines of our economy, enduring long hours away from home, and all too often, unpaid wait times at congested ports and warehouses. Unfortunately, truck drivers have been excluded from overtime pay protections for decades,” said Senator Padilla. “If truckers are forced to wait while on the job, they should be paid. This is not just a matter of fairness; it’s a matter of public safety. Experienced truckers are safer truckers, and better compensation and overtime pay will help more of them stay in the profession.”

    “The exclusion of truck drivers from federal overtime protections must come to an end,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “The Teamsters Union is proud to support the Guaranteeing Overtime for Truckers Act, which will right the decades long wrong that serves only to harm drivers to the benefit of their employers.”

    “America’s truckers are the backbone of our economy, keeping goods moving and ensuring our supply chain stays strong,” said Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association President Todd Spencer. “Yet, despite their essential role, trucking remains one of the few professions in America denied guaranteed overtime pay.It’s long past time the hard work of the men and women behind the wheel are fairly compensated. By discounting a trucker’s time, ‘big trucking’ has driven wages downward, treating truckers as disposable rather than the skilled professionals they are. We appreciate Representative Van Drew, Representative Takano, and Senator Padilla for championing the bipartisan GOT Truckers Act, which will right this wrong by securing overtime pay. This legislation is an investment in truckers, road safety, and the strength of America’s supply chain.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Takano Blasts Leaked Executive Order Illegally Dismantling the Department of Education

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Takano (D-Calif)

    March 06, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representative Mark Takano (CA-39), a former public school teacher and Senior Member of the House Education and Workforce Committee, released the following statement following public reports of an Executive Order directing Secretary McMahon to begin illegally dissolving the Department of Education:

    “This is a blatant attack on public schools and students. If Secretary McMahon follows through on President Trump’s illegal Executive Order, she will go down in history as the person who single-handedly helped decimate public education. Americans will not forget or forgive this Administration for gutting public education just so they could fund a tax break for billionaires.  

    “This order will devastate many of our already-underfunded school systems, in effect resegregating students into haves and have nots. It will bring devastation and ruin for students across our nation. It will close off paths to prosperity for future generations and undermine our economy for decades to come.

    “We have been ringing the alarm on this very possibility since the start of the Trump Administration. My colleagues and I were locked out of the Department of Education earlier this year when we asked for a meeting to discuss this exact situation. What we said then remains true today: only Congress can make these types of sweeping changes to Department. President Trump and Secretary McMahon cannot. 

    “I will fight tooth and nail against any illegal, lawless order that hurts American students.”

    Last month, Rep. Takano led an oversight mission to the Department of Education, but was locked out of the building.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Andrew Duff’s term on UK Government Investments Board extended for 12 months

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Andrew Duff’s term on UK Government Investments Board extended for 12 months

    HM Treasury has today (3 April) announced the extension of Andrew Duff’s term as Senior Independent Director on the UK Government Investments (UKGI) Board for 12 months, from July 2025 to July 2026.  

    UKGI is the government’s centre of expertise in corporate governance and corporate finance.  

    Andrew Duff was first appointed to the UKGI Board as a non-Executive Director in July 2019, and was reappointed for a second term in July 2022. Alongside this he is also Chair of Sage Group Plc. Andrew spent most of his executive career in the energy industry, including as Chief Executive Officer of global energy company, RWE Npower. 

    Emma Reynolds, The Economic Secretary to the Treasury and City Minister, welcomed the extension: 

    I am pleased to announce the extension of Andrew Duff’s term as a non-Executive Director on the UK Government Investments Board. UKGI provides invaluable advice and support to the government on complex corporate governance and corporate finance matters.  

    Andrew’s significant executive experience including in the energy sector will help UKGI continue its important work supporting the government’s growth and clean energy missions. 

    Vindi Banga, Chair of UKGI, said: 

    Andrew has made significant contributions across the organisation, and I am delighted that his term on the UKGI Board has been extended for a further 12-month period. I look forward to working with him and the rest of the Board in supporting UKGI to deliver its strategy and objectives. 

    This reappointment is regulated by the Commissioner for Public appointments (OCPA) and is made in accordance with the Governance Code on Public Appointments published by the Cabinet Office.  

    This reappointment is made on merit and political activity played no part in the decision process. In accordance with the code, there is a requirement for appointees’ political activity (if any declared) to be made public. Andrew Duff did not declare any political activity. 

    Further information

    • UKGI is the government’s centre of expertise in corporate governance and corporate finance. It provides expert advice and leading solutions that inform and translate government’s decisions into effective outcomes in the national interest. 

    • UKGI acts as shareholder representative for, and leads the establishment of, UK government most complex and commercial arm’s length bodies on behalf of sponsor departments. It advises on major UK government corporate finance matters, including financial interventions into corporate structures and corporate finance negotiations; it analyses and advises on the UK government’s contingent liabilities and  advises on major UK government corporate finance matters, including financial interventions into corporate structures and corporate finance negotiations. 

    • UKGI is owned by HM Treasury and independently managed with a Board comprised predominantly of independent non-executive directors. UKGI works closely with both the private and public sectors, advising and interacting with ministers, Parliament and Whitehall departments.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rutherford, Moody Reintroduce the Bipartisan, Bicameral HELPER Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Rutherford (4th District of Florida)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives John H. Rutherford (R-FL-05), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ-12), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05), and Andrew Garbarino (R-NY-02) reintroduced H.R. 2094, the Homes for Every Local Protector, Educator, and Responder (HELPER) Act, in the House. Senators Ashley Moody (R-FL) and Jon Ossoff (D-GA) also introduced companion legislation the U.S. Senate.

    This bipartisan, bicameral bill would establish a new home loan program, modeled after the successful Veterans Affairs (VA) loan program, under the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) to make homeownership more accessible for teachers and first responders by eliminating some of the requirements for first-time homebuyers, like down payments and monthly mortgage insurance premiums.

    “As a former sheriff and member of law enforcement, I know how important it is to have law enforcement officers living in the communities they serve,” saidRep. Rutherford. “However, due to today’s competitive housing market, many of our nation’s first responders and educators face financial obstacles that prevent them from buying a home. That’s why I’m proud to reintroduce the bipartisan, bicameral HELPER Act with my colleagues in both the House and Senate to make homeownership a reality for law enforcement officers, teachers, paramedics, EMTs, and firefighters. We all would greatly benefit from calling these civil servants our neighbors.”

    “Our first responders, nurses, and teachers work every day to strengthen and secure our communities,” saidRep.Watson Coleman. “It’s no wonder they’re some of the most trusted professions in America. Yet many of them struggle to purchase their first homes and set down roots in the towns and cities they serve. It’s time we eliminated the barriers that make it so difficult for our teachers and frontline workers to secure housing, and the HELPER Act does just that.”

    “Our first responders and educators dedicate their lives to serving our communities, yet many struggle to afford homes in the neighborhoods they protect and teach in,” said Rep.Garbarino. “The HELPER Act would address this challenge by creating a targeted home loan program to help these essential workers achieve homeownership. I’m proud to support this bipartisan effort to ensure those who serve our communities can also afford to live in them.”

    “After working tirelessly to look after our families and communities, our cops, paramedics, firefighters, and teachers shouldn’t have to struggle with housing. That’s why I’m proud to help introduce the bipartisan, bicameral HELPER Act, which will help lower the barriers to homeownership for those who devote their lives and careers to service,” saidRep.Gottheimer. “I’ll always fight to lower costs and to make life more affordable for our hardworking families.”

    “Florida is the most pro law enforcement state in the nation,” saidSen.Moody. “Over the past six years, while many other states and cities disparaged and cut funding for law enforcement, I fought for raises, bonuses, relocation assistance, and other benefits to show these officers that we value their service. The HELPER Act is the next great step in ensuring these heroes know we appreciate their hard work and sacrifices. It will also help them purchase a home in the community where they serve. As the wife of a law enforcement officer, I see firsthand the sacrifices made each day. Standing up for the LEO community will always be a top priority of mine, and I am proud that my first bill in the U.S. Senate will help them make their dream of homeownership a reality.”

    “I’m working across the aisle to support Georgia’s teachers, first responders, and law enforcement officers by making homeownership more affordable for public servants who teach our kids and protect our families,” saidSen. Ossoff. 

    “The HELPER Act is a crucial step in supporting the brave men and women who serve as police officers, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, and teachers—workers who are struggling to afford their first homes despite their dedication to our communities. This legislation helps make homeownership more accessible for these critical public servants and provides local governments with an important tool to recruit and retain them. I’m grateful for the leadership of U.S. Representatives Rutherford, Watson Coleman, Garbarino, and Gottheimer, and U.S. Senators Moody, Ossoff, Cassidy, and Warnock in advancing this vital legislation.” said SamuelP.Royer, the original champion behind the HELPER Act and founder and president of Salute Home Loans.

    The HELPER Act would:

    • Create a one-time-use home loan program through FHA for law enforcement officers, firefighters, Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT), paramedics, and pre-K through 12 teachers who are first-time homebuyers
    • Eliminate a down payment requirement on a mortgage
    • Remove a monthly mortgage insurance premium (MIP) requirement
    • Require an upfront mortgage insurance premium (UFMIP) to ensure the solvency of the program

    The HELPER Act has also received support from the following organizations: American Association of State Troopers (AAST), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), International Association of EMTs and Paramedics (IAEP), International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), National Troopers Coalition (NTC), and the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) among others.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Destiny Bridge and New Kingsway open

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    Known collectively as the Cross Tay Link Road project, Destiny Bridge and the New Kingsway, are key elements of the Perth Transport Futures infrastructure project linking the A9, the A93 and the A94 by providing a crossing over the River Tay.

    The project also includes a 12km active travel path network, connecting the neighbouring communities with Perth city centre and providing alternatives to vehicular traffic. The path network also connects a central hub at a new Park-and-Choose area, and incorporates a green bridge to separate active travel users and wildlife from the road.

    Together, the active travel path network and improved transport infrastructure will deliver on the project’s key priorities of reducing congestion and improving air quality in Perth city centre. Scottish Government, through Transport Scotland, has provided a £40m funding contribution to Perth and Kinross Council.

    First Minister John Swinney said: “The completion of the New Kingsway and Destiny Bridge is a significant milestone for Perth, and I have no doubt that it will be transformative for the area and bring enormous benefits to all who use it.

    “Reducing traffic volumes in the city centre will make journey times quicker, while also helping to reduce pollution, improve air quality, and free up road space for improved public transport.

    “Our £40 million investment in the New Kingsway and Destiny Bridge is in addition to the £150 million Scottish Government has already committed to the Tay Cities Region Deal, which is expected to create 6,000 jobs and lever a further £400 million of investment into the region.

    “This project showcases exactly how, with the right investment and strong partnerships, we will continue to deliver on my priorities of growing the economy, improving public services and protecting the planet.”

    Enabling works on the project commenced in early 2022 following the appointment of main contractor, BAM UK & Ireland. As well as delivering the £150m project on time and on budget, the project team has also generated over £51m of social and economic value within the local area.

    Councillor Grant Laing, Perth and Kinross Council Leader,  said: “As the largest infrastructure project ever undertaken by Perth and Kinross Council, the opening of Destiny Bridge and the New Kingsway marks a momentous achievement for all involved.

    “I would like to offer thanks to the project team for their hard work and dedication; and to residents, particularly those in Stormontfield, Scone and Luncarty, for their patience and understanding during the build.”

    Councillor Laing continued: “As well as positively impacting on the environment and economy, during construction the project has created job opportunities and tackled local skills shortages through a robust outreach and training programme.

    “It has also assisted in, and generated, several legacy projects including the Denmarkfield Allotments and Community Orchards, the new active travel path network and the Community Artwork project, all of which will bring enjoyment and health benefits for our Perth and Kinross residents for many years to come.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Regulators urge donors to support registered charities to help earthquake efforts in Myanmar

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments

    Press release

    Regulators urge donors to support registered charities to help earthquake efforts in Myanmar

    The Charity Commission for England and Wales and the Fundraising Regulator offer advice on giving safely when looking to support the international aid effort.

    Today the Charity Commission for England and Wales and the Fundraising Regulator have published advice on how people can help those impacted by the devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar on 28 March 2025.

    The advice comes as the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) launches its Myanmar Earthquake Appeal. DEC brings together 15 registered UK aid charities to raise funds quickly and efficiently in times of crisis overseas.

    These, and other registered charities, are currently providing life-saving aid such as food, water, shelter and healthcare to people affected by the earthquake.

    By supporting registered charities, including through the DEC, people can be assured that their donations will be regulated and accounted for in line with charity law.

    David Holdsworth, Chief Executive of the Charity Commission said:

    As the scale of the devastation caused by the earthquake in Myanmar has become clearer, charities are once again responding to pleas for international help.

    One way anyone can help is by making a donation to one of the many registered charities working to get aid to those in desperate need in Myanmar.

    To make sure their generosity reaches the intended cause, we are reminding people to give with confidence through registered charities including by donating to the appeal launched by the Disasters Emergency Committee.

    Gerald Oppenheim, Chief Executive of the Fundraising Regulator said:

    The British public is always exceedingly generous in response to humanitarian disasters like the recent earthquake in Myanmar.

    We want to make sure that the public can continue to give, safe in the knowledge that their donations are going to help alleviate the suffering.

    By carrying out just a few simple checks – including looking out for a valid charity number and the Fundraising Badge – you can ensure you make informed decisions when donating to the disaster response.

    Steps to giving safely

    People can give with confidence to relief efforts by following a few simple steps:

    • consider donating through the DEC’s emergency appeal

    • for those who choose to donate to other charities, the charity regulator is reminding people to check charities are registered and legitimate

    • look out for the Fundraising Badge – the logo that says ‘registered with Fundraising Regulator’ – and check the Fundraising Regulator’s Directory of organisations committed to fundraise in line with its Code of Fundraising Practice

    • contact a charity directly or find out more online about the charity that you’re seeking to donate to or work with to understand how it is spending funds

    • make sure the charity is genuine before giving any financial information

    • be careful when responding to emails or clicking on links within them

    • check the charity’s name and registration number on the Charity Register – most charities with an annual income of £5,000 or more must be registered in England and Wales

    ENDS

    Notes to editors:

    1. Further tips on donating with confidence to registered charities are available on GOV.UK

    2. The Charity Commission for England and Wales is the independent, non-ministerial government department that registers and regulates charities in England and Wales – its purpose is to ensure charity can thrive and inspire trust so that people can improve lives and strengthen society

    3. There are separate registers for charities in England and Wales, charities in Scotland and charities in Northern Ireland. Charities can be on more than one register, reflecting the nations where they operate

    4. The Fundraising Regulator is the independent regulator of charitable fundraising in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Further guidance on giving safely to charity is available on the Fundraising Regulator’s website. It can be reached on FR@pagefield.co.uk

    The Charity Commission press office can be reached on:

    Press office

    Email pressenquiries@charitycommission.gov.uk

    Out of hours press office contact number: 07785 748787

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Prime Minister’s remarks to UK business leaders in Downing Street: 3 April 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Prime Minister’s remarks to UK business leaders in Downing Street: 3 April 2025

    Prime Minister’s remarks delivered to UK business leaders in 10 Downing Street this morning.

    Thank you for joining me in Downing Street today. 

    Last night, the President of the United States, acted for his country. That is his mandate. 

    Today, I will act in Britain’s interests, with mine. 

    I understand how important this is for your business as it is for the British people. 

    So, we move now to the next phase of our plan. 

    Decisions we take in the coming days and weeks, will be guided only by our national interest. In the interest of our economy. In the interests of the businesses around this table. 

    In the interests of putting money in the pockets of working people. Nothing else will guide me. That is my focus. 

    Clearly, there will be an economic impact from the decisions the US has taken both here and globally.   

    But I want to be crystal clear – we are prepared. 

    Indeed, one of the great strengths of this nation is our ability to keep a cool head. 

    I said that in my first speech as Prime Minister and that is how I govern. 

    That is how we have planned and that is exactly what is required today. 

    Nobody wins in a trade war. That is not in our national interest. 

    And we have a fair and balanced trade relationship with the US. 

    Negotiations on an economic prosperity deal, one that strengthens our existing trading relationship – they continue, and we will fight for the best deal for Britain. 

    Nonetheless, I do want to be clear I will only strike a deal if it is in the national interest and if it is the right thing to do for the security of working people. 

    Protects the pound in their pocket, that they work so hard to earn for their family. 

    That is my priority. That is always my priority. 

    So – today marks a new stage in our preparations.

    We have a range of levers at our disposal, and we will continue our work with businesses across the country to understand their assessment of these options. 

    As I say – our intention remains to secure a deal.

    But nothing is off the table.

    We have to understand that just as with defence and security, so too for the economy and trade we are living in a changing world. 

    Entering a new era. We must rise to this challenge.  

    That is why I have instructed my team to move further and faster on the changes I believe will make our economy stronger and more resilient. 

    Because this government will do everything necessary to defend the UK’s national interest. 

    Everything necessary to provide the foundation of security that working people need to get on with their lives. 

    That is how we have acted – and how we will continue to act. 

    With pragmatism. Cool and calm heads. 

    Focused – on the national interest.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government kickstarts £100 million fusion investment

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    Government kickstarts £100 million fusion investment

    A first of its kind partnership between the government and private sector could see over £100 million invested into the UK’s growing fusion energy industry.

    • Government invests £20 million into “Starmaker One” – a British fusion investment fund which is expected to leverage £100 million into the UK
    • world first government partnership with fusion private venture capital fund – keeping Britain at the forefront of the global fusion race
    • fusion has potential to help make Britain a clean energy superpower as part of the Plan for Change – driving economic growth and creating skilled jobs

    Today (3 April) the government has announced £20 million to kickstart ‘Starmaker One’ – a British private fusion investment fund that will help fusion businesses and start-ups in the sector grow and commercialise at scale. 

    It is expected the upfront investment will unlock further investment from the private sector as the fusion industry grows – helping cement the UK as a world leader in the technology and creating highly-skilled jobs.  

    Fusion uses the same process that powers the sun by combining two forms of hydrogen and heating them at extreme temperatures, releasing vast amounts of energy. 

    Companies in the UK have often identified lack of access to capital as a barrier to scaling up and commercialising their businesses. An injection of cash from government will give the private sector confidence to invest in fusion, developing its vast potential as an unlimited source of energy and ensuring the UK continues to compete in the global fusion race.  

    The funding boost will help small fusion companies provide training for their workforce in key areas such as physics, engineering and chemistry. It will also support companies to develop technologies and capitalise on the opportunities of fusion energy in markets such as magnetics, industrial AI, robotics, healthcare, transportation and energy storage.  

    Fusion already supports thousands of jobs in the UK, in regions such as Nottinghamshire, Oxfordshire and South Yorkshire, with thousands more to follow as the technology advances. Fusion is a key industry sector in the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor with independent research from London Economics showing that every £1 invested in fusion it benefits the economy by nearly £4. 

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:  

    This government is taking back control of Britain’s energy by driving for clean homegrown power through our Plan for Change.  

    Fusion has the potential to provide us with energy security, whilst attracting the best technologies to our shores and training up the next generation of British scientists and engineers.  

    We are backing both nuclear and fusion power, and today we take a step forward in growing this exciting industry.

    Science Minister and Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor Champion, Lord Vallance said: 

    Fusion energy is a technology with enormous potential, and an industry in which the UK is already well established.    This investment will help to unlock the funding the fusion industry needs to grow, which will boost regions across the UK such as Nottinghamshire and South Yorkshire, and in Culham in Oxfordshire, the epicentre of UK fusion.

    Energy Minister Kerry McCarthy, said:  

    This investment is our Plan for Change in action – we are backing British pioneers to secure the clean energy of the future while supporting jobs today, from scientists and welders to engineers and construction managers.  

    As countries around the world recognise the huge potential of fusion, breakthroughs in this technology are happening thick and fast, and we want to keep the UK at the forefront of the global race by helping projects to innovate and grow here, in turn driving economic growth.

    Investment in Starmaker One signals the first early-stage fusion energy venture capital fund outside the US and the first of its kind to partner with government as an investor. Investing in fusion technology will pave the way to delivering a clean safe, secure and abundant baseload energy, helping to meet rising energy demand in the years ahead. 

    This investment will give industry cash upfront to grow their businesses and supply chains. It follows on from a government commitment for a record level of £410 million, announced in January, for UK fusion research and collaboration with other countries to develop clean, unlimited power and drive economic growth. 

    Successful deployment of fusion energy would be globally transformative and allow the UK to export the technology to a global fusion market expected to be worth trillions of pounds in the future.

    This notice is for information only and does not constitute an invitation to invest. The fund is not available to retail investors. 

    Notes for editors  

    • Starmaker One is a limited partnership in which the government is a cornerstone investor. The fund has potential to raise between £100 million and £150 million overall (including the £20 million from DESNZ) for investment into fusion-related technology
    • East X Ventures will act as fund manager. Government will receive a share of any returns made by the partnership
    • East X Ventures is the venture capital arm of East X, a London based quantitative systematic research and investment firm operating across global commodity markets.  East X Ventures invests in early-stage, science-led companies with high-growth, world-scale potential
    • The funding comes from the government’s existing Research and Development budget for 2024/2025.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Frankel Co-Leads Bipartisan Bill to Reimburse Local Police and Fire Departments for Presidential Security Expenses

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21)

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Lois Frankel (D-FL-22) and Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (R-NJ-07) have introduced the Presidential Security Resources Reimbursement Act, a bipartisan bill to allow the Secret Service to reimburse local law enforcement and fire departments for the assistance they have provided protecting President Trump when he is at his residence in Palm Beach. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, the Town of Palm Beach Police Department, and the City of West Palm Beach Police Department anticipate a total of $45 million in expenses incurred by the end of 2025 for protection of President Trump at the direction of the U.S. Secret Service.

    “Protecting the President is a matter of national security and should be a federal responsibility to bear the costs,” said Rep. Frankel. “Diverting funds for presidential security can strain local governments’ ability to provide essential public services. That’s why I’m proud to co-lead this bipartisan legislation with Rep. Kean, Jr., to ensure that local governments are fully reimbursed for these necessary costs.”

    “The Secret Service relies on strong collaboration with local law enforcement to fulfill its mission effectively,” said Rep. Kean. “Currently, much of that responsibility falls on small-town taxpayers and local budgets. We must ensure our local law enforcement has the resources they need to do their job successfully. That is why I am reintroducing this commonsense legislation—to ensure the necessary funding is readily available to support every security operation.”

    “At the request of the federal government, Palm Beach County has consistently stepped up to ensure that President Trump has the best security protection available anytime he is in residence in our community,” said Palm Beach County Mayor Maria Marino. “We consider it an honor to serve and protect our President; however, our tax paying community cannot continue to foot the bill for this very costly service. We need help and relief from this significant local financial impact that is projected to cost over $45 million by fiscal year end.”

    Full bill text can be found here. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Frankel, DeLauro, Williams (GA), Leger Fernández Introduce Resolution Recognizing Equal Pay Day

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21)

    Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Lois Frankel (FL-22), Rosa DeLauro (CT-3), Nikema Williams (GA-5), and Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-3) introduced a resolution recognizing March 25th, 2025, as Equal Pay Day to underscore the disparity between wages paid to men and women. The resolution raises awareness of the gender wage gap and its impact on women, families, and the nation, while reaffirming Congress’ commitment to supporting equal pay for equal work.

    “Equal pay is not only a matter of fairness and justice—it’s essential for creating a more equitable and prosperous world,” said Rep. Frankel. “For the first time in over two decades, the gender wage gap widened this past year, setting women back instead of continuing to push forward. For generations, women have received unequal pay for equal work, disproportionately occupied jobs in low-paying industries, and been forced to leave the workforce altogether due to lack of affordable child care. It’s long past time Congress took the necessary steps to close the wage gap.”

    “Equal Pay Day marks how far into the current year a woman must work to catch up to what her male counterpart earned in the previous year,” said Rep. DeLauro. “Six decades after passage of the Equal Pay Act of 1963, women working full-time or part-time still earn 75 cents for every dollar earned by men. We are in a cost-of-living crisis – this must end. Equal pay for equal work is a simple concept – men and women in the same job deserve the same pay. It is time we make it real for the millions of American women who are being unfairly undervalued in the workplace. Let’s enact the Paycheck Fairness Act and empower working women by giving them the tools to ensure their contributions to the workplace are properly respected and reflected in their pay.”

    “For the first time in more than two decades, the gender wage gap has widened, hitting Black women and women of color the hardest. Equal pay is more than a women’s issue, it is a matter of economic justice and racial justice,” said Rep. Williams. “When women are paid less for the same work, families suffer, communities struggle, and our economy falls short. I’m proud to co-lead this resolution to reaffirm our commitment to closing the gender wage gap and fully realizing the promise of the Equal Pay Act of 1963.”

    “It’s been 61 years since we passed the Equal Pay Act. And we still don’t have equal pay?! It keeps getting worse because there isn’t a mechanism to fight this discrimination. Every member of the DWC is a proud cosponsor of Rep. DeLauro’s Paycheck Fairness Act so women can challenge pay discrimination and hold employers accountable,” said Rep. Leger Fernández. “We are fighting for legislation to guarantee wage transparency so women know when they’re being paid less for the same work. We are fighting for paid leave for all so that no woman has to choose between their paycheck and caring for their loved ones. This is not just a matter of fairness—it’s a matter of dignity. We believe in a world where you can balance your work and your family without losing the job that sustains you.”

    “Women today continue to face too many obstacles in the workplace, and the wage gap is just one of those barriers. When you look at all workers, both those who are full-time and part-time, women being paid just 75 cents for every dollar a man is paid is simply unacceptable and has a significant impact on the economic stability of women and their families,” said Jocelyn C. Frye, President of the National Partnership for Women & Families. “The ability to support a family and earn a good living should be accessible for every worker.  Closing the wage gap would help women workers make huge strides towards getting there. Thank you to Congresswoman Lois Frankel and all of our champions in Congress for drawing needed attention to the need for pay equity on this year’s Equal Pay Day.”

    More than six decades after passage of the Equal Pay Act, women working full-time, year-round, still earn on average 83 cents for every dollar made by men, while women overall—including part-time and seasonal workers—are paid just 75 cents for every dollar paid to men, averaging much less for women of color. Black women only earn 66 cents, American Indian and Alaska Native women 58 cents, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders 65 cents, and Latinas 58 cents for every dollar earned by men. For a woman working full-time, year-round, the current wage gap represents a loss of more than $462,000 over the course of her career, a gap that widens dramatically for women of color. The wage gap impacts women’s ability to save for retirement and their total Social Security and pension benefits, contributing to more older women living in poverty.

    Since taking office, President Donald Trump has rolled back critical workplace protections, opening the door for greater wage disparities and weakening longstanding safeguards for women seeking fair pay. This includes rescinding a nearly 60-year-old executive order that prohibited government contractors from discriminating in their hiring, firing, promotion, or pay practices—further disadvantaging women, particularly women of color, who already face barriers to equal wages. He also illegally dismissed two commissioners from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), tasked with preventing and addressing employment discrimination based on sex, gender, and other factors.

    The resolution currently has 126 original cosponsors. It is supported by several advocacy groups, including the National Partnership for Women & Families, the National Women’s Law Center (NWLC), Equal Rights Advocates, the American Association of University Women (AAUW), the National Organization for Women, the Institute for Women’s Policy Research (IWPR), the National Employment Law Project, One Fair Wage, Justice for Migrant Women, the National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum (NAPAWF), and Family Values @ Work.

    For full text of the resolution, click here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Frankel, Kean, Jr. Urge FAA to Reimburse Businesses Affected by Presidential Flight Restrictions

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21)

    Washington, DC – This week, Representatives Lois Frankel (D-FL-22) and Tom Kean, Jr. (R-NJ-07) urged Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Acting Administrator Chris Rocheleau to provide reimbursement to airports and businesses affected by Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) during President Trump’s visits to his residences in Palm Beach, Florida, and Bedminster, New Jersey. Impacted facilities include Palm Beach County Park Airport (Lantana Airport) and airports in the Bedminster area.

    These recurring airspace restrictions significantly disrupt airport operations, resulting in major revenue losses for small, local businesses operating at these airports—such as flight schools, maintenance services, and propeller shops.

    “Protecting the President is a responsibility we all share, regardless of political affiliation,” said Rep. Frankel. “But it’s the federal government—not local businesses or airports—that should bear the cost of these necessary security measures.”

    “Protecting national security and supporting small businesses should not be mutually exclusive,” said Rep. Kean, Jr. “I am proud to represent a district with small, family-run airports that play a vital role in our community—and one that the President calls home part-time. While Temporary Flight Restrictions are critical for the President’s safety, they can also impose significant financial hardships on local airports and aviation businesses. That’s why Rep. Frankel and I are urging the FAA to use money that Congress has already provided to reimburse businesses for lost revenue and disrupted operations.”

    According to the Florida Aviation Economic Impact Study conducted by the Florida Department of Transportation, businesses at Lantana Airport employ more than 750 workers and contribute over $144 million annually to the local economy.

    For full text of the letter Reps. Frankel and Kean, Jr. sent, click here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Luis de Guindos: Financial stability in uncertain times

    Source: European Central Bank

    Speech by Luis de Guindos, Vice-President of the ECB, at the International Federation of Accountants’ Chief Executives Forum

    Amsterdam, 3 April 2025

    Introduction

    It is a pleasure to be taking part in the International Federation of Accountants’ Chief Executives Forum today.[1] In line with the topic of the event, I will reflect on the risks and uncertainty that threaten financial stability and their implications for policymakers. I will be brief to allow enough time to take your questions.

    Conceptually, risk is associated with situations where the exact outcome is unknown but the possible outcomes can be identified and their probabilities can be estimated reasonably well.[2] For the ECB, financial stability is defined as a condition in which the financial system is capable of withstanding shocks and the unravelling of financial imbalances. So, when assessing financial stability, we evaluate the likelihood of shocks materialising and their potential impact. Uncertainty, by contrast, refers to scenarios where it is impossible to define and measure outcomes and probabilities, often owing to a lack of information. While risk is quantifiable, uncertainty can be proxied at best.

    The current environment

    Uncertainty in the macro-financial and credit environment is currently exceptionally high, in a world being reshaped by significant shifts in geopolitics, international cooperation, global trade policy, financial regulation and the role of crypto-assets. At the same time, the scale of the defence investment foreseen in the EU is unprecedented and adds another significant layer of uncertainty to the current environment.

    According to a news-based index[3], economic policy uncertainty in the euro area is currently more than three times the historical average.[4] Similarly, an index of trade policy uncertainty is more than eight times the historical average.[5] These levels are well above those seen during the pandemic.

    Amid all of this uncertainty, the ECB’s Governing Council decided to lower interest rates by another 25 basis points in March. The deposit facility rate is now at 2.5%, 150 basis points below its recent peak.

    The disinflation process is well on track, with inflation developing broadly as expected. Headline inflation decreased further from 2.3% in February to 2.2% in March. According to recent data and in line with our projections, wage growth is moderating, which is helping services inflation to gradually decline. Most measures of underlying inflation suggest that inflation will settle at around our 2% inflation target, on a sustained basis.

    But uncertainty surrounding the inflation outlook remains high, mainly on account of increasing friction in global trade. An escalation in trade tensions could see the euro depreciate and import costs rise, while much needed defence and infrastructure spending could raise inflation via aggregate demand. Geopolitical tensions could also lead to higher inflation owing to trade disruptions, rising commodity prices and energy costs. At the same time, lower demand for euro area exports and lower growth resulting from the impact of higher tariffs or geopolitical tensions could pose a threat to the economy, depress demand and push inflation down.

    Weak economic growth remains a challenge for the euro area, even without any further shocks. ECB staff have again revised down their growth projections – to 0.9% for 2025, 1.2% for 2026 and 1.3% for 2026. The downward revisions reflect lower exports and ongoing weakness in investment. High uncertainty, both at home and abroad, is holding back investment, while competitiveness challenges are weighing on exports. Addressing these challenges in order to improve growth prospects is clearly more demanding in the current context of exceptionally high uncertainty about trade and economic policy.

    Challenges when analysing financial stability

    Our macroeconomic projections are not the only area where we face great difficulties navigating this environment of heightened uncertainty. Analysing financial stability also requires us to adjust our frameworks and use state-of-the-art tools to assess the financial system’s capacity to withstand shocks under these conditions.

    Analysing multiple scenarios is a powerful way to deal with situations of high uncertainty. It allows us to test the resilience of the financial system against various possible manifestations of financial stress. Shocks cannot be predicted, but drawing on a diverse array of indicators and a range of sensitivity analyses is essential for us to understand the nuances of the current uncertainty. It is also crucial that our various approaches include ways to measure sources of risk amplification and non-linearities. By combining hard data indicators with survey results and analyses based on micro data, we can achieve a more granular, diverse and timely understanding of the economic landscape. Such a comprehensive approach can enhance our ability to anticipate and respond to emerging challenges.

    The main risks to financial stability in the euro area

    In the current economic environment, we are observing marked vulnerabilities in financial stability. While banks remain in good shape, with sound solvency and liquidity indicators that are well above regulatory minimums, there are weaknesses in several other areas. First, elevated valuations and concentrated risks make financial markets susceptible to adverse corrections. Non-bank financial intermediaries have remained resilient to recent bouts of market volatility, but they are still quite heavily exposed to risky assets. Broader market shocks could cause sudden investment fund outflows or trigger margin calls on derivative exposures, unsettling markets and leading to abrupt price corrections. Second, sovereign indebtedness is a cause for concern at a time when defence spending is emerging as a priority in Europe, with different countries having very different amounts of fiscal space to respond. Despite the likely increase in debt servicing costs, public finances need to be managed in a growth-friendly way and ultimately be sustainable. Third, the corporate sector has demonstrated resilience but faces competitiveness challenges and is subject to emerging credit risk concerns, especially in the case of firms that are more exposed to the export sector and geopolitical risks.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, an extraordinarily high level of uncertainty around economic and trade policy has been acting as a drag on markets and the economy alike. Financial intermediaries need to adapt their risk management tools in the face of new vulnerabilities and scenarios at a time when it is no longer possible to measure likely outcomes and probabilities. This environment calls for heightened vigilance, which is why we are exploring unconventional sources of risk and vulnerability and using a broader range of tools, such as sensitivity and scenario analyses, to assess the resilience of the financial system.

    In terms of monetary policy, this uncertainty means we need to be extremely prudent when determining the appropriate stance. While most indicators point to inflation moving in the right direction, the environment of exceptional uncertainty requires us to stick even more closely to our data-dependent and meeting-by-meeting approach.

    The European Union is at a crossroads. Defence policy requires a significant overhaul and challenges relating to trade and economic competitiveness need to be addressed. In addition to ramping up defence spending, we need to deepen and strengthen our Economic and Monetary Union with a true single market for goods and services that shores up our structural economic growth prospects, supported by a complete banking union and capital markets union.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Austin Scott, Sanford Bishop, Senators Jon Ossoff, and Rev. Warnock Reintroduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Establish Ocmulgee Mounds as Georgia’s First National Park & Preserve

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.– U.S. Representatives Austin Scott (GA-08) and Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), alongside U.S. Senators Jon Ossoff and Reverend Raphael Warnock, reintroduced the bipartisan Ocmulgee Mounds National Park and Preserve Establishment Act, which would establish the Ocmulgee Mounds and surrounding areas in Middle Georgia as Georgia’s first National Park and Preserve.

    “Establishing the Ocmulgee Mounds and surrounding areas as Georgia’s first National Park and Preserve remains a top bipartisan initiative for all lawmakers and stakeholders involved,” said Rep. Austin Scott. “The Ocmulgee Mounds are of invaluable cultural, communal, and economic significance to our state, and I am committed to keeping this initiative moving forward.”

    “I am proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing this bipartisan bill. By establishing the Ocmulgee Mounds as Georgia’s first National Park and Preserve, we are highlighting over 17,000 years of history and culture as well as welcoming people from across the country to enjoy Georgia’s natural beauty,” said Rep. Bishop. “Elevating the status of and expanding this site to a national park and preserve will raise awareness about it, increase public hunting and fishing grounds, encourage more visitors to our area, and boost the local economy.”

    “We made unprecedented progress last Congress toward creating Georgia’s first ever National Park,” Senator Ossoff said. “I look forward to working alongside Congressman Scott, Senator Reverend Warnock, Congressman Bishop, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, and local leaders to successfully establish Georgia’s first national park.”

    “Ocmulgee Mounds is a living testament to our intertwined histories and a robust source of economic and cultural vitality, so I’m proud to continue supporting the bipartisan, bicameral efforts to establish Ocmulgee Mounds as Georgia’s first National Park and Preserve,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “I want to thank Congressmen Scott and Bishop for their yearslong efforts on this in the U.S. House, as well as Senator Ossoff for his leadership. Local leaders and everyday Georgians have been waiting for Congress to act and now is the time. Working together, we can prove what is possible when we put politics aside to serve the people of Georgia.”

    The House bill is cosponsored by 11 other members of Georgia’s Congressional Delegation: Representatives Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (GA-01), Brian Jack (GA-03), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson (GA-04), Nikema Williams (GA-05), Lucy McBath (GA-06), Rich McCormick (GA-07), Mike Collins (GA-10), Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), Rick Allen (GA-12), David Scott (GA-13), and Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA-14).

    The area is the ancestral home of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and has been inhabited continuously by humans for over 12,000 years. American Indians first arrived in the area during the Paleo-Indian Period hunting Ice Age mammals. Around 900 CE, the Mississippian Period began, and Muskogean people constructed mounds for meeting, living, burial, agricultural, and other purposes, many of which remain today and would be encompassed in the new U.S. National Park and Preserve.

    “The Muscogee (Creek) Nation remains steadfast in our support of the Ocmulgee Mounds National Park and Preserve Bill. The opportunity to make the historic Ocmulgee Mounds a national park is so important to us because we have been included, we have been shown the respect of collaboration, and because of that we can feel confident that the living history that will be told here is authentic and has the power to elevate Georgia forever. We are thrilled to continue offering our support for this legislation every step of the way,” said David Hill, Principal Chief of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation.

    “I cannot overstate the importance of this legislation to our region, state, and country. Tens of millions of private dollars have been leveraged to conserve the precious cultural and ecological resources of the Ocmulgee Corridor and this bipartisan legislation allows us to continue to grow the middle Georgia economy, protect our national security interests at Robin Air Force Base, expand hunting and fishing access, and authentically preserve some of the most culturally significant sites in the country,” said Seth Clark, Macon Mayor Pro Tempore and Executive Director of the Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve Initiative. “We’re grateful for the continued bipartisan dedication of the Georgia delegation. And call for the swift passage of this legislation this year so that we can continue our stewardship of this landscape and our economy.” 


     “Preserving the undeveloped lands within the Ocmulgee River Corridor is critical to safeguarding Robins Air Force Base from incompatible land use, ensuring we can sustain our national security missions,” said Brig. Gen. John C. Kubinec, USAF (ret), President/CEO of 21st Century Partnership. “This park and preserve will also provide our military members and their families with valuable opportunities for outdoor recreation and leisure, enhancing their quality of life while strengthening the economic vitality of Middle Georgia.”

    “Establishing Georgia’s first National Park and Preserve at Ocmulgee Mounds will serve as a robust form of economic development for Middle Georgia while conserving the site’s important series of ecological and cultural assets. Representatives Austin Scott and Sanford Bishop with their bipartisan leadership and admirable partnership with the Muscogee (Creek) Nation have assembled a broad statewide coalition including chambers of commerce, hunters and anglers, and conservation organizations working to pass this legislation. The formal process of creating a National Monument out of the Ocmulgee Old Fields formally began in 1933, when the Macon Junior Chamber of Commerce purchased the sites and requested their protection. Today, through the leadership of the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce and other local leaders, we are one step closer to making that a reality. The Georgia Chamber is proud to support Representatives Scott and Bishop’s legislation to create Georgia’s first National Park and Preserve, after almost a century of civic advocacy,” said Chris Clark, CCE, President and CEO of the Georgia Chamber.
      
    “The Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce has long seen the national and park and preserve designation as a top congressional priority. Getting this done this year is vital to the economic viability and stability of middle Georgia. Being home to Georgia’s first and only national park and preserve will create a better business climate, allow for lower taxes, and create thousands of good paying, sustainable jobs. Our members have marshaled tens of millions of dollars in preparing middle Georgia for the passage of this legislation and as we have for almost a century, we and the greater middle Georgia business community fully support and call for getting it done this year,”     said Jessica Walden, President and CEO of the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce.

    The full text of the legislation can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Interactive Assets: BaFin additionally warns consumers about the website interactiveassets.cc

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    BaFin issued warnings on 27 January 2025, 12 February 2025 and 6 March 2025 about Interactive Assets. The unknown operators are now using the website interactiveassets.cc. BaFin suspects the operators of the websites of offering consumers financial, investment and cryptoasset services without the required authorisation.

    The unknown operators are contacting consumers, claiming that their offer is from Baden-Württembergische Wertpapierbörse GmbH or Börse Stuttgart GmbH. In addition, when advertising its services, the company claims to be supervised by BaFin. However, none of this information is correct. This is a case of identity fraud.

    BaFin is issuing this information on the basis of section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz – KWG) and section 10 (7) of the German Cryptomarkets Supervision Act (Kryptomärkteaufsichtsgesetz).

    Please be aware:

    BaFin, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt – BKA) and the German state criminal police offices (Landeskriminalämter) recommend that consumers seeking to invest money online should exercise the utmost caution and do the necessary research beforehand in order to identify fraud attempts at an early stage.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens warn SNP against diluting or dropping crucial Heat in Buildings Bill

    Source: Scottish Greens

    03 Apr 2025 Climate

    Warmer, greener homes are crucial to cutting bills.

    More in Climate

    Any moves by the Scottish Government to further dilute, delay or drop the upcoming Heat in Buildings Bill would be an act of climate vandalism and a blow for household budgets, green jobs, and our environment, say the Scottish Greens.

    The comments from the party’s Co-Leader, Patrick Harvie, come ahead of a Ministerial statement today that is widely expected to see plans weakened and pushed back further.

    The Bill, which was under development by Mr Harvie in his time as a Minister, and was on track for introduction in November last year, was intended to focus on improving the energy efficiency of our homes and changing to clean heating systems.

    Mr Harvie said:

    “It is crucial that we move away from fossil fuels and invest in clean, green energy so that we can have warmer homes and start to cut the bills that are plunging even more families into poverty.

    “Keeping people stuck on gas is not only bad for our planet, it is also punishing people all across our country and forcing them to fork out, while the fossil fuel companies post record profits. We are already way behind where we need to be in terms of tackling fuel poverty and our transition away from fossil fuels.

    “Scotland is also losing out on good quality green jobs. Heat pump manufacturing is seeing global growth, but Scotland has seen investment go elsewhere.

    “The measures in this Bill could play a crucial role in supporting households to make the shift, and giving the industry the clarity it needs to invest. I am very concerned by the increasing speculation that it will be diluted, delayed or dropped. To do so would be an act of environmental vandalism and a blow for household budgets, our economy and our environment.

    “The failure to hit previous climate targets should have been a wake-up call, but the Scottish Government is not showing anywhere near the political will that is required.

    “Cutting home energy bills, boosting high quality green jobs, and cutting our emissions are all possible, but they can only happen if the Government is prepared to take the action and make the investment that it needs to.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Edinburgh Green Cllrs call for free bus travel for carers

    Source: Scottish Greens

    03 Apr 2025 Transport

    Public transport should be affordable and accessible.

    More in Transport

    Edinburgh’s Scottish Green councillors are urging all parties to back a motion calling for the Council to extend free bus travel to carers and companions across the city.

    The motion, which will be heard by the Transport and Environment Committee today, will be moved by Councillor Kayleigh O’Neill. It would extend the successful bus pass Companion +1 scheme to every young person with care needs.

    The proposal follows campaigning by Parents 4 Future Scotland, a grassroots organisation concerned about climate change in our communities.

    If approved, the motion calls for the Council to work on a proposal for an ‘Under 22+1 scheme’ to enable the change and to report back to the Transport and Environment Committee.

    Councillor O’Neill said:

    “The Under 22 bus pass scheme has been revolutionary for children in the city who can now travel for free on bus and trams. This is great for their families’ finances and for promoting car-free travel in the city for those who can

    “However I know that a barrier for some children in using their bus pass is the need to travel with a carer, for example a parent or guardian and that cost can be problematic.

    “The idea would be that an Under 22 pass user will have the option to apply for a “+1” to be added to their card like the companion and Disabled National Entitlement Card”

    “Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams are already familiar with a ‘plus one type of scheme’ because they accommodate users of the Disabled Person’s Bus Pass Scheme which, for some, allows a free companion to travel with the cardholder.”

    “It would be fantastic to further level the playing field when it comes to accessing public transport, especially for those already struggling with costs of living and mobility.”

    Scottish Green MSP Lorna Slater said:

    “This is a really important proposal by Green councillors and would make our transport system and Edinburgh more accessible for young people who need extra care when travelling.

    “Our cities and our communities are for all of us, and that has to mean that we should all be able to access and enjoy them. This would set a vitally important precedent and would be an important step towards building a more liveable city.”

    Motion by Councillor O’Neill – Free Bus Travel for Carers and Companions

    Committee:

    1. Welcomes the Young Persons’ (Under 22s) Free Bus Travel scheme for which there is a strong pick up rate across the City of Edinburgh
    2. Understands a barrier for some children using their under 22s bus pass is the need to travel with a carer (e.g parent or guardian) who cannot afford travel
    3. The disabled person’s bus pass scheme already successfully runs with a Companion +1 scheme dependent on the applicant’s needs and technology can support this onboard Lothian Buses and at card authenticators at Edinburgh Tram stops.
    4. Also understands that disabled people under 22 can choose between the disabled person’s bus pass and the under 22 bus pass, however the administrative process is easier for those under 22 and does not require users to re-apply and provide proof of disability for free travel.
    5. Notes previous work from Cllr Dijkstra-Downie to request class bus passes for schools to promote uptake of the cards which should continue to be encouraged
    6. Therefore requests officers to investigate the possibility of implementing as scheme for a ‘u22 +1’ card for young people who need to travel with a carer, parent or guardian, and report to Transport and Environment committee when appropriate.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Foster Leads Colleagues in Demanding Answers on NSF Firings

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Foster (11th District of Illinois)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) and Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA) announced that they led 37 Members of Congress in expressing their concern with the recent firing of 168 workers at the National Science Foundation (NSF).

    In a letter to President Trump and NSF Director Sethuraman Panchanathan, the Members wrote:

    “These rash decisions, alongside the Administration’s freeze on NSF grant funds and cancellation of all grant review panels, will not only cause our country to miss out on the scientific breakthroughs that cancelled research could lead to, but we could also lose a generation of scientists who cannot complete their NSF-supported graduate and postdoctoral training. A “brain drain” from the federal government, or from the STEM fields overall, would be catastrophic […]

    “If our country fails to continue to make these advancements, we fear that China and our other research-focused adversaries will fill the gap and get ahead. This poses a threat to our national security not only because of the potential improvements in defense-related technologies, but also because more and more of the free world will become dependent on their inventions and economy, giving China the upper hand in world affairs.”

    A full copy of the letter can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHNEIDER, WAYS & MEANS DEMS SEEK TO REIN IN TRUMP’S UNILATERAL TARIFF AUTHORITIES

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, along with fellow committee members Reps. Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Don Beyer (VA-08), and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), today introduced the Repealing Outdated and Unilateral Tariff Authorities Act which would repeal Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930, an outdated and dangerous tool that President Trump is threatening to use to destabilize global trade.

    “Since taking office, President Trump has taken a reckless, arbitrary, and punitive approach to trade policy that will only hurt American consumers, American companies, and the entire U.S. economy,” said Rep. Schneider. “Tariffs, when used strategically, can be an important tool in defending U.S. economic interests – but that’s far from the sledgehammer and whipsaw approach President Trump has so far shown to be the only way he knows. Congress must exercise its constitutional responsibilities and step in to put a check on the President’s authority to punish our small businesses, retirement accounts, and economy. That’s what the Repealing Outdated and Unilateral Tariff Authorities Act will do – it removes a dangerous, never-before-used tool, Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930, from President Trump’s arsenal and reclaims Congress’s trade authority.”

    Recent media reports have suggested that President Trump may use Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 to impose reciprocal tariffs on U.S. allies on April 2, 2025. Section 338 is a Great Depression-era provision that gives the President unilateral authority to impose up to 50 percent tariffs in response to “discriminatory behavior” by U.S. trading partners. Notably, Section 338 does not require the President to consult with Congress before imposing tariffs or publicly disclose the evidence supporting the decision. 

    “President Trump has already exploited the law to ramp up his trade war with some of our closest allies and trading partners,” said Rep. DelBene. “This legislation would prevent him from imposing sweeping tariffs on American consumers through yet another previously unused and untested law without first getting a vote in Congress.” 

    “Ensuring that our trade policies are fair and effective means removing outdated and unnecessary tariff authorities that could be misused,” said Rep. Panetta. “Our legislation would take a commonsense step to eliminate Section 338, an untested and excessive authority that is redundant to existing trade enforcement tools and potentially dangerous to our economy. I’m proud to support this effort to bring more certainty and balance to our trade policies.”

    “In a few short months, President Trump has abused multiple trade authorities as he initiates trade wars with our allies,” said Rep. Sewell. “Congress must act to draw back trade authorities from this administration in order to protect American consumers, farmers, and manufacturers from President Trump’s reckless trade agenda. I am proud to join my colleagues in this effort to strengthen our checks against this administration.”

    “The Trump administration’s economically and reputationally destructive abuse of existing trade authorities has made it plain that even as-yet unused executive authorities like Section 338 present an unacceptable risk to our economy. Repealing this authority is an important step in a necessary and overdue reassertion of Congress’ constitutional role in trade policy,” said Rep. Beyer.

    Full text of the resolution is available here.

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schakowsky, Jayapal, Carson, Welch Reintroduce Bill to Restore UNRWA Funding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (9th District of Illinois)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) has re-introduced H.R. 2411, the UNRWA Funding Emergency Restoration Act, with Rep. André Carson (IN-07), Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), and Senator Peter Welch (D-VT). This bill will end the congressionally and administratively mandated pause on funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). 

    The United States has historically been one of the largest financial supporters of UNRWA, which serves nearly 6 million Palestinian refugees across the West Bank, East Jerusalem, Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon. In March of last year, the U.S. paused UNRWA funding after the Israeli government alleged that 12 agency employees had direct involvement in Hamas’ October 7 terrorist attack. 

    Following the United Nations’ investigation and proactive commitments made by UNRWA toward complete accountability and reform, all countries except the U.S. have resumed their UNRWA funding, including the European Union, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Finland, Germany, Japan, and Sweden. 

    Humanitarian aid and supplies have not entered the Gaza Strip since March 2, when the Israeli authorities imposed a siege. Reports show that supplies are depleting at alarming rates, which could cause deaths from malnutrition and starvation. Several bakeries have already shut down after running out of cooking gas, and the U.N. World Food Programme reports that its flour supplies can only support bread production for five more day. UNRWA has served as the primary humanitarian aid organization operating in Gaza, and without funding, hundreds of thousands of Gaza civilians are left vulnerable.

    “For decades, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has been a lifeline for Palestinians throughout the Middle East, providing food, clean water, health care, shelter, education, and livelihoods. UNRWA has provided essential support to those in Gaza throughout the Israel-Hamas war and dire humanitarian crisis. UNRWA and the United Nations have taken swift and decisive actions to address the concerns raised by the U.S. government when it paused funding last year and our allies have long ago resumed funding for UNRWA. The U.S. must follow suit and finally resume funding for this critical humanitarian agency,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “I am proud to co-lead the UNRWA Funding Emergency Restoration Act to restore funding to UNRWA and help Gazans get the humanitarian assistance they need at a time of unprecedented crisis.”

    “The scale of this devastating, man-made crisis in Gaza cannot be overstated,” said Congressman André Carson. “Providing humanitarian aid to a starving nation – with funding Congress has appropriated year after year – should not be controversial. We need to end this blockade and restore full humanitarian funding to UNRWA. I urge my colleagues who care about basic human rights, the rights of pregnant women, and the wellbeing of innocent children to join our bill. It’s past time we restore funding and save lives.”

    “For decades, UNRWA has played a unique and integral role in supporting the welfare of Palestinian refugees,” said Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal. “The organization’s on-the-ground understanding is invaluable to ensuring that humanitarian aid makes it to the people who need it most — in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, and critically in this moment, in Gaza. Permanently revoking funding for UNRWA will unquestionably lead to more devastation and loss of life in Gaza and throughout the Middle East. We must restore U.S. funding to UNRWA to ensure that those acting in good faith to save civilian lives have the necessary resources to continue their irreplaceable work.”

    “Since day one of this conflict, UNRWA has proven to be the backbone of the humanitarian response in Gaza. It is unacceptable that the funding pause has gone on this long—the civilian populations of Gaza and the West Bank are paying the price. As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to intensify, support for humanitarian aid is more important than ever,” said Senator Peter Welch. “Congress must pass this legislation to ensure UNRWA can safely deliver humanitarian assistance to starving women, children, and families desperate for food, medicine, and shelter.”

    Below is a list of all endorsing organizations:

    National Organizations: 99 Coalition, American Friends Service Committee, Amnesty International USA, Amnesty International USA, Carolina Peace Center , Historians for Peace and Democracy, Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC), Center for Constitutional Rights, Center for Constitutional Rights, Center for Gender & Refugee Studies, Center for International Policy Advocacy, Center for Jewish Nonviolence, Charity & Security Network, Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), CODEPINK, Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd, U.S. Provinces, Demand Progress, Doctors Against Genocide, DSA, End Wars Working Group of Progressive Democrats of America , Episcopal Peace Fellowship Palestine Israel Network, Friends Committee on National Legislation, Friends Committee on National Legislation , Friends of Sabeel North America (FOSNA), George Devendorf, Global Ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and United Church of Christ, Health Advocacy International, Hindus for Human Rights, Human Rights Watch, IfNotNow Movement, International Civil Society Action Network (ICAN), International Refugee Assistance Project, J Street, Jahalin Solidarity, Jahalin Solidarity, Jewish Voice for Peace Action, Justice4palestinians, MADRE, Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns, Medglobal , Middle East Democracy Center (MEDC), Migrant Roots Media, MoveOn, MPower Change Action Fund, Muslim Advocates, Muslims United PAC, National Advocacy Center of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd, National Council of Churches, New Jewish Narrative, No Dem Left Behind , Nonviolent Peaceforce, NRC USA, Partners for Progressive Israel, Pax Christi USA, Peace Action, Poligon Education Fund, Presbyterian Church, (USA), Office of Public Witness, Quincy Institute, ReThinking Foreign Policy, ReThinking Foreign Policy, RootsAction.org, Sisters of Mercy of the Americas – Justice Team, Terre des hommes Lausanne, The Borgen Project, The Tahrir Institute for Middle East Policy (TIMEP), United Methodists for Kairos Response (UMKR), UNRWA USA National Committee, USCPR Action, Win Without War, Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom, US Section (WILPF US), Yemen Relief and Reconstruction Foundation 

    State and Local Organizations:  Al Otro Lado, Atlanta Multifaith Coalition for Palestine (AMCP), Barry University, Brooklyn For Peace, Carolyn Eisenberg, Ceasefire Now NJ, Christian Jewish Allies for a just peace for Israel Palestine, Church Women United in New York State, Delawareans for Palestinian Human Rights, Florida Peace & Justice Alliance, FOSNA Pittsburgh , Greater Dayton Peace Coalition, Houston for Palestine Coalition, Indiana Center for Middle East Peace, Jews for Racial and Economic Justice, MARUF CT (Muslim Advocacy for Rights, Unity, and Fairness), Massachusetts Peace Action, Minnesota Peace Project, Muslim Justice League, Nebraskans for Peace Palestinian Rights Task Force, NorCal Sabeel, Oasis Legal Services, Peace Action Maine, Peace Action WI, Peace Action WI, Peace, Justice, Sustainability NOW!, Peace, Justice, Sustainability, NOW!, Progressive Democrats of America – Central New Mexico, Progressive Democrats of America- Central New Mexico, Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom DC-Metro Action Group, The Palestine Justice Network of the Presbyterian Church USA, Bay Area, UPTE Members for Palestine, Valley View Presbyterian Church, Voices for Justice in Palestine, YUSRA

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schakowsky, Warren, Lawmakers Press Trump on Illegal FTC Firings, Demand Commissioners be Reinstated

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (9th District of Illinois)

    “These purported firings threaten the FTC’s existence as an independent enforcement agency and pave the way for you to use the FTC as a tool for partisan retribution.”

    Full Text of Letter (PDF)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky, Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade, and U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), along with lawmakers Kathy Castor (FL-14); Yvette Clarke (NY-09); Debbie Dingell (MI-06); Robin Kelly (IL-02); Doris Matsui (CA-07); Robert Menendez (NJ-08); Kevin Mullin (CA-15); Lori Trahan (MA-03); Marc Veasey (TX-33); Richard Blumenthal (D-CT); Cory Booker (D-NJ); Bernie Sanders (I-VT.); and Ron Wyden (D-OR), sent a letter to President Donald Trump strongly opposing his illegal attempt to fire Commissioners Alvaro Bedoya and Rebecca Slaughter, two members of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). These firings could impede the FTC’s ongoing work, including efforts to lower food prices, tackle health care costs, and combat illegal business practices across the economy. 

    “This appears to be yet another decision that you have made to help Elon Musk and other billionaire supporters – and leaves middle-class families stuck with the costs,” wrote the lawmakers.

    Congress created the agency in 1914 as a bipartisan, independent commission, mandating that FTC commissioners could only be removed for “inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance in office.” The Supreme Court has upheld this decision for nearly one hundred years. 

    “The illegal attempt to fire Commissioners Bedoya and Slaughter is just the latest in your ongoing campaign to hobble independent agencies and watchdogs to shield you and your billionaire donors, including Elon Musk, from accountability to the law,” wrote the lawmakers.

    The lawmakers raised concerns about numerous of the FTC actions investigations that Trump’s illegal firings could put be at risk based on these decisions, including: by challenging grocery retailer and food manufacturer mergers that raise prices for households struggling to make ends meet; suing to stop agriculture equipment and pesticide monopolists from taking advantage of American farmers; returning over $1.5 billion over four years to Americans ripped off by bad actors ranging from tax preparation companies to corporate landlords; lowering costs for inhalers from $500 to $35 and lowering the cost of insulin; and returning millions in refunds to defrauded servicemembers and veterans, among other actions.

    The lawmakers urge Trump to act quickly to reinstate Commissioners Bedoya and Slaughter to ensure that pending FTC actions, particularly those that help American workers and families, will not be impacted, cancelled, or otherwise affected by the attempted firings.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Davis and Fitzpatrick Push for Long-Needed Update to Supplemental Security Income Program

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Danny K Davis (7th District of Illinois)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Danny K. Davis (D-IL) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act to reform the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, which has not been updated in 40 years. Currently, the program unfairly punishes lower-income seniors and people with disabilities for saving responsibly for emergencies or their futures. A companion to this bill was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA), alongside Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-OR). 

    Right now, individuals with a disability or those aged 65 and older are only eligible for Supplemental Security Income if they have under $2,000 in assets. SSI’s marriage penalty restricts married couples to a total of $3,000 in financial resources to remain eligible. The bipartisan, bicameral legislation would update SSI’s asset limits for the first time since the 1980s to allow millions of Americans with disabilities to marry, work, earn, and save money without putting the benefits they rely on to live at risk.

    “I am honored to join with my colleagues to champion the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act that would improve the lives of lower-income seniors and people with disabilities,” said Rep. Davis.  “This bipartisan, bicameral bill would reform one of the most regressive, anti-savings measures in federal law by updating the outdated asset limits of the Supplemental Security Income program for the first time in almost 40 years.  The necessity of this legislation is reflected in its support by over 200 businesses, faith-based groups, and organizations from across the political spectrum.” 

    “Raising the SSI asset limits is a smart, long-overdue reform that updates a critical program to reflect today’s economic realities. For over forty years, outdated restrictions have discouraged work and penalized those who try to save for their future. The SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act modernizes these limits, ties them to inflation, and ensures that seniors and individuals with disabilities are not forced to choose between earning a paycheck and keeping the benefits they depend on. This bipartisan legislation promotes financial independence and strengthens the integrity of our safety net,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick (PA-1). 

    “A $2,000 rainy-day fund doesn’t go as far as it did in 1989, but that’s all the savings that people who rely on SSI benefits are allowed,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “We shouldn’t punish people who are working hard, saving their money, and planning for the future. Congress must raise the SSI asset limit to help our seniors and Americans with disabilities.”

    “Outdated rules are making disabled Americans pick between a better job and losing their safety net. That’s wrong,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Instead, let’s encourage work, help people save, and lift them out of poverty.”

    “Every year, SSI’s outdated rules prevent Americans from being able to work, save, or marry the one they love,” said Senator Wyden. “This bipartisan bill gives Americans who are trying to make ends meet the chance to live independently without fear of being forced to forfeit an economic lifeline. As the Ranking Member of the Finance Committee, I am committed to making sure SSI is no longer stuck in yesteryear so every American can live with dignity and respect.”

    A study by JPMorganChase suggests that current asset and income limits on federal benefits for people with disabilities make it harder for them to work a part-time job or save money for an emergency. The SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act would raise the SSI asset limits, which have not been changed since 1984, to $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for married couples, and index them to inflation moving forward.

    Additional cosponsors include Representatives John Larson (D-CT), Mike Lawler (R-NY), Christopher Deluzio (D-PA), Christopher Smith (R-NJ), Brad Schneider (D-IL), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Don Bacon (R-NE), and Steven Horsford (D-NV) as well as Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), James Lankford (R-OK), Patty Murray (D-WA), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Rick Scott (R-FL).

    The SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act has the support of more than 200 businesses, faith-based groups, and organizations dedicated to improving the lives of older adults and people with disabilities, including: the AARP, the Autism Society of America, the Aspen Institute Financial Security Program, the Jewish Federations of North America, Microsoft, the National Council on Aging, the National Council on Independent Living, the National Down Syndrome Congress, Justice in Aging, the Arc of the United States, Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) Action, the National Association of Evangelicals, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

    Read the bill summary here.

    “SSI’s $2,000 asset limit has been frozen in time since 1989. In today’s economy, that means SSI beneficiaries can’t save for necessary expenses like a security deposit or car repairs without the risk of losing their benefits. There’s also an outdated and unjust marriage penalty baked into the SSI asset limit that cuts the amount of money beneficiaries are allowed to save by 25% if they marry the person they love. We strongly endorse the bipartisan SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act because it will give Americans with disabilities more freedom to build the futures they want and deserve,” said Darcy Milburn, Director of Social Security and Healthcare Policy, The Arc of the United States.

    “Disabled people want to save their own money, but burdensome restrictions such as a $2,000 asset cap prevent them from achieving financial independence. With the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act, Congress has an opportunity to financially empower disabled people across the country by raising asset limits that have not been increased since the Reagan administration,” said Karen Tamley, CEO/President of Access Living.

    “Supplemental Security Income’s asset rules have been frozen since the 1980s and prevent disabled Americans from participating in everyday life, whether it be tying the knot to a long-term partner or putting a financial nest egg away. Raising the program’s resource limits will help eliminate work and marriage penalties and limit accidental overpayments. The Niskanen Center supports this pro-savings, pro-family legislative effort by Senators Cortez Masto, Cassidy, and their colleagues,” said Will Raderman, Employment Policy Analyst, Niskanen Center.

    “JPMorganChase, like many companies, wants to attract and retain the very best qualified people of all abilities. We applaud the bipartisan reintroduction of the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act, which would make common sense updates to the outdated rules for SSI benefits to reflect current economic conditions and keep pace with inflation,” said Bryan Gill, Global Head of the Office of Disability Affairs, JPMorganChase.

    “The U.S. Chamber of Commerce would like to thank Senators Cortez Masto and Cassidy and Representatives Davis and Fitzpatrick for their leadership in reintroducing the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act, which would help employers fill many open jobs with older, experienced American workers who wish to stay in the workforce by raising the current asset limits for Supplemental Security Income program eligibility,” said Chantel Sheaks, Vice President of Retirement Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

    “SSI’s outdated asset limits have prevented older Americans and those with disabilities from being able to save even a small amount for an emergency or to have a modicum of economic security as they age, without the risk of losing vital benefits. Americans should not be prevented from saving a few dollars for unforeseen circumstances, and SSI beneficiaries are no exception. It is long-past time for Congress to update SSI’s asset limits, which have become overly restrictive and prevent the accumulation of even a small amount of personal savings. AARP therefore urges Congress to pass your SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act as soon as possible,” said Bill Sweeney, Senior Vice President, AARP Government Affairs.

    “Current policy imposes a difficult choice on Americans living with disabilities: spend their money now or lose access to essential support. This is nonsensical and denies some people the ability to save for future needs and opportunities. The SSI savings limit is long overdue for reform. A big thank you to the senators and representatives who are leading the way to a more humane policy,” said Galen Carey, Vice President of Government Relations, National Association of Evangelicals.

    “The SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act will update asset limits for Supplemental Security Income and remove outdated barriers that restrict economic opportunity and hinder workforce participation. We thank Senators Cortez Masto and Cassidy and Representatives Davis and Fitzpatrick, for championing this bipartisan legislation that will help broaden America’s workforce, bolster supply chains, and support disabled workers,” said Rylin Rodgers, Disability Policy Director, Microsoft.

    “BPC Action commends this effort by Sens. Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Cassidy (R-LA) and Representatives Davis (D-IL) and Fitzpatrick (R-PA)  and urges Congress to act on long-overdue bipartisan measures to empower seniors and Americans with disabilities enrolled in Supplemental Security Income to increase their household savings,” said Michele Stockwell, President, Bipartisan Policy Center Action.

    “A core component of the nation’s Social Security system, SSI is nothing short of a lifeline for more than 7 million of the nation’s poorest seniors and disabled people, including more than one million disabled children. But because it’s been left to wither on the vine for decades, with key eligibility criteria never updated even for inflation, outdated savings limits now trap millions in poverty — even though SSI was established to offer a pathway out. Senators Cortez Masto, Cassidy, and Wyden and Reps. Davis and Fitzpatrick are to be commended for their bipartisan leadership on the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act — important legislation that would bring long overdue reform to one of the most regressive anti-savings policies on the books today. Even at a time of historic polarization, updating SSI’s asset limits is one issue Americans across the political spectrum can agree on — and the time is now to act,” said Rebecca Vallas, CEO, National Academy of Social Insurance. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Quigley and Ukraine Caucus Co-Chairs Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Push For Hard-Hitting Russia Sanctions

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the Congressional Ukraine Caucus Co-Chairs – Representatives Mike Quigley (IL-05), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), and Joe Wilson (SC-02) introduced sweeping sanctions targeting Russia and any nation or actor complicit in sustaining its brutal war of aggression against Ukraine. Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Lindsay Graham (R-SC) and 48 other Senators from both sides of the aisle.

    Due to Putin’s continued, unbridled aggression against Ukraine, this legislation implements expansive sanctions on the Russian Federation’s government officials, as well as individuals, financial institutions, and other entities affiliated with or owned by the Putin regime. These sanctions will go into effect if the Russian Federation continues to refuse to engage in good-faith negotiations for a just and lasting peace, or if it launches any further military operations that compromise Ukrainian sovereignty. Additionally, it enacts a bold 500 percent tariff on all imports to the United States from the Russian Federation, as well as from any countries that continue to fund Putin’s war machine by purchasing Russian-origin oil, uranium, or petroleum products.

    The sanctions package is designed to apply maximum pressure on the Kremlin and any enablers of its imperialist ambitions—underscoring that peace cannot be achieved while the Russian Federation continues to bomb Ukraine’s civilian population or while consenting countries continue to bankroll Putin’s regime.

    In a joint statement, the Co-Chairs said:

    “Democracy is strongest when we stand together to defend it. This legislation reflects a unified commitment—Republicans and Democrats, House and Senate—aligned in purpose to defend democracy, uphold national sovereignty, and confront the forces of tyranny that seek to destroy both.

    “Russia’s continued aggression against Ukraine is not just a threat to one country’s borders—it is a direct challenge to the values we hold dear: freedom, self-determination, and the rule of law over the rule of force. Should Russia reject diplomacy and pursue further violence, the consequences will be swift and severe. And to those nations still financing Putin’s war by importing Russian oil, gas, uranium, or other commodities—this legislation makes clear: complicity comes at a cost.

    “These sanctions are not symbolic—they are a demonstration of principles in action. They send a clear message that when democracies are under siege, the United States will respond—not with hesitation, but with purpose.

    “We support not a pause, but an end to Russia’s attack on Ukraine and a path toward a lasting, just peace. A peace rooted in Ukraine’s sovereignty, that honors the sacrifices of its people and affirms their right to shape their own future.

    “We have been here before. In 1994, Ukraine gave up the third-largest nuclear arsenal in the world in exchange for security guarantees that were ultimately broken. In 2014 and 2015, peace accords were signed—and shattered. Each time, the price was paid by the innocent.

    “We cannot allow history to repeat itself. The world is watching how we respond—and this time, our response must be unmistakable. 

    “Peace through strength is not just a guiding principle—it is a responsibility. And we stand ready to uphold it.”

    Read the full text of the bill here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: BW Offshore: Arbitration settlement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Arbitration settlement

    BW Offshore Limited (“BW Offshore”) is pleased to report that, in respect of arbitration proceedings between, inter alios, Prio Comercializadora Ltda (previously known as Petro Rio O&G Exploração e Produção de Petróleo Ltda.) (as Claimant) and Prosafe Production B.V. and BW Offshore do Brasil Serviços Marítìmos Ltda (as Respondents) conducted in accordance with the Rules of the London International Court of Arbitration, the parties have, prior to the issuance of a final award, agreed to fully and finally settle the arbitration and the costs of the arbitration in accordance with the terms of a confidential settlement agreement.

    The financial impact of the settlement agreement, resulting in a payment of approximately USD 36 million to BW Offshore, will be recognised in BW Offshore’s accounts.

    For further information, please contact:
    Ståle Andreassen, CFO, +47 91 71 86 55

    IR@bwoffshore.com or www.bwoffshore.com

    About BW Offshore:
    BW Offshore engineers innovative floating production solutions. The Company has a fleet of 2 FPSOs with potential and ambition to grow. By leveraging four decades of offshore operations and project execution, the Company creates tailored offshore energy solutions for evolving markets world-wide. BW Offshore has around 1,100 employees and is publicly listed on the Oslo stock exchange.

    This information is considered to be inside information pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. This stock exchange release was published by Eric Stousland, Manager Corporate Finance & Investor Relations, on 3 April 2025 at 08:45 CEST.

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s video message to the Club de Madrid Annual Policy Dialogue: Driving Sustainable Futures for All

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Download the video:
    https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+26+Mar+25/3355311_MSG+SG+CLUB+DE+MADRID+DIALOGUE+26+MAR+25.mp4

    Excellencies, Dear Friends,

    The resolve to advance a better world won’t get very far without resources. 

    And so, I applaud the Club de Madrid for focussing this policy dialogue on the crucial issue of financing for sustainable development.

    Our world groans with injustices:

    Gaping inequalities…

    Developing countries locked-out of the energy revolution… 

    And the Sustainable Development Goals woefully off track.

    These problems erode trust and foment frustration.

    And finance is at their heart. 

    Debt crises, painful repayment schedules, and soaring capital costs are enormous obstacles to investing in people.

    But last year, countries took a critical step forward. 

    They agreed to the Pact for the Future:

    This calls for reforms of the Multilateral Development Banks to make them bigger and bolder so they can facilitate greater investment and leverage far more private finance.

    It demands steps to improve access to concessional finance for developing countries.

    It urges action to assist countries drowning in debt service, and an overhaul of the debt architecture.

    And it calls for greater voice and representation of developing countries in the institutions of global governance.

    The Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Sevilla in June will be a critical opportunity to turn ambitions into action.

    I urge you to help make that a reality.

    Yes, the international landscape is undeniably tough.

    But together, we can demonstrate that multilateralism can deliver.

    We can create a more just and effective financial architecture.

    And we can make sure our resolve for sustainable development is matched by resources.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Statement by President Meloni on the introduction of tariffs by the United States against the European Union

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    2 Aprile 2025

    The introduction of tariffs by the United States against the European Union is a measure that I consider wrong and that does not benefit any of the parties involved. 
    We will do everything we can to work towards an agreement with the United States, with the goal of averting a trade war that would inevitably weaken the West to the advantage of other global players. 
    In any case, we will, as always, act in the interest of Italy and its economy, also by coordinating with our European partners.

    [Courtesy translation]

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Grattan on Friday: Trying too hard for a special tariff deal with Trump could be the wrong way to go

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton both agree Australia should react to US President Donald Trump’s aggressive tariff regime by continuing to seek a special deal. They just disagree about which of them could better handle the challenge of dealing with the rogue president.

    Dutton said after Trump’s announcement, “the deal is there to be done”, but insisted Albanese just isn’t up to the task.

    At Wednesday’s briefing for the red meat industry, Trade Minister Don Farrell said, “Tomorrow might be the end of the first part of the process but we’ll continue to engage with the Americans to get these tariffs removed, as we did with the Chinese.”

    But if there is indeed a deal to be done, at what cost would it come? The price could be higher than any specifics negotiated.

    Australia should be careful of going down the route of supplicant – which, let’s be blunt, is what this would involve.

    It’s long been clear we can’t predict what Trump might do in his international relationships. His appalling bullying of Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky; his extraordinary treatment of Canada; his bizarre bid to grab Greenland from NATO ally Denmark – individually, each of these is shocking; collectively, they amount to nearly unimaginable behaviour from a US president.

    The risk of trying to cosy up to the Trump administration in seeking exemptions from the 10% general tariff is that, whatever the overt quid pro quo involved, Trump would then see Australia as owing him something if and when he needed it.

    A deal could mean Australia would later feel somewhat constrained in calling out egregious Trump actions. Even if it didn’t, the perception could be there.

    It’s obvious in retrospect – if it wasn’t all along – that Australia was never going to escape whatever general tariff Trump imposed. At least we are at the bottom of the league table – we’re among the countries minimally hit. As of course we should be, given the Australia-US Free Trade Agreement. As Albanese said, we shouldn’t be targeted at all.

    One area for possible future negotiation is the ban, for biosecurity reasons, on US fresh beef coming into Australia. There have already been talks about this. Albanese on Thursday said Australia wouldn’t compromise its biosecurity, but flagged room for some possible movement.

    This is double-edged. Beef producers will want an exemption, but anything that could be construed as even a remote threat to our biosecurity would go down badly in sections of the electorate, regardless of guarantees.

    Australia is in a solid position to withstand the direct effects of the Trump tariffs. Only about 5% of our exports go to the US.

    The effect on the beef trade could be relatively mild. The Americans have a dwindling cattle herd (the lowest since the early 1950s). Australian lean beef is particularly suitable for burgers. And, given the 10% tariff applies to other countries, we won’t be disadvantaged against other suppliers. So the Americans are likely to continue to need Australian beef – they will just have to pay more for it.

    Peter Draper, professor of international trade at the University of Adelaide, puts the bilateral situation in perspective. “We rode out China’s trade coercion, and China is a much more important trading partner. These tariffs are much smaller.”

    Draper argues that “as a matter of principle, you shouldn’t negotiate with bullies”.

    Also, the US is breaking international trade rules that are crucial to uphold, Draper says. Cutting special deals validate the rule-breaker’s actions, he says.

    The real, and significant, cost to Australia will be what the tariff regime will do to the international economy. Treasurer Jim Chalmers described “Liberation Day” as “a dark day for the global economy”.

    Shiro Armstrong, professor of economics at the Australian National University, says the “main game is stopping the contagion of these tariffs globally and stopping a retreat to a 1930s retaliatory spiral”.

    Armstrong believes that when it comes to getting a special deal, Australia’s chances are probably better than those of most countries.

    But he warns Australia should be “very careful” of a deal involving critical minerals – something the government had on the table and the opposition has said it would pursue. Armstrong points to Trump’s penchant for using “economic coercion to extract concessions”.

    Immediately after the Trump announcement, Albanese had a response ready to go.

    This includes financial encouragement for exporters to seek to grow other markets.

    Australia is not retaliating with counter-tariffs (a sensible stance in line with its free trade beliefs). But there are some “protection-lite” measures in the Albanese package.

    Australian businesses will be put at “the front of the queue” for government procurement and contracts.

    This measure is part of the government’s current “Buy Australian” push. A small dose of protectionism, it may mean taxpayers pay more for goods and services.

    On another front, Albanese said Australia would establish a “Critical Minerals Strategic Reserve”. Details are to come, but it is expected to be a stockpile for these minerals, which are vital for defence equipment in particular. Perhaps such a move is to assure Australians that if there were an agreement to facilitate US access to critical minerals, the government would have belt-and-braces protection for these vital national assets.

    In this first week of the campaign, Dutton has found himself on the barbed wire fence when it comes to Trump. He’s putting himself forward as the better leader to deal with Trump (including fighting him if necessary). He’s also rejecting suggestions he is running on Trump-like policies.

    In general, the first week of the campaign has been a hard slog for the opposition leader. He comes across as undercooked and late with his deliveries. We are still waiting for the modelling of his controversial policy for an east coast gas reservation scheme.

    In the 2022 election campaign, Albanese had a shocker start. But the Liberals now are in a worse place than Labor was then, and Dutton’s campaign needs a significant lift. The question is whether he has the capacity to give it that.

    Michelle Grattan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Grattan on Friday: Trying too hard for a special tariff deal with Trump could be the wrong way to go – https://theconversation.com/grattan-on-friday-trying-too-hard-for-a-special-tariff-deal-with-trump-could-be-the-wrong-way-to-go-253737

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –